Explore Vancouver’s Birdwatching Gems: Top Sanctuaries and Birding Spots Revealed

Have you ever been enchanted by the sight of a bird in flight or the soothing sound of its songs?

We have, and that’s why we’re thrilled to present our guide to the Reifel Bird Sanctuary and other birding spots in and around Vancouver.

Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or just curious about this rewarding activity, join us as we explore the best places around the city to connect with nature and observe the beauty of birds.

What is the Reifel Bird Sanctuary?

The George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary is one of BC’s seven migratory bird sanctuaries. Located on Westham Island in Delta, this sanctuary spans around 300 hectares, attracting millions of birds seeking respite and nesting grounds. Historically owned by the Reifel family since 1927, it was transformed into a successful farm and recreational retreat. In the 1960s, the family partnered with provincial and federal governments and other organizations to manage the area, ultimately transferring ownership to the federal government in 1972 to create a protected area for waterfowl. The British Columbia Waterfowl Society has operated the sanctuary for nearly 60 years, making it one of Canada’s top bird-watching sites.

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How to Get to Reifel Bird Sanctuary

The Reifel Bird Sanctuary is located at 5191 Robertson Road in Delta, about a 40-minute drive from Vancouver. From the city, head toward BC-99 to River Road in Delta, then follow the signs to Westham Island and Robertson Road. Public transit is not available, so driving is recommended.

Things to Expect on Your Visit to Reifel Bird Sanctuary

With 298 bird types documented, visitors can expect an extensive variety of birds and well-kept trails. From October to early December, witness waterfowl migration, including the Fraser-Skagit flock of Lesser Snow Geese from Russia. During winter, spot Mallards, Sandhill Cranes, and Black-Capped Chickadees. In March and April, see the northward migration of ducks, Snow Geese, and shorebirds like Western Sandpipers. By April, nesting season begins for Mallards, Gadwall, Canada Geese, and Sandhill Cranes, with nest boxes attracting Black-Capped Chickadees, Tree Swallows, and Rufous Hummingbirds. Late summer and early fall present the southward migration of arctic-nesting shorebirds, offering opportunities to spot rare species.

Do’s and Don’ts when Visiting Reifel Bird Sanctuary

Do’s:

• Reserve your visit in advance.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Stick to designated trails.
• Visit between 9 AM and 4 PM (last entry at 3 PM).
• Be mindful of admission fees: $8 for Adults, $6 for Seniors (65+), and $6 for Children (2-14).

Don’ts:

• Stay on marked trails and avoid disturbing vegetation.
• Leave pets at home (except wheelchairs and strollers).
• Avoid using bicycles, skateboards, or drones.
• Don’t chase or handle birds, and keep a 2-meter distance from nests.
• Follow posted signs and staff instructions.

Birdwatching Spots in and around Vancouver

1. Stanley Park

• Address: Vancouver, BC V6G 1Z4, Canada
• Phone: +1 604-681-6728
• Operating Hours: Daily 9 AM – 5 PM
• Website: https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/stanley-park.aspx

Stanley Park is renowned for its bird population, including nesting bald eagles and abundant waterfowl. The Pacific Great Blue Heron colony is one of North America’s largest. Head to the English Bay entrance to witness their nesting cycle. The Vancouver Park Board’s “Heron Cam” offers an intimate view during breeding season.

Pro tip: The Stanley Park Seawall is a top trail for birdwatching and offers scenic views.

2. Pacific Spirit Regional Park

• Address: 5495 Chancellor Blvd, Vancouver, BC V6T 1E4, Canada
• Phone: +1 604-224-5739
• Operating Hours: Daily 7 AM – 10 PM
• Website: https://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/

Pacific Spirit Regional Park covers 763 hectares, featuring a foreshore along the Point Grey Peninsula and a forest separating UBC from Vancouver. The trail offers views of woodpeckers, barred owls, sea birds, bald eagles, warblers, wrens, and chickadees. The park is accessible by car or public transit.

Pro tip: Street parking is available along W 16th Ave and Southwest Marine Drive. There are multiple entrances to the park.

3. Queen Elizabeth Park

• Address: 4600 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V5Z 2Z1, Canada
• Phone: +1 604-873-7000
• Operating Hours: Daily 6 AM – 10 PM
• Website: https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/queen-elizabeth-park.aspx

Queen Elizabeth Park is the highest point in Vancouver, offering stunning views and housing the Bloedel Conservatory. The park hosts 177 bird species, including warblers, vireos, and thrushes. Spring is the best time for birdwatching. The Bloedel Conservatory features over 100 exotic birds.

Pro tip: Admission tickets are required for the Bloedel Conservatory.

4. Fraser River Park

• Address: 4000 SW Marine Dr, Vancouver, BC V6N 2B8, Canada
• Phone: +1 604-873-7000
• Operating Hours: Daily 5 AM – 7 PM
• Website: https://bcparks.ca/fraser-river-park/#park-about-container

Fraser River Park covers 4,899 hectares and offers easy trails for observing over 130 bird species. The park is also a popular dog park, so pets must be kept on a leash. The park’s location keeps it less crowded, providing a tranquil birdwatching experience.

Pro tip: The park’s secluded setting offers ample room for birdwatching and tranquility.

5. Musqueam Park

• Address: 8705 Angus Dr, Vancouver, BC V6P 6G2, Canada
• Phone: +1 604-873-7000
• Operating Hours: Daily 24 hours
• Website: https://covapp.vancouver.ca/parkfinder/parkdetail.aspx?inparkid=40

Musqueam Park features a 5-kilometer walk with an elevation gain of 20 meters. The park provides a wildlife corridor for animals moving between Pacific Spirit Regional Park and the Fraser River dyke trail. Visitors can spot a mix of large and small birds, as well as water birds.

Pro tip: A trail links Musqueam Park and Fraser River Park, allowing you to visit both in one trip.

6. Maplewood Flats Conservation Area

• Address: 2649 Dollarton Hwy, North Vancouver, BC V7H 1B1, Canada
• Phone: +1 604-929-2379
• Operating Hours: Daily 24 hours
• Website: https://wildbirdtrust.org/

Maplewood Flats spans 300 acres on Vancouver’s North Shore and is home to over 230 bird species. The area is ideal for hawks, owls, songbirds, and woodpeckers. The Wild Bird Trust of BC provides a bird checklist for visitors.

Pro tip: Located about 2 kilometers east of the Second Narrows Bridge, accessible by car or public transit.

7. Lighthouse Park

• Address: 4902 Beacon Ln, West Vancouver, BC V7W 1K5, Canada
• Phone: +1 604-925-7275
• Operating Hours: Daily 7 AM – 10 PM
• Website: https://westvancouver.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails/lighthouse-park

Lighthouse Park offers birdwatching opportunities within its old growth coastal forest. Visitors can spot eagles, woodpeckers, cormorants, surf scoters, grebes, and oystercatchers. The park is accessible by bus or car.

Pro tip: Visit East Beach, Arbutus Knoll, or Eagle Point for stunning views.

8. Brackendale Eagles Provincial Park

• Address: Brackendale, BC V0N 1H0, Canada
• Phone: +1 519-826-6850
• Operating Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
• Website: https://bcparks.ca/brackendale-eagles-park/

Brackendale Eagles Provincial Park spans 550 hectares and serves as a sanctuary for wintering bald eagles. Located 70 kilometers north of Vancouver, the park is closed from October to March to avoid disturbing the eagles. The Eagle Run viewing shelter is open year-round, with peak eagle sightings from November to December.

Pro tip: Volunteers are available with spotting scopes for eagle watching from mid-November to mid-January.

Enjoy your birdwatching adventures in Vancouver!