Birdwatching programs

Birdwatching courses

Our birdwatching courses will introduce you to some of the 270+ species of birds that call Calgary home. They include visits to some of Calgary’s natural areas and are led by birding experts.

Benefits of birdwatching courses

In our birdwatching courses you will:
  • Connect with nature by getting to know the wildlife that calls Calgary home.
  • Hone your observation skills and mental fitness by learning to recognize different birds and calls.
  • Practice gentle physical activity in a relaxing setting.

Spring & summer registration dates

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Registration on each date begins at:
 
  • 6 a.m. — Online (virtual waiting room opens at 5:30 a.m.)
  • 8:30 a.m. — By calling the Customer Service Centre at 403-268-3800 (option 1)
  • During business hours — At any City-operated Aquatic & Recreation or Arts facility

Where can I attend birdwatching courses?

Each birdwatching course will take place at a different Calgary Park. Find locations for each season below.

Spring birdwatching course locations (April to June)

Spring birdwatching courses will take place at:

  • Inglewood Bird Sanctuary
  • Griffith Woods Park
  • South Glenmore Park
  • Weaselhead Park

Summer birdwatching course locations (July to August)

Summer birdwatching courses will take place at:

  • Nose Hill Park
  • Dale Hodges Park
  • Confederation Park
  • Inglewood Bird Sanctuary

Fall birdwatching course locations (September to December)

Fall birdwatching courses will take place at:

  • Inglewood Bird Sanctuary

Registration for the fall will open in July.

Types of birdwatching courses

A class is offered at a different Calgary park from February to October. Check back regularly for updated listings. You can register online, in person at our Recreation facilities, or by calling 403-268-3800.

  • Birdwatching class & walk - parent & kid

    You and your kid will learn the unique sounds, shapes and colours of local birds through an indoor presentation and outdoor walk. You will be introduced to basic birdwatching skills and how to use binoculars. Please dress for the weather.

    Age: 5 - 12 years + adult

    Prerequisite: None

  • Birdwatching class & walk - teens & adults

    Gain an understanding of the unique features of local birds through an indoor classroom presentation and outdoor birdwatching walk. Please dress for the weather as this course is outdoors. Each offering of this course will focus on different topics and techniques so it can be taken multiple times.

    Ages: 14+

    Prerequisite: None

  • Birdwatching walk - teens & adults

    On this outdoor birdwatching walk, you will observe wild birds in their natural habitat, learn about bird behaviour and Calgary's unique ecosystems. Please dress for the weather as this course is outdoors. Each offering of this course takes place at a different park around Calgary so it can be taken multiple times.

    Ages: 14+

    Prerequisite: None

About our birdwatching instructors

Our birdwatching courses are led by professional ornithologists who are also avid birders. Our passionate and enthusiastic instructors are thrilled to share their knowledge with new and experienced birders alike.

Bird watching instructor

What are birdwatching courses like?

Our courses are three hours long. They are either entirely outdoors or a combination of indoor presentations and outdoor walks.

We begin our courses with an introduction to the area and topic. Birdwatching typically involves walking quietly through an area with frequent stops to better hear or see a bird and for the instructor to give information and answer questions.

 

Come prepared

Dress for the weather and please bring:

  • Extra layers and comfortable footwear.
  • Binoculars, if you own them. Binoculars are also available to borrow.
  • Cleats, if it is icy. Cleats are also available to borrow.
  • You may wish to bring snacks and a water bottle.

Have questions about our birdwatching programs?

Send us an email
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