Spring Bird Migration in Southern Ontario: Backyard Birds to Watch for in April

As the days grow longer and temperatures begin to rise, spring bird migration in Southern Ontario starts to come alive. Early April marks the return of many beloved migratory birds, bringing colour, song, and activity back to forests, wetlands, and neighbourhood backyards.

For birdwatchers and nature lovers alike, this is one of the most exciting times of the year. Many species are arriving from their wintering grounds in the southern United States, Central America, and beyond, stopping in Ontario to rest, refuel, and begin establishing territories.

Whether you’re an avid birder or simply enjoy watching birds at your backyard feeders, April is the perfect time to prepare for spring migrants.

Yellow-rumped warbler. Photo by Heather Kerrison. 

Migratory Birds Returning to Southern Ontario in April

Each week of April brings new arrivals, making it one of the most dynamic months for birdwatching in Ontario. Here are some of the species you may begin spotting during early spring migration:

Red-winged Blackbirds – One of the earliest and most recognizable signs of spring. These striking birds return to wetlands in March and are abundant by early April.

Eastern Phoebe – This small flycatcher is often among the first insect-eating birds to return. Listen for their distinctive raspy “phoebe” call near forests and streams.

Tree Swallow – Graceful aerial insect hunters, tree swallows return to Ontario in early April and readily use nesting boxes.

Yellow-rumped Warbler – One of the earliest warblers to migrate north. They’re often spotted flitting through treetops searching for insects.

Ruby-crowned Kinglet – A tiny, energetic bird that moves quickly through branches, often flicking its wings as it searches for insects.

White-throated Sparrow – Many bird lovers recognize their beautiful song, often described as “Oh sweet Canada, Canada.”

Northern Flicker – This ground-feeding woodpecker can often be seen probing lawns for ants during spring.

Osprey – Look for these impressive fish-eating raptors returning to nesting platforms near lakes and rivers.

Osprey in nest. Photo by Heather Kerrison. 

By the end of April, even more species begin appearing across Southern Ontario, including Baltimore Orioles, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, and additional warblers, making it a fantastic time for backyard birdwatching.

Baltimore Oriole. Photo by Shayna Hartley. 

Supporting Backyard Birds During Spring Migration

Migration is an exhausting journey for birds. Many have travelled hundreds or even thousands of kilometres to reach Ontario, and they rely on reliable food sources to regain energy.

Even though spring is arriving, natural food sources can still be limited in early April, especially after cold nights or late snowfalls.

Offering high-energy foods at backyard feeders can make a real difference for migrating birds.

Some excellent foods to offer during spring migration include:

• Mealworms – A favourite of bluebirds, robins, and other returning insect-eaters

• Bark Butter® or suet – Attracts woodpeckers, chickadees, wrens, and nuthatches

• Sunflower chips or no-mess blends – Ideal for sparrows, finches, and cardinals

• Fresh water – Birdbaths are especially valuable for migrating birds needing to drink and bathe

Maintaining feeders during spring migration helps provide birds with the energy they need as they prepare for nesting season.

Prepare Nesting Boxes Early

Many birds begin searching for nesting sites shortly after they return.

If you have nest boxes in your yard, early April is the perfect time to:

• Clean out old nesting material

• Ensure mounting hardware is secure

• Check that the entrance hole is clear and unobstructed

Species such as Eastern Bluebirds, Tree Swallows, and chickadees may begin inspecting nest boxes throughout April.

Installing nest boxes now increases the chances that birds will choose your yard as their nesting site.

Tree Swallow at nesting box. Photo by Kristen Martyn. 

Best Places to Watch Spring Migration in Southern Ontario

Southern Ontario is one of the best regions in Canada to experience bird migration. Many species stop along the Great Lakes as they travel north.

Some popular birdwatching hotspots include:

• Point Pelee National Park – One of North America’s most famous migration locations

• Tommy Thompson Park (Toronto) – A fantastic urban birding location along Lake Ontario

• Cootes Paradise (Hamilton) – A wetland habitat full of migrating songbirds and waterfowl

• Rondeau Provincial Park – Known for early warblers and spring migrants

Even a simple walk through your neighbourhood park or watching your backyard feeders can reveal new arrivals during April.

A Season of Change

Spring migration is one of the most exciting natural events of the year in Ontario. Every day brings the possibility of spotting a new species returning north after winter.

By keeping feeders stocked, providing fresh water, and creating welcoming habitat, you can help support migrating birds while enjoying the beauty and energy they bring to the season.

What birds have you spotted returning to your backyard this spring?

Share your photos this spring with our Bird Community! 

Warmly, 

Heather