Inglewood Bird Sanctuary and Nature Centre

Inglewood Bird Sanctuary

The Inglewood Bird Sanctuary and Nature Centre have been providing migratory birds with a place to rest their wings since 1929. That's more than 80 years of conservation!

To date, 270 species of birds, 21 species of mammals and 347 species of plants have been recorded at the Sanctuary and Nature Centre by members of the public, volunteers and staff.

About the park

The sanctuary is an ecological safe haven, surrounded by a bustling city, that connects people to their wild neighbours and the wonders of nature. Watch for some of the incredible wildlife while exploring this protected natural environment. 

Portable washrooms are available outside the Nature Centre from May 1 until December 30th. 

Please pay attention to signage on site for safety, access information and directions.

Reminder: Inglewood Bird Sanctuary is a natural environment - no bicycles or dogs permitted on site (except assistance dogs).

Address: 2425 Ninth Ave. S.E.

Area: 36 hectares 

Nature Centre hours of operation:

Open Mon - Sun 10 – 4 until Nov 30

Open Wed - Sun 10 – 4 from Dec 1 to May 1

Closed for Statutory holidays: April 7 and 9

Port-o-potty available during park hours.

Sanctuary trail hours: Sunrise to sunset, with half hour grace period

Entrance fee: Free

Park features

Land is Home - Indigenous art exhibit

A rotating exhibition of works by Indigenous artists that connect to the land. The artwork will rotate quarterly throughout the year.

Learn more

TD Outdoor Learning Centre

This outdoor classroom will allow Parks to expand its programs that teach children about nature and the environment.

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Parks nature programs

We offer a variety of courses, programs and special events that celebrate our parks and greenspaces, promote environmental stewardship and explore the wonders of nature.

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Bend in the Bow

The City of Calgary is currently working on the creation of a new regional park in Inglewood, incorporating the Sanctuary.

The finished regional park will be called Bend in the Bow. It will include the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary, the Inglewood Wildlands, Pierce Estate Park, River Passage Park (including Harvie Passage) and the open spaces between these areas to create a large green space for the enjoyment of all Calgarians.

Visiting the sanctuary

  • The Nature Centre has interpretive exhibits and information about local wildlife and parks. Hours of operation are listed above.
  • Some trails are not open to the public. These are fenced off or clearly marked. Please obey all signage for your safety and wildlife protection.
  • School programs can be booked for all grade levels.
  • Birding adventures courses are offered in July and August.
  • Summer day camps are available for children ages 4-12 years.
  • Visitor experience volunteer opportunities are available. Email us for more information.

Public parks, pathways, skateparks and greenspaces are available for booking.

Book a park

History

In 1883, Colonel James Walker settled the land that is now occupied by the sanctuary. In 1910, the current brick house - then named Inglewood - was built, and the surrounding area was named for the most prominent property in the area.

From 1929 to 1952, several Chinese families leased land from Colonel Walker and established market gardens to serve the needs of a growing city. These highly productive gardens were used to grow vegetables and bedding plants, and represent an early example of urban agriculture and horticulture in the city. As part of the engagement process for Bend in the Bow, it was discovered the descendants of one of the families, the Koo family, still reside in Calgary.

Colonel Walker's son, Selby, applied to the Federal government in 1929 to have 59 acres on the west side of the Bow River be designated as a Federal Migratory Bird Sanctuary. His request was granted and the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary was born.

When Selby died in 1953, Ed Jefferies acquired the property and leased it to the Alberta Fish & Game Association. In 1970, The City of Calgary purchased the property and has been managing it as a natural reserve ever since.

The sanctuary's Nature Centre was built in 1996 and grassland restoration projects began in that same year.

The Colonel Walker House is currently used by Parks staff and volunteers as a classroom and office.​​​​​​​​​​​​

  • Calgary Parks

    There are numerous community and public parks in Calgary to explore.

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  • Contact us

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