Cape St. Mary�s Ecological Reserve open

Julie Bettney, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, today announced the Cape St. Mary�s Interpretation Centre is now open to the public. The reserve is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. when the Marine Atlantic ferry to Argentia is operating. It will remain open until October 13.

Cape St. Mary�s Ecological Reserve is an internationally significant seabird colony and has the largest northern gannet colony in Newfoundland and Labrador and the second largest in North America. It is the most accessible seabird colony in North America. Every year, it is home to 60,000 seabirds including the gannet, common murre, thick billed murre, black legged kittiwake, razorbill and black guillemot. In addition to seabirds, song birds such as water pipits and horned larks, and birds of prey such as bald eagles and ravens are frequently spotted. In late June, pods of humpback, fin and minke whales can be observed feeding on capelin at the base of 400-foot cliffs. Alpine and barren plant species engulf the area, enhancing the scenic natural hike to Bird Rock.

In 2001, more than 15,700 resident and non-resident tourists visited the reserve which won the 2001 Attractions Canada National Award for Best Outdoor Site.

"Every indication shows that all the seabirds have returned to nest this year on Bird Rock," said Minister Bettney. "I welcome everyone to visit Cape St. Mary�s this season and enjoy this magnificent reserve. I encourage everyone to take part in our services which include the life history of seabirds, guided and interpretative hikes, group tours, audio-visual presentations and school programs. To aid in the cultural experience, drop in to the Cape St. Mary�s Performance Series held during the months of June, July and August, or the Gannet Festival scheduled for August 16 -18."

Media contact: Carmel Turpin, Communications, (709) 729-0928.

2002 05 09                            4:25 p.m.