In Quebec, wildlife observation attracts enthusiasts from all over, and the Lanaudière region is particularly well-suited to this activity. The number of birdwatchers is growing all the time.
The arrival of spring means renewal! The lakes thaw, the snow melts, and the temperatures become milder. It's also the time when migratory birds return from their long journey to spend the summer in Quebec. What could be better than heading out on your own, as a couple or with your family, to hike along the water's edge in search of the most beautiful birds? Here are a few places in the Lanaudière region where you can put your eagle eye to the test, or just enjoy the warm weather.
SCIRBI TRAILS - BERTHIERVILLE
The Berthier Islands mark the entrance to the Lac Saint-Pierre World Biosphere Reserve, recognized by UNESCO in 2000. This vast ecosystem, comprising the lake and its many archipelagos, is an essential stopover for migrating waterfowl. More than 200 species of birds and about 20 species of mammals can be seen on SCIRBI land. Equip yourself with binoculars and take advantage of the three observation towers that offer breathtaking views of the bustard fields. Strategically placed caches also allow you to get up close and personal with waterfowl along the trail.
ÎLE-LEBEL PARK - REPENTIGNY
Located on the banks of the river in Repentigny, the Île-Lebel Park welcomes up to 150 species of birds each year. You don't have to go far to catch a glimpse of them in this 15-hectare green oasis, as their songs can be heard everywhere. Sparrows, waxwings and cardinals can all be found here. And if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the rare Caroline's Crake.
ECOLOGICAL PARK - L'ASSOMPTION
In the heart of nature, three ponds lined with paths form an ecosystem rich in biodiversity, a remnant of the former ecological park of L'Assomption. Throughout the year, a variety of birds find refuge here: birds of prey lurk in the forest and wading birds rest on the ponds. Up to 150 species of birds can be observed in the park! Red-winged blackbirds, red cardinals and even a kingfisher or a great blue heron may appear near the water, while the hawk keeps watch from above.
SENTIER DES ÉTANGS - SAINT-DONAT
Our greatest discovery: the magnificent Sentier des Étangs in Saint-Donat, which, as its name suggests, winds around the three ponds on rue Desrochers. With a length of 2.4 km, you'll be able to admire the flora of the Lanaudière region at close quarters and watch some of the 200 species of birds listed above the water. The scenery is sure to entice even the most reluctant birdwatcher!
PARC RIVERAIN ET DE L'ÎLE VESSOT - JOLIETTE
Spring is an excellent time to storm the Riverain Park and the Île Vessot trail to observe mergansers and kingfishers. The island can be reached from Les Berges de l'Île Vessot, located at the end of rue Saint-Pierre, which becomes chemin du Vieux-Moulin in Saint-Paul. It can also be reached from the Base-de-Roc ring road, where a parking lot welcomes visitors and a washroom is available in the summer.
PARC DU GRAND-COTEAU - MASCOUCHE
A beautiful urban park that has retained its natural character, the Parc du Grand-Coteau in Mascouche is easily accessible from Highway 25 or Route 125. It's the ideal place for family walks, picnics, play modules and birdwatching along the many trails. Bird watchers will enjoy the presence of many species of birds attracted by the abundant flora and forest cover. From north to south, it takes more than three hours to walk through Grand-Coteau Park. It's therefore possible to observe numerous species.
ÎLE-DES-MOULINS - TERREBONNE
The Île-des-Moulins is well known and a great place to stroll and admire the beauty for which it is famous. Geese flock here in large numbers and offer an impressive spectacle that is well worth seeing. Nestled between the arms of the Rivière des Mille Îles, this historic island is home to a rich biodiversity, making it a true bird sanctuary in an urban setting. With its mature tree-lined paths and wetlands, the island attracts a wide variety of species throughout the year. Great blue herons are particularly abundant!
RUISSEAU DE FEU NATURE RESERVE - TERREBONNE
A haven for nature lovers and photographers. With 60 species of birds, including four endangered species - the peregrine falcon, the Nelson's sparrow, the least bittern and the short-eared owl - every visit is a discovery. To take full advantage of this exceptional fauna, a 500-meter stilt walk, rest areas, interpretive panels and an observation tower offer privileged views of this preserved environment. For more information, click here.
Plan your next hikes in the region and remember to bring your binoculars to observe the many species that call Lanaudière home!
To discover other good addresses, we invite you to visit the website of the Société d'ornithologie de Lanaudière, right here.
