Atlantic Puffin (Fratercula artica)
Size: 32 cm (12.8 in.)
Colour and Description
Mating season: Black crown with a white face. Bill is orange, bordered with yellow, with gray triangular-shaped patches.
Remainder of year: Face is gray and base of bill has lost the yellow colour.
Habitat: Rugged, rocky coasts.
Voice: “Arrr”, but usually silent
Interesting Facts:
- A beautiful bird, the Atlantic Puffin is easily identified by its multi-coloured bill. The beauty of this bird is a must see!
- The puffin can dive as much as 60 m (196.85 ft.) to catch its prey of small fish, crustaceans, etc. This bird has the amazing ability to catch fish after fish without losing the previous one! This skill is attributed to its bill, rough tongue and serrated edges on its upper jaw.
When to be and where to see
Late April to August is the best time. MachiasSealIsland is your best destination spot.
Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)
Size: 76 - 109 cm (30.4 - 43.6 in.)
Colour and Description
Adult: White head with yellow bill. Body and wings are dark brown with yellow feet.
Juvenile: Similar but lacks white head.
Habitat: Rivers, lakes and coasts.
Voice: Gull-like, “Kik, Kik, Kik”
Interesting Facts
- The Bald Eagle is known world-wide as the national bird of the United States. Strikingly beautiful, it’s easily recognized by its white head, which is not bald at all!
- The term “bald” was shortened from piebald which is a term used to describe an object that is spotted or patchy, in most cases, an object that is black and white. The regular diet of eagles consists of fish, small animals and carrion.
When to be and where to see
The Bald Eagle is a year-round resident of New Brunswick and can be found all across the province. The best places for viewing are along our coasts, DeerIsland, and Mactaquac (near Fredericton).
Bicknell’s Thrush (Catharus bicknelli)
Size: 16 cm (6.4 in.)
Colour and Description
Head, neck, back and wings are brown. Throat and breast are spotted brown with a white under-belly.
Mating habitat
Coniferous and mixed forest but prefers boreal forest habitat that is dark and moist. During migration, the Bicknell’s Thrush prefers coastal scrub, regenerated forests and also an overgrown garden.
Voice: “Ch-ch-zree p-zreew pp-zreeee”
Interesting Facts
- The Bicknell’s Thrush is a very difficult bird to distinguish from its close relative, the Gray-cheeked Thrush. The best way to identify it is to listen for its song; although this form of identification is still somewhat difficult.
- This bird will offer up an interesting challenge to any birder who has an expert eye and the necessary patience.
When to be and where to see
The Bicknell Thrush is rare to New Brunswick but does offer up opportunities. Breeding time is from mid-June to early August. Migration takes place from late April to early June and from late August to mid-November. Doaktown, MountCarleton, Riley Brook-Nictau and FundyNational Park are the best spots for a sighting.
Black-Backed Woodpecker (Piciodes arcticus)
Size: 23 cm (9 in.)
Colour and Description
Black back. Tail is black with white on tail feathers.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Males have a yellow crown while the females have a black crown. They have three toes on each foot.
Habitat
The Black-Backed Woodpecker prefers woodland that is predominately coniferous and has been burnt over and has many standing trees that are completely charred.
Voice: “Kik”
Interesting Facts
- The Black-Backed Woodpecker issues a challenge to any birdwatcher who wants to view them. The area of preferred habitat is usually remote and largely uninhabited. Once found, another challenge will be that it is extremely well camouflaged against the charred tree. Would it be challenging? Yes! Worth exploring? You bet!
When to be and where to see
The Black-Back Woodpecker can be found across New Brunswick but the province does not have a big population of these birds. Focus should be put on softwood stands that were burnt over.
Bonaparte’s Gull (Larus Philadelphia)
Size: 30 - 36 cm (12 - 14.4 in.)
Colour and Description
Grey back and wings, with wings having a black lining. Chest and lower body are white. Mating season: Black head with a broken, white-eye ring. Remainder of year: White head with a dark ear patch.
Habitat
During the migration period, this gull prefers salt marshes, coastal mud flats, the occasional lake shore and rivers.
Voice: “Ear, ear, ear”
Interesting Facts
- Bonaparte’s Gull is named after the noted nineteenth-century ornithologist, Charles Lucien Bonaparte.
- Unlike other gulls, the Bonaparte is very rarely seen eating in a landfill. This bird prefers to eat insects and small fish.
- The Bonaparte’s Gull is incredibly unique from its relatives; it’s the only member of the gull family that will regularly nest in trees.
- NOTE: This bird does not nest in Atlantic Canada.
When to be and where to see
Late July to November is the optimum time, at Head Harbour passage, Grand Manan Island, Charlo River, Tracadie and Deer Island are the best spots for viewing.
Boreal Chickadee (Poecile hudsonica)
Size: 13 - 14 cm (5 - 5.5 in.)
Colour and Description
Cap, back, sides and flanks are gray–brown. Cheeks are white while the belly and chest are light gray. Wings and tail are gray.
Habitat
The Boreal Chickadee prefers forests that are predominately coniferous. On rare occasions, mixed coniferous with very little deciduous growth.
Voice: “Chick- a- dee- dee”, but much softer than the Black-capped Chickadee.
Interesting Facts
- This little bird is common to New Brunswick but is rather reclusive and a challenge to spot. The only time this bird will leave its cover is winter.
- A lively bird, the Boreal Chickadee burns huge amounts of energy daily. To compensate and survive, ingenuity abounds! It stores stashes of food in various holes and crevices around their living environment. To further aid against the cold, the Boreal Chickadee will slow down its metabolism to conserve energy.
When to be and where to see
This bird can be seen year round and across the province. Birders should focus in on stands of conifers and mixed woods.
Boreal Owl (Aegolius Funereus)
Size: 23 - 30 cm (9.5 - 12 in.)
Colour and Description
White face and a black forehead with white spots. Yellow eyes and bill.
Distinguishing Marks
The Boreal Owl has a rounded head with no tufts on ears. This bird is closely related in size to a robin.
Voice: “whew, whew, whew, whew”, in rapid succession
Habitat
Mating season: The Boreal Owl prefers to inhabit coniferous forests and mature fields.
Migrants/Winter: Preference is open territory. This owl can be seen in open woodlands, suburbs and parks. It can also found around the coast near coastal scrub.
Interesting Facts
- According to bird surveys from across North America, the Boreal Owl is consistently ranked year after year in the top five percentile of species that birdwatchers most want to see.
- The interest in this little owl is fueled by the fact that there is a huge lack of knowledge that ornithologists have gathered about its ecology and behavioral patterns.
- A skilled hunter, this bird can easily survive any winter environment. It has excellent abilities to sense, hear and catch prey from beneath the snow. The Boreal Owl is one hundred percent nocturnal.
When to be and where to see
The Boreal Owl can be seen during the summer months and during the migration period. They are here, but not in great numbers. It has recently been stated that the bird may be more common to this province than once thought. MiscouIsland and Pointe-Sapin are the best chances for a sighting.
Common Eider (Somateria mollissima)
Size: 58 - 68 cm (23 - 27 in.)
Colour and Description
Males are black and white while females are gray to rusty brown.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Males have a smooth, sloped forehead. The nose and nape of the male has a greenish colour. Females have a grayish-coloured nasal shield.
Voice: Males exhibit a human-like moan. Females, during courtship, quack.
Habitat
The Common Eider prefers shallow coastal areas and occasionally can be found around freshwater lakes.
Interesting Facts
- A common duck to New Brunswick, the largest of the duck family, one can stand in awe and watch thousands of these ducks floating along at a calm, even pace. The Common Eider is perfectly equipped to swim in icy water.
- World-renowned for its down, feathers are collected from its nest and from the breast of the females. Females pluck their own down from their breasts to line their nests.
When to be and where to see
Winter is the best time for viewing. The common Eider can be found along the coasts of New Brunswick.
Dovekie (Alle alle)
Size: 21 cm (8.4 in.)
Colour and Description
Black head and white under the bill. Black back with some white, and chest and lower body are white. Mating season: black neck and breast. Remainder of year: throat and breast are white.
Habitat: Cold Waters
Interesting Facts
- The Dovekie is a stocky little bird, considered the smallest of the Atlantic Alcidae. A skilled diver, it feeds on small crustaceans, mollusks and small fish.
- The Dovekie has been considered the most abundant bird in the world. What’s fascinating about this fact is that it only lays one egg per year and is a major source of food for artic foxes, gryfalcons, various gulls, and in some instances, whales.
When to be and where to see
October until April is the best time. “The Whistle” on Grand Manan Island is the best chance for viewing.
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis)
Size: 48 - 64 cm (19.2 - 25.6 in.)
Colour and Description
Male: Blue crown, greenish yellow cheek and a red bill with an orange nasal disk. Back, chest and lower body are white. Wings are black with white upper patches. Female: Entire body is a mosaic of mottled browns with a black bill.
Habitat
The King Eider lives along our ocean’s coast.
Voice: Males “Croak”, while females “Cluck”
Interesting Facts
- A magnificent looking duck, the male King Eider has at least six colours on its head and bill.
- Well protected from winter’s harsh elements, the King Eider is well insulated with down. Frigid waters do not bother this bird.
- The King Eider is an exceptional diver. It has been reported that one was found in a fisherman’s net, 45.72 m (150 ft.) down! The King Eider feeds on mussels, shellfish, etc.
- The world’s population of this beautiful bird is very healthy, due in part to the bird’s nesting habit. The King Eider nests in such remote areas that down collectors cannot collect on a grand scale, unlike the Common Eider.
When to be and where to see
The King Eider population is not overly abundant in our province but birders can view them through the winter months at Point Lepreau, Indian Point and St. Andrews.
Laughing Gull (Larus atricilla)
Size: 38 - 43 cm (15 - 17 in.)
Colour and Description
Mating season: Black head; black with a white-eye ring. Back is dark gray and wings are gray with black tips. Black legs, red bill, and white neck, breast and underparts. Remainder of year: head is white with some gray.
Habitat
Mostly shore lines
Voice: “Ha,ha,ha,ha, ha”
Interesting Facts
- This “Funny Bird” was nearly wiped out during the nineteenth century. Numbers were decimated primarily by egg and feather collectors.
- The Laughing Gull was once a common sight along the eastern seaboard. Here in New Brunswick, the birds have a colony on MachiasSealIsland.
- The Laughing Gull will feed on crustaceans, spiders and various species of fish. Due to being extremely agile, this bird can catch and eat insects in mid-air.
When to be and where to see
May, June, August and September are the best months for sightings on MachiasSealIsland.
Least Sandpiper (Calidris minutilla)
Size: 13 - 17 cm (5.2 - 8.5 in.)
Colour and Description
Head, breast and nape are brown. Legs are greenish-yellow and back is mottled brown.
Distinguishing Characteristics
The Least Sandpiper has a white “V” on its back. This bird also has a breast with a streaked band.
Voice: “Kree”
Habitat
During mating season, the Least Sandpiper is attracted to mud flats, sandy beaches, sewage lagoons and a variety of other forms of wetlands.
Interesting Facts
- The Least Sandpiper, like its relative the Semi-palmated Sandpiper, flies from the Artic to New Brunswick and feeds for their non-stop migration to South America.
- The Least Sandpiper is the smallest of the shore birds.
When to be and where to see
June 1 through to October 1 is the best time. The mud flats of the Bay of Fundy are the place to see them.
Merlin (Falco columbarius)
Size: 25 - 30 cm (10 - 12 in.)
Colour and Description
Male: crown is blue-gray. The head has very light facial stripes. Back is blue-gray, chest and lower body are streaked brownish white and the legs are rusty brown.
Female: crown is brown. Back is brown and the chest and lower body is same colouring as the male.
Both males and females have long, narrow wings and tails.
Habitat
The Merlin prefers coniferous forests and plantations. This habitat is close to their hunting grounds. Occasionally, they have been seen in various suburbs around New Brunswick.
Voice: “Kik”, repetitively
Interesting Facts
- The Merlin was formally known as the Pigeon Hawk. Regardless of names, this bird is a lethal killing machine. Extremely fast and agile, the Merlin can easily stalk and catch its prey.
- An aggressive bird, the Merlin often challenges larger hawks and gulls to battle. This is not a bird to mess with!
- Like the magician, this bird can mysteriously appear and cause utter chaos! Huge flocks of sea birds will immediately take to the air due to the Merlin’s presence.
- The Merlin is not known to winter here, but will do so with an over abundance of prey.
When to be and where to see
March to October, the bird can be seen, but not too frequently. Winter months increase the chance for a sighting. Mary’s Point and Southwest Head on Grand Manan Island are the best locations.
Razor Bill (Alca torda)
Size: 43 cm (17 in.)
Colour and description
Black head with white neck and breast.
Distinguishing Characteristics
The bill of this bird is laterally compressed and resembles a razor.
Habitat
Coastal waters. During the breeding season, the Razor Bill prefers rocky coasts.
Voice: “Urrr” or “Grrr”
Interesting Facts
- An excellent diver, the Razor Bill can dive as deep as 60 m (196.85 ft.) to catch fish, crustaceans and marine worms.
- The Razor Bill, while walking upright, tilts its head back and is regarded as rather distinguished looking. Newfoundlanders call this bird a “ Tinker.”
- The Razor Bill spends most of its time at sea. When mating season is finished, the bird moults, causing it to be flightless for a period of time.
- Birding experts believe that the Razor Bill is the closest relative alive today to the extinct Great Auk.
When to be and where to see
The Razor Bill can be seen the month of September and from March until April. MachiasSealIsland is the spot to see these beautiful birds.
Semipalmated Plover (Charadrius Semi palmatus)
Size: 18 cm (7.2 in.)
Colour and Description
Mating season: crown is brown and has a black band across its forehead and its bill is yellowish-orange with a black tip. White throat with a black band and a brown back. Chest and lower body are white and legs are orange.
Habitat
This plover prefers open areas around waters such as mud flats, sand bars and river shores.
Voice: “Ta-whee”
Interesting Facts
- A beautiful little bird, the Semipalmated Plover can be seen with the Semipalmated Sandpiper. This plover is common across North America but is a sight to behold landing and taking off.
- This plover offers up an interesting challenge to birding enthusiasts. Due to colouring, size, etc., it is a difficult task to distinguish the Semipalmated Plover from other plovers.
- The Semipalmated Plover, like the Semipalmated Sandpiper, has partial webbing between its toes. This allows the bird to walk more effectively over soft substates looking for a meal of worms, crustaceans and insects.
When to be and where to see
The best time to view these beautiful little birds is from mid-May until November. The best places for viewing are Waterside, Grand Manan Island and Mary’s Point.
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pasilla)
Size: 14 - 18 cm (5.6 - 7.2 in.)
Colour and Description
Gray-brown head with white eyebrow. Back and wings are gray-brown. Chest and lower body are white and legs are black.
Habitat
Mud flats, beaches, shorelines
Voice: “Krip”, “Cherk”
Interesting Facts
- The Semipalmated Sandpiper is considered one of the most numerous shorebirds of North America. One can watch upwards of thirty- to fifty-thousand at a time, scurrying around looking for its next meal. Truly a once in a lifetime viewing!
- When stopping in New Brunswick, the Semipalmated Sandpiper will constantly feed to replenish its fat reserves for its migration to South America. These birds feed on aquatic insects and microscopic crustaceans called mud-shrimp.
When to be and where to see
Early June to November is the best months for viewing. The Bay of Fundy is the ideal location for watching this bird.
Snowy Owl (Nyctea scandiaca)
Size: 51 - 69 cm (20.4 - 27.6 in.)
Colour and Description
Yellow eyes, black beak and has no tufts on its ears. This bird is almost completely white and spotted with black flecks. Females have very noticeable flecking on breast and upper body.
Distinguishing Characteristics
The female snowy owl is considerably larger than the male.
Habitat
This bird can be found in a variety of open land. You can find the Snowy Owl living in airports, field edges, meadows and utility poles. It is not uncommon to see it in marshes.
Voice: Hoarse croak/shrill whistle when speaking. The majority of time is quiet.
Interesting Facts
- The Snowy Owl is a magnificent visitor to our province. Like a ghost, it mysteriously pops up in wide open spaces.
- The majority of these birds are seen in the winter but the Snowy Owl will arrive in the fall, standing out quite predominately against the harvest colours.
- More sightings of the Snowy Owl occur when the Lemming, the primary food of the owl in its native habitat, goes through its down-cycle. While here, the owl will feed on voles, mice, small game and will take a sea bird on the odd occasion.
When to be and where to see
Mid-October to May are the best times to see the Snowy Owl. The owl can be seen across the province but the best place for a sighting is the Tantramar Marsh area.
Spruce Grouse (Falcipennis caradensis)
Size: 38 - 40 cm (15 – 17 in.)
Colour and Description
The entire body is a mottled gray, brown and black colour. Both male and females have white splashes on their body.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Males: Males have a red comb over their eyes. Females: Colour is more of a brownish tint than the male and tail feathers are black.
Habitat
The Spruce Grouse prefers woodlands that are coniferous, and in particular, spruce and pine. The Spruce Grouse can also be found in deciduous tracks of land and in bogs.
Voice: Males: “Hoot, Hoot”, Females: “Clucking”
Interesting Facts
- The Spruce Grouse can be found all across New Brunswick but not in large numbers, unlike the Ruffed Grouse.
- Commonly known as the “Fools Hen”, it exudes “tame-like” characteristics, not condusive for survival.
- While camping or driving, it’s not uncommon to view these birds in areas such as camp grounds, woods roads or on a hiking trail.
- The greatest predator to this bird is the Northern Goshawk.
When to be and where to see
This bird can be seen year round. The best spots for a sighting are KouchibouguacPark and the University of New Brunswick’s woodlot.
Three-Toed Woodpecker (Picoides tridactylus)
This bird is almost identical to the Black-Backed Woodpecker. The only noticeable difference between the two birds is that the Three-Toed Woodpecker is smaller and has a shorter bill. The bird also has white stripes on its head. Females may have white spots on their normally black crown.
When to be and where to see
The Three-Toed Woodpecker lives in the same type of environment as the Black-Backed Woodpecker.
For more information on this bird please refer to the information on the Black-Backed Woodpecker.
Wilson’s Phalarope (Phalaropus tricolor)
Size: 22 - 24 cm (8.8 - 9.6 in.)
Colour and Description
Mating season: Female: gray cap, white on sides and cheeks. Black eye-line that lowers to neck. Chest and lower body are light, whitish gray.
NOTE: Colours are very sharp. Male: Colours are much duller and cap is dark.
Remainder of year: gray eye-line and white eyebrow. Chest and lower body are white.
Habitat
Mating season: Coastal and freshwater marshes. Migration: Mud flats and freshwater shores.
Voice: “Wu, wu ,wu” or “Quoit, quoit”
Interesting Facts
- Wilson’s Phalarope is a rather interesting bird with the most unusual mating practice. These birds practice polyandry. Females mate with several different males and will produce eggs with each mate. Once the eggs are laid, the female leaves the male to incubate and protect the nest and its young.
- Wilson’s Phalarope is the only phalarope to mate and nest in Atlantic Canada.
- To catch its prey, the bird will “whirl” in tight circles, causing the water to stir, thus bringing up worms, insects and crustaceans to feed on.
When to be and where to see
The best time to view Wilson’s Phalarope is mid-May to November. The best places to view the bird are Jolicuve Marsh in Sackville, Saints’ Rest Marsh in Saint John and around the Jemseg-Gagetown area.
Atlantic Puffin (Fratercula artica)
Size: 32 cm (12.8 in.)
Colour and Description
Mating season: Black crown with a white face. Bill is orange, bordered with yellow, with gray triangular-shaped patches.
Remainder of year: Face is gray and base of bill has lost the yellow colour.
Habitat: Rugged, rocky coasts.
Voice: “Arrr”, but usually silent
Interesting Facts:
- A beautiful bird, the Atlantic Puffin is easily identified by its multi-coloured bill. The beauty of this bird is a must see!
- The puffin can dive as much as 60 m (196.85 ft.) to catch its prey of small fish, crustaceans, etc. This bird has the amazing ability to catch fish after fish without losing the previous one! This skill is attributed to its bill, rough tongue and serrated edges on its upper jaw.
When to be and where to see
Late April to August is the best time. MachiasSealIsland is your best destination spot.
Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)
Size: 76 - 109 cm (30.4 - 43.6 in.)
Colour and Description
Adult: White head with yellow bill. Body and wings are dark brown with yellow feet.
Juvenile: Similar but lacks white head.
Habitat: Rivers, lakes and coasts.
Voice: Gull-like, “Kik, Kik, Kik”
Interesting Facts
- The Bald Eagle is known world-wide as the national bird of the United States. Strikingly beautiful, it’s easily recognized by its white head, which is not bald at all!
- The term “bald” was shortened from piebald which is a term used to describe an object that is spotted or patchy, in most cases, an object that is black and white. The regular diet of eagles consists of fish, small animals and carrion.
When to be and where to see
The Bald Eagle is a year-round resident of New Brunswick and can be found all across the province. The best places for viewing are along our coasts, DeerIsland, and Mactaquac (near Fredericton).
Bicknell’s Thrush (Catharus bicknelli)
Size: 16 cm (6.4 in.)
Colour and Description
Head, neck, back and wings are brown. Throat and breast are spotted brown with a white under-belly.
Mating habitat
Coniferous and mixed forest but prefers boreal forest habitat that is dark and moist. During migration, the Bicknell’s Thrush prefers coastal scrub, regenerated forests and also an overgrown garden.
Voice: “Ch-ch-zree p-zreew pp-zreeee”
Interesting Facts
- The Bicknell’s Thrush is a very difficult bird to distinguish from its close relative, the Gray-cheeked Thrush. The best way to identify it is to listen for its song; although this form of identification is still somewhat difficult.
- This bird will offer up an interesting challenge to any birder who has an expert eye and the necessary patience.
When to be and where to see
The Bicknell Thrush is rare to New Brunswick but does offer up opportunities. Breeding time is from mid-June to early August. Migration takes place from late April to early June and from late August to mid-November. Doaktown, MountCarleton, Riley Brook-Nictau and FundyNational Park are the best spots for a sighting.
Black-Backed Woodpecker (Piciodes arcticus)
Size: 23 cm (9 in.)
Colour and Description
Black back. Tail is black with white on tail feathers.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Males have a yellow crown while the females have a black crown. They have three toes on each foot.
Habitat
The Black-Backed Woodpecker prefers woodland that is predominately coniferous and has been burnt over and has many standing trees that are completely charred.
Voice: “Kik”
Interesting Facts
- The Black-Backed Woodpecker issues a challenge to any birdwatcher who wants to view them. The area of preferred habitat is usually remote and largely uninhabited. Once found, another challenge will be that it is extremely well camouflaged against the charred tree. Would it be challenging? Yes! Worth exploring? You bet!
When to be and where to see
The Black-Back Woodpecker can be found across New Brunswick but the province does not have a big population of these birds. Focus should be put on softwood stands that were burnt over.
Bonaparte’s Gull (Larus Philadelphia)
Size: 30 - 36 cm (12 - 14.4 in.)
Colour and Description
Grey back and wings, with wings having a black lining. Chest and lower body are white. Mating season: Black head with a broken, white-eye ring. Remainder of year: White head with a dark ear patch.
Habitat
During the migration period, this gull prefers salt marshes, coastal mud flats, the occasional lake shore and rivers.
Voice: “Ear, ear, ear”
Interesting Facts
- Bonaparte’s Gull is named after the noted nineteenth-century ornithologist, Charles Lucien Bonaparte.
- Unlike other gulls, the Bonaparte is very rarely seen eating in a landfill. This bird prefers to eat insects and small fish.
- The Bonaparte’s Gull is incredibly unique from its relatives; it’s the only member of the gull family that will regularly nest in trees.
- NOTE: This bird does not nest in Atlantic Canada.
When to be and where to see
Late July to November is the optimum time, at Head Harbour passage, Grand Manan Island, Charlo River, Tracadie and Deer Island are the best spots for viewing.
Boreal Chickadee (Poecile hudsonica)
Size: 13 - 14 cm (5 - 5.5 in.)
Colour and Description
Cap, back, sides and flanks are gray–brown. Cheeks are white while the belly and chest are light gray. Wings and tail are gray.
Habitat
The Boreal Chickadee prefers forests that are predominately coniferous. On rare occasions, mixed coniferous with very little deciduous growth.
Voice: “Chick- a- dee- dee”, but much softer than the Black-capped Chickadee.
Interesting Facts
- This little bird is common to New Brunswick but is rather reclusive and a challenge to spot. The only time this bird will leave its cover is winter.
- A lively bird, the Boreal Chickadee burns huge amounts of energy daily. To compensate and survive, ingenuity abounds! It stores stashes of food in various holes and crevices around their living environment. To further aid against the cold, the Boreal Chickadee will slow down its metabolism to conserve energy.
When to be and where to see
This bird can be seen year round and across the province. Birders should focus in on stands of conifers and mixed woods.
Boreal Owl (Aegolius Funereus)
Size: 23 - 30 cm (9.5 - 12 in.)
Colour and Description
White face and a black forehead with white spots. Yellow eyes and bill.
Distinguishing Marks
The Boreal Owl has a rounded head with no tufts on ears. This bird is closely related in size to a robin.
Voice: “whew, whew, whew, whew”, in rapid succession
Habitat
Mating season: The Boreal Owl prefers to inhabit coniferous forests and mature fields.
Migrants/Winter: Preference is open territory. This owl can be seen in open woodlands, suburbs and parks. It can also found around the coast near coastal scrub.
Interesting Facts
- According to bird surveys from across North America, the Boreal Owl is consistently ranked year after year in the top five percentile of species that birdwatchers most want to see.
- The interest in this little owl is fueled by the fact that there is a huge lack of knowledge that ornithologists have gathered about its ecology and behavioral patterns.
- A skilled hunter, this bird can easily survive any winter environment. It has excellent abilities to sense, hear and catch prey from beneath the snow. The Boreal Owl is one hundred percent nocturnal.
When to be and where to see
The Boreal Owl can be seen during the summer months and during the migration period. They are here, but not in great numbers. It has recently been stated that the bird may be more common to this province than once thought. MiscouIsland and Pointe-Sapin are the best chances for a sighting.
Common Eider (Somateria mollissima)
Size: 58 - 68 cm (23 - 27 in.)
Colour and Description
Males are black and white while females are gray to rusty brown.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Males have a smooth, sloped forehead. The nose and nape of the male has a greenish colour. Females have a grayish-coloured nasal shield.
Voice: Males exhibit a human-like moan. Females, during courtship, quack.
Habitat
The Common Eider prefers shallow coastal areas and occasionally can be found around freshwater lakes.
Interesting Facts
- A common duck to New Brunswick, the largest of the duck family, one can stand in awe and watch thousands of these ducks floating along at a calm, even pace. The Common Eider is perfectly equipped to swim in icy water.
- World-renowned for its down, feathers are collected from its nest and from the breast of the females. Females pluck their own down from their breasts to line their nests.
When to be and where to see
Winter is the best time for viewing. The common Eider can be found along the coasts of New Brunswick.
Dovekie (Alle alle)
Size: 21 cm (8.4 in.)
Colour and Description
Black head and white under the bill. Black back with some white, and chest and lower body are white. Mating season: black neck and breast. Remainder of year: throat and breast are white.
Habitat: Cold Waters
Interesting Facts
- The Dovekie is a stocky little bird, considered the smallest of the Atlantic Alcidae. A skilled diver, it feeds on small crustaceans, mollusks and small fish.
- The Dovekie has been considered the most abundant bird in the world. What’s fascinating about this fact is that it only lays one egg per year and is a major source of food for artic foxes, gryfalcons, various gulls, and in some instances, whales.
When to be and where to see
October until April is the best time. “The Whistle” on Grand Manan Island is the best chance for viewing.
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis)
Size: 48 - 64 cm (19.2 - 25.6 in.)
Colour and Description
Male: Blue crown, greenish yellow cheek and a red bill with an orange nasal disk. Back, chest and lower body are white. Wings are black with white upper patches. Female: Entire body is a mosaic of mottled browns with a black bill.
Habitat
The King Eider lives along our ocean’s coast.
Voice: Males “Croak”, while females “Cluck”
Interesting Facts
- A magnificent looking duck, the male King Eider has at least six colours on its head and bill.
- Well protected from winter’s harsh elements, the King Eider is well insulated with down. Frigid waters do not bother this bird.
- The King Eider is an exceptional diver. It has been reported that one was found in a fisherman’s net, 45.72 m (150 ft.) down! The King Eider feeds on mussels, shellfish, etc.
- The world’s population of this beautiful bird is very healthy, due in part to the bird’s nesting habit. The King Eider nests in such remote areas that down collectors cannot collect on a grand scale, unlike the Common Eider.
When to be and where to see
The King Eider population is not overly abundant in our province but birders can view them through the winter months at Point Lepreau, Indian Point and St. Andrews.
Laughing Gull (Larus atricilla)
Size: 38 - 43 cm (15 - 17 in.)
Colour and Description
Mating season: Black head; black with a white-eye ring. Back is dark gray and wings are gray with black tips. Black legs, red bill, and white neck, breast and underparts. Remainder of year: head is white with some gray.
Habitat
Mostly shore lines
Voice: “Ha,ha,ha,ha, ha”
Interesting Facts
- This “Funny Bird” was nearly wiped out during the nineteenth century. Numbers were decimated primarily by egg and feather collectors.
- The Laughing Gull was once a common sight along the eastern seaboard. Here in New Brunswick, the birds have a colony on MachiasSealIsland.
- The Laughing Gull will feed on crustaceans, spiders and various species of fish. Due to being extremely agile, this bird can catch and eat insects in mid-air.
When to be and where to see
May, June, August and September are the best months for sightings on MachiasSealIsland.
Least Sandpiper (Calidris minutilla)
Size: 13 - 17 cm (5.2 - 8.5 in.)
Colour and Description
Head, breast and nape are brown. Legs are greenish-yellow and back is mottled brown.
Distinguishing Characteristics
The Least Sandpiper has a white “V” on its back. This bird also has a breast with a streaked band.
Voice: “Kree”
Habitat
During mating season, the Least Sandpiper is attracted to mud flats, sandy beaches, sewage lagoons and a variety of other forms of wetlands.
Interesting Facts
- The Least Sandpiper, like its relative the Semi-palmated Sandpiper, flies from the Artic to New Brunswick and feeds for their non-stop migration to South America.
- The Least Sandpiper is the smallest of the shore birds.
When to be and where to see
June 1 through to October 1 is the best time. The mud flats of the Bay of Fundy are the place to see them.
Merlin (Falco columbarius)
Size: 25 - 30 cm (10 - 12 in.)
Colour and Description
Male: crown is blue-gray. The head has very light facial stripes. Back is blue-gray, chest and lower body are streaked brownish white and the legs are rusty brown.
Female: crown is brown. Back is brown and the chest and lower body is same colouring as the male.
Both males and females have long, narrow wings and tails.
Habitat
The Merlin prefers coniferous forests and plantations. This habitat is close to their hunting grounds. Occasionally, they have been seen in various suburbs around New Brunswick.
Voice: “Kik”, repetitively
Interesting Facts
- The Merlin was formally known as the Pigeon Hawk. Regardless of names, this bird is a lethal killing machine. Extremely fast and agile, the Merlin can easily stalk and catch its prey.
- An aggressive bird, the Merlin often challenges larger hawks and gulls to battle. This is not a bird to mess with!
- Like the magician, this bird can mysteriously appear and cause utter chaos! Huge flocks of sea birds will immediately take to the air due to the Merlin’s presence.
- The Merlin is not known to winter here, but will do so with an over abundance of prey.
When to be and where to see
March to October, the bird can be seen, but not too frequently. Winter months increase the chance for a sighting. Mary’s Point and Southwest Head on Grand Manan Island are the best locations.
Razor Bill (Alca torda)
Size: 43 cm (17 in.)
Colour and description
Black head with white neck and breast.
Distinguishing Characteristics
The bill of this bird is laterally compressed and resembles a razor.
Habitat
Coastal waters. During the breeding season, the Razor Bill prefers rocky coasts.
Voice: “Urrr” or “Grrr”
Interesting Facts
- An excellent diver, the Razor Bill can dive as deep as 60 m (196.85 ft.) to catch fish, crustaceans and marine worms.
- The Razor Bill, while walking upright, tilts its head back and is regarded as rather distinguished looking. Newfoundlanders call this bird a “ Tinker.”
- The Razor Bill spends most of its time at sea. When mating season is finished, the bird moults, causing it to be flightless for a period of time.
- Birding experts believe that the Razor Bill is the closest relative alive today to the extinct Great Auk.
When to be and where to see
The Razor Bill can be seen the month of September and from March until April. MachiasSealIsland is the spot to see these beautiful birds.
Semipalmated Plover (Charadrius Semi palmatus)
Size: 18 cm (7.2 in.)
Colour and Description
Mating season: crown is brown and has a black band across its forehead and its bill is yellowish-orange with a black tip. White throat with a black band and a brown back. Chest and lower body are white and legs are orange.
Habitat
This plover prefers open areas around waters such as mud flats, sand bars and river shores.
Voice: “Ta-whee”
Interesting Facts
- A beautiful little bird, the Semipalmated Plover can be seen with the Semipalmated Sandpiper. This plover is common across North America but is a sight to behold landing and taking off.
- This plover offers up an interesting challenge to birding enthusiasts. Due to colouring, size, etc., it is a difficult task to distinguish the Semipalmated Plover from other plovers.
- The Semipalmated Plover, like the Semipalmated Sandpiper, has partial webbing between its toes. This allows the bird to walk more effectively over soft substates looking for a meal of worms, crustaceans and insects.
When to be and where to see
The best time to view these beautiful little birds is from mid-May until November. The best places for viewing are Waterside, Grand Manan Island and Mary’s Point.
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pasilla)
Size: 14 - 18 cm (5.6 - 7.2 in.)
Colour and Description
Gray-brown head with white eyebrow. Back and wings are gray-brown. Chest and lower body are white and legs are black.
Habitat
Mud flats, beaches, shorelines
Voice: “Krip”, “Cherk”
Interesting Facts
- The Semipalmated Sandpiper is considered one of the most numerous shorebirds of North America. One can watch upwards of thirty- to fifty-thousand at a time, scurrying around looking for its next meal. Truly a once in a lifetime viewing!
- When stopping in New Brunswick, the Semipalmated Sandpiper will constantly feed to replenish its fat reserves for its migration to South America. These birds feed on aquatic insects and microscopic crustaceans called mud-shrimp.
When to be and where to see
Early June to November is the best months for viewing. The Bay of Fundy is the ideal location for watching this bird.
Snowy Owl (Nyctea scandiaca)
Size: 51 - 69 cm (20.4 - 27.6 in.)
Colour and Description
Yellow eyes, black beak and has no tufts on its ears. This bird is almost completely white and spotted with black flecks. Females have very noticeable flecking on breast and upper body.
Distinguishing Characteristics
The female snowy owl is considerably larger than the male.
Habitat
This bird can be found in a variety of open land. You can find the Snowy Owl living in airports, field edges, meadows and utility poles. It is not uncommon to see it in marshes.
Voice: Hoarse croak/shrill whistle when speaking. The majority of time is quiet.
Interesting Facts
- The Snowy Owl is a magnificent visitor to our province. Like a ghost, it mysteriously pops up in wide open spaces.
- The majority of these birds are seen in the winter but the Snowy Owl will arrive in the fall, standing out quite predominately against the harvest colours.
- More sightings of the Snowy Owl occur when the Lemming, the primary food of the owl in its native habitat, goes through its down-cycle. While here, the owl will feed on voles, mice, small game and will take a sea bird on the odd occasion.
When to be and where to see
Mid-October to May are the best times to see the Snowy Owl. The owl can be seen across the province but the best place for a sighting is the Tantramar Marsh area.
Spruce Grouse (Falcipennis caradensis)
Size: 38 - 40 cm (15 – 17 in.)
Colour and Description
The entire body is a mottled gray, brown and black colour. Both male and females have white splashes on their body.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Males: Males have a red comb over their eyes. Females: Colour is more of a brownish tint than the male and tail feathers are black.
Habitat
The Spruce Grouse prefers woodlands that are coniferous, and in particular, spruce and pine. The Spruce Grouse can also be found in deciduous tracks of land and in bogs.
Voice: Males: “Hoot, Hoot”, Females: “Clucking”
Interesting Facts
- The Spruce Grouse can be found all across New Brunswick but not in large numbers, unlike the Ruffed Grouse.
- Commonly known as the “Fools Hen”, it exudes “tame-like” characteristics, not condusive for survival.
- While camping or driving, it’s not uncommon to view these birds in areas such as camp grounds, woods roads or on a hiking trail.
- The greatest predator to this bird is the Northern Goshawk.
When to be and where to see
This bird can be seen year round. The best spots for a sighting are KouchibouguacPark and the University of New Brunswick’s woodlot.
Three-Toed Woodpecker (Picoides tridactylus)
This bird is almost identical to the Black-Backed Woodpecker. The only noticeable difference between the two birds is that the Three-Toed Woodpecker is smaller and has a shorter bill. The bird also has white stripes on its head. Females may have white spots on their normally black crown.
When to be and where to see
The Three-Toed Woodpecker lives in the same type of environment as the Black-Backed Woodpecker.
For more information on this bird please refer to the information on the Black-Backed Woodpecker.
Wilson’s Phalarope (Phalaropus tricolor)
Size: 22 - 24 cm (8.8 - 9.6 in.)
Colour and Description
Mating season: Female: gray cap, white on sides and cheeks. Black eye-line that lowers to neck. Chest and lower body are light, whitish gray.
NOTE: Colours are very sharp. Male: Colours are much duller and cap is dark.
Remainder of year: gray eye-line and white eyebrow. Chest and lower body are white.
Habitat
Mating season: Coastal and freshwater marshes. Migration: Mud flats and freshwater shores.
Voice: “Wu, wu ,wu” or “Quoit, quoit”
Interesting Facts
- Wilson’s Phalarope is a rather interesting bird with the most unusual mating practice. These birds practice polyandry. Females mate with several different males and will produce eggs with each mate. Once the eggs are laid, the female leaves the male to incubate and protect the nest and its young.
- Wilson’s Phalarope is the only phalarope to mate and nest in Atlantic Canada.
- To catch its prey, the bird will “whirl” in tight circles, causing the water to stir, thus bringing up worms, insects and crustaceans to feed on.
When to be and where to see
The best time to view Wilson’s Phalarope is mid-May to November. The best places to view the bird are Jolicuve Marsh in Sackville, Saints’ Rest Marsh in Saint John and around the Jemseg-Gagetown area.