Assiniboine Park is one of Winnipeg’s best “birding hotspots”: a highly concentrated area of bird activity that makes it ideal for observing birds. Over the years, dedicated “birders” (a term for people who observe and identify birds in their natural environment) have documented 160 species of wild birds at Assiniboine Park – about 43% of all bird species reported in Manitoba!

The Park’s diverse mix of forest, water, and garden spaces provides plenty of opportunities for birds to refuel during migration, or to nest in the Park all summer. 

Read on for tips on how to go birding at the Park!

• Move slowly and quietly. Birds can be difficult to see! Pause often to listen and scan for movement among the leaves.
• Bring binoculars. This will allow you to get a close-up look without disturbing the birds.
• Identify songs and calls. Use the free Merlin app to help identify species you hear. Caution: The app is great, but not foolproof! It’s best to confirm the app’s suggestion by trying to catch sight of the bird, or by comparing the song you’re hearing to a verified recording of the species.
• Identify the bird by sight. The Merlin app has a simple step-by-step process to narrow down what you saw. Note the size of the bird, the colour, and their behaviour (e.g., on the ground, swimming, perched in a tree).
• Make an eBird list. When you keep track of the birds you see or hear, you will be able to notice seasonal patterns in bird communities. Your eBird lists also provide valuable data to researchers.
• Follow bird-friendly guidelines to avoid disturbing birds and their habitats. Please stay on trails, and avoid feeding birds or other wildlife.

Now that you are ready to go birding, here are the best places to start at the Park.

Riley Family Duck Pond

This is a reliable place to see waterfowl such as Mallards, Canada Geese, and Common Goldeneyes. Check the marshy edges of the pond for Red-winged Blackbirds and Swamp Sparrows. Walk past the Purple Martin condo to try to catch a glimpse of the martins!

The English Garden & Leo Mol Sculpture Garden

The wide variety of wild and cultivated plants in these gardens provides food and shelter for many colourful birds, like Yellow Warblers, American Goldfinches, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, and Indigo Buntings. You might hear the chittering calls of Chimney Swifts as they fly to and from the artificial chimney nearby.

Assiniboine River Footbridge

This area is the perfect vantage point to see birds swimming on or soaring above the river. Cliff Swallows build their gourd-shaped mud nests underneath the bridge – watch for them swooping out to catch insects near the surface of the water. You might also see American White Pelicans, Ring-billed Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

Here is a Park Map to help you scout your spots.

Now it’s time to grab your binoculars, download your birding apps, and head out to the Park.

Birding is a wonderful way to slow down—looking, listening, and becoming attuned to the nature in your neighbourhood. As you explore, you’ll build your skills while contributing to a greater understanding of bird life in our community. Most importantly, remember to tread lightly: stay on trails, respect wildlife, and help keep these natural spaces welcoming for our feathered residents and fellow visitors.

Bird photos above taken in Assiniboine Park by Kirstyn Eckhardt