Presentations and Events

Presentations
Hikes & Field Trips
Cultural Events and Workshops

Price
$1.50 from each ticket will be donated to the Wild Voices for Kids educational programs and an additional $1.50 from each ticket will be used to fund a Wings Over the Rockies Scholarship. Ticket revenue covers 62% of Wings Festival costs. The balance of the costs is covered by fundraising, donations and advertising

Children: under 6 FREE
Students: 6 – 18 Half price, except for canoe and kayak activities

Wings Week Events for 2010

Evening Presentations:

The Big Little Wildlife Show:
Big Stories about Small Animals in the Canadian Rockies

This show aims to prove that anything a big wildlife star can do, one of the smaller supporting cast animals can do even better! Celebrate biodiversity! Because when it comes to memory, anything a grizzly bear can do, a hummingbird can do better. When it comes to hunting, anything a wolf can do, a spider can do better. And when it comes to winter survival, anything a moose can do, a shrew can do much, much better! Joel Hagen & Nadine Fletcher of Great Divide Nature Interpretation.

Mon May 3 from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm
MAX # 90
COST: $10.00
MEET: Pynelogs Cultural Centre

Invasive Plants in the EK - Become a Weed Warrior with Ali Burton

Come and learn how to become a Weed Warrior! We will discuss Invasive Plants: how they Bully our native plants, how they spread, the many impacts, prevention techniques, and how to identify our Top Invaders in the region.

Tue May 4from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm
MAX # 90
COST: $10.00 for entire evening
MEET: Pynelogs Cultural Centre

Critters in your Coffee?
Biodiversity and Coffee Production in Northern Nicaragua with Carmen Lishman

Small-scale coffee production is an important economy for rural communities in many tropical nations. Here you will meet the residents of one community in northern Nicaragua who have taken biodiversity conservation to heart. From the tiny arthropods in the soil to the toucans in the trees, everyone can agree that coffee tastes better when produced this way.

Tue May 4th from 8:45 pm to 10 pm
MAX # 90
COST: $10 for entire evening
MEET: Pynelogs Cultural Centre

The Web of Darkness

Not all creatures go to bed when the sun goes down – including birders! Enjoy time away from city lights to discover the world of the dark sky with Fairmont Hot Springs Resort¹s BC Rockies Adventures Team. Owl calls, migrating birds, astronomy, wolf howls, bats, the odd mosquito and much more! We are offering a prize for the best owl call imitation! Sponsored by Kowa Optics.

Tues May 4 from 10:00 pm to 11:30 pm
MAX # 25
COST: $10.00
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Small Wings over the Rockies: Meet Your Native Bees – Lynn Westcott

Did you know honey bees were introduced to North America? Come out and learn about the native bees of the East Kootenay. Spend an evening immersed in the world of these small but remarkable animals and learn how easy it is to create habitat in your yard for these pollinating powerhouses.

Wed May 5 from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm
MAX # 90
COST: $10.00 for entire evening
MEET: Pynelogs Cultural Centre

Kowa's Scoop on Scopes: Test-drive

Join Robin Tapley and the KOWA Reps for the scoop on KOWA scopes. Product will be available to test-drive on the deck of Pynelogs, overlooking Lake Windermere. KOWA Sporting Optics are highly appreciated by birders and sportsmen for their quality and reliability in the field; a result of more than a half century of experience and development.

Door prize: Kowa Genesis 8x33 Binoculars, retail value $1250
Wed May 5 from 8:45 pm to 10:00 pm
MAX # 90

MEET: Pynelogs Cultural Centre

The Birdsong Singalong Dinner
This 'favorite' Festival Event, put on by the Windermere Community Association has been a much-anticipated feature of Wings Week since 2001. There will be a 3-course "fowl" meal followed by the Valley Voices choir conducted by Paul Carriere leading a Singalong of 'bird songs'. Participants are encouraged to dress as a bird (or at least wear feathers). Prize for the best bird costume and other door prizes to be won. Bring your appetite, your sense of fun, and your voice - whatever it's like.

Thu May 6 at 6:30 pm
MAX # 100
What to bring: Dress up like a bird, wear a bird / feathered mask
COST: $60 per couple, $35 individual
MEET: Windermere Community Hall, North Street, Windermere

Pat & Bill's Excellent Adventure:
Wilmer Wetlands Nature and Photography Walk (I)

Join Pat Morrow and Bill Swan as they explore the rich biodiversity of the Upper Columbia through many lenses from our eyes to cameras. In this workshop and field event participants will discover new species of bugs, plants, birds, maybe even fish, and build their skills and knowledge of recording and understanding them using cameras, sound recordings, the internet and good old pencils and field guides.

Thu May 6 from 7:00 to 9:00 pm & Fri May 7 from 7:00 am to 2:00 pm
MAX # 20
COST: $10.00
Duration: 2 hour evening, 7 hour field trip outing including shuttle, walking, biodiversity inventory, eating, shooting, viewing and critique session
What to bring:
Evening segment: camera and manual
Field Trip: all weather clothing and sturdy footwear, binoculars, notebook, field guides, lunch, water. Laptop Computer - Participants who have a laptop to download their photos onto when we get back to Pynelogs should bring one.

MEET: Pynelogs Cultural Centre

Reinventure Travel Can Change Your Life – Carol Patterson

Travel allows us to reinvent ourselves over and over. Carol Patterson, former Calgary Zoo board Chairman, president of Kalahari Management, and author of Reinventure: How Travel Adventure Can Change Your Life believes no one comes home unchanged. Carol has been lost in Oyen, dumped from a dogsled, and pursued by elephants, but she has never looked back. She will share stories from Africa, Iceland, and Borneo, and show how your life can be reinvigorated through travel.

Fri May 7 at 7:00 pm
MAX # 90
COST: $10.00

MEET: Pynelogs Cultural Centre

14^th Annual Gala Banquet & Keynote - Biodiversity: the Web of Life

A Gala at Eagle Ranch Golf Resort complete with fabulous food, Live and Silent Auction, Keynote Presentation and a Web of fun!!

Keynote Message – Dr. Faisal Moola PhD
The United Nations has declared 2010 the International Year of Biodiversity. This global celebration of this earth's biological richness is occurring at a time when non-human life on our planet is in a more perilous state than ever before. Experts believe that some 17,000 species are currently threatened with extinction, including 12% of all known birds, 21 % of all known mammals and 30 % of all known amphibians. The effects of climate change are predicted to sharply increase the risk of species extinction within our children's lifetime. The dire state of our planet's biological richness threatens not only the ecological health of ecosystems like old-growth forests and rare grasslands but also the wellbeing of our own communities that depend on the ecological goods and services that nature provides.

Sat May 8^th
6:00 pm – Refreshments
6:45 pm – Dinner
7:45 pm – Parks Can-Can-Canada Theatre by Parks Canada's Mountain W.I.T.
8:00 pm – Live Auction
8:30 pm – Keynote by Dr. Faisal Moola
MAX # 100

COST: $70 (tax receipt will be issued for a portion of the ticket)

Hikes & Field Trips:

Each hike is rated as follows:
U – Undemanding, I = Intermediate, C = Challenging
Wings Group Sizes - We want just small flocks! We restrict many of our hikes numbers to
15 - 20 to limit the impact and protect the environment; this ensures that you have a safe and quality experience.

Children: under 6 are FREE
Students: 6-18 half price for hikes and $5.00 for presentations

Dawn Chorus - Randy Hopkins (U)

Start your day at the Pynelogs Cultural Centre and listen to the songbirds as they start their day. Come and enjoy the peace and tranquility of an early spring morning beside Dorothy Lake. Dress for the weather.

Mon May 3 & Fri May 7 from 6:30 to 7:30 am
MAX # 16
COST: $5.00
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Wetlands Discovery (U) - Sherry and Ian Dewey for Monday and Friday

Join local enthusiasts and birders for a morning exploring the Columbia Wetlands, the internationally-recognized wetland with Ramsar designation. The event includes a short nature walk to the Columbia River, bird-viewing stations, and a scenic Columbia Valley overlook.

Mon, Wed & Fri from 7:30 am to 10:30 am
MAX # 16
COST: $10.00
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Roam Radium (I)– Randy Hopkins

This trip will start at Dry Gulch Campground for morning song birds and a '"wild turkey hunt" in the area. From there we will get up into Redstreak Camping area, and as far as Olive Lake to look for thrushes. The look outs from Radium hill are good spots to check for raptors. Then on just a bit north of town for more turkey spotting. We will also spend some time at the Radium Mill Pond, then cross the river and head up to Red Rock look out just north of town.

Mon May 3 from 7:30 – 11:30 am
MAX # 16
COST: $10.00
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Kowa's Scoop on Scopes at Eagle Ranch: Wetlands, Mountains & Range Land

Join Robin Tapley and the Kowa Reps for a morning of spectacular viewing from the Eagle Ranch Gazebo, overlooking the expansive Columbia River Wetlands. Kowa products will be available to test their viewing capabilities. A stand-up breakfast is included by Eagle Ranch Food & Beverage.

Mon May 3 from 7:30 am to 11:00 am
MAX # 15
COST: $ 15
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Ecosystem Restoration IS for the Birds- Randy Harris

Visit an Ecosystem Restoration site, the location of up to 16 active nests of the rare Lewis Woodpecker. The project includes tree thinning, controlled burns and snag and wildlife tree protection to ensure habitat maintenance for this Red-listed species. Ecosystem restoration undertaken by the four partners on this site (The Rocky Mountain Trench Ecosystem Restoration Program, the Nature Trust of BC, the Nature Conservancy and the Thunderhill Ranch) will ensure that this rare species can be maintained.

Mon May 3 from 9:00 am to 1 pm
MAX # 20
COST: $10.00

Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Ktunaxa Trails: Secret Garden Tour-
Hosted by Lillian Rose and Ian Tamasi (I)

Lillian presents an addition to the Ktunaxa Trails Series. Join Ian Tamasi and Lillian Rose as they take you on a tour through Interior Douglas Fir and marshland ecosystems, all within a 6 km hike. Ian Tamasi will discuss archaeology and share plans for a public archaeological field school in the Upper Columbia Valley in 2011. Come and see the biodiversity of grasslands and wetland ecosystems.

Mon, Wed & Fri May 3, 5 & 7 from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
MAX # 14
What to Bring: binoculars, a lunch, water, camera, and your bird and plant books
COST: $10.00

Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Palaeoecology and Archaeology of the Rocky Mountain Trench (I)

Join Wayne Choquette and Rob Neil as they focus on the evolution of the landscape and ecology of this area. Past human adaptation to this dynamic environment will be discussed.

Mon May 3 from 11:30 to 3:00 pm
MAX # 20
COST: $10.00

Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Birding by Horseback - Deuce of Diamond Stables at Fairmont Hot Springs

Experience the bird-world from the back of a horse way up there!! The trail system around Fairmont leads through many eco-systems, over hill and dale. Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

Mon, Thu, Fri & Sat, May 3, 6, 7 & 8 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
MAX # 12
COST: $50.00

Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Birding From Bed

From the comfort of your own warm bed take a moment to listen to the sounds of the morning. Open your window, draw the blinds and listen to the birds. Can you recognize the chirps, squawks, screeches and twitters, what song are they singing, what message are they sending? Can you recognize which sound comes from which bird? Make a note. Come into Pynelogs and post your findings, and compare what other birders are hearing.

Tue, Wed & Thu, May 4, 5, & 6 from 6:30 am and on
MAX # Everyone
COST: Valuable

Wetlands Paddle with Rob Neil

Experience the wetlands by canoe/kayak during a peaceful morning paddle. Joel Hagen, an accredited "master interpreter" from the Canadian Rockies, will guide you on a quest to find local birds by sight and sound. Basic paddling experience necessary.

Tue May 4 from 7:30 am to 10:30 am
MAX: 20
COST: $25.00 (includes canoe/kayak & PFD)

Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

"All day" Blitz – Randy Hopkins (C)

Well, most of the day at least! Join Randy on a fast-paced trip from Invermere north to the Brisco wetlands following the Columbia River valley. We'll be covering as much habitat as time permits, from wetlands to forests, from fields to mountain lakes. Bring your lunch and lots of enthusiasm!

Tue May 4 from 7:30 to 5:00 pm
MAX # 16
COST: $12.00

Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Wild Wonders of Windermere – Lake Windermere Project (I)

Tour some of the most special areas on the lake by pontoon boat, with the Lake Windermere Project guides Heather Lieschield or Kalista Pruden. Gain a new perspective of the lake while viewing various waterfowl, wildlife and other species that rely on Lake Windermere. Participants will learn how water quality is monitored on the lake and the results of five years of study. View examples of healthy shorelines that support fish populations, and portions requiring conservation measures. PFD provided. Bring water, a snack and dress for the weather.

Tue May 4 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm OR Tue May 4 from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
MAX # 10
COST: $35.00

Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Searching for the Edge of Edgewater – Gerry Wilkie (U)

Join Gerry for a stroll through Edgewater to search for the water¹s Edge of the Columbia Wetlands where you'll find plenty of birds, flora and fauna and amazing views. Enjoy this leisurely walk with a knowledgeable birder and long time local.

Tue May 4 from 10:00 am to noon
MAX # 16
COST: $10.00

Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Kowa's Scoop on Scopes at Dorothy Lake: Spot a Painted Turtle

Capture the details of a Painted Turtle close up! Hook up your digital camera to a Kowa spotting scope to discover how easy it is to take beautiful super-telephoto images with amazing detail.

Tue May 4 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm
MAX # 15
COST: $5.00
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Our Community Greenhouse: Example in Biodiversity

Join the Community Greenhouse Educator & Coordinator for an interactive tour of our new low energy use, solar heated, water conserving, 30,000 square foot educational building. The Community Greenhouse is operated by the Columbia Valley Botanical Gardens and Centre for Sustainable Living to address climate change and to promote energy, water and resource conservation, biodiversity and food security. This is where young people and the whole community can gain knowledge and make informed choices about growing and consuming food.

Tue May 4 from noon to 2 pm
MAX # 20
COST: $10
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Wetlands to Wildfires (U)- Grant Neville, Al Neal and Peter Holmes

Walk around Lake Enid to observe and discuss forest, wetland and grassland ecology. The walk will focus on forest stand structure components, wetland complexes and a detour into the Lake Enid wildfire where we will discuss the importance of wildfires in preserving ecosystem biodiversity.
Background Facts: Lake Enid Wildfire 1994. Approx. 950 ha burned. Over 850, 000 trees were planted to reforest the burn area.

Tue May 4 from noon to 3:00 pm
MAX # 25
COST: $10.00
What to bring: Binoculars, food, water, hat, sunscreen, good walking/hiking footwear
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Disturbance, Biodiversity and Bighorn Sheep....what are the links? (U)

Come join Parks Canada Agency staff Alan Dibb, Rick Kubian and Michael Den Otter for a walk through the Redstreak Restoration area. Along the way you will have an opportunity to learn about fire as a disturbance process that shapes biodiversity and how Parks Canada is attempting to restore habitat for Bighorn Sheep. As you walk through this open forest/grassland you may have an opportunity to view some of the species that make open forest/grassland their home.

Tue May 4 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
MAX # 30
COST: $10.00
What to bring: binoculars, water, camera, light hiking boots
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Old Coach Trail Interpretive Walk – Ross MacDonald (U)

The 9 kilometer Old Coach Greenway trail is located within the provincial Wildlife Management Area, a component of one of the longest contiguous wetland systems in North America. It offers outstanding views of hoodoos and passes through Christmas tree farms and the grasslands that are habitat to Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, numerous birds and rare plants. Learn more about Columbia River Greenway Alliance projects at www.greenways.ca

Tue May 4 from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
MAX # 20
COST: $10.00
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Weeds Take Flight - Become a Weed Warrior with Ali Burton (I)

Come out and learn to identify some of our most prevalent Invasive Plant species in this region. We'll discuss impacts on wildlife (birds!) and biodiversity, and also cover what you can do to help. You will become a Weed Warrior!

Tue May 4 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
MAX # 15
What to bring: light garden gloves (optional), bottle of water,
plant ID book (optional) & hat
COST: $10.00
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

The Web of Darkness

Tues May 4 from 10:00 pm to 11:30 pm
MAX # 25
COST: $10.00
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Dippers and Ducks – Randy Hopkins (I)

Take a drive up the road to Panorama and help search for the fascinating and elusive diving birds that inhabit this rollicking mountain creek. Bring lots of patience and your best eyesight to spot the Harlequin Ducks and American Dippers who make their home in this amazing watery environment.

Wed May 5 from 7:30 to 11:00 am
MAX # 16
COST: $10.00
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Kowa's Scoop on Scopes at Fairmont Hot Springs

Join Robin Tapley and the Fairmont Hot Springs Resort's BC Rockies Adventure for a morning of spectacular viewing at three different locations throughout the resort. Kowa Optics products will be available to test for their viewing capabilities. A stand-up breakfast is included by Fairmont Hot Springs Resort.

Wed May 5 from 7:30 am to 11:00 am
MAX # 15
COST: $ 10
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Kimberley Ramble in the Park (C) Ruth Goodwin

This 7 km hike, in the southern part of the Kimberley Nature Park, has an elevation gain of 290m, and passes along a riparian area where we'll hope to hear Winter Wrens, Ruby-crowned Kinglets and Townsend Warblers. After a stop at Southwest Passage Lookout to enjoy the panoramic views of the St Mary's Valley and have a snack, we'll continue along on the wooded trails of Myrtle Mountain through the Williamson Sapsucker preserve before heading out onto the grasslands of Sunflower Hill for the Blue Grouse.

Wed May 5 from 8:30 am to noon
MAX # 12
COST: $10.00

What to bring: Drink, snacks, binoculars, camera
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Species at Risk : Learning to Sustain Biodiversity (U)

Canadian Forest Products uses a Sustainable Forest Management Plan to monitor species habitat within Valley forests. This field tour will introduce participants to forest stand structure and various species requirements. It will demonstrate how Canfor utilizes bird species and species guilds to monitor changes to habitat and measure the success in sustaining biodiversity and species at risk by following the Sustainable Forest Management Plan of Canadian Forest Products.

Wed May 5 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm
MAX # 25 (kids and families are welcome)
COST: $10.00
What to bring: binoculars, lunch, water, etc - Bring your own transportation (car pool as necessary), lunch, water, and outdoor clothing
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

The Sutured Summit – Bob Walker (I)

This relatively easy 3 km walk through the natural setting of grassland and forest in Bella Vista Estates, offers spectacular views of Columbia Lake and opportunities to view an archaeological site, consider past events of human and natural history and enjoy three diverse habitats. Woodpeckers, turkey vultures and osprey may be seen. A brief examination is made on the integration of sustainable development and the environment.

Wed May 5 from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm
MAX # 25
COST: $10.00
What to bring: lunch, water, good footwear
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Fairmont's Bio Bike

Experience biodiversity at a faster pace! Bring your bike and join the BC Rockies Adventures Team as we peddle through different habitat types representative of the Columbia Valley. We will be taking the east Columbia Lake cross country trails through dry forest, lush vegetation, grassland, and lake-edge habitat. Binoculars will be provided as we will be making stops to compare the landscape by identifying wildlife, birds, plants, and trees.

Wed May 5 from 1:00 pm to 4:30pm
MAX # 25
COST: $15.00 (bring your own bike or rent in Invermere)
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Fire and Water: The Birds of Wasa Lake and Bummers Flats
Dean Nicholson (U)

The Wasa Lake and Bummers Flats area is one of the best birding sites near Cranbrook. We will look for a variety of waterfowl, shorebirds and gulls and then explore a recent forest fire for up to 5 species of woodpeckers. On past walks we have seen Sandhill Cranes, Black-necked Stilts, Semipalmated Plovers and Black-backed Woodpeckers.

Wed May 5 from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm
MAX # 12
COST: $10.00
What to bring: Bring binoculars, spotting scopes, water and a snack
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

A Stream Through Time: Sinclair Creek Greenway – Ken Innis (I)

Travel through time on this 1.5 km walk along the banks of Sinclair Creek. The journey begins where the Ktunaxa and Shuswap people harvested spawning salmon from the creek and continues past dikes, flumes and sluice boxes settlers used to work the creek and brings you to the present, where the Columbia River Greenways Alliance and the Village of Radium Hot Springs have partnered to restore the stream channel to benefit Kokanee Salmon. For additional details visit Greenways: www.greenways.ca

Wed May 5 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
MAX # 20
COST: $10.00
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Local Birding Hotspots - Cam Gillies & Michael den Otter (I)

Join Cam and Mike on a visit to some of the local hotspots. Along the way, we'll visit a variety of habitats and work on learning some of the songs. We'll also keep our eyes open for any rarities.

Thu May 6 from 7:00 am to noon
MAX # 20
COST: $10.00
What to bring: binoculars and a snack
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Wetlands Paddle - Randy Hopkins (I)

Experience the wetlands by canoe/kayak, guided by Randy Hopkins, local birder and man of many talents. Join in on a quiet paddle down the Columbia River. From little birds to big birds, there is always something entertaining to see and hear. Basic paddling experience necessary.

Thu May 6 from 7:30 am to 10:30 am
MAX # 20
COST: $25.00 (includes canoe/kayak & PFD)
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Golfing for Birdies!

Albatross, eagles, birdies, bogey and double bogey – sounds like an interesting species list but you'll need your irons to find them! Bring your binoculars too because this golf game takes more than just swinging skills on the green. Points will be given to the number of bird and wild animal species identified and to the number of (golf) 'birdies', 'eagles', and the rarest of them all 'albatross' accumulated during your round of 18 holes. Species lists will be provided; don't forget your I.D. books.

Thu May 6 from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm
MAX # No limit
COST: $75.00 (includes 18-holes and golf cart) OR $25.00 sightseer
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Hiking the Purcells – Bob Piche (C)

A moderately strenuous hike in the Purcell mountains. After meeting at Pynelogs the group will carpool in high clearance vehicles. The route and elevation gain will depend on snowline conditions. The hike will be led by an experienced local hiker, Bob Piche accompanied by a naturalist. En route you will learn about the flora, fauna and geology of the Purcells.

Thu May 6 from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm
MAX # 12
COST: $10.00
What to bring: 1 litre of water, lunch, hiking boots, rain gear, hiking poles (optional), binoculars (optional)
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Wilmer Wildlife Area Walk – John Pitcher (I)

This scenic nature walk explores the biodiversity of the Columbia Wetlands and adjacent benchlands. Wetland overlooks provide views of waterfowl and a distant heronry. Ramble around the shoreline to Ritchie's point, and loop back through Douglas Fir forest. Some elevation loss and gain. Wear sturdy shoes.

Thu May 6 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm
MAX # 16
COST: $10.00
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Bee Blitz: Up-close and Personal with Local Bees and Other Pollinators (I)

Ever wondered if those yellow and black stripped insects on your flowers are bees, wasps, or something else? Are you curious to know what those insects are doing when they visit flowers? Delve into the secret life of insects during this relaxed outing with entomologist Lynn Westcott.

Thu May 6 from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm
MAX # 20
What to bring: hand lens, binoculars, camera, lunch, water, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, insect ID
COST: $10.00
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Carousing by the Canal – Paula Cravens & Bruce Woodbury (U)

Why the heck is it called Canal Flats? Hike along the old canal remains at the edge of town. See where the riverboats passed through and learn why Bailie Grohman's grand scheme to connect the Kootenay River and Columbia Lake failed.

Thu May 6 from noon to 2:00 pm
MAX # 20
COST: $10.00
What to bring: water, binoculars, camera
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Afternoon Float with Carmen Lishman

Take this opportunity to meander through some of the Columbia Valley's complex and intricate Wetlands in a canoe. Float with Carmen for an afternoon of interesting facts, stories and specifics from a biology specialist and lifelong student of biodiversity. Basic paddling experience necessary.

Thu May 6 from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm
MAX: 20
What to bring: binoculars, lunch, water, etc
COST: $25.00 (includes canoe/kayak & PFD)
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Forensic Investigation: Retired Conservation Officer – Stan Markham (U)

Join retired Conservation Officer for a walk along the banks of the mighty Columbia River as it weaves through the phenomenal Columbia Wetlands. Rich in wildlife, this area offers a unique opportunity to observe copious animal signs and learn how to interpret nature's information. In addition to showing you how to identify animal tracks and signs of all sorts, Stan will also point out and talk about evidence used in forensic wildlife.

Thu May 6 from 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm
MAX # 20
What to bring: Binoculars, camera, water, and appropriate clothing for the weather and walking through some bush.
COST: $10.00
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Pat & Bill's Excellent Adventure: Wilmer Wetlands Nature and
Photography Walk (I)

Thu May 6 from 7:00 to 9:00 pm & Fri May 7 from 7:00 am to 2:00 pm
MAX # 20
COST: $10.00
Duration: 2-hours evening. 7-hours field trip outing: shuttle, walking, biodiversity inventory, eating, shooting, viewing and critique session
What to bring:
    Evening segment: camera and manual
    Field Trip: all weather clothing and sturdy footwear binoculars, notebook,         field guides, lunch, water. Laptop Computer - Participants who have a laptop     to download their photos onto when we get back to Pynelogs should bring         one.
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Windermere from A to Z – Randy Hopkins (I)

Scour with a fine-tooth comb the many habitats that Windermere area has to offer the birder. "Songbirds in the morning, waterfowl in the afternoon" goes the saying, so that will be the plan for this two-part search for the birds of Windermere.

Fri May 7 from 7:30 to 11:30 am AND 1:00 to 4:30 pm MAX # 16
COST: $12.00

Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Source of the Columbia River: Beginning of the Wetlands –

Colin Cartwright (U)

Hike to the headwaters and see how the underground flow of one river is responsible for the creation of another. Join local history buff, Colin Cartwright to explore the springs at the south end of Columbia Lake. Learn some local history and how the springs affect the local plants and wildlife.

Thu May 6 from 9 am to 11:30 am
MAX # 15
COST: $10.00
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Hike the Trench: Columbia River & Rocky Mountain Trench (I)
Andy Stuart-Hill

This is a relatively moderate hike at low elevations in the Columbia valley. After meeting at Pynelogs the group will carpool to the trailhead. The exact route will depend on trail conditions. The hike will be led by an experienced local hiker accompanied by a naturalist. En route you will learn about the flora, fauna and geology of Rocky Mountain Trench.

Fri May 7 from 10:00 am to 2:30 pm
MAX # 15
COST: $10.00
What to bring: water, lunch, hiking boots, rain gear, hiking poles (optional), binoculars (optional)
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Using Birds in Trees to Put Heads in Beds:
ECOTOURISM Presentation & Lunch with Carol Patterson

While not a panacea for all that ails rural areas, nature tourism can give wild spaces economic value and provide communities with new sustainable development opportunities. We'll look at the many shapes nature-based tourism takes, from tour packages to wildlife festivals, and what it takes to be successful. You'll understand how to create happy customers from the misunderstood nature tourist and where disaster lurks if plans go wrong.

Fri May 7 from 11:30 am to 2:00 pm
MAX: 30
COST: $27.00
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Historic Thunder Hill Mine – Colin Cartwright (C)

Join local historian, Colin Cartwright on a hike to the Thunder Hill Mine which was claimed in 1884 and was worked until 1893. See where water was obtained for the steam drills. Walk through the mine shaft, inspect the remains of some of the mining equipment, and see the narrow gorge rail bed. Great views of the valley. Bring binoculars, camera, snack, water and wear good footwear.

Thu May 6 from noon – 4:00 pm
MAX # 15
COST: $10.00
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Bird Atlas'ing Adventure with Cam Gillies (I)

This is year three of five for BC's Breeding Bird Atlas and we need your help! Come out on a birding adventure and learn how easy it is to contribute to the atlas, which is a volunteer effort working toward bird conservation. Bring binoculars, a notebook and a snack

Sat May 8 from 7 am to noon
MAX # 20
COST: $10.00
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Birds of Invermere and Environs – Randy Hopkins (I)

Enjoy a leisurely examination of various bird habitats within a short drive from Invermere. We'll search rivers, lakes, fields and meadows for whatever birds pop up. Don't miss the blue birds, the owl family, and, oh yes, the sewage lagoons!

Sat May 8 from 7:30 to 11:30 am AND 1:00 to 4:30 pm
MAX # 16
COST: $12.00
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Moberly Marsh Meander: A Walk through the World famous Ramsar site of the Columbia Wetlands - Ellen Zimmerman (I)

While countless wetlands across the planet are destroyed daily through draining, pollution or development, one of the longest contiguous wetlands in North America survives in the Southeast corner of British Columbia, Canada: a true wilderness in the heart of the Columbia Valley. Join Ellen Zimmerman, long time local conservationist and birder, and experience first hand the interwoven treads that create the complex web of life that is the Columbia Wetlands.

Sat May 8 from 8:00 am to 11:30 am
MAX # 16
COST: $10.00
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Walk With Grandfathers – Grant Howse (I)

Experience a hike along the East side of beautiful Columbia Lake and view the Native Sites, Paintings, and turn of the century Tipi Village. This ancient trade route was used by First Nations People, Metis Fur Traders and Explorers. View eagle nests and other bird and animal dwellings.

Sat May 8 from 9:00 am to 1:30 pm
MAX # 18
COST: $10.00
What to Bring: Binoculars, Camera, Lunch, Water, Comfortable hiking footwear
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

The Nature Trust of BC's Biodiversity Tour on the
Hoodoo Conservation Property (I)

Join The Nature Trust's Kootenay Conservation Land Manager Rob Neil, geologist
Bill Ayrton, wildlife biologist Trevor Kinley and biologist Dr. Kari Stuart-Smith, on a hike through the spectacular Hoodoos conservation property. Learn about the geology of the Columbia Valley, the creation of the Hoodoos, the wide variety of local and migratory birds that are found in both the wetlands and on the cliffs of the Hoodoos and the significance of grassland habitat that supports a wide spectrum of wildlife species. The tour will involve short hikes to two destinations. The morning tour will involve a walk, on relatively flat terrain, to a site overlooking the Columbia River Wetlands while the afternoon tour leaves from the Hoodoo Trail Parking Lot to the crest of the Hoodoo formation. This walk involves a steady climb to the Hoodoos but is not overly difficult.

Sat May 8 from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
MAX # 50
COST: $15.00
What to bring: water, a lunch, binoculars (if you have them), sturdy walking shoes and a jacket in case of inclement weather
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Beetles, Burns and Bighorns: Hike in Kootenay National Park's
Redstreak Restoration Area (I)

Take a walking tour with Omar McDadi of Kootenay National Park's Redstreak Restoration Area near Radium Hot Springs. Hiking through forests and grasslands, we will take a closer look at what Parks Canada is doing to restore fire in our national parks while continuing to protect communities, visitors and infrastructure from uncontrolled wildfire.

Sat May 8 from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm
MAX # 12
COST: $10.00
What to bring: Binoculars, lunch, water, rain clothes, hiking shoes
and good socks
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Biodiversity Geocache

Experience the fastest growing outdoor sport in Canada – geocaching! We like to describe the sport as "a digital scavenger hunt", where you use a hand-held GPS to locate specific places or hidden treasures. The BC Rockies Adventures Team has developed an exciting scavenger hunt (or "geotrail") that will highlight some of the important aspects of our local forests; wildlife trees, plants, animals, birds and much more.

Sat May 8 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
MAX # 20 kids
COST: $10.00/child (parents may join at no cost)
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Everything Grizzly: Face to Face with Boo (U)

Kicking Horse Grizzly Bear Refuge is home to Boo the resident grizzly bear, who is now 8 years old. Boo was saved and offered the most natural life possible for a captive grizzly bear. Guests are educated about everything grizzly and have a chance to view this majestic creature up close in a natural setting.

Sat May 8 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
MAX # unlimited
COST: $15.00 (includes Chairlift ride up Kicking Horse Mountain Resort)
What to bring: warm clothes, be prepared for mountain weather (hat, gloves, jacket, rain coat, pack), camera, hiking boot/good shoes, binoculars, snack, water/hot drink, etc
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Sunday Morning Wetlands Paddle with Dr. Faisal Moola (I)

Ahhhhhh, Sunday morning on the water, surrounded by birds, bees and trees. Join this year's Festival Keynote Speaker, Dr. Faisal Moola from the David Suzuki Foundation on a paddle through the Columbia Wetlands. There will be other birding experts, grassland specialists and all-round great people joining this event on the final day of the Festival. Basic paddling experience necessary.

Sun May 9 from 8:30 am to 11:30 am
MAX # 20
COST: $25.00 (includes canoe/kayak & PFD)
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Feeding Frenzy (U)

Do you enjoy having birds in your yard and would you like them to stay longer? Join us for an interactive session on feeding methods, feathered friend diets, placement of feeding stations, doing battle with squirrels/wildlife and some handy tips and techniques aimed to get the most out of your bird feeding adventures.

Sun May 9 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm
MAX # 12
COST: $10.00

What to bring: binoculars, lunch, water, etc if outdoors, dress for the weather and bring a lawn chair, if indoors a notebook and pen
Location of event will be forwarded in your email confirmation.

Cultural Events, Workshops and other Interests

Wings Over the Rockies Art Show

Columbia Valley Arts Council is pleased to present another Wings Over the Rockies Art Show. The show will feature over 20 talented artists and artisans, who will present painting, photography, sculpture, carving, and much more! Everyone is welcome.

Open Daily from 11am to 4pm

Pynelogs Cultural Centre, (next to Kinsmen Beach)

Free. No registration necessary.

Wings Auction Exhibit

Auction Items will be on display (and bid for Silent Auction items) at the
Pynelogs Cultural Centre the week of the Festival. Final bidding opportunities will be at the 14^th Anniversary Gala Banquet at Eagle Ranch Golf Course on Saturday May 8^th. Proceeds from the auction assist Wings Over the Rockies continue to provide outstanding programming.

Mon May 3 to Sat May 8 from 11:00 – 4:00 pm

Pynelogs Cultural Centre

Free. No registration necessary.

Pynelogs Café featuring the Scottie Burger

Featuring a varied menu of flatbreads, quiche, salads, daily soups, kid¹s menu, daily features and baked goods, using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Bag lunches available by request

Licensed Premises, Internet wireless connection – just bring your own laptop

Serving lunch Wednesday to Sunday from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm

Pynelogs Cultural Centre, (next to Kinsmen Beach)

Wings Festival 'Roost Room'

Visit the 'Roost Room' to browse through the Wings Festival merchandise, and soar through the information Displays from a variety of organizations. The ŒRoost Room¹ is located in the upstairs Centre Gallery, beside the Wings Registration Room at Pynelogs Cultural Centre

BAVIN GLASSWORKS - Glass Blowing Demonstration

Pat & Ryan Bavin

We are a working studio/gallery established in the Columbia Valley in 1988 specializing in unique glass-blowing techniques. Watch local glass artists Pat and Ryan Bavin create works of art at their studio and shop. The same building is home to our gallery where we sell our glass. In the gallery we also represent over 35 other artists from around western Canada in the mediums of Glass, Metal and Clay.

Gallery Hours: Mon to Sat from 10 am – 6 pm

Bavin Glassworks, Athalmer Hwy.

Free - no registration necessary

Brian Hoffos Wood Design

Wood turning decorative mirrors and lamps. Artist Studio and showroom.

Wed, Fri & Sat, 10 – 5 Demo at 1 pm Wed

Windermere Art Corner

Free. No registration necessary.

The Artym Gallery

Representing over 60 artists from across Canada: always new and fresh works, knowledgeable and welcoming staff.

Mon to Sat, 10am – 5:30pm & Sun, 11 – 3 pm

The Artym Gallery, 934 - 7^th Ave, Invermere

Free. No registration necessary.

effusion Art Gallery

"An-unrestrained expression of emotion." The gallery is created on the energy of contemporary art. We bring you a collaboration of established and emerging artisans from coast to coast in our newly designed gallery located on Main Street Invermere.

Tues to Sat, 11 – 5:30

Sun, 12 – 4 pm

Main Street, Invermere

Black Star Studios

Open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

Bird Bath Saturday at the Radium Hot Springs Pool

Bring the whole family and enjoy a dip in the natural Hot Springs Pools. All child admissions will be free!

Sat May 10 – all day

Wild Voices for Kids

Wings Over the Rockies is proud to be a founding partner with the Rocky Mountain School District to deliver environmental education to students. Throughout the year many of the students of School District #6 receive Wild Voices for Kids environmental education programs. During the Wings Festival, resource people from the Wild Voices for Kids and Wings give presentations in the classroom as well as take students out on field trips.
http://www.sd6.bc.ca/drc/WildVoices/index.htm