Birding

Birding is one of the most popular ways to get out and enjoy nature. Here are several birding opportunities and resources to explore.

Getting Started with eBird

eBird was created by Cornell Lab of Ornithology for the purpose of supporting both birders and bird conservation. There are now more than 700,000 eBird users worldwide. Our Getting Started with eBird page provides an overview of this remarkable initiative along with tutorials to get you going.

Birding Events

Many local nature clubs host birding events throughout the year. Going out with a group is a great way to learn about birding and meet people who share your passion for nature. Check out our Events page to find out when and where these outings are happening. Here are three of Alberta’s most popular birding events:

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Bird-Oriented Nature Clubs

External Resources

eBird

Birds Canada

Boreal Songbird Initiative

How to ID Birds (A video series by Cornell University)

Winter Birding Tips

Don’t let Alberta’s cold winter deter you from bird watching. As the temperature dips, birding opportunities can arise. It’s a great time of year to encounter seasonal visitors not present in the summer. Moreover, trees are bare, sunrise is late, and there are fewer bird species to tease apart. And there are no bugs!

Robyn Perkins, with the Lesser Slave Lake Bird Observatory, offers these great tips for winter birding in Alberta:

  • Bird feeders: Make friends with your bird neighbours by putting up a feeder. This helps you see birds up close and it helps the birds survive those cold winter months.
  • Chickadee flocks: Learn to recognize the common calls of the black-capped chickadee. Not only do these birds of a feather flock together, but other species, including nuthatches and woodpeckers, sometimes join in.
  • Winter possibilities: Create a list of species you can anticipate finding locally in the winter. Knowing who you are likely to find can help eliminate otherwise similar-looking species.
  • Look down: Some species, such as grouse or ravens, can be easily tracked in the snow. Wing prints can also be found where a bird has landed to scoop something up.

Nature Alberta Publications

Alberta Birds Checklist

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A Homeowner’s Guide to Protecting Birds of Alberta

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Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas of Alberta

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Field Guide to Alberta Birds

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The Atlas of Breeding Birds of Alberta

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The Atlas of Breeding Birds of Alberta: A Second Look

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