Île aux Hérons Migratory Bird Sanctuary

From a heron’s perspective, Île aux Hérons Migratory Bird Sanctuary would appear as a haven. Île aux Hérons Migratory Bird Sanctuary is a crucial stopover for many bird species. It spans 631 hectares, encompassing most of the Lachine Rapids south of the Island of Montreal. Established in 1937, this sanctuary’s primary purpose was safeguarding the Great Blue Heron’s nesting grounds. The heron population here has fluctuated over the years. The 1990s saw larger colonies than the 1970s and 1980s. However, since the 2000s, active nests have been declining. While the Great Blue Heron is the star, other birds like the Black-crowned Night-Heron and Great Egret also nest here. The sanctuary also hosts various duck species, including Mallards, American Black Ducks, Gadwalls, and American Wigeons. Birdwatchers can spot migratory waterfowl like Common Goldeneye, American Black Duck, Mallard, and Green-winged Teal during migration seasons. Occasionally, Horned Grebes and Red-breasted Mergansers can be seen in the winter. Did you know the Great Blue Heron hunts by standing perfectly still in the water, waiting to strike its prey? It then tries to swallow it whole. Beyond Île aux Hérons itself, the sanctuary includes neighboring islands and islets like Île aux Chèvres, Île au Diable, and Île à Boquet. The vegetation here is a mix of American Basswood, American Elm, Red Elm trees, along with herbaceous plants and shrubs like the Great St. John’s Wort and Staghorn Sumac. Some islands even harbor endangered plant species like Butternut and Green Dragon. The surrounding waters teem with aquatic life. You’ll find various plants such as Eurasian Watermilfoil, Common Water-plantain, Sago Pondweed, American Eelgrass, Hydrilla, White Waterlily, and Small-flowered Skullcap. Île aux Hérons Migratory Bird Sanctuary offers more than just birdwatching. It showcases the delicate interplay of flora and fauna in a unique ecosystem within the bustling city of Montreal.