Point Pelee's Festival of Birds takesflight after 2-year absence

The Festival of Birds has returned to Point Pelee National Park in southwestern Ontario after a pandemic-related two-year hiatus.

Every year around this time, birds flock to the parkon their annual migration, attracting birders from all over.

In 2022, the Festival of Birds began April 30 andruns until May 23.

Roy Barkhouse visited the parkfrom Kitchener, Ont., for his tenth festival.

"We enjoy the exercise, we enjoythe photography, obviously. And it's a challenge," he said. "My wife and I enjoy it, so it keeps us out of trouble."

"It's fabulous to see the birds and go along with one of the nature hikes," saidMary Helen Morrealefrom Sarnia, Ont.

"It is wonderful to have this again and be able to participate in it."

WATCH | Point Pelee's Festival of Birds returns:

Point Pelee's Festival of Birds returns after two years

3 years ago

Duration 1:00

Avid birder Roy Barkhouse tells CBC News this is his tenth year enjoying the festival. He and his wife travelled from Kitchener, Ont. to do some bird watching.

Not only is it a chance to observe nature, but the annual eventpumps millions of dollars to the economy in Leamington, Ont.

Mayor Hilda MacDonald is glad to see it back again after the absence.

"When I had my business 20 some years ago, we always looked forward to this time of year when the first of our tourists would come," she said.

The pandemic has still had an effect on the programming at the park.

Some programs with experts are not offered this year, and the Friends of Point Pelee couldn't organize their usual barbecues.

Laurie Hart,president of Friends of Point Pelee, saidthe breakfasts and the lunches they serve at the festival are their biggest fundraisers, and will go ahead this year.

"So we're thrilled to be able to greet our friends that have come back to the park," she said.

"It just started on Saturday, so it's just the beginning of the three-week festival and attendance ... You know, the second week seems to be the most-visited week."

The non-profit group works to support the park.

But this year, a cruise ship brought several visitors to the point, something that hasn't happened before.

The visitor centre manager saidit's mainly Canadians so far, but she expects larger crowds this weekend.