World Migratory Bird Day

Celebrated on the Second Weekend in May World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD)

Warmer weather brings more of our feathered friends back to city parks. We celebrate these incredible travellers when migration is at its peak during World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD).

While this year’s event has passed, we look forward to celebrating with you again next year.

Migratory Birds


Migratory birds are an important part of our ecosystem. They control pests, disperse seeds and pollinate plants. They also serve as indicators of environmental health. To increase your chances of seeing a migratory bird visiting Calgary, head out for a quiet walk at either dawn or dusk and bring some binoculars with you. Consider visiting the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary to see songbirds and waterfowl and Ralph Klein Park to find wading birds and waterfowl.

Here are some examples of the types of migratory birds you can expect to see in Calgary:

  • American Kestrel
  • Bank Swallows
  • Blackpoll Warbler
  • Double-crested Cormorants
  • Great Blue Heron
  • Least Flycatcher
  • Red-tailed Hawk
  • Savannah Sparrow
  • Tree Swallow
  • Wood Duck
  • Yellow-rumped Warbler

What can you do to help make our city more bird-friendly?

Help make our city more bird-friendly by:

  • Planting native – Plants that are native to your community provide the food and shelter birds need. You can also remove invasive plants that can take over.
  • Making windows visible – Birds don’t recognize clear glass and often collide with windows. Placing decals 2" apart on the outside of windows can reduce bird strikes that can stun or kill birds. If you find a stunned bird, place it in a clean box, close it and place in a quiet safe place.
    Do NOT provide food or water to an injured bird. All birds who survive a window collision need to be seen by your closest wildlife rehab for exam and treatment. In Calgary, call CWRS or AIWC or a 24 hour vet.
  • Protecting insects – 95% of birds depend on insects at some time during their life cycle. Ask your local garden centre how you can address pests in your yard in a bird-friendly way and avoid using pesticides and other chemicals in your yard where possible.
  • Restraining your pets – Follow the Responsible Pet Bylaw which includes keeping dogs on leash except within the 160 designated off-leash areas in Calgary. It is especially important to keep dogs on leash while visiting natural areas to protect birds and their nesting habitats. For example, dogs aren’t allowed (except assistance dogs) at Inglewood Bird Sanctuary to protect the birds that visit the park.
  • Taking your trash with you – When you are in a park space, either put your trash in a garbage can or take it with you when you leave.

  • Calgary Parks

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

    All Calgary parks

  • Contact us

    Need additional information on our parks and activities? Want to request maintenance?

    Contact Calgary Parks