From mountain lakes and grassland meadows, canyons to pine forests, and lakeshore habitats to streams, our community has some great birdwatching areas to explore. Did you know that over 200 different species of birds have been spotted in West Kelowna and the Greater Westside?
When is the best time to bird watch?
While local and overwintering species can be observed year-round, spring and fall migrations bring the highest concentration and variety of birds to the valley.
Spring Migration (March to May): A peak period for bird activity as northbound species arrive. May generally offers the widest variety of species in a single outing.
Fall Migration (September to October): A shorter window as birds travel south through the Okanagan corridor.
Time of Day: Early mornings provide optimal viewing conditions, as birds actively forage after sunrise.
Tips for bird watching
- Bring some binoculars. Small brown birds all look the same until you look at them through binoculars.
- Birds are easily startled by loud noises, so try to be quiet. Also, try to avoid sudden movements as this too startles them.
- Look for flocks and you may see several different types of birds. Many birds join mixed-species flocks not only for protection but also because it makes it easier to find food.
- Do not wear brightly coloured clothing as it contracts too much with the environment and may look like movement to the birds.
- Bring a camera, this way you can snap a photo and look to identify the bird later. You can even use your smartphone camera. Many people are digiscoping (pointing your camera through a scope or binoculars).
- If possible, have your back to the sun as this will make identifying the birds easier and the bird will not appear as a silhouette.