Fall Migratory Bird Day at Fort St. Joseph
Central Algoma Land Trust
News Release
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For the second year in a row, the Central Algoma Land Trust is proud to partner with Parks Canada to host the Fall Migratory Bird Day at Fort St. Joseph National Historic Site. Parks Canada will be providing special access to the site so that birders can experience the wonders of fall bird migration.
The site will be open from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Saturday October 11, 2025.
Fort St. Joseph National Historic Site, which is also home to the St. Joseph Island Migratory Bird Sanctuary, is well known as a top tier birding location within the Algoma District. Over 220 different bird species have been recorded here over the years, including 172 so far this year.
During mid-October, a variety of migratory birds can be seen in a single day, including many ducks, raptors, and songbirds. The almost 1000-hectare bird sanctuary has 4.3km-worth of hiking trails that can be explored, and the ruins of Fort St. Joseph offer a great vantage point out over the open water of Lake Huron.
This event is open to everyone, from experienced birders to those looking to try out the hobby for the first time. If you don't have your own pair of binoculars, you can rent a pair from Parks Canada for $5 per hour. Carter Dorscht of the Central Algoma Land Trust will be present in the ruins area for the day to help point out birds.
Admission fees of $4.50 per adult and $4.00 per senior are applicable (youth age 17 and younger are free). Washrooms will be available within the visitor centre. Water will be available for participants to fill personal water bottles, and a limited supply of ice-cream, snacks and beverages will be available for purchase. Participants are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks to ensure they have everything they need to enjoy an amazing day of birding as the nearest food service is roughly 30 km away.
Fort St. Joseph National Historic Site is located at 185 Fort Road on St. Joseph Island.
For more information, please contact the Central Algoma Land Trust at info@calt.ca or 705-782-2200.
About the Central Algoma Land Trust
The Central Algoma Land Trust is a registered charitable organization dedicated to protecting the natural heritage of the Central Algoma region. Since 2006, the organization has helped establish sixteen protected areas, totalling nearly 500 hectares of ecologically sensitive land. In addition to land conservation, it manages two public hiking trails and delivers a wide range of community programs and initiatives, including bird counts, water quality monitoring, bat research, youth education, guided hikes, litter cleanups, and tree planting events.
About Parks Canada
Parks Canada protects and presents natural and cultural heritage in Canada, ensuring these treasured places remain unimpaired for future generations. As the steward of national parks, national historic sites, and national marine conservation areas, Parks Canada connects Canadians and visitors to the heart of the country’s landscapes and stories. Through conservation, education, and meaningful experiences, Parks Canada fosters appreciation, understanding, and respect for the diverse heritage found across Canada. From rugged mountains to historic forts, we invite everyone to explore, learn, and be inspired by the beauty and history that define Canada.
The Central Algoma Land Trust depends on the generous support of our local community to carry out our work. Please consider making a donation to help advance conservation efforts across the Central Algoma region. Your contribution will help protect the natural spaces and wildlife that make this area so special.
