5 Must-See Unique Birds of Newfoundland and Labrador: A Birder's Guide

Are you ready to add some spectacular species to your birding journal?

Newfoundland and Labrador offers some of North America's most unique birding opportunities, with its diverse landscapes ranging from coastal cliffs to boreal forests. Let's explore five extraordinary birds that make this region a birder's paradise.

Unique Bird of NL #1:

Northern Gannet (Morus bassanus)

Best viewing: April to September at Cape St. Mary's Ecological Reserve

These magnificent seabirds are a sight to behold with their 6-foot wingspan and distinctive creamy-white plumage. The spectacle of thousands of gannets nesting on Bird Rock is often called one of North America's greatest wildlife shows. You'll be mesmerized watching them plunge into the ocean at speeds up to 60 mph to catch fish.

Unique Bird of NL #2:

Atlantic Puffin (Fratercula arctica)

Prime season: May to August at Witless Bay Ecological Reserve

Often called the "clowns of the sea," these charismatic birds with their colourful beaks nest in burrows along coastal cliffs. Newfoundland hosts North America's largest puffin colony, with over 260,000 pairs calling the province home during breeding season.

Unique Bird of NL #3:

Great Gray Owl (Strix nebulosa)

Best spotted: November to March in Labrador's boreal forests

One of North America's largest owls, this mysterious "Phantom of the North" can be found hunting in the quiet forests near Happy Valley-Goose Bay. Their distinctive facial disc and impressive size (wingspan up to 5 feet) make them an unforgettable sight in the winter landscape.

Unique Bird of NL #4:

Gray-cheeked Thrush (Catharus minimus)

Optimal viewing: June to August in the Long Range Mountains

This elusive songbird makes its summer home in Newfoundland's high-elevation forests. Gros Morne National Park offers excellent opportunities to hear their haunting, graceful songs at dawn and dusk. The island hosts a unique subspecies found nowhere else in the world.

Unique Bird of NL #5:

Harlequin Duck (Histrionicus histrionicus)

Best time: October to April along the eastern coastline

These striking ducks, nicknamed "Lords and Ladies" due to their elaborate plumage, can be spotted in turbulent coastal waters near St. John's. They're particularly fond of areas where rough seas meet rocky shorelines, making them a challenging but rewarding find for dedicated birders.

Tips for Birders:

~ Always check local weather conditions before planning your excursion

~ Bring appropriate gear for Newfoundland's changeable weather

~ Consider joining local birding groups for expert guidance

~ Respect wildlife viewing guidelines and maintain safe distances

Note: While we aim to provide accurate information, please verify current viewing conditions and access restrictions with local authorities or bird sanctuaries before planning your trip. Thanks to www.ebirds.org for a wealth of information!

There's a never-ending list of unique birds in the province - tell us which ones we should focus on next time.

Remember to consult multiple sources for the most recent information, as bird populations and viewing opportunities can change seasonally and annually.

Happy birding!

Keywords: Newfoundland birds, Atlantic Puffin colony, birding Newfoundland Labrador, Cape St. Mary's birds, Witless Bay seabirds, rare birds Newfoundland, bird watching NL, Canadian maritime birds