As the days grow longer and temperatures rise, Southern Ontario becomes a hotspot for one of our favourite events of the year: spring migration. April marks the return of many beloved species, bringing a symphony of song and colour back to our forests, wetlands, and backyards. Whether you’re an avid birder or simply enjoy the sight of birds through your own windows, now is the time to prepare for their arrival!
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| Tree Swallow. Photo by Heather Kerrison. |
Exciting Birds Returning in April
Each week of April brings new arrivals, making it an exciting time for birdwatchers. Here are some key species to look out for:
Red-winged Blackbirds – One of the first harbingers of spring, these birds return as early as March and are abundant by April. They've already been spotted!
Eastern Phoebe – This small flycatcher’s raspy “phoebe” call is a welcome sign of the changing season.
Tree Swallow – These acrobatic fliers return to nest in tree cavities and nest boxes.
Yellow-rumped Warbler – One of the earliest warblers to arrive, they can often be seen flitting through trees in search of insects.
Ruby-crowned Kinglet – A tiny, energetic bird with a remarkable song and a striking red crown when excited.
White-throated Sparrow – Their beautiful “Oh sweet Canada, Canada” song is unmistakable.
Northern Flicker – This ground-feeding woodpecker is often spotted foraging for ants in open areas.
Osprey – Look for these fish-eating raptors returning to their nesting platforms near lakes and rivers.
By the end of April, even more species will arrive, including Baltimore Orioles, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, and early warblers, making it a prime time for backyard birding!
How to Prepare for Migrating Birds
Want to attract these stunning visitors to your yard? Here’s how you can make your space a haven for returning migrants:
1. Set Up Nesting Boxes Early
Birds like Eastern Bluebirds, Tree Swallows, and chickadees begin looking for suitable nesting sites in early spring. Installing a WBU EcoTough Bluebird House or WBU Chickadee Nest Box can encourage these birds to settle in your yard.
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| Bluebird Nesting Box. Photo by Kristen Martyn. |
2. Provide High-Energy Food Sources
Migration is exhausting, and birds need nutrient-rich food to refuel. Consider offering:
Mealworms (live or dried) to attract bluebirds and phoebes.
WBU Bark Butter to entice warblers, wrens, and even woodpeckers.
Sunflower Chips or No-Mess Blend to appeal to sparrows, finches, and grosbeaks.
Oriole & Hummingbird Feeders to prepare for their arrival later in the month.
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| Gray Catbird eating Bark Butter. Photo by Leanne Leblanc. |
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| Baltimore Oriole eating BirdBerry Jelly. |
3. Freshen Up Your Birdbaths
Migrating birds rely on fresh water for drinking and bathing. Adding a WBU Heated Birdbath or a simple dripper attachment ensures water remains accessible, even during early spring cold snaps.
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| Rose-breasted Grosbeak at bird bath. |
4. Plant Native Shrubs & Flowers
Enhance your backyard habitat by planting native species like serviceberry, dogwood, and coneflowers, which provide natural food sources and shelter.
Where to Go for the Best Birdwatching
Southern Ontario offers countless hotspots for spring migration. Some of the best places to visit include:
Point Pelee National Park – One of North America’s top migration stopovers.
Tommy Thompson Park (Toronto) – An urban birding paradise along the lakeshore.
Cootes Paradise (Hamilton) – A wetland teeming with warblers and waterfowl.
Rondeau Provincial Park – A prime location for spotting early migrants.
Spring migration is an exhilarating time for bird lovers. Whether you’re setting up your backyard to attract returning birds or heading out to a local birding hotspot, April is full of opportunities to connect with nature. Don’t forget to stock up on birding essentials from to make the most of this exciting season!
What birds are you most excited to see this spring?
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