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Home
About PIBO
Research
Outreach
Events
News
Newsletter
PIBO Shop
Get Involved
Contact
- Connect with PIBO
- Visit PIBO

Home
About PIBO
Research
Outreach
Events
News
Newsletter
PIBO Shop
Get Involved
Contact
- Connect with PIBO
- Visit PIBO

Contact PIBO

Contact Us

[contact-form-7 id=”2794″ title=”Contact Form”]

PIBO Location

1023 West Shore Road, Pelee Island, ON

General Mail (administrative, fundraising, events, media)
P.O. Box 24001 Market Square
Windsor, ON N8Y 4Y8
Canada

Research (migration monitoring, Pelee Island events and education, banding station)
1023 West Shore Rd
Pelee Island, ON N0R 1M0
Canada

Contact

We’re happy to share our expertise about birds, migration patterns, wildlife conservation and related topics.

Please contact us for media interviews, to plan your visit, or with your questions.

General Mail
(administrative, fundraising, events, media, education)
P.O. Box 24001 Market Square
Windsor, ON N8Y 4Y8
(519) 724-2829

Our Photographers

Thank you to Paul Jones, Mike V.A. Burrell, Richard K. Cooper, Sumiko Onishi, and all the talented and persistent bird photographers who generously shared their images with PIBO to enhance your enjoyment of this website.

Newsletter

We love to connect! Please add yourself to our email newsletter list.

peleebird

PIBO is a charity devoted to the study and conservation of birds.

What a truly unforgettable 25th annual Springsong

What a truly unforgettable 25th annual Springsong Weekend!!!✨🌸

From a lively Botham Cup Bird Race buzzing with bird lovers to a fantastic Atwood‑Gibson Bird Centre walk‑through, this year’s Springsong was truly something special. More than 100 visitors joined the PIBO team to explore the new Bird Centre on Saturday, offering valuable feedback and helping PIBO shape the space as we step into this exciting new chapter.

One of the standout moments was the inspiring Bird Talk by Dr. Tim Birkhead, whose storytelling and decades of research had the room completely captivated. His passion for history and seabirds left everyone energized and curious.

At the Pelee Island Bird Observatory, weekends like this fuel our mission to monitor, study, and protect birds as they move through this remarkable island.

Thank you to everyone who joined us, showed enthusiasm, asked questions, shared sightings, and helped celebrate the return of spring migration.
Happy birding! 🌿🕊️

#community #migration #celebration #spring #ontario

After much anticipation, more migrants are finally

After much anticipation, more migrants are finally touching down on Pelee Island. One standout arrival this morning: a stunning second‑year male Kentucky Warbler. This species’ breeding range usually extends just south of Lake Erie and in the station’s 23 years of operation, only seven others have ever been banded!

We had many first of year in and out of the nets, most of them being neotropical warblers. Definitely, our busiest day of the season - through census, observations and banding, a total of 84 species were detected!

*PIBO banding takes place under federal scientific permits issued by the Canadian Wildlife Service and PIBO strictly follows the ethical guidelines set by the North American Banding Council. Wild birds are protected by federal legislation and should not be handled without proper permits and training**

[FR] Après beaucoup d’anticipation, plusieurs migrants ont touché terre sur l’Île Pelée. Une capture particulière ce matin: une Paruline du Kentucky, un mâle de seconde année. L’aire de reproduction de cette espèce se termine habituellement tout juste au sud du Lac Érié et en 23 ans de suivi pour la station, il s’agit seulement de la huitième capture!

Nous avons eu plusieurs nouveaux arrivants à la fois au filet et en observation, la majorité de ceux-ci étant des parulines néotropicales. Il s’agit définitivement de notre matinée la plus occupée cette saison, en incluant les observations, le recensement et le baguage, nous avons détecté 84 espèces!

*PIBO procède au baguage sous un permit scientifique fédéral délivré par le Bureau de Baguage d’Oiseaux du Service Canadien de la Faune. Nos pratiques suivent le code d’éthique du Conseil de Baguage Nord Américain. Les oiseaux sauvages sont protégés par une législation fédérale et ne doivent pas être manipulés autrement.

➡️ https://ebird.org/checklist/S336754377 #migration #birds #wildlife #canada #warblers

PIBO is excited to share our new, refreshed logo w

#DYK American White Pelicans first started appeari

#DYK American White Pelicans first started appearing around Pelee Island in 2014. In Canada, these impressive birds typically breed across the Prairies and in Northern Ontario before migrating south to the Gulf Coast and Mexico for the winter. Their presence here marks a fascinating northeastern expansion of their range. With wingspans reaching over 9 feet, they’re truly breathtaking to see!

In 2023, PIBO’s Field Supervisor - along with island residents - rescued a pelican tangled in fishing line and safely transported it to the mainland for rehabilitation. Read the full story from CBC: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/windsor/injured-pelican-rescued-pelee-island-1.6929832

#Pelicans #Pelee #Ontario #migration

White‑throated Sparrows have been especially activ

White‑throated Sparrows have been especially active around the banding station lately.

These familiar birds are a perfect reminder that even common bird species can be incredibly interesting. White‑throated Sparrows come in two distinct morphs - tan‑striped and white-striped- and many breeding pairs include one of each. White‑striped birds tend to sing more, show stronger territorial behaviour, and have higher testosterone levels. Tan‑striped birds typically invest more time in nesting and caring for young. It’s a complex system of complementary roles.

Want to dive deeper into understanding this fascinating species? Check out The Warblers podcast episode “Is the White‑throated Sparrow Canada’s Most Interesting Bird?” to learn more about their unique mating system and how their songs spread across populations. Link 🔗 https://youtu.be/j-KWybIvb80?si=uctKtQc5l-XOtysF

There are so many great birding podcasts out there - perfect company for anyone who loves filling their days with nature!

**Note: PIBO banding takes place under federal scientific permits issued by the Canadian Wildlife Service and PIBO strictly follows the ethical guidelines set by the North American Banding Council. Wild birds are protected by federal legislation and should not be handled without proper permits and training**

#Migration #BirdsCanada #Podcast #Canada #Sparrow

Two years. 660,000+ birds monitored. One new Bird

Two years.
660,000+ birds monitored.
One new Bird Centre opening in 2026.

Your support made this possible!
📖 Read PIBO’s 2024-2025 Impact Report at PIBO.CA

For the latest updates on our research, migration monitoring, events, and life on the Island, sign up for PIBO’s newsletter. It’s the best way to stay connected with PIBO and the wider Windsor-Essex conservation community - delivered directly to your inbox! 📥 https://signup-can.keela.co/newsletter-sign-up-20233

#Migration #ImpactReport #Canada #Donate #Newsletter

A talk so nice, it’s happening twice! If you can’t

A talk so nice, it’s happening twice! If you can’t make Dr. Tim Birkhead’s presentation in Windsor on May 6, join us for a second Bird Talk on May 10 at the Pelee Island Winery Pavilion.
PIBO is thrilled to host world‑renowned ornithologist, author, and educator Dr. Tim Birkhead - Fellow of the Royal Society and author of The Wisdom of Birds. His lifelong research into bird behaviour has shaped what we know about avian life around the world.
📅 May 10, 2026
⏰ 9–11 AM
📍 Pelee Island Winery Pavilion, Pelee Island
💲 Free event - donations appreciated!
A fantastic opportunity for bird lovers, nature enthusiasts, and curious minds.
#essexcounty #windsor #ontario #migration #birds

PIBO’s banding station has been quiet over the pas

PIBO’s banding station has been quiet over the past two weeks, with fewer migrants moving through compared to several mainland stations. Even so, we’ve welcomed a handful of new arrivals: Baltimore Orioles, Red-headed Woodpeckers, Gray Catbirds, and both Blue-headed and Warbling Vireos.
Warbler numbers remain low overall. Aside from the Yellow-rumped, Palm, and Pine Warblers, only small numbers of other species have appeared, including Orange-crowned, Tennessee, Nashville, Yellow, Black-throated Green, Prairie, Yellow-throated, Black-and-white, Northern Parula, Common Yellowthroat, and Ovenbird.
Local sightings have added some excitement, too - a Michigan-breeding Piping Plover, a Lark Sparrow, and a group of Willets spotted this morning.
We’re looking forward to seeing both our friends and the full wave of migrants arriving together soon - for Springsong Weekend! Photos: Prairie Warbler by Vincent Moreau; Lark Sparrow and Willets by Emma Gignac #birds #migration #science #research #ontario

PIBO celebrated #EarthDay Windsor‑Essex at Malden

PIBO celebrated #EarthDay Windsor‑Essex at Malden Park last weekend! 🌎

Thank you to everyone who stopped by our table - we loved chatting about spring migration, birds and local conservation efforts!

The event brought together more than 60 environmental organizations, along with hands‑on activities, arts and crafts, games, face painting, food vendors, and live entertainment throughout the day!

#PeleeIsland #EarthDay2026 #WindsorEssex Conservation

Thank you to everyone who came out last weekend to

Thank you to everyone who came out last weekend to join PIBO’s Spring Ephemerals Walk! 🌱🌼

Despite the ominous rain clouds, we had a fantastic time exploring vernal pools and discovering tiny treasures like fingernail clams and a red‑spotted newt.

We also learned about spring ephemeral flowers - including Trilliums and Dutchman’s breeches - two species whose seeds are spread by ants through a fascinating mutualism called myrmecochory.

And of course, there were plenty of birds to enjoy, including early spring migrants like yellow‑rumped warblers. An extra special thank‑you to those who shared their local knowledge along the way.

To stay up to date on PIBO’s programming, follow us on social media or check out the Pelee Buzz, which features tons of nature‑focused events.

📷 Thanks for the photos @zoomedin_with_dlee!

#PeleeIsland #Ontario #DiscoverOntario #Nature #Wildlife

Tour the New PIBO Bird Centre! 🐦 Join the Pelee Is

Migration is ramping up and we are seeing new spec

Migration is ramping up and we are seeing new species almost every day! 🐥

Yesterday, on April 23 we caught a handsome male Nashville Warbler before even seeing or hearing one on the island.

The same morning, we also had a female Eastern Towhee, not a rare bird by any means but one that rarely visits our nets.

👍Support our work: link in bio!

**Note: PIBO banding takes place under federal scientific permits issued by the Canadian Wildlife Service and PIBO strictly follows the ethical guidelines set by the North American Banding Council. Wild birds are protected by federal legislation and should not be handled without proper permits and training** #migration #birds #wildlife #canada #warblers ———————————————————————————— La migration est bien commencée et nous observons de nouvelles espèces presque tout les jours!

Le 23 avril nous avons capturé cette charmante Paruline à joues grises mâle. Et ce, sans même ne l'avoir vu ou entendu sur l'île.

La même matinée, nous avons eu ce Tohi à flancs roux femelle. Ce n'est pas une espèce rare, mais bien rarement prise aux filet.

*PIBO procède au baguage sous un permit scientifique fédéral délivré par le Bureau de Baguage d'Oiseaux du Service Canadien de la Faune. Nos pratiques suivent le code d'éthique du Conseil de Baguage Nord Américain. Les oiseaux sauvages sont protégés par une législation fédérale et ne doivent pas être manipulés autrement.

Bird Talk with Dr. Tim Birkhead – May 6! Join PIBO

Bird Talk with Dr. Tim Birkhead - May 6! Join PIBO and the Essex County Field Naturalists’ Club (@essexcountynature) for a special evening with world‑renowned ornithologist, author, and educator Dr. Tim Birkhead at the Ojibway Nature Centre.

Dr. Birkhead - author of The Wisdom of Birds and Fellow of the Royal Society - has spent his career studying bird behaviour around the globe.

📅 May 6, 2026
⏰7-9 pm
📍 Ojibway Nature Centre, Windsor
Free event — donations appreciated (QR code)

A fantastic opportunity for bird lovers, nature enthusiasts, and curious minds! #essexcounty #windsor #ontario #migration #birds

Happy Earth Day from Pelee Island Bird Observatory

Happy Earth Day from Pelee Island Bird Observatory! 🌿🐦

Today we’re celebrating the everyday wonders of this blue and green planet - and especially the beauty and biodiversity of Pelee Island. As a designated Key Biodiversity Area, this island provides a safe haven where thousands of migratory birds rest, refuel, and raise their young.

Every bird we band and every quiet moment spent observing nature deepens our understanding and appreciation of the species that depend on this place. It also reminds us how lucky we are to share our days with such incredible wildlife.

We are deeply grateful to our volunteers, supporters, and community members who make this work possible.

It’s a beautiful day to step outside, slow down, and appreciate the joys of spring - a birdsong, a breeze, a budding leaf. Happy Earth Day!
#EarthDay #PeleeIsland #PIBO #BirdConservation MigrationMonitoring LoveTheEarth EverydayNature

The 2026 banding season is officially underway! Af

The 2026 banding season is officially underway! After a windy storm last night and a rainy start to the morning, our team opened nets a little later than usual - but it didn’t take long for the birds to arrive.

Our first bird of the year was a Red‑winged Blackbird, followed by a lively wave of Northern Cardinals that kept the station busy. A great start to what we hope will be an exciting migration season.

We have a fantastic crew this year, and we’re looking forward to sharing more updates, highlights, and discoveries from our monitoring program as the season unfolds. **Note: PIBO banding takes place under federal scientific permits issued by the Canadian Wildlife Service’s and PIBO strictly follows the ethical guidelines set by the North American Banding Council. Wild birds are protected by federal legislation and should not be handled without proper permits and training**

#migration #canada #birds #research #peleeisland

The 2026 Banding Season Begins Tomorrow!🌿🐦 We’re

The 2026 Banding Season Begins Tomorrow!🌿🐦

We’re excited to kick off another year of bird banding on Pelee Island. Looking back at 2025, more than 20 contributors, volunteers, and community members dedicated over 2,000 hours to field monitoring. This work not only provides essential scientific data - it also reflects a deep connection to the land and the wildlife we share it with. Together, PIBO staff and volunteers banded 2,815 birds and recorded 217 species throughout the year - an incredible effort that deepens our understanding of bird populations and migration patterns.

2026 is shaping up to be a milestone year for PIBO. We’re moving forward with several major initiatives, including the opening of PIBO’s new Bird Centre this fall.

Thank you for your incredible support in 2025. We can’t wait to see what we accomplish together in 2026! #migration #communityscience #ontario #nature #wildlife

Purple Martins are back on Pelee Island! 💜 The ea

Purple Martins are back on Pelee Island! 💜

The earliest scouts have arrived, which means it’s definitely time to get their homes ready for the season. Whether you already have a martin house or you’re thinking about putting one up, now’s the perfect moment to clean, repair, or set up housing before the full colony returns.

One of the standout moments from our 2025 banding

One of the standout moments from our 2025 banding season was recording 321 Hermit Thrushes in the fall - our highest number in more than twenty years. This total was more than double the long‑term average (2003–2024) and even surpassed Swainson’s Thrush, which is typically more common at PIBO.

Based on public datasets like the Breeding Bird Atlas and expert consultations, we can hypothesize certain explanations. Hermit Thrushes may be adapting to reforested/agricultural habitats - allowing populations to increase. Weather patterns during migration may have also played a role, influencing timing, routes, and stopover choices - drought or flooding may have affected their preferred habitats.

If you’re curious about our migration monitoring work, PIBO’s past annual reports are available on our website ➡️ https://pibo.ca/en/research/breeding-birds/annual-reports/

Research stations across the CMMN are always looking for new ways to turn long‑term monitoring data into meaningful conservation insights. If you’re a student, researcher, or professor interested in working with PIBO’s dataset, we’d be excited to support your inquiry! Reach out!

It’s National Wildlife Week (April 5-9), a reminde

It’s National Wildlife Week (April 5-9), a reminder of the incredible biodiversity that surrounds us! On Pelee Island, we’re lucky to live among some of the rarest species in the entire country.

Pelee Island’s alvars, wetlands, and warm southern microclimate create conditions unlike anywhere else in the country, making this small island a critical refuge for species at risk and a priority for conservation. It is home to globally significant habitats and several species that can be found nowhere else in Canada.

Small‑mouthed Salamander (Ambystoma texanum) - Endangered in Canada, this secretive amphibian is another species whose only ‘Canadian population’ lives on Pelee Island. It depends on the island’s vernal pools and intact forest patches.

Blue Racer (Coluber constrictor ssp. foxii) - Endangered in Canada, the Blue Racer is a large, sleek, grey‑blue snake. It is one of the rarest reptiles in the country.

Downy Wood Mint (Blephilia ciliata) - Critically imperiled in Canada, this soft‑leaved native plant grows in Canada only on Pelee Island. Its presence highlights just how unique the island’s ecosystems are.

Protecting biodiversity in Canada requires the protection of Pelee Island. A small place with large ecological importance!

How You Can Celebrate Wildlife Week - (year-round)!

• Learn about local species at risk by joining a local guided hike

• Support conservation groups working on the island

• Always drive slowly and stay alert for wildlife on roads

• Participate in community science projects

• Share your love for Pelee Island’s biodiversity with others - we’d love to hear your favourite Pelee Island wildlife memories in the comments!

Stay tuned to learn more about Pelee Island’s Wildlife each Wednesday for #WildlifeWednesday!

#wildlifeweek #biodiversity #ontario #essexcounty

Join the Pelee Island Bird Observatory for a Sprin

Join the Pelee Island Bird Observatory for a Spring Ephemerals Walk!

On April 18 at 2:00 PM, we’ll take a gentle guided walk through Fish Point Nature Reserve to welcome the early signs of spring. Along the way, we’ll look for returning migrants, spot the first wildflowers of the season, and explore the fascinating world of vernal pools.

We’ll also share resources to help you learn more about these rare and critically important ecosystems - and how you can help protect them.

This guided walk will run for two hours, giving you plenty of time to explore. If you have any questions, please contact Emma Gignac, PIBO Engagement Coordinator at emma.gignac@pibo.ca.

We can’t wait to see you there!

#Birds #VernalPools #essexcounty #nature #ontario @mivernalpools

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Home
About PIBO
Research
Outreach
Volunteer
Events
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Email Newsletter
Shop
Contact PIBO

Home
About PIBO
Research
Outreach
Volunteer
Events
News
Email Newsletter
Shop
Contact PIBO

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