3 minute read
Birdhouse City
By Allison Nichol Longtin
Venture uphill from Picton’s downtown toward Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area and you’ll find yourself in a whimsical world of colourful birdhouses perched high atop platforms. You’ve arrived at Birdhouse City, a favourite spot for birders, hikers, and locals alike, nestled in the heart of Prince Edward County.
Entirely volunteer-run, Birdhouse City has been a labour of local love since the first birdhouses went up in 1980. The late Doug Harns, former superintendent with Quinte Conservation and a gifted woodworker, conceived of the idea for Birdhouse City. It began with a giant birdhouse replica of the historic Massasauga Park Hotel.
Today, Birdhouse City is cared for by a small but mighty team. Volunteer administrator Alan Hurst works alongside nine core volunteers and about 30 builders to maintain the collection of roughly 100 birdhouses, with much of the focus on refurbishments. Hurst and his partner moved to Picton full-time in 2020. When they and their neighbours noticed Birdhouse City falling into disrepair, they rolled up their sleeves, forming an ad-hoc committee and rallying volunteers. With support from a local councillor, the County, and Quinte Conservation (which owns the land), the revitalization effort took flight.
The handcrafted miniatures—many of them remarkably accurate replicas of historic buildings and landmarks from Prince Edward and Hastings counties—serve both flora and fauna. They provide refuge for birds, delight visitors, and contribute to a thriving ecosystem. Quinte Conservation carefully balances the needs of people, plants, and wildlife, clearing paths for visitors to admire the birdhouses while leaving grasses and plant life to sustain the environment. “I can’t say enough about how supportive Quinte Conservation has been—they’re very, very interested in what we’re doing…They love it,” says Hurst.
Over the past 40 years, Birdhouse City has become a community treasure, inspiring residents and visitors while also attracting media attention. In 2020, Canada’s Amazing Race filmed a challenge at the site. “It really validated the work we put into it,” says Hurst. Local artist Carl Wiens has also celebrated the landmark through a series of graphic illustrations featuring several of the birdhouses.
With so many incredible birdhouses to choose from, he is spoiled for choice when it comes to selecting his favourite, but the Point Petre Lighthouse, made by Hurst’s partner and his Dad, is nearest and dearest to his heart.
If you’re interested in lending your social media skills to the initiative, Hurst and his fellow volunteers would love to hear from you.
Illustrations and cover photo by Carl Weins
