This annual fall migration of songbirds occurs from late July until late October, with early September being the peak in songbird abundance. Birds captured include warblers, nuthatches, woodpeckers, thrushes, 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!*

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. The event start time lines up with the sunrise time each day. 

*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.

SONGBIRD TICKETS CANCELLATION POLICY

PLEASE NOTE: Our biologists often cannot send day-of cancellation notices. Please check the weather before you leave.

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 another day or to someone else. Otherwise, the ticket cost will be considered a donation and a tax receipt for cancellations can be issued if requested. Thank you for your understanding. 

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

We ask that you please park in the VISITOR PARKING LOT (not the volunteer/staff parking lot) and hike into the observatory via Harrier Highway and Warbler Way. Those with mobility issues can arrange access with the Head Biologist at biologist@beaverhillbirds.com.

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

• Binoculars if you have them!

OWL TOQUES, HATS AND STICKERS AVAILABLE FOR SALE!

Toque - $25

Hats - $25

Stickers - by donation