Beaverhill Bird Observatory

Come out and visit the Beaverhill Bird Observatory (BBO), Canada’s second oldest bird banding and research station, for an exclusive experience involving bird research and conservation. During our activity, we will be taking birds which have been caught in a net and attaching bird bands to their legs. Meanwhile, the scientists will be teaching us about bird species and habits, and the purpose of banding birds. 

There is a limit of twenty participants for this field trip, so please book early. 

Arrival Time

You may arrive at any point during the 6 hours of banding (5:15 am - 11:00 am) , however, the earlier you arrive, the greater your chances are of seeing birds being banded as songbirds are most active in the first couple hours after sunrise. Sunrise in late May happens at around 5:19 am. After 11:00 am, nets will close and the event ends, though you are welcome to explore the rest of the Natural Area on your own. To facilitate getting to the Observatory on time, our family will be camping at the Lindbrook Star Gazer Campground - come join us there if you’d like! 

Weather

Please check the weather before you leave by looking at the weather forecast for Tofield, Alberta. Our on-site temperatures are usually 1-2 degree colder than Tofield. If the overnight temperature is freezing, we will open the nets once the on-site temperature is 0°C and warmer.

What You Need to Bring

• Warm clothing – dress for the outdoors!

• Face mask - mandatory (hopefully this will not be needed in May)

• A thermos/travel mug with your choice of warm beverage (you will want it!)

• Binoculars if you have them!

Directions

We are located in the Beaverhill Natural Area which has many trails for visitors to walk and enjoy.

Please visit: http://beaverhillbirds.com/directions for directions.

Contact

Elizabeth King, elizabethk@rootshomeed.com