Madawaska Ornithological Club Ltd. (COML)

The Madawaska Ornithological Club Ltd. (COML) has been working in the region for more than 32 years. The purpose of the organization is to introduce the winged fauna to people interested in the fascinating world of birds. The COML has also given itself the mission of protecting swamps and wetlands.

Birdlife is very active in Madawaska and this in different habitats since 275 species of birds have been observed including the 95 species reported during the Noel censuses (RON) during all these years of existence and during hiking in group, feeders, owl nights, Maritime Breeding Bird Atlas, annual events and more. Added to this list are birds observed during spring and fall migrations and some rare and unusual birds.

The COML also gave informative lectures to members on various topics related to ornithology while offering workshops in schools. Members of the Ornithology Club can, if they so wish, participate in the Objectif 200 project, which consists of a list of birds observed only in the county. A certificate is awarded at each observation level, ie 50, 100, 150, 175 and 200. To date, several members have reached their Objective 200.

The COML’s avian emblem is the Waxwing, whose first species breeds during the summer period, namely the American Waxwing, while the Waxwing appears during the winter. These species have been naturalized just like other birds that can be seen at COML 217 and identified by the club logo. The meeting place of the club is located at Center Maillet in St-Basile. A few years ago, the Ruffed Grouse was chosen as the emblem of Madawaska County in a competition launched in schools. In addition, the Province of New Brunswick has adopted the Black-capped Chickadee as an avian symbol since 1983 in a contest organized by Fédération des Naturalistes.

The Madawaska Ornithology Club currently has 82 members of all ages who have adopted this extraordinary recreation in this beautiful Madawaska wilderness while participating in various activities from season to season. The draft of a 2020 calendar is now in preparation. Beautiful bird pictures taken by COML photographers will illustrate each month of the year.

To find out more about the COML, visite the club’s Facebook page, Club d’ornithologie du Madawaska. Astounding surprises are waiting for you…