But if such events encourage our natural inclination to remain warmly indoors through the interminable wait for spring, we would miss out on the natural delights the outdoor world has to offer. This is especially true in Nova Scotia. It's never dull, and only occasionally forces brief retreats inside shelter. Accordingly, those of us with a love of nature seek every chance to head outdoors in winter, less as a measure of defiance, but more to requite our passion, and learn something new. First and foremost are the birders, who take to the field energetically in December, and whose attention doesn't usually begin to flag until early February.
Some birds are of sufficient rarity that they attract attention from far and wide.
For a number of years Bald Eagles have been concentrating in the Annapolis Valley of Kings County during the months of harsh weather, lured by the easy pickings of daily discarded chicken carcasses disposed by large-scale chicken processing companies. Some of these birds, including the diminutive Dovekie and the graceful Black-headed Gull, are charismatic to birders elsewhere in North America, and provide sufficient incentive for a winter trip here. Some might feel intimidated by the physical limitations ruthless weather imposes, but others consider it only a minor nuisance. A car is essential, at least for the first part of any journey, but after that you can go on foot, cross-country ski, or snowshoe. Routes nearer the coast are likely to offer easier access, and some are snowless much of the winter.