Some people may think its an idea for the birds, but promoters here are hoping a new birding trail will bring tourists flocking to Wellington North.
The municipality recently launched the first birding trail map in Ontario.
Copies of Birding in Wellington North Trail, Bobolinks to Snipes, are now available and have been distributed throughout Ontario.
The trail map can also be downloaded off the www.wellington-north.com website.
While there are as many as 35 states with birding maps in the United States, according to economic development officer Linda Reader, there is no similar map for that purpose in Ontario.
The brochure represents the birds that inhabit the fields, forests and watersheds of Wellington North.
The trail includes directions to 13 locations on the map – also identified with GPS coordinates.
Species are noted for each spot, with helpful hints for better viewing. Included is the Luther Marsh Wildlife Management Area at the headwaters of the Grand River.
“Luther Marsh has long been identified as a rugged but relatively unknown birding jewel located in the township,” Reader said.
Lionel Gould, an award winning birding columnist agreed to scout the locations last fall, providing the copy and most of the photos for the trail brochure, including a stunning cover photo of an Indigo Bunting.
“With the obvious advantages that Wellington North has for birders, I felt that this was a great opportunity,” said Reader.
The title, Bobolinks to Snipes, indicates the range of habitats and birds found in the community – from grasslands to wetlands, she explained.
And while migration is a key time for birders, they will be rewarded year round along the trail.
“Better yet, we are just an hour and a half away from the GTA and (much of) southern Ontario.”
Birding is one of the fastest growing outdoor recreational activities in North America, and she said it will continue to grow as tourists, identified by the Ontario Ministry of Tourism in 2007 as “upscale adventurers,” look for more quality natural experiences.
A survey by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service last June indicated the number of birders grows by 1% annually while those participating in recreational fishing and hunting declines by the same amount.
In her presentation to council Monday night, Reader added that the GRCA has expressed interest in creating similar birding maps across the watershed.
Reader said the Luther Marsh is a huge asset and that this type of tourism is sustainable and conscious of the environment.
“This is the first birding trail in Ontario and Wellington North should be proud of creating another first.”
Mayor Mike Broomhead commented that the idea is already a hit with some. “People like the idea. It’s new – and unique.”
