Celebrate The Beauty Of Canada With These Iconic Birding Festivals

17.11.2023 - 20:17 / forbes.com

With just under 40 million inhabitants across more than nine million square kilometers of land, it’s no secret that Canada is one of the least-densely populated nations on the planet—yet it’s not just humans that call this vast expanse home. From the shores of Vancouver Island to the coast of Newfoundland, this sprawling country is absolutely brimming with birds, with no shortage of dazzling passerines, waterfowl, and raptors thriving across its borders. And for any seasoned birders hoping to add another species to their life list, the following Canadian birding festivals offer a truly unforgettable experience in the heart of one of North America’s most charming countries.

The arrival of spring brings a whole lot of migratory birds to the plains of Alberta, with the annual Songbird Festival in place to celebrate their return. Taking place on May 25th and 26th this year, this two-day event centers along the boreal forests across Lesser Slave Lake Provincial Park, with a wealth of early morning treks and educational workshops for guests to take part in. Just past sunrise, visitors can join in on an expedition to spot yellow-rumped warblers, American redstarts, and other native species, then head to the Boreal Centre for Bird Conservation for a fascinating avian-focused presentation.

After exploring the splendor of Lesser Slave Lake, there’s a wealth of incredible birdwatching opportunities available in the province’s largest city as well. During a trip to Calgary, guests can spend each morning trekking through the pristine Prince's Island Park, a 20-hectare urban oasis that’s rife with northern flickers, red-winged blackbirds, and even beavers. Just outside the city, birders can encounter fascinating waterfowl and shorebirds along Frank Lake, while those hoping to spend some more time on the Bow River can snag a vessel from Lazy Day Raft Rentals during warmer months to set off on the water in search of wildlife.

Measuring in at more than 482,000 square kilometers, the Yukon comes equipped with massive wildlife preserves and the tallest mountain in all of Canada—and all of that wide open space leaves plenty of room for migrating avian life. For local residents, waterfowl are a particular highlight, with the Celebration of the Swans serving to commemorate some of the Yukon’s most graceful spring residents. During the festival, guests are welcome to attend a wealth of bird-focused presentations all throughout the day, while seasoned birders can explore Swan Haven Interpretive Centre’s Marsh Lake to admire the local trumpeter and tundra swans.

And of course, it’s not just Marsh Lake that sees its fair share of birds throughout the year. Those willing to venture west can discover spectacular natural beauty