Nestled within a cozy cedar shake building with expansive vistas of the Bay of Fundy, Jim Wilson finds solace in his surroundings. As a dedicated bird enthusiast and leader of the Saint John Naturalists Club, Wilson is a co-founder of the Point Lepreau Bird Observatory, which was established in 1995 to track the migration patterns of seabirds.
Initially a casual interest, Wilson’s bird-watching hobby evolved into a fulfilling pursuit. Witnessing up to 8,000 birds per hour flying northward in the spring, each traveling at an average speed of 60 kilometers per hour, provides a thrilling experience. The meticulous counting process serves a scientific purpose, contributing valuable research data on seabird and sea duck populations to the Canadian Wildlife Service.
Celebrating three decades of monitoring, the club reflects on observing over a million birds, with approximately 114 different bird species passing through Point Lepreau. The most common species include black scoters and surf scoters, totaling around 1.7 million birds. Utilizing a systematic approach of four-hour sampling blocks, volunteers conduct counts in 15-minute intervals, interspersed with short breaks, capturing a significant volume of birds navigating through the Bay of Fundy.
Julie Bauer, a dedicated volunteer turned program coordinator, emphasizes the importance of birds as bioindicator species. These creatures provide early insights into environmental changes, particularly in the Arctic where they breed. The observatory’s strategic location at the northern tip facilitates comprehensive monitoring of seabird and sea duck migrations, aiding in understanding population dynamics and environmental impacts.
The inception of the observatory stemmed from a contemplative moment between Wilson and his colleague, Dave McCurdy, pondering the potential consequences of an oil spill on the abundant bird population passing through the area. This concern sparked the inception of the observatory, initially starting with monitoring efforts from their vehicle.
While the Saint John Naturalists Club boasts a dedicated volunteer base, Bauer acknowledges the need for new members to sustain their efforts. Welcoming individuals of all ages and experience levels, the club fosters a sense of community alongside conservation initiatives. New volunteers receive mentorship from seasoned bird counters during workshops, emphasizing the enriching and rewarding nature of contributing to scientific research and communal engagement.