The County of Simcoe is pleased to report that two Kirtland’s Warblers, a globally endangered migratory songbird, have been observed in a restored area of the Simcoe County Forest.
This sighting marks an exciting milestone for local conservation efforts and signals early success in creating habitat for a species that was once nearly extinct.
The birds were observed within a recently restored site designed to support early successional pine–oak forest; habitat critical to the Kirtland’s Warbler. The County began this restoration work in 2017, transforming a former aggregate pit through invasive species removal, site preparation including controlled burns, and extensive planting of native trees and vegetation.
This project, the first of its kind in Canada, is part of a broader international effort to recover the Kirtland’s Warbler, which numbers less than 5000 birds worldwide. County staff worked with leading experts from the Canadian Wildlife Service (CWS) and GEI Consultants Canada to complete the project. Funding partners included the Government of Canada through the Habitat Stewardship Program, American Forests and Forests Ontario with in-kind funding from GEI Consultants and Mary Gartshore Consulting. Additional in-kind support was also provided through the County of Simcoe Forestry, Roads and Solid Waste Management Departments.
More information about the restoration project and its partners is available here.
With this positive development, residents visiting the Museum Tract may have an opportunity to observe these birds in their natural habitat that may remain until early July. The County reminds visitors that protecting this sensitive environment is essential to the species’ continued recovery. Kirtland’s Warblers nest on the ground and are highly sensitive to disturbance, so it is important to follow all posted guidelines and respect habitat protections while onsite. Visitors are asked to:
- Stay on designated trails at all times
- Keep noise to a minimum
- Do not approach or attempt to observe the birds at close range
- Keep a safe and respectful distance from all wildlife
- Keep dogs leashed and under control
By following these guidelines, visitors can help ensure this endangered species continues to thrive in Simcoe County. The Museum Tract is located adjacent to the Simcoe County Museum, with the project area spanning approximately 130 acres in total.
