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
- 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
- 6 a.m. — Online (virtual waiting room opens at 5:30 a.m.)
- 8:30 a.m. — By calling the Customer Service Centre during operating hours 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.
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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
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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
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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.
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.
