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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.

Fall registration dates

Due to repair closures and annual maintenance and cleaning, registration has been split into two waves. Facilities currently closed for repairs:

  • Bob Bahan Aquatic & Fitness Centre
  • Canyon Meadows Aquatic & Fitness Centre
  • Sir Winston Churchill Aquatic & Recreation Centre

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Certifications and first aid

Registration is ongoing

Start Date | End Date

All locations

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Programs, classes & camps

Wave 1: preview schedules

Start Date | End Date

All locations except those closed for repairs

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Programs, classes & camps

Wave 1: registration begins

Start Date | End Date

All locations except those closed for repairs

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Programs, classes & camps

Wave 2: preview schedule

Start Date | End Date

Bob Bahan, Sir Winston Churchill and Canyon Meadows Aquatic Centres

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Programs, classes & swim lessons

Wave 2: registration begins

Start Date | End Date

Bob Bahan Aquatic Centre

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Programs, classes & swim lessons

Wave 2: registration begins

Start Date | End Date

Canyon Meadows and Sir Winston Churchill Aquatic Centres

  • Wave 1 - Programs, classes and lessons begin in September.
  • Wave 2 - Programs, classes and lessons begin in October but could change based on reopening dates.
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

Types of birdwatching courses

A different class is offered every month 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.

  • Summer Birdwatching - Adults

    Come explore local parks with an expert birder and learn about the incredible feathered friends that inhabit our parks and green spaces. Special Protection Natural Areas offer unique habitats and resources for birds, and offer a very high species diversity relative to other urban areas. Learn why Calgary is a haven for nesting migrants and how to attract bird species to your own backyard. This course takes place outdoors, so please dress for the weather.

    Ages: 18+ years

    Prerequisite: None

  • Birdwatching: Bird Biology Basics – Adult

    In a classroom learning session followed by an outdoor birdwatching walk, you will learn all about the unique adaptations of birds: how they fly at high altitudes, how they see, how they survive in Calgary’s environment, and more. A portion of this course takes place outdoors. Please dress for the weather.

    Ages: 18+ years

    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.

Where can I attend birdwatching courses?

Our courses take place in various City parks, including:

  • Carburn Park
  • The Inglewood Bird Sanctuary
  • Confederation Park
  • Griffith Woods
  • Ralph Klein Park
  • Weaselhead Flats

Each class takes place at one location. See class descriptions for details.

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