Monthly Bird Counts

Our Squamish Estuary Monthly Bird Counts support ongoing conservation efforts, by gathering data and bringing the community together around nature and wildlife. They are a great way to explore birding hotspots, connect with other birders, and improve your birding skills. This is a drop-in event, open to everyone. All levels of bird enthusiasts welcome! 

When:

Bird counts take place the second Sunday of the month, with a start time ranging from 7am in summer to 9am in winter. Check our Events Calendar for dates and times.

Where:

Meet at the Howe Sound Inn/Brew Pub (37801 Cleveland Ave) where we will form four groups to cover four different areas of the Squamish Estuary.

How long does the count take?

The count takes four to six hours, with a mix of walking and driving. You are welcome to attend the full survey or stay for as long as your schedule allows (it’s best to join the Downtown route if you need to leave early).

What is expected of me?

All we ask is that you come along, join in, and hopefully leave having learned something new. Our monthly bird counts are a community gathering as much a bird survey. We welcome all experience levels from birding-curious to expert birders. If you don’t have your own binoculars (yet), we can provide a pair to use on the day.

What will we see?

The Skwelwil’em Squamish Estuary provides nesting sites, feeding and resting areas for migrants, and year-round homes for over 235 species of birds. It encompasses a wildlife management area and has been designated an Important Bird Area (IBA) & Key Biodiversity Area (KBA). Habitats include: floodplain forest, rivers, sloughs, Carex sedge meadows, tidal mudflats and open water. 

Download our Birding Checklist or visit our Bird Count data portal to learn more about where we go and what species you may encounter.

More information:

• Each group is led by an experienced local birder.
• Bring binoculars if you have them (Nature Squamish can offer binoculars on the day, just ask the coordinator).
• Some count areas have uneven, muddy, and otherwise awkward terrain.
• The Downtown route is accessible to most people. If you have concerns, speak to the coordinator.
• Groups often carpool, so a vehicle is not required.
• We record the birds we see on eBird, and meet for lunch afterwards, which is of course optional.