Point Pelee is the southernmost point of mainland Canada and arguably the best spring migration birding destination in the country. During peak migration in May, it's possible to see 100+ species in a single day.
When to go
Peak migration: May 1–25. This is when the warblers, vireos, tanagers, and flycatchers pour through. Mid-May is the absolute peak - plan your trip around May 10–20 if you can only go once.
Fall migration: August–October. Less dramatic than spring but excellent for shorebirds and raptors. Monarch butterflies are a bonus in September.
Winter: Quiet but worthwhile. Owls, waterfowl, and winter finches.
Best trails
The Tip: Walk to the literal southernmost point. During migration, exhausted birds land in the low vegetation here first. Early morning at the tip in mid-May is some of the best birding in Canada.
Woodland Nature Trail: The best trail for warblers. Dense canopy concentrates birds at eye level. Walk slowly and listen.
DeLaurier Trail: Good for sparrows, thrushes, and early-morning owls. Less crowded than the Woodland trail.
What you'll see in spring
Expect 25+ warbler species during peak week, including:
- Blackburnian warbler
- Prothonotary warbler (rare but regular)
- Cerulean warbler
- Cape May warbler
- Bay-breasted warbler
Plus scarlet tanagers, Baltimore orioles, rose-breasted grosbeaks, and multiple vireo species.
Practical details
Parking: The park operates a shuttle during peak migration weekends. Arrive before 7am to avoid the shuttle and drive to the tip.
Entry fee: Parks Canada pass required (~$8.50/day or $73/year for a Discovery Pass).
Accommodation: Leamington is the nearest town - book well in advance for May. The park has no camping.
From Toronto: About 4 hours by car via the 401. Worth a long weekend, not a day trip.