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Birding in British Columbia

Birds can tell us important things about our environment. Their presence and abundance provide an early warning of the state of ecosystems.

Over 300 species of birds breed each year in British Columbia - more than any other province in Canada. Sixty-five species breed nowhere else in Canada and for several other species, British Columbia holds the majority of the world population. Wings Over the Rockies benefits from this abundance in wildlife to provide a valuable experience for participants in this festival.

This year's theme for the annual Wings Over the Rockies Festival, Biodiversity - Web of Life, was reflected in the events which covered a broad spectrum of the natural environment in the Columbia Valley. Thanks to the efforts of special guests, evening presenters and trip leaders who enthusiastically communicate their knowledge and insight, this annual festival brings participants back, year after year, and instills a sense of wonder in the biodiversity of the Columbia Valley.

We had some variable weather for the Festival but, despite this, our overall attendance was maintained at about 1150 event registrations. Most participants come from British Columbia and Alberta , but some came from as far as Saskatchewan, New Hampshire and Washington State.

Click on the Birds Page to see some photos of birds spotted during the events this year and check out the complete list of birds in the Upper Columbia Valley Bird Checklist.