Went for a walk on a really nice morning along the Marsh Boardwalk trail at Point Pelee National Park. We were the first ones there so it was just us, the sound of the birds and the wind. There was a mother Mallard with a few babies. I also got to see a nice swamp sparrow who stuck around a bit. Black Tern’s were flying and feeding. Barn Swallows were nesting in the observation tower at the entrance to the Marsh Boardwalk trail.
Have you ever seen a bird like this?
It’s called a Sora Rail, take a look at the video at the bottom of this page to see it.
Marsh Boardwalk Trail
The thing I liked most about this boardwalk is EVERYTHING, a wooden trail out into the marsh is mesmerizing. There are birds, rails, swans, beavers, cranes, herons, ducks, the list is endless above all the possibility of seeing them all is up to you. It can be a quick walk just 30-45 minutes however; if you take your time, bask in the weather, and listen for their calls it can take a couple hours to walk the path.
Considering the boardwalk is on water is key as it can get quite cool while walking, most importantly think about the weather and dress accordingly. There are no trees, only thin reeds, the wind can be felt like no where else in the park, there is very little shelter on the walk and it is one way. There is an opportunity to rent canoes, kayak from the park store, walking is not necessarily the only way to get around in this area. I honestly do not know how large the marsh area is while in the water. It is something we would like to do the next time we are there, another reason the annual pass is a great idea.
Sora Rail on Marsh Boardwalk Trail
eBird checklist
Point Pelee NP–Marsh Boardwalk – 7 species
Point Pelee Maps
At the southernmost point of the Canadian mainland – Point Pelee National Park, experience nature like never before. Each spring, view flocks of migratory birds, joined in autumn by waves of vivid Monarch butterflies. In winter, wander the trails in solitude and catch the natural ice formations. In summer, bask on sandy beaches. Whether you cycle, paddle, or hike Canada’s second smallest and most ecologically diverse national park, you’ll be immersed in an unforgettable eco-adventure.
Point Pelee National Park (pc.gc.ca)