Nature reminds us that the world is beautifully alive.
If you’re a Humber Lakeshore student looking for a quiet break from the hustle of classes or just want to reconnect with nature, you don’t have to go far. Just steps from the campus, you will discover the joy of Colonel Samuel Smith Park.
With its forest trails, wetlands and rocky shorelines, it becomes a naturally perfect spot for birdwatching.
Birdwatching? Isn’t that something grandparents do? Actually, it’s a lot more fun than you think! It’s relaxing, affordable, outdoorsy and the perfect way to unplug and enjoy the summer, free from screens.
It’s a mindful way to slow down, tune into your surroundings and experience nature right in the heart of the city.
Ready to discover more? Let’s dive in!
The perfect spot for birdwatching
Colonel Samuel Smith Park stands out as one of Toronto’s top birdwatching spots because of its unique landscape and location. Sitting right next to the Humber Polytechnic’s Lakeshore campus, it offers a mix of habitats that attract a wide range of bird species year-round.
From thick trees to open meadows, wetlands to waterfront, the park gives birds everything they need to rest, feed or nest. During spring and fall migration, the park becomes a rest stop for birds traveling between seasons, making it one of the best times to visit.
On any given day, you might spot a warbler darting through the trees, a great blue heron standing tall in the water or a hawk circling high above the shoreline.
Whether you’re taking a quick walk between classes or planning a quiet weekend outing, the variety of birds and the peaceful setting makes the experience rewarding every time.
Birdwatching across the seasons
One of the best parts about birdwatching in this park is that no two visits are the same. Every season brings new species and surprises, with different birds arriving and changing the scene, so you never know what you might spot next.
In spring, bright-colored birds like goldfinches and orioles return, filling the trees with sound and movement. Red-winged blackbirds are common near the wetlands, you can hear their bold calls echoing through the reeds.
Summer brings quieter scenes of nesting and feeding, as baby birds begin to appear and learn to fly. In fall, the park fills again with migrating birds heading south—kinglets, sparrows and sometimes even peregrine falcons.
Even in winter, the park stays alive with hardy species like chickadees, nuthatches and woodpeckers, and if you’re lucky, a rare snowy owl may make an appearance. These moments make each walk feel like a new discovery.
Who are the birders?
If you’ve ever seen someone in the park standing very still with binoculars or holding a camera as long as their arm, chances are you’ve seen a birder in action.
The community of birdwatchers at Colonel Sam is diverse and welcoming. Some are skilled photographers who travel across the province, while others are students or locals simply enjoying a slow walk. When someone spots a rare bird, the excitement spreads quickly.
People gather quietly to admire it, taking turns and respecting the space. There’s a shared sense of appreciation for the moment, where silence speaks louder than words.
You don’t need experience or gear to join in—just curiosity and a willingness to observe the wonders around you.
Most birders are happy to share what they’re seeing or offer tips on where to look next. It becomes less about ticking birds off a list and more about being part of a quiet, thoughtful moment outdoors.
A student’s guide to getting started
Birdwatching is an awesome way to take a break and reconnect with nature. And guess what? It’s super easy to get started.
No fancy gear needed—just take a moment to look around and pay attention to the sounds and movements around you. If you have binoculars, even better! They’ll bring those distant details into focus and enhance your experience.
If you don’t know what you’re seeing, no worries—just Google it or download a free bird identification app on your phone. You’ll be amazed at how many birds are just hanging out, waiting to be discovered.
If you want to join the birdwatching community, don’t be shy—people are super friendly and love to share tips.
And if you have a camera (or just your phone), take a few pictures. You might just capture the perfect Instagram shot, all while enjoying the beauty of nature.
Birdwatching is good for your health
Birdwatching may seem like an unexpected way to boost your student life, but it actually packs some serious scientific perks for your mind and body.
First, let’s talk stress. After cramming for exams or sitting through endless lectures, spending time outdoors to observe birds can literally lower your cortisol levels (that stress hormone).
Plus, being surrounded by nature can instantly lift your mood and reduce mental fatigue, making you feel refreshed and ready to tackle that next assignment.
Birdwatching actually helps improve your focus. By training your brain to pay attention to the subtle details of birds, their colors, behavior and movements, you’re strengthening your directed attention skills. This means your brain gets better at concentrating on your studies or tackling any task that requires mental effort.
And let’s not forget the physical benefits. You’re out in the fresh air, moving around and staying active, all while tracking your feathered friends. It’s the perfect combo of physical exercise and mental relaxation.
Let the adventure begin
Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress and improve focus and birdwatching encourages you to slow down, notice details and breathe.
The best part? It’s completely free and it’s right on campus. Even a short walk with your phone or a borrowed pair of binoculars can turn into something memorable.
Whether you spot a rare bird or just enjoy the stillness, birdwatching offers a simple but powerful way to stay balanced during the busy school year.
So go out and become an adventurer. You never know what you might find!
Feature image courtesy of Anant Sharma on Unsplash
Want some more relaxing activity ideas for summer? Check out mindful summer activities for stress relief!
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