Early rising residents may have noticed the uptick in birdsong as the sun rises earlier and earlier each day as most of the birds that left for warmer climes last fall have returned to Greater Victoria.
With that in mind, Rocky Point Bird Observatory invites birders new and old to celebrate Victoria Bird Week from May 5 to 12, with special events planned across the region for World Migratory Bird Day on May 11.
“(This) is an opportunity to celebrate and spread awareness about the significant ecological role birds play in our world. This includes the linkages present in our own lives that are often hidden in plain sight but extend beyond simple observation and enjoyment for bird watchers,” Lead educator Ashlea Veldhoen said in a news release. “This Victoria Bird Week and World Migratory Bird Day, we aim to share knowledge and excitement and instill wonder in everyone who participates in this week’s upcoming events and activities, and we hope we can create bird lovers the world over.”
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This week-long celebration of birds and birding is intended to provide special experiences, education and information about birds and the threats facing them.
Throughout the week, RPBO offers guided bird walks, birding by bike, a barred owl drawing class, online and in-person presentations, a “Be a Better Birder” course, and a special birding tour with Eagle Wing Tours. All guided bird walks, online and in-person educational presentations, and family events on World Migratory Bird Day are free in celebration of the group’s 30th anniversary.
World Migratory Bird Day encourages all to observe the beauty and diversity of birds and to bring awareness and action to the threats facing birds around the world. The 2024 theme is “Protect Insects, Protect Birds.”
RPBO and several other nature organizations host several family-oriented events across the region, including Esquimalt Lagoon, Elk/Beaver Lake and PKOLS.
Find full list of events online at https://rpbo.org/what-we-do/community-education/victoria-bird-week-2023.
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