Grab Those Binoculars it’s a Great Time for Birdwatching in Mississauga

Birdwatching, also known as birding is an increasingly popular hobby, especially in Mississauga. This relaxing, inexpensive hobby encourages you to get outdoors whether it is in your backyard or a local park.

Take note of the birds you see and hear on your walk to work or school, while you’re looking out of your kitchen window or while you’re doing other outdoor activities. Being observant and aware of your surroundings can heighten your senses and help you find other surprises in nature too. You may discover interesting flowers or other animals at the same time.

Home to a variety of local bird species, the City’s parks, natural areas, recreational trails, forests, green spaces and waterfront are some great spots to enjoy birds year round. In Mississauga, there is a good chance you’ll see Blue Jays, Cardinals, Woodpeckers, Chickadees, Robins, Warblers and many more bird species.

With birdwatching, there isn’t a ton of things you need in order to get started – other than interest, curiosity, time, a pair of binoculars (if you have some) and a good bird app or book to understand the types of birds you are looking at.  The time of year, location, weather and time of day can all influence what types and numbers of birds you might see.

Walk on a trail, sit in a park and wait. Try to stay quiet and be still so you won’t scare the birds away. Depending on the type of birds, some will sing, while others are on the quieter side and prefer to blend in with their surroundings.

Also, you don’t have to be an avid birdwatcher to know that most birds communicate through sounds. Birds use calls, like a chirp, whistle, song or squawk to communicate with their mates, chicks or a flock. They use sounds to warn off predators, warn off danger and for a variety of other reasons.

Go out and try birding in Mississauga, and you might find yourself a new hobby to enjoy. Check out eBird to track your bird sightings and explore data to see what birds have been observed in a City park or natural area near you.