Birdwatching

Kamloops offers several prime birdwatching spots:

Tranquille Wildlife Management Area: Located near the Kamloops Airport along the Thompson River, this area is ideal for observing species such as hummingbirds, flycatchers, swallows, and warblers.

McArthur Island Park: Situated on the North Shore, this park's green spaces near water bodies attract a variety of birds, especially during spring and summer.

Albert McGowan Park: Located in Upper Sahali, this park is known for sightings of duck species like Redheads, Buffleheads, Lesser Scaup, and Ruddy Ducks once the ice thaws in April.

Cooney Bay, Tranquille: Located past the airport at 4600 Tranquille Rd, this area provides a serene environment for observing various waterfowl and shorebirds.

Deep Lake in Westsyde: Accessible by bus or car to the trailhead, followed by a short hike to the lake, this spot is ideal for spotting a variety of bird species in a tranquil setting.

Pineview Ponds: Located near Snowberry Crescent and Lodgepole Drive, these ponds attract a variety of birdlife, especially during migration seasons.

Yes, the Kamloops Naturalist Club, founded in 1981, is dedicated to fostering awareness and appreciation of the natural environment. They organize field trips, bird counts, and educational programs throughout the year.

BC Nature (Federation of British Columbia Naturalists) is the provincial parent organization. BC Nature supports over 50 local nature clubs, including the Kamloops Naturalist Club. They promote the preservation of British Columbia's natural environment through education and advocacy, offering resources and events that benefit birdwatchers across the province.

Birdwatchers are encouraged to:

Maintain Quiet: Minimize noise to avoid disturbing birds.

Respect Habitats: Stay on designated trails and avoid disrupting nesting areas.

Use Caution with Playback: Limit the use of recorded bird calls, as they can stress birds.

Following these practices ensures minimal impact on wildlife and their environments.

Yes, the Kamloops Naturalist Club organizes events such as the Christmas Bird Count in December and the Swan and Eagle Count in January. These events offer opportunities for both novice and experienced birders to participate in citizen science

Absolutely. Providing bird feeders, birdbaths, and nesting boxes can attract various species. Consulting with local experts can offer guidance on suitable feed and setups for the area.

In spring, Kamloops sees the return of several bird species:

Western Meadowlark: One of the first to return in March.

Mountain Bluebird: Typically arrives by the end of March.

Yellow-Rumped Warbler: Commonly seen by the end of April.

Additionally, Yellow-Headed Blackbirds can be spotted in areas like Albert McGowan Park during this season.

Yes, Kamloops is home to several nocturnal birds:

Owls: Species such as the Great Horned Owl and Northern Saw-whet Owl can be heard and occasionally seen during nighttime excursions.

Common Nighthawk: Often observed at dusk during the summer months.

Kamloops offers several trails ideal for birdwatching:

Peterson Creek Trail: A 3.5-mile moderate trail known for its diverse bird species and scenic views.

Deep Lake Loop: A 4.4-mile moderate trail that provides opportunities to observe various bird species in their natural habitats.

Rivers Trail from Riverside Park: An easy 2.1-mile trail along the waterfront, offering sightings of waterfowl and other bird species.

These trails provide a mix of habitats, increasing the chances of diverse bird sightings.