Côte-Nord Migratory Bird Festival

The Côte-Nord Migratory Bird Festival was created in 2009 to highlight the rich avian diversity of this magnificent region, particularly during the autumn bird migration. The event takes place mainly in the Tadoussac region, where the majority of research projects take place at this time of year. However, the aim is for everyone to discover the region, which is why numerous activities are proposed at various sites along the St. Lawrence.

14th edition

A fall getaway on the Upper North Shore, in Quebec that reveals nature in all its splendor. Explore the shores of the majestic Saguenay Fjord and the vast expanse of the St. Lawrence River, discover the boreal forest and its emblematic birds, and learn more about our natural heritage through over twenty activities.

Don’t miss: interpretation on passerine and boreal owl banding, lectures and documentaries, interpretation on birds of prey, quizzes and contests.

Pascal Côté

At the heart of bird migration

Held during the third week of September, the Festival attracts over a thousand nature lovers and birdwatchers every year to witness this exceptional spectacle. Enjoy a spectacular sunrise at the Dunes de Tadoussac, or from one of the region’s most beautiful birdwatching sites. We use “à la carte” system: some activities require contributions, while others are free.

Pascal Côté
Laetitia Desbordes
Laetitia Desbordes

Discovering the Upper North Shore

There’s so much to discover: come aboard a cruise to discover pelagic birds, take part in banding programs for passerines and boreal owls, or benefit from the expertise of naturalists to explore the region in a new light. Outdoor art workshops, exciting lectures and evening entertainment are also on the program!

It’s a unique opportunity to discover Quebec’s birdlife with other bird enthusiasts.

The Cote-Nord migratory birds legacy

Come and discover an open-air exhibition of 30 superb bird photos, taken at 15 exceptional birding sites in the Haute-Côte-Nord RCM. The project, which showcases our rich avian biodiversity, involved 26 professional and amateur photographers and 12 local partners!

The selected photographs are accompanied by texts describing the bird species and the importance of the site concerned. You can also discover some of the research carried out by the OOT on these species, and their status.

The Festival in numbers

  • A full week’s programming
  • About thirty activities available
  • Twenty professional ornithologists at your service
  • Over a hundred species of birds observed, including several species unique to the boreal region
  • Over 1,000 participants each year