Birdwatching programs
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.
2024 spring & summer registration dates
Registration for spring & summer programs, classes and day camps:
- Summer day camp registration is open
- Program and class registration is open
- March 14 - Certification registration
Ensure your Live and Play account is ready on registration day by logging in and verifying your information is up to date. Get ready to register.
Registration will open:
- 6 a.m. — Online (virtual waiting room opens at 5:30 a.m.).
- 8:30 a.m. — By calling the Customer Service Centre at 403-268-3800 (option 1).
- During business hours — At any City-operated Aquatic & Recreation or Arts facility.
Upcoming facility closures
Programs, classes and swimming lessons will not be offered at the following facilities while they undergo repairs:
- Bob Bahan Aquatic & Fitness Centre: closed this spring and summer.
- Canyon Meadows Aquatic & Fitness Centre: closed this summer.
- Sir Winston Churchill Aquatic & Recreation Centre: closed this summer.
Types of birdwatching courses
A different class is offered every month 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.
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.
Where can I attend birdwatching courses?
Our courses take place in various City parks, including:
- Carburn Park
- The Inglewood Bird Sanctuary
- Confederation Park
- Griffith Woods
- Ralph Klein Park
- Weaselhead Flats
Each class takes place at one location. See class descriptions for details.