Birding Basics: Beginner

Get to know the wealth of bird diversity that calls Ontario home. Start with the basics, learn to recognize common birds, discover the tools and guides best suited to birding beginners, and develop the skills that will have you picking out warblers like a pro.

This event is intended for a general audience:

• Beginner-level information
• Includes intermediate concepts
• Content intended for older youth and adults

The Winter Birding Series is hosted by TRCA’s Bander-in-Charge and ornithologist, Shane Abernethy. Shane has eight years of ornithological experience and four years of banding at the Tommy Thompson Park Bird Research Station. He also produces the popular Feathered Friday series via TRCA Instagram.

This program starts with an in-class presentation before heading outside for a guided walk to put your newfound skills to the test!

• 9am - 10am An indoor presentation to introduce the birding basics
• 10am – 11am An outdoor guided hike through Tommy Thompson Park to put your newly learned birding skills to the test.

All participants will receive a free TTP bird checklist book. And bring your travel mugs for complimentary coffee or hot chocolate.

Be Prepared

• Please dress appropriately for a cold, winter day. Don't forget to bring a toque, scarf, and gloves!
• Ensure you wear comfortable winter boots for the outdoor birding portion of the program.
• Flush washrooms are located at the main entrance of the park, so please plan accordingly.
• Bring a personal water bottle/travel mug and snacks, if needed.
• If you have your own binoculars, please bring them! Extra pairs will also be available.

Event Details

Date and Time: Friday, November 20, 2026 at 10:00am to 12:00pm

Location: Tommy Thompson Park, 1 Leslie St. Meet your event leader at the TTP Nature Center which is located about 800m's from the main park entrance and car park.

Ticket Price: Tickets for this event are $25.00 + HST (plus Eventbrite fees).

*If costs presents a financial barrier to your purchase, please contact Tisha at tisha.tan@trca.ca.

*Conservation Pass members are eligible for a discounted rate using promo code "TRCACP". Members may be requested to show proof of their membership upon arrival at the event.

Parking/Transit Info: Free, public parking is available at the main entrance of the park, directly adjacent to the park pavilion. The entrance to the lot is on Unwin Ave, just west of Leslie St. If taking transit, take the 83 Jones bus to Commissioners St. The Nature Centre is ~15 minute walk from the bus stop.

Cancellation Policy: Cancellation requests received by TRCA more than 14 days before the start of the program will receive a 75% refund of the relevant program fees paid. Cancellation requests received by TRCA less than 14 days before the start of the program do not qualify for a refund. Minimum registration numbers are required for the program to operate. In the event TRCA must cancel the program due to low registration, inclement weather, or government order, a full refund of the ticket cost will be issued. Please direct any questions regarding the cancellation policy for this event to tisha.tan@trca.ca.

Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) is committed to creating an accessible experience for all participants. If you require an accessibility accommodation, please email tisha.tan@trca.ca at least 7 days prior to the event.

This event is part of a series of educational birding programs taking place at Tommy Thompson Park this winter and is generously funded by the TD Friends of the Environment Foundation.