WE Bird: The Windsor Essex Pelee Island Birding Trail
Expiration: Mar 31st 2025
Connect to hundreds of species migrating to Windsor Essex each year with WE Bird, the digital birding trail for the region. Immerse yourself in our unique habitats to connect with spectacular flora and fauna. Here you will find a plethora of winged species including beloved warblers (songbirds), shorebirds, waterfowl and raptors. Sign up for our free birding trail to access helpful tips, links to more information, bird-friendly businesses, and the opportunity to share photos of your sightings. Check in at multiple stops for prize redemptions and savings. Birds of a feather watch together and discover the numerous species of flighted friends along the way!
Included Venues
See locations on an interactive map.
Aleksander Estate Winery
Our focus is on making small batch, high quality wines that capture and reflect the characteristics of each vintage. We have award winning white, red and fruit wines available. Our vineyard is nestled atop one of the highest points in Essex County and is naturally protected, which allows the grapes to grow and express each growing season. Family owned and operated, we use only grapes grown in our own vineyard and region to create wines that are truly unique in character and craftsmanship. We welcome you to come and visit our tasting room at the vineyard and experience what we have to offer. Who knows, you just might discover your new favorite wine.
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What's Included
- Chance To Win A Chirpy Wine Pourer. Be Entered Into A Draw To Win A Chirpy Bird Wine Pourer. Value Of $67.20
Amherstburg Freedom Museum
Presenting exhibits that share stories of the Underground Railroad and the solidarity it took to make this network possible. This site includes a stop on the Underground Railroad, the Nazrey A.M.E. Church & the Taylor Log Cabin, home of a Freedom Seeker.
Information from: Amherstburg Freedom Museum
Information from: Amherstburg Freedom Museum
What's Included
- $6 Admission (Regular $7.50 Per Person)
Antonino's Original Pizza - Leamington
Antonino ‘Tony’ Ciaravino was one of Windsor’s pizza pioneers. Today, his pizza legacy thrives on in Leamington under the guidance of his great nephew—Pizzaiolo Andrew. Experience the Windsor-style pizza recipe generations have strived to perfect. From our family to yours…Buon Appetito!
What's Included
- Free Order Of 8 Breadsticks With Purchase Of A Large, Queen, Or King Size Pizza
Banded Goose Brewing Co.
Banded Goose Brewing Co. (BgB) is the brewing ‘wing’ of JACKS GROUP established in 2013. In 2019 we expanded to open our Brew House, Taproom, Lounge & all season patio at 15 Main Street, East. We offer 12 local craft beers on tap, retail to go & a full menu featuring JACKS line up of burgers, local perch, wings & shareable appetizers. We also have live music every Friday & Saturday from 6-10pm.
ORDER Takeout online at bandedgoosebrewing.com for pick up or delivery via SkiptheDish
For a true immersive Beer Experience call our Kingsville Concierge at (519) 733-5070 & reserve one of our brewery loft guest suites on the second floor of the brewery & make a night of it.
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ORDER Takeout online at bandedgoosebrewing.com for pick up or delivery via SkiptheDish
For a true immersive Beer Experience call our Kingsville Concierge at (519) 733-5070 & reserve one of our brewery loft guest suites on the second floor of the brewery & make a night of it.
What's Included
- Free Beer Tasting With Purchase
Big "O" Conservation Area
Big “O” Conservation Area attracts a wide variety of migrant songbirds during May. As it is located in a wooded habitat, it is a welcome stop for many species of warblers.
Canadian Transportation Museum and Heritage Village
Situated on a 100 acre site housing one of the largest transportation museums in Ontario, the museum hosts a fine collection of original, fully-restored vehicles from the 19th and 20th centuries, from horse drawn wagons to a Dodge Viper. Be sure to visit the heritage village, with 20 buildings from Windsor-Essex ranging from the 1700s-1920s and the only Ambulance museum in Canada.
Information from: Canadian Transportation Museum & Heritage Village
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Information from: Canadian Transportation Museum & Heritage Village
Carolinia Cider Company
Carolinia Cider Company is an orchard based cidery making small batch, estate grown ciders in the heart of the Carolinian Forest.
What's Included
- Complimentary Tasting Flight With The Purchase Of A Bottle
Cedar Creek Conservation Area
Experience the Carolinian woodlands, rolling landscapes, creeks, tributaries and abundant wildlife. Be inspired by the sight of eagles soaring, herons and egrets wading, and turtles sun worshiping on logs. View the provincially rare American Lotus, Swamp Rose Mallow and other superb flora and fauna.
This site is managed by the Essex Region Conservation Authority.
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This site is managed by the Essex Region Conservation Authority.
Comfort Inn & Suites Ambassador Bridge
The Comfort Inn & Suites Ambassador Bridge offers non-smoking guest rooms and has main floor walk out rooms. Excellent customer service, excellent location, with hotel amenities such as FREE parking and WiFi, and FREE hot breakfast.
What's Included
- 20% Off Our Best Available Rate
Comfort Inn South Windsor
Located in South Windsor with easy access to international crossings, major highways, and unique shopping/dining experiences. Featuring a breakfast room and fitness area. Our guests enjoy complimentary hot breakfast, Wi-Fi and our program Choice Privileges.
What's Included
- Save Up To 15% Off With Advanced Reservations
Cooper's Hawk Vineyards and The Vines Restaurant
Located on 70 acres of land, Cooper’s Hawk Vineyards and The Vines Restaurant are a nature lovers haven. Enjoy a glass of award-winning wine, or a unique dining experience with beautiful views of the vineyards, wildlife and majestic sunsets. A 'Sustainable Tourism Certified Business' and awarded ‘Sustainability Trailblazer of the Year’ by Ontario Southwest.
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What's Included
- 2 For 1 Tasting Flights
Cured Craft Brewing Co.
Leamington’s only craft brewery has opened in a recently restored historic building in Uptown Leamington. We have 6 classic core brands (Lager, Pilsner, Cream Ale, Honey Wheat Ale, IPA, Stout) as well as many seasonals offered throughout the year. Our foods are sourced locally and inspired seasonally. We also have our retail store which allows you to purchase our delicious beer and take it home for enjoyment.
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What's Included
- 10% Off Of Purchases Over $50 Before Tax
Days Inn by Wyndham Leamington
Newly renovated deluxe accommodations, family suites and jacuzzi suites. All rooms offer fridges, microwaves and coffee makers. Free hot breakfast, Wi-Fi and parking. On-site lounge/bar, indoor heated pool, sauna, hot tub, fitness centre and minimart.
What's Included
- Early Birders Breakfast Starting At 5:30am
Distinctive Inns of Kingsville Inn136
INN31 at Jacks Gastropub Pub Suites, INN136 at The Retreat On Mill Guest House Suites & INN15 at Banded Goose Brewery, Brewery Loft Suites. Book online or call our virtual concierge desk.
What's Included
- Free Beer Tasting At Banded Goose Brewery
Green Heart Kitchen
Green Heart has three facets to our business; our healthy school lunch program, our retail store, and most recently our farm. We source fresh, local ingredients (if we don't grow them) for all of our meals, lunches and catering.
What's Included
- Enjoy 10% Off Any Meal!
Hawksview Honey
Hawksview Honey is a local family-owned bee apiary. Our purpose is to promote a holistic and natural approach to farming, gardening and beekeeping. We are dedicated to sustainable beekeeping, and to strengthening and supporting the health of honey bees.
What's Included
- 10% Off Honey Purchases
Hillman Marsh Conservation Area
The shorebird habitat at Hillman Marsh is unique in North America. The managed habitat creates the perfect combination of mudflats to provide nutrition and a resting area for migrating shorebirds. A large bird blind is open for visitors to photograph and study the birds.
This site is managed by the Essex Region Conservation Authority.
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This site is managed by the Essex Region Conservation Authority.
Holiday Beach Conservation Area
Holiday Beach and Big Creek Conservation Areas received international recognition in 2000 as a globally significant Important Bird Area (IBA) due to raptor migration, and being known as a breeding area for Prothonotary Warblers (a nationally endangered species). In fall, you can witness the migration celebration as thousands of raptors head south, and in spring, it’s a great location to watch ducks and warblers. Climb the three storey observation tower to gain a different perspective.
This site is managed by the Essex Region Conservation Authority.
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This site is managed by the Essex Region Conservation Authority.
Jack Miner Migratory Bird Sanctuary
Founded by conservationist Jack Miner, visitors can feed and interact with waterfowl, hike a 5km trail system, enjoy the grounds, and book a tour to visit the Jack Miner House and explore the museum. In the spring and the fall, the grounds are filled with birds passing through using the sanctuary as a safe resting place for food, water, and shelter.
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Joe Hot + Cold: Colchester
Nestled next to The Grove Hotel in Kingsville and inside The Grove Motel in Colchester, it's your go-to spot for a killer vibe, incredible coffee, delectable eats, and crafty cocktails. Flutter by either location of JOE.Hot+Cold for a sip as delightful as your sightings! Cheers to the chirps!
What's Included
- Buy One, Get One For A Loonie Beverage Deal
Joe Hot + Cold: Kingsville
Nestled next to The Grove Hotel in Kingsville and inside The Grove Motel in Colchester, it's your go-to spot for a killer vibe, incredible coffee, delectable eats, and crafty cocktails. Flutter by either location of JOE.Hot+Cold for a sip as delightful as your sightings! Cheers to the chirps!
What's Included
- Buy One, Get One For A Loonie Beverage Deal
John R Park Homestead
Adjacent to the provincially significant Fox Creek Wetland and the shores of Lake Erie, this historic homestead provides for significant birding opportunities through the meandering paths of its woodlands. In addition to shorebirds and warblers, Bald Eagles can often be seen perching lakeside in early morning. The site also includes active resident colonies of Chimney Swifts and Barn Swallows.
This site is managed by the Essex Region Conservation Authority.
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This site is managed by the Essex Region Conservation Authority.
Kopegaron Woods Conservation Area
One kilometer of boardwalk trails meander through this conservation area, and warblers such as American Redstart, Blackburnian Warbler, Black-and-White Warbler, Northern Parula, and maybe even a Kentucky Warbler or a Mourning Warbler can be spotted resting before continuing their flight north in spring.
This site is managed by the Essex Region Conservation Authority.
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This site is managed by the Essex Region Conservation Authority.
Lofts by Lee & Maria's
Discover the serene charm of Lofts by Lee and Maria’s in the heart of Essex County. Nestled just steps from the breathtaking Lake Erie Wine Route and pristine local beaches, our luxurious lofts offer the perfect base to explore the region's natural beauty. After a day spent in the great outdoors, unwind in our spacious accommodations, boasting all the comforts of home, including complimentary WiFi and private parking. Whether you're marveling at migratory birds or toasting to a spectacular sunset with a glass of fine local wine, Lofts by Lee and Maria’s is where your nature getaway dreams come true.
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What's Included
- 10% Off At Lee And Maria's Market
Muscedere Vineyards Estate Winery
Muscedere Vineyards is a family owned and operated winery, which hand-harvests only the best grapes from our vineyard to produce premium wines. We believe in small hand-crafted lots that allow us to treat each variety in each vintage with the utmost of attention and care to ensure true varietal character in each wine we release. Our commitment to quality is evidenced in our final products.
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What's Included
- 10% Off Purchase Of $50 Or More At The Winery
North 42 Degrees Estate Winery
Indulge your Senses at North 42 Degrees Estate Winery. Elegant interiors. Lake breezes on the patio. Award winning wines. Farm to table cuisine. Magical, fragrant gardens. Put them all together and you have a sensory experience like no other in our region.
What's Included
- Purchase $150 Of Wine Or Winery Merchandise And Receive A Free Bottle Of Our Award Winning Sparkling Riesling
Ojibway Prairie Complex
Ojibway Prairie Complex is a collection of six closely situated natural areas within a 10 minute drive from downtown. Over 260 species have been recorded in the 260 hectares of the Ojibway Prairie Complex, the largest protected tallgrass prairie and oak savannah in Ontario. This park complex attracts large numbers of migrant warblers, and other song birds and breeding birds such as the Tufted Titmouse, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Rosebreasted Grosbeak, Scarlet Tanager, and Indigo Bunting.
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Paglione Estate Winery
Paglione Estate Winery offers guests a unique experience, infused with Italian charm, in a warm, family atmosphere. Enjoy their old-world style of winemaking with their famous wood-fired pizza or traditional sharing plates, inspired by timeless family recipes. Complete your visit with a handmade gelato while relaxing on their sunny Mediterranean patio.
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What's Included
- Complimentary Wine Tasting Flight
Pelee Island Adventures
Offering in-person & on-line bookings for golf carts & e-bike rentals, tours & amazing experiences. From individually prepped picnic baskets to weekend itineraries, our goal is to not just ensure you have the best time, but to make the best use of your time!
What's Included
- 30% Off Arrive Revive Tour & Tasting
Pelee Island Bird Observatory
The Island is recognized as a globally Important Bird Area and is at the confluence of two migration routes - the Atlantic Flyway and the Mississippi Flyway. Devoted to the study and conservation of birds on the Island is Pelee Island Bird Observatory at Fish Point Nature Reserve. This bird banding station has documented 313 different bird species on Pelee Island.
Planning a trip to Pelee Island? Be sure to CHECK THE FERRY TIMES and book ahead to ensure a spot. Ferries depart from Kingsville or Leamington ON, or from Sandusky OH.
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Planning a trip to Pelee Island? Be sure to CHECK THE FERRY TIMES and book ahead to ensure a spot. Ferries depart from Kingsville or Leamington ON, or from Sandusky OH.
Pelee Wings Nature Store
Canada's top source for all birding needs. Binoculars and spotting scopes for all budgets. Expert advice to ensure you're getting the best option for your needs at the best price in Canada. Bring your optics in for a free cleaning.
What's Included
- Free Fog Free Cleaning With Any Binocular Or Spotting Scope Over $100
Point Pelee National Park
Situated at the southern extreme of mainland Canada, Point Pelee National Park is a tiny sanctuary supporting a mosaic of habitats from jungle-like forest to lush wetlands to open savannah. The park holds the title of Canada’s warbler capital as well as being named one of the top 10 birding destinations in North America. Hike the 20 km of trails and footpaths taking you deep into the forest, or walk the Marsh Boardwalk, out onto one of the largest freshwater marshes on the Great Lakes.
Witness the songbird spring migration at the Festival of Birds, held annually in May at Point Pelee National Park.
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Witness the songbird spring migration at the Festival of Birds, held annually in May at Point Pelee National Park.
Quality Inn Leamington
Experience service and quality at its best at our newly renovated hotel. Immerse yourself in contemporary elegance with modern amenities and stylish decor. Indulge in exceptional comfort and personalized service. Product, Service, Location - we've got it all!
What's Included
- 10% Of Your Next Stay
River Bookshop
River Bookshop is Amherstburg's coziest spot to browse books, puzzles, & stationery. We host community events to support the arts & strive to be a “Third Place” where people gather. Our values: educate, entertain, inspire, engage.
What's Included
- 15% Off All Birding Books, Select Bird Puzzles, And Metalbirds
River Canard Canoe Co.
River Canard Canoe Co.and the River Canard Outpost offer exceptional viewing of shoreline birds and wildlife on the River Canard from our rentals of canoes, kayaks and our river tours. Be an adventurer and experience birding from our watercraft.
Ruscom Maple Farm
Ruscom North Shore Farms is a small family operated Maple Syrup operation, possibly the most Southern in Canada. Trees are tapped and sap is collected by traditional methods, using buckets to collect sweet sap, which is boiled over a wood fired evaporator. Ruscom Maple farms carries a wide variety of sizes of pure Canadian maple syrup as well as maple butter and other treats.
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What's Included
- Complimentary Maple Syrup Or Maple Product Tasting
Salute Resto + Bar
Acclaimed artisanal food & drink with flair! Quality cocktails, curated wines and delicious sharing plates surrounded by thoughtful modern decor. High service standards with attention to detail. Great for dates, dinners and private events.
What's Included
- 10% Off Purchases Of $50 Or More
Serenity Lavender Farm
A gift shop and farm offering nature lovers hand made organic small batch soaps, bath & body, culinary products and more including home decor and women's accessories. Or join us for a cup of tea and a slice of our infamous lavender blueberry cheesecake.
What's Included
- 10% Off Your Purchase
Stone House 1891
Stone House 1891’s lakefront patio is the spot for memorable Pelee Island dining. Great Canadian craft beers, handmade cocktails, served with dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Try our signature wood fired pizzas or fresh caught Lake Erie fish.
The "Onion Fields"
During the spring thaw and heavy rains, farmlands - which may have previously been marshes - become flooded. They also attract species after ploughing or harvesting. You can find this type of habitat at the “Onion Fields” north of Point Pelee National Park and any other flooded field in the region. Please respect private property.
Photo courtesy of Parks Canada -Steve Pike
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Photo courtesy of Parks Canada -Steve Pike
The Bank Theatre
Join us for Monarch Cafe - up close & personal with musicians in the round, theatrical productions, Dale's Friday Coffee House, Improv Nite "Laugh All Night", concerts and more!
What's Included
- Birders Receive BOGO Show Ticket During 2024 Birding Season
The Goose Kitchen + Bar by Jack's GastroPub
The Goose Kitchen & Bar partners with our local farmers & producers to bring you the true Taste of Kingsville with seasonal Farm-to-Fork menus. Featuring the vintages of the EPIC Wine Route and local craft beers from BgB Brewery and the Barrels Bottles and Brews Trail.
The Grove Hotel
Hip. Historic. Unique. Memorable. Spread your wings at The Grove Hotel, Kingsville! This 1854 gem is all about personality. TripAdvisor agrees, awarding us with the Top 25 Small Hotels in Canada for five consecutive years. Quench your thirst at JOE Hot+Cold as you spot the rarest feathers in Town!
What's Included
- Complimentary Wine Beverage Tweet & Meet Social Hour Featuring Delightful Selections From Oxley Winery!
The Grove Motel
Step into The Grove Motel, where retro vibes meet chill lakeside living in the heart of the EPIC wine region. Nestled in the historic beach hamlet of Colchester, our newest gem is the epitome of cool – expect the unexpected and a whole lot more.
What's Included
- Complimentary Wine Beverage At Tweet & Meet Social Hour Featuring Delightful Selections From Oxley Winery!
The Pelee Shop Bike Rentals & Souvenirs
The Pelee Shop is a bike rental and souvenir shop located just steps from the ferry dock on the west side of Pelee Island. Stop by to experience Pelee Island by bike or pick up a snack, drink, or souvenir!
What's Included
- 10% Off All Retail And Rentals
The Walnut Grove Bed & Breakfast
Pamper yourself at the Walnut Grove, with a focus on sustainability & sourcing local. Luxurious king rooms, ensuites, koi pond, heated pool, 10 acres, and chalet in the woods. Treat yourself with add-ons to elevate your stay. Pet friendly. Adults only.
What's Included
- Pay For 2 Nights, Stay For 3
The Woodbridge House
Conveniently located on a beautiful treed one-acre property near Pelee Island Winery and the Greenway. Short drive to Point Pelee National Park and Pelee Island ferry. Our historic home features five private rooms, each with an ensuite washroom.
Tufted Titmouse: The Official Bird of the City of Windsor
The Tufted Titmouse is the official bird of the City of Windsor. Part of the tit and chickadee family, it is a vocal songbird that nests in natural holes left by woodpeckers. The Tufted Titmouse can be found in the oak woodland natural areas that are unique to Windsor, including the Ojibway Prairie Complex. This habitat makes Windsor one of the few places in Canada that this bird can call home.
Photo courtesy of Tom Preney
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Photo courtesy of Tom Preney
Unconquered Custom Electric Bike Wine Tours
Journey through Lake Erie North Shore wine country and discover our premier coastal vineyards aboard a vintage style electric bike! Let your nose and palate guide your tasting. Bring yourself, significant other or some besties. Pack sunscreen and a sense of adventure!
What's Included
- 10% Off All Electric Bike Wine Tours For The Duration Of Our 2024 Season!
Urban Surf Co.
For those who want to discover Lake St. Clair and enjoy the outdoors there is no better way to get closer than at Urban Surf. We offer paddle board and kayak rentals, along with special events, group classes, a café, and surf shop.
What's Included
- Buy One Get One Café Item
Ure's Country Kitchen & Mini Golf
Ure's Country Kitchen & Mini Golf is a truly unique family destination! A world class park setting ensures this "putting" course is "All About The Fun!". Ice Cream Parlour, Restaurant, Candy Store, Gas, Diesel & Lotto all available.
What's Included
- Buy One Breakfast Get Half Off The Second
Viewpointe Estate Winery
Sitting on the shores of Lake Erie, enjoy lunch and a wine tasting under the pavilion before taking a stroll across the lakeside lawn. Crafting world-class wines from three estate vineyards, be sure to try Cabernet Franc and our signature Auxerrois.
What's Included
- Receive One Free Bird-Themed Key Chain When You Visit Our Retail Store
Wenzler's Landing B&B
Nestled on tranquil acres of fields and woods, our spacious home offers a relaxing getaway. Fabulous breakfasts, superb beds and patios to pamper. We are a short drive to nature areas, wineries, restaurants and Point Pelee National Park.
What's Included
- 10% Discounted Room Rate + A Complimentary Bird Window Decal
Wheatley Provincial Park
Wheatley Provincial Park is located on a major migratory bird route and therefore provides excellent bird watching opportunities. During spring and fall migrations you can view a variety of warblers, hawks, thrushes and flycatchers. Or, watch herons and egrets wade in the shallows of creeks that wind their way through the park.
Photo Courtesy of Chatham-Kent Tourism
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Photo Courtesy of Chatham-Kent Tourism
Windsor Symphony Orchestra
An award-winning professional orchestra providing live & digital performances and workshops under the direction of Maestro Robert Franz. The WSO supports both Youth and Community Orchestras and a volunteer chorus. Connecting people through music for over 75 years.
What's Included
- Tickets $45 Each – Valid For Up To 2 Tickets
Wolfhead Distillery
The first ultra-premium craft distillery in the heart of rum-running country. Enjoy hand crafted spirits and a locally-inspired menu in our tasting room or outdoor patio. Wolfhead Distillery features small batch Vodka, Whisky and Gin, creating distinct spirits you won’t find anywhere else. Join us for tastings, tours, events and more!
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What's Included
- One Complimentary Tasting Flight