Bird watching in Alberta is one of a kind! Bird watching programs in Alberta is easily manageable considering numerous Alberta's bird watching hotspots. Many migrating bird species use a vast network of flyways that pass across the province. Numerous parks, grasslands, marshes, muskegs, bogs, reservoirs, lakes, and rivers serve as staging areas for migrating birds to feed, nest, and rest, and they are attractive locations for a variety of local bird species.
Numerous songbird, waterfowl, and predator bird species may be found in Alberta. Over the years, Alberta has been home to more than 400 different bird species. This may explain why birding in Alberta has many aficionados worldwide.
There is a good variety of bird species in Alberta; more than you may realize, but not so many that learning about them becomes problematic. Alberta birding is best during the warmer half of the year since the variety of Alberta birds is greater in the summer months since a large number of bird species migrate. Even some species that transit the province on their journey further north or south can be seen on a bird-watching tour in Alberta. Try to closely look at any sudden movement or unusual form that could be a bird so that you can identify it.
Top Birding Destinations in Alberta
While certain birds are pickier about their habitat and location, many species may be found across the province. Even Alberta's largest cities provide fantastic birdwatching locations for urban residents. Set up a few feeders in your backyard, sit by the window with your binoculars, and watch what comes by.
The biggest bird in Alberta is yet to be decided. Nonetheless, songbirds, ducks, and small raptors can be found in abundance in the wooded parks along the rivers of Edmonton, Red Deer, and Calgary. It's been observed that a gyrfalcon is hunting pigeons near the Yellowhead in Edmonton and witnessed enormous flocks of pelicans flying overhead from the Calgary Zoo.
In addition, there are many awesome birding trails in Central Alberta, providing a great opportunity for those in love with birding while hiking. You are also given the chance to see brown birds in Alberta's trails. Here are some of the best birding destinations and bird watching hidden gems in Alberta:
The Best Time and Season for Birding in Alberta
In Alberta, bird viewing differs depending on the time of year and what you hope to observe. The finest seasons for birdwatching are frequently regarded as spring and fall. Numerous parks and wetlands are designated for birding and preserving select bird species around the province.
Considering the rise of resident birds, bird watching has become a year-round activity across Canada. That brings illumination to why Alberta is accounted for one of the excellent winter birding destinations in the Canadian territories. In addition to the great winter bird watching opportunities, Alberta also offers you the best spring, summer, and fall bird watching opportunities. Thus, it can be claimed that Alberta is the full-season birdwatching destination for those who come to Canada craving these feathered friends.
Bird Photography and Birding in Alberta
Many birders have started to take photography lessons since they want to prepare better and more professional tour reports. Photography has almost become an inseparable part of wildlife watching, especially birding. Alberta is home to many different bird species, and its untouched scenery will add extra charm to your birding photos and videos. To read more about our pro birding photography tips, please refer to the related article we’ve prepared for you.
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Necessary Equipment for Birding in Alberta
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Common Questions About Birding in Alberta
What bird is the rarest breeding bird in Alberta?
The rarest breeding bird in Alberta is the greater sage-grouse. They only exist in the southeastern corner of the province since we are at the northern and western ends of their range. Historically, the range was much broader, but in the 25 years from 1988 to 2012, the species' population declined by 98%.
Where is best for birding in Calgary?
The best birding hotspots and hotspots in and beyond Calgary: Inglewood Bird Sanctuary Beaverdam Flats Park Bowness Park Along the Bow River in winter Carburn Park
Which bird s the Alberta's official bird?
After a provincial-wide children's vote, the great horned owl was chosen as Alberta's official bird on May 3, 1977. The province is home to a great horned owl all year long.
Can I see any Cardinals in Alberta?
Although Edmonton and Calgary have reported seeing Northern Cardinals, they are considered an incidental species in Alberta. The male Northern Cardinal has a vivid red head, body, and tail, and their faces are black around the edges.
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