Point Pelee National Park, Canada

May 2010,

 

Point Pelee National Park is a triangular-shaped peninsula of land that extends into Lake Erie and is the southernmost point in mainland Canada. It is situated at the same latitude as northern California and is an important migration corridor for birds and butterflies over Lake Erie. Because of this, Point Pelee was established as a national park in 1918. This small national park is a little over 7 kms long by 3.5 kms wide and is composed of mainly marsh and woodland habitats. A good time to visit is in the spring when the park comes alive with hundreds of birds as they pass through on their annual migration. There are over 360 bird species that have been recorded in the park including the Yellow Warbler and Painted Bunting. In the fall, Point Pelee becomes a migration path for the Monarch Butterfly. But one can expect to see much more when visiting the park as it is home to the endangered prickly pear cactus, dragonflies, the eastern flying squirrel, the eastern spiny softshell turtle and Canada’s only lizard, the five-lined skink.

 

There are endless opportunities for things to do in the park including many interpretive programs and exhibits. The park has 8 self guided walking trails that bring you through marshes on raised boardwalks and a 35ft high observation tower that provides 360 views of the park. Canoes and bikes are available for rental.

Marsh Boardwalk