This annual spring migration of songbirds occurs from May until early June, with end of May being the peak in songbird abundance. Birds captured include warblers, nuthatches, woodpeckers, thrushes, blackbirds, orioles, sparrows and more! Join our biologists for a morning in the woods to learn about the research being conducted on our feathery friends and see live birds up close and personal!*

Hot drinks and snacks will be provided and between net checks our biologists will lead discussions about the importance of bird research, conservation, and how we can all make simple changes in our lives to become more environmentally friendly.

Nets open 30 mins before sunrise and run for 6 hours, weather permitting. Weather that would prevent us from opening or force us to shut down and CANCEL banding include: rain/snow, wind >20km/hr, and temperatures below freezing. Check the hourly weather forecast before you leave by looking at the weather forecast for Tofield, Alberta. Our on-site temperatures are usually 1-2 degrees colder than Tofield. If the overnight temperature is freezing, we will open the nets once the on-site temperature is 0C and warmer.

You may arrive at any point during the 6 hours of banding, however, the earlier you arrive, the greater your chances are of seeing birds being banded as songbirds are most active in the first couple hours after sunrise. Sunrise times can be found HERE.

PLEASE NOTE: Our biologists often do NOT have regular internet access on site, and therefore cannot send day-of cancellation notices. It is YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to check the weather before you leave.

SONGBIRD TICKETS CANCELLATION POLICY

If BBO cancels Songbird banding due to weather, we will make every effort to rebook you. If that doesn't work we will issue a refund.

If you aren't able to attend the event, Tickets are non-refundable but are transferable to someone else. otherwise, the ticket cost will be considered a donation. A tax receipt for cancellations can be issued if requested.

DIRECTIONS on how to get to the BBO can be found on our website.

TICKET PRICES (website fees included in price) - LIMIT of 20 tickets per morning

General Admission: $25/person

Child (6-16 years of age): $10/child

Children age 5 and under are FREE

WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING:

• Warm clothing and water-resistant footwear– dress for the outdoors!

• A Face mask if preferred

• A thermos/travel mug with your choice of warm beverage (you will want it!)

• Binoculars if you have them!

*We do not guarantee that a bird will be captured during your visit. They are wild animals and are influenced by the time of year and weather patterns. However, there is a high chance of seeing one if you are willing to put in the time and arrive early!