Discover the birds of the Tadoussac area with experts

“I was lucky enough to participate in the bird guiding program at the Tadoussac Bird Observatory. My guide was Jesse, and he was just great! A very gifted birder, and especially gifted with the ability to bird by ear, more than anyone I’ve ever met. He can actually listen to recordings of bird song, with many different birds calling and singing all at the same time, and differentiate each bird that is on that recording! In the field, it really helps him to know what birds are around us, and to go in the direction of where the birds are that we are hoping to see. He’s very smart and funny, with many interesting stories, and a lot of knowledge about plants and mammals as well as birds. He is a biologist by training, and works at the observatory doing banding, and field work, and other important tasks, when he isn’t out birding or guiding. He speaks fantastic English, so if your French is terrible, or basically non-existent like mine, that is not a problem. I couldn’t recommend the observatory’s guiding program or Jesse more highly. I’m so grateful to have been able to participate, and for all of Jesse’s assistance in seeing all the birds I hoped to see.”

Miriam Bailah, Massachusetts, United-States.

“We birded in Tadoussac during the spring migration in late May. It was fantastic! We were able to see at least 15 different warblers, as well as many other species, including Swainson’s Thrushes, Long-tailed Ducks, a Ruff, Scoters, Kittiwakes, Brants, Iceland Gulls, huge flocks of Purple Finches, Chipping Sparrows, and so much more.

While birding in Colombia a month earlier, we saw the petite Blackburnian Warbler (4 to 5 inches in length), located one hundred feet up in the canopy.  But in Tadoussac?  The famished bird was constantly gathering food right in front of us! It was so close at times, that focusing with a 500 mm camera setting was challenging!  The warbler experience was unbelievable!

Our guide Jesse made all of it possible.  He led us to several hotspots and his impeccable sense of hearing identified the bird while his keen eye invariably found the bird. He is a pleasure to bird with and was always gracious and enthusiastic. Because our French was so abysmal, we really appreciated his ease with speaking English. His knowledge base was enormous. We were sorry when our time with him came to an end. ”

Patty and Richie, Vermont, United-States.

“We were in the Quebec area for an Audubon Conference, and made the trip up to Tadoussac after reading about the great birding there in migration. Athough we were there after the big migration push, we knew there were still a lot of birds in the area. We booked a tour from the website (easy!) and Alexandre Terrigeol met us at the famous dunes that morning and we spent the next several hours touring his favorite spots and finding a few lifers! Alexandre was knowledgeable about so much more than birds, and in between birds, we talked about plants, insects, conservation and always about the birds. If you love birds and want to experience the Boreal Forests with an expert, we highly recommend booking a tour. The price may seem, but the observatory does important work protecting habitat and doing research that will help birds. If you don’t do a private tour, highly recommend visiting Les Escoumins to see the great displays they have put up featuring local nature photography, and watching for birds, whales and more off the point. The whole area is beautiful and offers amazing nature we don’t see in the Lower 48! Thanks, Alexandre, for everything, we had a great time with you, and we will be back!”

Karen Carpenter, Texas, United-States

“Join us on an unforgettable journey through two of Quebec’s most stunning natural landscapes—Tadoussac Dunes and Baie des Escoumins—perfect for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike.

Our adventure begins at the Tadoussac Dunes, famous for its breathtaking migratory passages, where you will observe a variety of bird species in their seasonal movements.

With the vibrant songs of Northern Parulas, Magnolia Warblers, and White-Throated Sparrows filling the air, we’ll discuss their fascinating behaviors and the critical role these ecosystems play in their life cycles.

Next, you will head to Baie des Escoumins, renowned as Quebec’s premier spot for observing gulls and terns.

Here, we’ll delve into the morphological differences and fascinating lifestyles of these seabirds.

Look out for the Cliff Swallows nesting nearby and the abundant sea ducks that call this bay home. As we stroll along the coastline, you’ll also have the chance to see a wide array of shorebirds, including the charming Least Sandpiper.

This tour is a perfect blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and education, offering a deeper understanding of the region’s rich biodiversity.

Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or a newcomer to nature tours, you’re sure to be captivated by the sights and sounds of these extraordinary locations.”

Karin Gehrig from Destinations North America, La baie, Canada.