Observatoire d'Oiseaux de Rimouski

*Photos by Mikaël Jaffré, Bernadette Canuel, Jessé Roy-Drainville, Thomas Beyer, Vincent Giroux and Magaly Pilon.

The Rimouski Bird Festival was inaugurated in spring 2019. It was born from a common desire of several organizations in the Rimouski region to take advantage of several observation sites close to the city and exceptional across Quebec. The festival offers a range of activities linked to ornithology, affecting a wide diversity of habitats and species. The festival lasts six days, with a peak of activities during the weekend.

Every morning, visitors are invited to discover the migration monitoring of the OOR. Early risers can first experience a special moment with the birds by participating in ringing at the Rocher-Blanc station. This activity is offered from 6 a.m. and is led by a team of researchers and biologists. For the lucky ones, especially the youngest, it may be possible to release a ringed bird. Also in the morning, visitors can learn about observing seabirds at the Pointe-au-Père wharf. Identification sheets and telescopes are made available to them. At the Raoul-Roy belvedere, visitors can benefit from the experience of experienced observers to familiarize themselves with the criteria for identifying birds of prey in flight, while enjoying the grandiose landscape of the estuary.

On Tuesday, an ornithological happy hour preceding the broadcast of two documentary films allows festival-goers to meet and chat over a drink. All week long, a variety of activities are offered, such as seabird cruises and guided outings to the best sites in the Rimouski region to observe newly migrating sparrows. A bird photography competition is offered before the festival, while a theoretical wildlife photography course, online quizzes and conferences are offered during the festival week. To end it all in style, a benefit lobster dinner is on the program on Saturday evening, allowing festival-goers to discuss their experiences during the week, and to participate in a raffle for a chance to win a host of prizes!