Calgary Bird Identification

The geographic location of Calgary, Alberta in Canada is perfectly suited to birders. The terrain is dynamic. From foothills and mountains to boreal forests and prairie, the area abounds with hundreds of species of birds.
    • flock of birds

    Types

    • Some of the most common types of birds found in the Calgary area include varieties of owls, geese, swans, ducks, grouse, turkey, loons, pelicans, egrets, warblers, herons, shorebirds, hawks, eagles and falcons.

    Numbers

    • In 2000, 257 species of birds were identified in the Calgary city limits, while 340 were identified in the surrounding area.

    Hot Spots

    • There are several birding hot spots near Calgary, including Weaselhead, Inglewood Bird Sanctuary, Fish Creek Provincial Park, Bow River, university campus, Douglas Fir Trail, Lowery Gardens, Bowness Park and Nose Hill Park.

    Migrations

    • Calgary is situated at the northern locale of numerous species migrations paths. Swainson's Hawk flies south from Canada to Argentina to spend the winters.

    Considerations

    • Nature Calgary offers monthly meetings about birds. These are open to the public and run September to May at 7:30 on the first day of the month at the University of Calgary, BioSciences, Rm. 211.