"With a tear in our eye" the Huron Fringe Birding Festival committee has announced the cancellation of their 2020 event.

"We will miss celebrating birds with you this year, but right now the focus must be on what is most important – your personal health and safety, and that of your family, your friends and your community," read an April 2 media release.

"In the meantime, nature’s spectacular spring show will go on across Ontario and beyond. Wherever you are, birds will come to you in their journey north. We wish you good birding in the safe sanctuary of your own backyard," read the release, adding that birding provides the perfect opportunity to celebrate spring migration even in these weeks of self-isolating and social distancing.

"We are so lucky to be birders, able to continue birding in some fashion throughout this seclusion."

The committee acknowledged leaders and presenters lined up for the 2020 event and said their hope was to host them in 2021. They also thanked this year's event coordinators and sponsors.

Those who had registered for the 2020 event will be included in a draw for one complimentary festival weekend in 2021.

"So, until we cross paths again, to all of you, from all of us on the Festival Committee - Be Safe, Stay Healthy, Keep Birding."

Registration Fee Refund: Registrants will be receiving a full refund of their registration fee and the committee's usual administration fee is waived. Registrants are asked for patience as working under the constraints of social isolating and distancing protocols could take time.

Park Accommodation Refund: If the Park remains closed through the duration of the festival dates it is likely they will continue their current policy of providing a full refund. However, if the Parks reopen and reservations have not been cancelled, normal Park cancellation policies may apply as per the information available at ontarioparks.com/reservations/penalties.