As the BC Bird Trail expands throughout the province, we wanted to shine a light on the people on the ground in these communities. Learn more about the bird-watching experiences in these destinations through the eyes of the experienced locals with our BC Birders profile series. Ceri Peacey, is a nature and wildlife lover, Chair of the Hamilton Wetlands and Forest Preservation Society, and owner of Oceanside Celebrant Services. Hamilton Marsh wetland and a new home on 37 acres opened Ceri’s life to the wonders and importance of the avian world. She learned about birds and migration, an ..read more

Come celebrate nature and the arrival of the Brant Geese! Every spring, thousands of Brant Geese fly from Mexico to their breeding grounds in Alaska. On their long journey, Brant stopover along the shores of the Central Vancouver Island Bird Trail and Parksville Qualicum Beach to feed on eelgrass, green algae and herring roe. The Brant Wildlife Festival celebrates this annual return of Brant Geese but also works to promote the understanding and protection of the important ecosystems in the region. Since 2007, the Nature Trust of British Columbia, a nonprofit focused on land conservation, has b ..read more

The Wings Over the Rockies Nature Festival, Columbia Valley The BC Bird Trail team made its way out to the Columbia Valley to attend The Wings Over the Rockies Nature Festival in the Spring of 2023. We engaged with fellow birding enthusiasts, the event coordinators, and the field experts in attendance at the festival. We discussed the significance festivals like this hold in fostering environmental awareness, and learned about the Columbia Valley‘s distinctive ecosystems and wildlife. We met with Theresa Wood, one of the festival organizers who told us more about the festival: “We have ov ..read more

As the BC Bird Trail expands throughout the province, we wanted to shine a light on the people on the ground in these communities. Learn more about the bird-watching experiences in these destinations through the eyes of the experienced locals with our BC Birders profile series. Kate Paton, keen amateur wildlife videographer documenting urban wildlife in BC with a passion for the respect of wildlife, nature and birds. Born in Zimbabwe, with a ten-year stint in New Zealand before moving to Canada in 2012, Kate Paton has always been surrounded by incredible birdlife. But she didn’t get i ..read more

As the BC Bird Trail expands throughout the province, we wanted to shine a light on the people on the ground in these communities. Learn more about the bird-watching experiences in these destinations through the eyes of the experienced locals with our BC Birders profile series. Mark Maftei, avid birder, biologist, and Raincoast Education Society Executive Director. Shorebird migration and water birds set the Tofino area apart. “We are on a major migratory flyway. During the spring migration, you can see up to 100 species in a day—up to 50 on an average day,” Mark shares. Birds you mig ..read more

Every year, hundreds of Canada’s most iconic raptor gather along the shores of the picturesque Squamish River in the community of Brackendale. Bald Eagles, famous for their striking white heads and unparalleled hunting capabilities, flock to the region to take advantage of one of nature’s most abundant annual events: the Salmon Run. Motorists along the Sea to Sky Highway can often pass right by this world-famous spectacle, unaware of the natural marvel taking place at the river’s edge. Fortunately, the BC Bird Trail has uncovered all the information you need to take a detour that is sure to i ..read more

Don’t worry if you can’t get out of the city but still want to enjoy birdwatching – urban birds are all around you! From the common Pigeon to Peregrine Falcon, there’s a surprising number of birds that frequent the city. What is Urban Birding? Downtowns, city centres, or concrete jungles may not be what one first thinks of as a habitat for any bird other than a Rock Pigeon, but birds of all kinds have adapted to live and survive in urban environments. Even small green spaces can support a large number of birds. Look up and stay grounded – you’ll be surprised by the birds you can spot in the ci ..read more

Summer is here and it’s the perfect time to get the kids involved in fun and educational nature-related programs. Many local BC nature groups and conservation centres have great opportunities for kids to learn about birds, nature, and the important ecosystems of BC. Some offer field trips, workshops, and even online classes. There are also a few that offer up-close viewings of educational or rehabilitating birds. If you’re looking for ideas, we’ve collected a list of nature and bird-related activities to keep your kids busy and learning this summer. British Columbia Summer Activities for Kids ..read more

British Columbia is a birder’s dream come true with bird activity and outdoor adventures in every season. Situated along the important Pacific Flyway, BC has an influx of birds throughout the year. The diverse range of habitats in BC also makes it a unique place to view certain bird species as they migrate to and from the province. In this guide, we’re rounding up all our seasonal birdwatching guides so you can enjoy birding by season in BC, no matter the time of year. BC Birding in Summer Keep an eye out at the water’s edge for “peeps” like this Least Sandpiper. Photo by Shayne Kaye. Summer m ..read more

Many of us are excited to get outside and enjoy BC’s super, natural landscapes this summer, but did you know it’s also a great time to explore the world of birdwatching? For avid birders, fall and spring are typically the most active seasons, but there is still a lot of great birding to enjoy during the summer months. Let’s explore why it’s worth going summer birding in BC. Why Go Birding in the Summer? If you’re already wanting to spend a lot of time outside this summer enjoying the weather, exploring parks, or going camping, you’re already halfway started on a birding adventure! That’s one o ..read more