Day 1 of My Big Year: A Memorable Start

The first day of the 2025 Big Year is in the books, and it was everything I’d hoped for—a mix of exciting finds, great company, and even better coffee.


I kicked off the day with my favourite birding breakfast: a bacon and egg McGriddle, two hash browns, and a steaming cup of coffee from McDonald’s. With a full stomach and plenty of anticipation, I hit the road with none other than Bruce Mactavish, a legend in Newfoundland birding. It was an honour to have him along for my first day.


The Birds:

• My first bird of the year? An American Crow. Not exactly thrilling, but hey, you have to start somewhere!

• Our first rarity target was at St. Mary’s, where a Marsh Wren had been spotted. It didn’t take long to find—it perched briefly on a branch at the base of a willow tree. I scrambled to get my camera ready, but by the time I aimed, it had ducked under a branch, trying to stay hidden. The result wasn’t quite what I hoped for, but as I like to remind myself: any photo of a rarity is a good photo.

Marsh Wren - the first Code 4+ species of the Big Year

• Next, we made our way to Point La Haye for some expected species before heading to St. Vincent’s in search of a Pacific Loon that Bruce had found a few days earlier. Despite a determined 90-minute seawatch, the loon remained elusive. But we were rewarded with an unexpected find: a Dickcissel near the first lookout.

Dickcissel - my first self-found rarity for 2025

The rest of the day was filled with more expected species, and we ended at Clara’s legendary feeder in Renews, hoping for a Pine Warbler. Clara’s feeder is renowned as the best in the province, having hosted countless rarities over the years. Though the Pine Warbler didn’t show, Clara’s hospitality made the stop worthwhile—with fresh coffee and cake to send us on our way back to St. John’s.

House Sparrows - every species counts!

The Tally:

By the end of the day, Bruce and I had tallied 41 species—a strong start to what I hope will be an unforgettable year.

This first day set the tone: a combination of fun, adventure, and the camaraderie that makes birding so special. My next update will sum up the week, but for now, I’m already excited about what’s ahead!


What was your first bird of the year? I’d love to hear about it!

Song Sparrow


Day 2 will be focused around the Greater St. John's area to catch up with many of the local specialties and stake-out rarities.


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