Welcome to the Hullett Songbirds Page

Welcome to the webpage dedicated to the enjoyment of songbirds at the Hullett Provincial Wildlife Area. Roger Tory Peterson once said that birds are "the most vivid expression of life." For many naturalists, birding is a passion. Every year the avid birder looks forward to spring migration with boundless enthusiasm. From the waterfowl migration, to the first Robin, to waves of Warblers in May, the budding and veteran bird-watcher have much to look forward to in the springtime. Join us at Hullett to view the splendor and grandeur of spring migration. This area supports over 120 different species of birds throughout the year. Habitat for bird species on the property is extremely diverse, from marsh and swamp to upland woodlot and floodplain; from native tallgrass prairie to agricultural fields and hedgerows, it's all here for the birder to enjoy.

Over the season, stay tuned to this website for updates on rare and unique sightings at Hullett as well as features on birds and habitat at the Hullett Marsh. There's always something to see and do, give us a call and we'll provide you with all the information you need to have an enjoyable outing. Better yet, come on a guided hike of the area with one of our knowedgable staff - we'd love to show you around the 'jewel' that is Hullett PWA.

Bluebird (L) and Meadowlark

The tools of the trade for bird watchers include binoculars and a good Field Guide. Experts suggest that you obtain the best quality binoculars you can afford. It is recommended to purchase binoculars in a camera or nature shop and try-before-you-buy. Make sure you do your homework, ask an experienced birder or knowledgable salesperson, which is the best pair for you.

After binoculars, a Field Guide is the most important tool a birder utilizes. The classic on the subject is the Peterson Guide to Birds of Eastern and Central North America, which is now in its 5th edition. It is the 'bible' of bird identification manuals. Other Field Guides of note is the informative Sibley Field Guide to Birds of Eastern North America, the comprehensive Smithsonian Handbook of Birds, and the Stokes Field Guide. (there are others but these are the most popular)

Once you've gotten 'decked-out' with a Field Guide and pair of binoculars, you need to find the birds. Each bird has a habitat that it is found in. For instance, a Belted Kingfisher from the Peterson guide, is found near "streams, lakes, bays, and coasts. It nests in sand or clay banks and often perches on wires." Once you know where (its habitat) a bird can be found, you have a hint on where to locate a certain species. It is also suggested that once you find a bird, make sure you keep looking at it until it flies away or is lost in foliage. Note the 'field marks' and then consult a bird book to try and identify it after it's out of your field of view. (Most birds don't sit still too long for intense scrutiny, so take it all in well you can to be able to identify it easier) The field guides will help you to distinguish one species from another and help to identify the bird in question. With practice, you will be able to identify birds by sight as well as by sound.

It is thought that birders make 90% of their identifications by ear. There are numerous resources for this online and on CDs at nature and book stores. More --->