2025 Printable Schedule of Events
Thursday, May 8
Movie Night at the Creston Library
Come watch a documentary film at the Creston Valley Public Library!
Birders: The Central Park Effect (2012) – IMDb
A diverse group of full-of-attitude New Yorkers reveals how a hidden world of beautiful wild birds in the middle of Manhattan has upended and magically transformed their lives.
| Time | 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm, Thursday |
| Meet | Creston Valley Public Library, 531 16th Ave S (Map) |
Friday, May 9
Final Festival Registration
| Time | 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm, Friday |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall, 230B-19th Ave N (Map) |
Kayak the West Creston Channels
Please bring your own kayak or canoe. Rentals are also available from the Creston Valley Tour Co. with a 10% discount and free delivery!! 250-428-2336
Join Daryl on Frenchman’s Slough for a peaceful paddle on quiet waters lined with tall cottonwoods and thick shrubbery. Ideal habitat for a variety of water and land birds including orioles, kingbirds, kingfishers, raptors, and ducks. If the water level in the channel is too low, the alternate tour will be driving Reclamation Road and walking up Dodge Creek Road.
| Tour leader | Daryl Calder and Fred Gauthier |
| Time | 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm, Friday |
| Difficulty | Easy kayaking in calm waters |
| Cost | $25 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Where | Frenchman's Slough in West Creston (Map) |
| Meet | West Creston Channels (Peterman Road and W. Creston Road intersection) |
| Note | Please meet Daryl at launch site on Peterman Road |
Birds and History along the Erickson Train Tracks
Interested in listening to some of Creston’s history while viewing the birdlife within our town?
Join Tammy on an easy walk along the Erickson Train Tracks! Hear about the “Railway Wars in the Kootenays” and other interesting train stories.
Our feathery friends have a habit of showing up everywhere along the way including in local stories of our past.
Note: With permission from CPR, we are able to walk the trail which is more than 15 ft past the tracks.
| Tour leader | Tammy Bradford, Creston Museum Manager |
| Time | 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm, Friday |
| Difficulty | 3 km walk with 1 difficult hill |
| Cost | $10 |
| Limit | 12 |
| Meet | Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery (Map) |
| Note | Please meet Tammy at Baillie-Grohman Winery |
"Birds are Back!" Evening Dinner
A chance to meet new and old birding friends to discuss rare bird findings while enjoying locally produced beverages from Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery, Red Bird Winery, and Wild North Brewery.
The buffet dinner is served by Eleni Pantelaiou and her team from Gefsis Catering who aspire to use locally-sourced products and produce grown in our valley.
Presentation to follow dinner by Adrian Leslie with the Nature Conservancy of Canada.
There will be some great door prizes!!
Please note: dinner will include some gluten-free and dairy-free options but if you have any further dietary concerns, please email us (info@crestonvalleybirds.ca)
| Time | 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm, Friday |
| Cost | $45 / Youth 17 & under $22.50 |
| Limit | 65 |
| Where | Rotacrest Hall, 230B-19th Ave N (Map) |
| Note | Cash bar only |
"Birds in the Darkwoods"!
Presentation by Adrian Leslie, Nature Conservancy of Canada
Join us for an exploration of the birds that call Darkwoods home, a 63,000-hectare landscape next to Creston rich in bird diversity. Darkwoods is a haven for wildlife, with habitats ranging from low elevation old growth forests to open subalpine meadows, alpine ridges, and wetlands. This diverse ecosystem supports a wide range of species, from raptors to songbirds and everything in between, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.
One of the most fascinating birds of Darkwoods is the Clark’s Nutcracker, a remarkable species known for its crucial role in the survival of whitebark pine trees. These birds are not only exceptional in their adaptability but also integral to the forest’s regeneration. They cache whitebark pine seeds, some of which grow into new trees, thus ensuring the future of this important forest species. The Nature Conservancy of Canada has been working to restore this ecosystem in Darkwoods, by learning from the Nutcracker and planting over 100,000 seedlings in the last few years. The relationship between the Clark’s Nutcracker and whitebark pine exemplifies the interconnectedness of nature, highlighting how one species’ behavior can impact an entire ecosystem.
This talk will delve into the lives of these birds and the broader biodiversity of Darkwoods, exploring the many ways these habitats sustain life. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast or simply curious about the wonders of nature, this talk will offer a deeper understanding of the crucial role birds play in maintaining ecological balance.
| Tour leader | Adrian Leslie |
| Time | 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Friday |
| Cost | Included in banquet cost |
| Where | Rotacrest Hall, 230B-19th Ave N (Map) |
Saturday, May 10
Tours Meet: Free Continental Breakfast
Meet your birding tour leader at the Rotacrest Hall
Donations and locally sourced items from:
Lark Coffee, Sasquatch Coffee, Tigz Teas, Kootenay Meadows, the Golden Flour Bakery, Pealow’s Independent Grocer, and Save-On Foods will be available.
Please bring your own cup.
Tours will leave exactly at 6:30 am so don’t be late!!
| Time | 6:00 am - 6:30 am, Saturday |
| Where | Rotacrest Hall, 230B-19th Ave N (Map) |
Kayak the West Creston Channels
Please bring your own kayak or canoe. Rentals are also available from the Creston Valley Tour Co. with a 10% discount and free delivery!! 250-428-2336
Join Daryl on Frenchman’s Slough for a peaceful paddle on quiet waters lined with tall cottonwoods and thick shrubbery. Ideal habitat for a variety of water and land birds including orioles, kingbirds, kingfishers, raptors, and ducks. If the water level in the channel is too low, the alternate tour will be driving Reclamation Road and walking up Dodge Creek Road.
| Tour leader | Daryl Calder and Fred Gauthier |
| Time | 6:30 am - 10:30 am, Saturday |
| Difficulty | Easy kayaking in calm waters |
| Cost | $25 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Where | Frenchman’s Slough in West Creston (Map) |
| Meet | West Creston Channels (Peterman Road and W. Creston Road intersection) |
| Note | Please meet Daryl at launch site on Peterman Road |
Birding by Car to Duck Lake
A variety of landscapes means a variety of birds. Take a driving tour looking for birds beside mountain shrubbery, open farmland, a slow-moving channel, marshland, to the wide-open Duck Lake. Possible sightings of Lazuli Buntings, Raptors, Wood Ducks, Say’s Phoebes, Bullock’s Orioles, and Sandhill Cranes.
| Tour leader | Joachim Bertrands |
| Time | 6:30 am - 10:30 am, Saturday |
| Difficulty | Easy – driving with numerous stops |
| Cost | $25 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall, 230B-19th Ave N (Map) |
| Note | Please meet your bird guide at the Rotacrest at 6am for a 6:30am departure. |
Birding at Duck Lake
In 2002, the Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area was designated as a nationally Important Bird Area (IBA) because it regularly supports over 100,000 water birds during migration periods. Join Julia to see how Duck Lake got its name!!
This 1,500 hectare lake is an important destination in the migration of Tundra Swans and Greater White-fronted Geese, and a vast array of waterfowl. Birdwatchers marvel at the 6 species of grebes, large numbers of Great-blue herons, the rare Forster’s Terns – which breed no where else in BC. During their spring migrations, thousands of waterfowl use the lake as a landing pad, stopping to rest and feed on their long journey. Walk the dyke along the south end to see what you can find! The festival weekend is always a great time of year for shorebirds!
| Tour leader | Julia Flesaker |
| Time | 6:30 am - 10:30 am, Saturday |
| Difficulty | Easy walking |
| Cost | $25 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall 230B-19th Ave N (Map) |
| Note | Please meet your bird guide at the Rotacrest at 6am for a 6:30am departure. |
Birding the Wildlife Area Trails
Exploring the dikes and trails through the expansive wetlands of Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area – Corn Creek Marsh. These trails are full of riparian-habitat songbirds, marsh birds and waterfowl. Your best chance at seeing a Sora!
| Tour leader | Mannfred Boehm |
| Time | 6:30 am - 10:30 am, Saturday |
| Difficulty | Moderate walking, approx. 4km |
| Cost | $25 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall 230B-19th Ave N (Map) |
| Note | Please meet your bird guide at the Rotacrest at 6am for a 6:30am departure. |
Birding the Wildlife Area Trails - Novice
Welcome to Birding! This trip is geared for anyone relatively new to birding. We’ll walk the paths around the Discovery Centre, with a focus on getting good looks at birds. We’ll answer your questions about binoculars, field guides, and good times and places to watch birds in the Kootenays. Families are welcome. We’ll bring a spotting scope that we’ll keep at a kid-friendly height.
Your tour leader, Seth Benoit, is the recipient of the Young Birders award in 2024 with the BC Field Ornithologists!
| Tour leader | Seth Benoit |
| Time | 6:30 am - 10:30 am, Saturday |
| Difficulty | Moderate walking, approx. 4km |
| Cost | $25 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall 230B-19th Ave N (Map) |
| Note | Please meet your bird guide at the Rotacrest at 6am for a 6:30am departure. |
Exploring Wynndel and Lakeview Arrow Creek Areas
With a mix of Forest, Open Fields, Farmland and Orchards, this area has potential to discover and observe a wide variety of birds from Song Birds, Woodpeckers, Jays, Owls and other Raptors, and Waterfowl. The trip will start in the Lakeview Arrow Creek area and then cross over Arrow Pass into the Creston Valley to explore the Wynndel area. We will travel by car but will walk rural areas as we search for and observe the birds of this lush mixed habitat.
| Tour leader | Lyle Grisedale |
| Time | 6:30 am - 10:30 am, Saturday |
| Difficulty | Easy walking/driving |
| Cost | $25 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall 230B-19th Ave N (Map) |
| Note | Please meet your bird guide at the Rotacrest at 6am for a 6:30am departure. |
Birding the Farmlands West of the Kootenay River
Take a drive to the benchlands of West Creston that will tour farmlands, meadows, timber, wet edges, and the beautiful Kootenay River with big vistas and great thermals.
Possible species include Lewis Woodpeckers, Sandhill Cranes, Long-billed Curlews, Bobolinks, Western and Eastern Kingbirds, Mountain Bluebirds, hawks, falcons, and some other interesting surprises! The Dodge Creek Forest Road should be good for viewing flycatchers, warblers, grosbeaks, vireos, and some interesting sparrows.
| Tour leader | Sachi Snively |
| Time | 6:30 am - 10:30 am, Saturday |
| Difficulty | Easy walking/driving |
| Cost | $25 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall 230B-19th Ave N (Map) |
| Note | Please meet your bird guide at the Rotacrest at 6am for a 6:30am departure. |
Adventure in the West!
Join Jo Ellen and her son, Dale, on an adventure out west! Explore some great birding areas on the west side of our valley – starting up at the Balancing Rock trail for some songsters, walking to the north look-out tower of Corn Creek, and ending at the Summit Creek campground.
| Tour leader | Jo Ellen and Dale Floer |
| Time | 6:30 am - 10:30 am, Saturday |
| Difficulty | Moderate climb and easy walking |
| Cost | $25 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall 230B-19th Ave N (Map) |
| Note | Please meet your bird guide at the Rotacrest at 6am for a 6:30am departure. |
Fox Tree Hill, Tanal Marsh, Mawson Lake
Fox Tree Hill, Tanal Marsh, and Mawson Lake visits both forest and marsh for possible sightings of Common loons, waterfowl, hummingbirds, and a wide variety of song birds. There will be some easy hiking as we wander through the open forest at Fox Tree Hill. For the photographers in the group there will be many great photo opportunities.
| Tour leader | Aiva Noringseth |
| Time | 6:30 am - 10:30 am, Saturday |
| Difficulty | Easy Walking |
| Cost | $25 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall 230B-19th Ave N (Map) |
| Note | Please meet your bird guide at the Rotacrest at 6am for a 6:30am departure. |
Williams Creek Falls
Williams Creek Falls is a very pleasant trail located at the west side of the valley north of Highway 3.
Some forested species that can be seen on this trail are Vaux Swift, Hammond’s Flycatcher, Cassin’s Vireo, Warbling Vireo, Chestnut-backed Chickadee, Brown Creeper, Western Tanager, and a variety of Warblers.
Trails for Creston Valley Society
| Tour leader | Adrian Leslie and Marc-Andre Beaucher |
| Time | 6:30 am - 10:30 am, Saturday |
| Difficulty | Difficult, Approx. 5 km |
| Cost | $25 |
| Limit | 12 |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall 230B-19th Ave N (Map) |
| Note | This hike is not recommended if you have bad knees or hips.Please meet your bird guide at the Rotacrest at 6am for a 6:30am departure. |
Afternoon Birding at Duck Lake
Not an early bird?? This tour leaves when the other tours return!
Join Tammy for a leisurely walk to see how Duck Lake got its name!! This 1,500-hectare lake is an important destination in the migration of a vast array of waterfowl. Birdwatchers marvel at the 6 species of grebes, large numbers of Great-blue Herons, the rare Forster’s Terns – which breed no where else in BC. During their spring migrations, thousands of waterfowl use the lake as a landing pad, stopping to rest and feed on their long journey. Walk the dyke along the south end to see what you can find! The festival weekend is always a great time of year for shorebirds!
| Tour leader | Tammy Bradford |
| Time | 10:30 am - 2:30 pm, Saturday |
| Difficulty | Easy walking |
| Cost | $25 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall 230B-19th Ave N (Map) |
| Note | Please meet your bird guide at the Rotacrest at 10:30am for departure. |
Wildflower Wander up to Balancing Rock
An uphill climb to a little wetland with fantastic views of our valley! Skunk cabbage, Ferns, and Devil’s Club galore. Late spring flowers should also be along the trail such as Larkspur, Paintbrush, Shooting Star, Wild Ginger, Trillium, Spring Beauty, and Ragged Robin. Some feathery friends might show up too!
| Tour leader | Kim Asquith and Ed McMackin |
| Time | 9:30 am - 11:30 pm, Saturday |
| Difficulty | Difficult Uphill |
| Cost | $15 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall 230B-19th Ave N (Map) |
| Note | Please meet your tour guides at the Rotacrest Hall |
Spread Your Wings! Drop-in activities and crafts for families!
Join us at the Discovery Centre to learn more about the wetlands and wildlife of the area. A variety of displays, taxidermy mounts, skeletons, tracks, insect specimens, hands-on activities, kids’ area and more will keep everyone busy and entertained!
| Time | 10:00 am - 3:00 pm, Saturday |
| Cost | Free |
| Meet | The Discovery Centre: 1760 West Creston Road (Map) |
| Note | Registration is not required for this event. |
Guided Canoe Trips
Join a Naturalist for a one-hour guided canoe tour to experience the sights and sounds of this internationally designated wetland. Paddle the ponds and channels in voyageur canoes in search of wildlife and adventure! From birds to turtles to bugs…you never know what you might encounter!
Tour #1 10:30 am to 12:00 am
Tour #2 12:00 am to 1:30 pm
Tour #3 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm
Tour #4 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm
| Time | 10:30 am - 4:30 pm, Saturday |
| Cost | Adults $10/Youth (3-17 years old) $5 |
| Limit | Up to 16 people per posted canoe time |
| Where | Corn Creek Marsh, CVWMA (Map) |
| Meet | The Discovery Centre: 1760 West Creston Road |
World Migratory Day Luncheon
The Sasquatch Grubshack Food Truck will be waiting at the Rotacrest parking lot for the return of all the bird tours. Grab some grub and then join us inside for a “Bird Cafe” with display tables, bird puzzles, coloring sheets, and a chance to challenge other birders with the “Wingspan” game!
GRUB SHACK MENU
Bald Eagle- 5 oz AAA Angus w/ Chili, Cheese, Bacon, Cheese $18
Raven- 5 oz AAA Angus w/ Cheese, Bacon $16
Crow – 5 oz AAA Angus w/Cheese $14
Whiskey Jack- 5 oz AAA Angus $12
White Swan 2 Beef Dawgs in a Bun w/ Bacon, Cheese $12
Canada Goose-Beef Dog with BBQ Smoked Pork Shoulder, Cheese $10
Steller Jay – Beef Dawg with Chili, Cheese $8
Hummingbird- Beef Dawg $6
Small Fries $6
Large Fries $10
Gravy $2
Small Poutine $10
Large Poutine $14
Chicken strips and Fries $15
Taco Chili Fries $15
Smoked Pork Fries $15
| Time | 10:30 am - 4:00 pm, Saturday |
| Where | Rotacrest Hall 230B-19th Ave N (Map) |
"Travelling to the Birds"
Joachim Bertrands – working for Ornis Birding Expeditions – will give a presentation on some of the amazing places he tours across the world. From the deserts of the Arabian peninsula, the rainforests of Borneo or the pine slopes of Mexico, Joachim likes to explore and take with him a bunch of enthusiasts in the process.
| Tour leader | Joachim Bertrands |
| Time | 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm, Saturday |
| Cost | FREE! |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall 230B-19th Ave N (Map) |
Winery Tour and Tastings at Baillie-Grohman Winery
Always wanted to see the inner workings of a winery from the perspective of a winemaker? Then this tour is for you! Enjoy a private tour and tasting of the Baillie-Grohman Estate wines hosted by winemaker, Wes Hagenfeldt. An experience for wine lovers to dive deeper into the art and science of winemaking, and to get an insight of all the hard work and dedication that goes into producing a bottle of wine.
| Tour leader | Wes Hagenfeldt, Winemaker |
| Time | 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm, Saturday |
| Cost | $30 |
| Limit | 15 |
| Where | Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery (Map) |
| Note | Must be 19+ years of age |
Kootenay Meadows Organic Dairy Farm Tour
A cheese tasting with an explanation of the cheese-making and bottling process will be followed by a guided tour of the barns and a pasture walk to view the farm’s duck ponds and riparian area.
| Time | 12:30 pm - 2:30 pm, Saturday |
| Cost | $10 |
| Limit | Unlimited |
| Where | Kootenay Meadows: 3071 - 16th Street (Map) |
Photography Workshop
Lindsay Donald is an international award-winning wildlife photographer. Originally from Scotland, he has a degree in zoology and animal behavior from the University of Hull in the United Kingdom. Lindsay started taking photographs to illustrate animal behavior for a research project in the late 1970’s. He has travelled the World in search of amazing wildlife images. In North America he travels from Florida to Alaska and makes frequent visits to Africa including Botswana, South Africa, Tanzania, Zimbabwe & Zambia. Lindsay has also taught wildlife photography techniques and led photographic workshops.
| Tour leader | Lindsay Donald |
| Time | 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm, Saturday |
| Cost | $20 |
| Limit | 40 |
| Where | Creston Valley Public Library, 531 - 16th Ave S (Map) |
Tour of Swan Valley Honey
Amanda Goodman Lee and Jeff Lee are pleased to give a tour of their honey farm. The tour includes an observation hive where you can get up close to the bees, honey tasting and education on the life of honey bees. For those who want an added adventure a visit to the bee yard for those not allergic or phobic. Bee suits are available on site.
What to wear if you want to visit the beehive:
- Closed toed shoes or boots – NO SANDALS
- Long pants – NO SHORTS
- Short-sleeved shirts optional but long-sleeved preferred
Honey can be purchased at their sales office on location.
| Tour leader | Amanda and Jeff |
| Time | 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm, Saturday |
| Cost | $10 |
| Limit | 20 (10 per group) |
| Where | Swan Valley Honey, 220 East Placsko Road (Map) |
Weeds to the Rescue - Medicine from your backyard
Do you curse the dandelions, chickweed and plantain that grow in your garden? Do you spend hours trying to rid yourself of burdock and thistles? If you do, then you are ridding yourself of valuable healing plants. Join medical herbalist Rachel Beck as she helps you to learn about the nutritional and medicinal value of the weeds and common plants that grow in most backyards and how you can use them to create your own natural medicine chest.
Rachel Beck has been a medical herbalist for over 30 years and has taught herbalism for over 20 years. She is also co-owner of Tilia’s Botanicals, an herbal apothecary and gift shop in Creston BC.
| Tour leader | Rachel Beck |
| Time | 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Saturday |
| Cost | $15 includes supplies to make a salve |
| Limit | 12 |
| Where | Tilia Botanicals: 115-20th Avenue S (Map) |
Bird Brain Trivia
Test your knowledge with bird trivia questions to find out if you’re a professional-level Ornithologist or if you have more bird watching to do to brush up on your feathered knowledge.
Compare your answers with your other bird-watching friends and find out who deserves the title of “THE ULTIMATE ORNITHOLOGISTS”!!
To claim this prestigious title and win a prize, submit your team name to:
Email: info@crestonvalleybirds.ca
| Time | 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm, Saturday |
| Cost | FREE |
| Where | Wild North Brewing Company, 125 - 16th Ave North (Map) |
| Note | To sign up your team please contact info@crestonvalleybirds.ca |
Sternwheeler Craft Distillery Tour
Join Pat Meerholz, Master Distiller, for a tour of Creston’s craft distillery newly located in our downtown area. Learn how he produces unique handcrafted batches of award-winning Spirits by using fresh fruit grown in our local orchards. No grains, artificial colors, or flavors are used.
| Tour leader | Pat Meerholz |
| Time | 6:15 pm - 7:15 pm, Saturday |
| Cost | $5.00 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Where | Sternwheeler Craft Distillery, 1628 Canyon Street (Map) |
| Note | Must be 19+ years of age |
Valleyview Motel Dinner and Live Music
Valleyview Motel staff is hosting a dinner with live entertainment on their new stage!
Included with the cost is a delicious Casey’s 10″ pizza (there is vegetarian and gluten free options and a to-go box for people to have breakfast the next day), salads, live entertainment, and an evening full of fun !!
Please call the Valleyview to get your ticket: 250-428-2336.
A 10% room discount is offered during the festival weekend.. To book a newly-renovated room, visit their website: https://www.thevalleyview.ca/
| Time | 5:30 pm until music ends!, Saturday |
| Cost | $45 |
| Limit | 75 |
| Where | 216 Valleyview Drive (Map) |
"Comedic Birds"
It’s blurry, playing peek-a-boo, and showing its under-fluffies!
“Hey, you take some wonderful photos of birds – would you be willing to share them as part of our Local Colours photography show this year?” That was a slightly panic-inducing request for Tammy Bradford, who does take a lot of photos but wouldn’t actually call most of them “wonderful”, especially when she’s part of a presentation that features genuine award-winning wildlife photographers.
Her presentation at that event produced a few laughs and deserves another audience! Join Tammy as she shares some of the best…and worst… of what happens when a non-photographer tries to be a photographer.
| Tour leader | Tammy Bradford |
| Time | 6:15 - 715 pm, Saturday |
| Cost | FREE |
| Where | Rotacrest Hall 230B-19th Ave N (Map) |
Evening Sounds at Duck Lake
Come along on a sonic adventure through the wetlands as we listen for the bird songs of the night. Thrushes, rails, snipe, owls – the night is alive with bird music.
The Duck Lake dyke separates marsh from deeper waters, resulting in a diversity of bird species. This is also where endangered Leopard Frogs have been released and thriving.
Bring your best listening ears, warm clothes, and a trusty flashlight.
| Tour leader | Julia Flesaker |
| Time | 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm, Saturday |
| Difficulty | Easy walking |
| Cost | $15 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall, 230B-19th Ave N (Map) |
| Note | Please meet your bird guide at the Rotacrest Hall. |
Star Gazing
Come see how a darker sky will help you see more spring constellations and deep space objects, such as the M13 globular cluster in Hercules and the Beehive cluster in Cancer. Learn how to use the Big Dipper’s handle in order to “arc to Arcturus and spiral on to Spica!” Note the eastern rise of the Summer Triangle, and the majesty of Leo. Mars and Jupiter will be visible overhead. All the other planets are morning risers before or close to the Sun. There will be an almost full moon rising in the east, which will dim all but the brightest stars. The advantage will be that the major constellations, such as Gemini and Leo, will be easier to recognize.
Note: Please wear layers and use red light (nightlight) on your cell phones. It takes our eye pupils 10 minutes to acclimatize to darkness! If you have an eye to squint and an arm to point you are good to go! We will work on our ability to use just our eyes. Binoculars are welcome but not required. Please leave pets at home!
This event will be cancelled with a full refund if the sky is not clear.
| Tour leader | Angela Prettie |
| Time | 8:45 pm - 10:15 pm, Saturday |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cost | $10 |
| Limit | 15 |
| Where | Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery, 1140 – 27th Ave S (Map) |
Sunday, May 11
Tours Meet: Free Continental Breakfast
6:00 am to 6:30 am
Meet your birding tour leader at Rotacrest Hall, 230B-19 Ave N
Donations and locally sourced items from:
Lark Coffee, Sasquatch Coffee, Tigz Teas, Kootenay Meadows, the Golden Flour Bakery, Pealow’s Independent Grocer, and Save-On Foods will be available.
Tours will leave exactly at 6:30 am so don’t be late!!
| Time | 6:00 am - 6:30 am, Sunday |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall, 230B-19 Ave N (Map) |
Kayak the West Creston Channels
Please bring your own kayak or canoe. Rentals are also available from the Creston Valley Tour Co. with a 10% discount and free delivery!! 250-428-2336
Join Daryl on Frenchman’s Slough for a peaceful paddle on quiet waters lined with tall cottonwoods and thick shrubbery. Ideal habitat for a variety of water and land birds including orioles, kingbirds, kingfishers, raptors, and ducks. If the water level in the channel is too low, the alternate tour will be driving Reclamation Road and walking up Dodge Creek Road.
| Tour leader | Daryl Calder and Eloise Carr |
| Time | 6:30 am - 10:30 am, Sunday |
| Difficulty | Easy kayaking in calm waters |
| Cost | $25 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Where | Frenchman's Slough in West Creston (Map) |
| Meet | West Creston Channels on Peterman Road and W Creston Road intersection |
| Note | Please meet Daryl at the launch site on Peterman Road. |
Birding by Car to Duck Lake
A variety of landscapes means a variety of birds. Take a driving tour looking for birds beside mountain shrubbery, open farmland, a slow-moving channel, marshland, to the wide-open Duck Lake. Possible sightings of Lazuli Buntings, Raptors, Wood Ducks, Say’s Phoebes, Bullock’s Orioles, and Sandhill Cranes.
| Tour leader | Joachim Bertrands |
| Time | 6:30 am - 10:30 am, Sunday |
| Difficulty | Easy - driving with numerous stops |
| Cost | $25 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall, 230B-19th Ave S (Map) |
| Note | Please meet your bird guide at the Rotacrest at 6am for a 6:30am departure. |
Birding at Duck Lake
In 2002, the Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area was designated as a nationally Important Bird Area (IBA) because it regularly supports over 100,000 water birds during migration periods. Join Aiva, with Nature BC’s Provincial IBA program, to see how Duck Lake got its name!!
This 1,500 hectare lake is an important destination in the migration of Tundra Swans and Greater White-fronted Geese, and a vast array of waterfowl. Birdwatchers marvel at the 6 species of grebes, large numbers of Great-blue herons, the rare Forster’s Terns – which breed no where else in BC. During their spring migrations, thousands of waterfowl use the lake as a landing pad, stopping to rest and feed on their long journey. Walk the dyke along the south end to see what you can find! The festival weekend is always a great time of year for shorebirds!
| Tour leader | Julia Flesaker |
| Time | 6:30 am - 10:30 am, Sunday |
| Cost | $25 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall, 230B-19th Ave S (Map) |
| Note | Please meet your bird guide at the Rotacrest at 6am for a 6:30am departure. |
Birding the Wildlife Area Trails Sunday Tour
Exploring the dikes and trails through the expansive wetlands of Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area. These trails are full of riparian-habitat songbirds, marsh birds and waterfowl. Your best chance at seeing a Sora!
| Tour leader | Mannfred Boehm |
| Time | 6:30 am - 10:30 am, Sunday |
| Difficulty | Moderate walking, approx. 4 km |
| Cost | $25 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall, 230B-19th Ave S (Map) |
| Note | Please meet your bird guide at the Rotacrest at 6am for a 6:30am departure. |
Birding the Wildlife Area Trails - Novice
Welcome to Birding! This trip is geared for anyone relatively new to birding. We’ll walk the paths around the Wildlife Interpretation Centre, with a focus on getting good looks at birds. We’ll answer your questions about binoculars, field guides, and good times and places to watch birds in the Kootenays. Families are welcome. We’ll bring a spotting scope that we’ll keep at a kid-friendly height.
| Tour leader | Seth Benoit |
| Time | 6:30 am - 10:30 am, Sunday |
| Difficulty | Moderate walking, approx. 4 km |
| Cost | $25 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall, 230B-19th Ave S (Map) |
| Note | Please meet your bird guide at the Rotacrest at 6am for a 6:30am departure. |
Exploring Wynndel and Lakeview Arrow Creek
With a mix of Forest, Open Fields, Farmland and Orchards, this area has potential to discover and observe a wide variety of birds from Song Birds, Woodpeckers, Jays, Owls and other Raptors, and Waterfowl. The trip will start in the Lakeview Arrow Creek area and then cross over Arrow Pass into the Creston Valley to explore the Wynndel area. We will travel by car but will walk rural areas as we search for and observe the birds of this lush mixed habitat.
| Tour leader | Lyle Grisedale |
| Time | 6:30 am - 10:30 am, Sunday |
| Difficulty | Easy walking/driving |
| Cost | $25 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall, 230B-19th Ave S (Map) |
| Note | Please meet your bird guide at the Rotacrest at 6am for a 6:30am departure. |
Birding the Farmlands West of the Kootenay River
Take a drive to the benchlands of West Creston that will tour farmlands, meadows, timber, wet edges, and the beautiful Kootenay River with big vistas and great thermals.
Possible species include Lewis Woodpeckers, Sandhill Cranes, Long-billed Curlews, Bobolinks, Western and Eastern Kingbirds, Mountain Bluebirds, hawks, falcons, and some other interesting surprises! The Dodge Creek Forest Road should be good for viewing Lazuli Buntings, flycatchers, warblers, grosbeaks, vireos, and some interesting sparrows.
| Tour leader | Jo Ellen and Dale Floer |
| Time | 6:30 am - 10:30 am, Sunday |
| Difficulty | Easy walking/driving |
| Cost | $25 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall 230B-19th Ave N (Map) |
| Note | Please meet your bird guide at the Rotacrest at 6am for a 6:30am departure. |
Birding the Farmlands East of the Kootenay River
Come along as we explore the flats, Creston’s wide open spaces. Keep an eye out for raptors, meadowlarks, songbirds, and maybe even a curlew as we meander through the expanses of farmland in the valley. This tour will include some short walks on flat terrain along with some car-birding. We will cover a variety of habitats with a focus on birds unique to the farmlands.
| Tour leader | Sachi Snively |
| Time | 6:30 am - 10:30 am, Sunday |
| Difficulty | Easy walking/driving |
| Cost | $25 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall, 230B-19th Ave S (Map) |
| Note | Please meet your bird guide at the Rotacrest at 6am for a 6:30am departure. |
Fox Tree Hill, Tanal Marsh, Mawson Lake
Fox Tree Hill, Tanal Marsh, and Mawson Lake visit both forest and marsh for possible sightings of Common loons, waterfowl, hummingbirds, and a wide variety of song birds. There will be some easy hiking as we wander through the open forest at Fox Tree Hill. For the photographers in the group there will be many great photo opportunities.
| Tour leader | Aiva Noringseth |
| Time | 6:30 am - 10:30 am, Sunday |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cost | $25 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall, 230B-19th Ave S (Map) |
| Note | Please meet your bird guide at the Rotacrest at 6am for a 6:30am departure. |
Mother's Day Walk
Join Julia on a leisurely walk around the Songbird Trail at Corn Creek Marsh. Discover some of Creston’s feathery friends with a kid’s game along the way.
A perfect way to spend Mother’s Day!
| Tour leader | Julia Shewan |
| Time | 8:00 am - 10:00 am, Sunday |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cost | $5 per child |
| Limit | 10 |
| Where | Songbird Loop at the Wildlife Centre (Map) |
| Meet | Discovery Centre |
| Note | Mom's are FREE if accompanied by a child! |
Birder's Brunch
Upon the return of all the bird tours, a Mother’s Day Birders Brunch will be served by the Sasquatch Grubshack!
Sasquatch Breakfast:
Scrambled Eggs, Sausage, Smoked Bacon, Cheese, Hash Brown- $12
Served on a Bun, Croissant or Wrap
French Toast served with Strawberry or Blueberry Compote, Whip Cream $10
Fresh Fruit Cup served with Whipped Cream $8
Yogurt Cups with fresh fruit and Granola $6
Choice of Homemade Muffins $4
Cinnamon Bun with cream cheese icing $4
Carrott Cake with cream cheese icing $4
Banana Bread with whipped butter $4
| Time | 9:00 am to noon, Sunday |
| Where | Rotacrest Hall 230B-19th Ave N (Map) |
Macrame Owl Workshop
Mother’s Day Workshop!
Cost includes supplies!
| Tour leader | Amy |
| Time | 10:30 pm - 12:30 am, Sunday |
| Difficulty | Somewhat challenging! |
| Cost | $20 |
| Limit | 10 |
| Where | Creston Valley Public Library, 531 16th Ave S (Map) |
| Note | Suggested age: 12+ years |
Slurp and Chirp at Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery
** No registration required **
Relax after a fantastic weekend of birding, enjoy a charcuterie board and a glass of award-winning wine at Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery. Possible bird sightings in the vineyard: Western Bluebirds, Lazuli Buntings, Western Meadowlarks, and Ring-necked Pheasants.
Menu: Baillie-Grohman Menu
| Time | 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Sunday |
| Cost | Food & Beverages at your expense |
| Where | Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery, 1140-27th Ave S, Creston (Map) |
| Note | Registration is not required for this event. |
Monday, May 12
Birding in Crawford Bay
At the north end of the largest bay on Kootenay Lake, near the small settlement of Crawford Bay, there is a little-known wetland area comprising 62 hectares, and a birder’s delight!
Two creeks flow into the shallow north end of the bay providing varied habitat for many species of birds. It is an important site along the springtime flyway to see migrating Sandhill Cranes or Tundra Swans.
| Tour leader | Sachi Snively and Lyle Grisedale |
| Time | 9:00 am - 12:00 pm, Monday |
| Cost | $25 |
| Limit | 20 (2 groups) |
| Meet | Rotacrest Hall, 230B-19th Ave N (Map) |
| Note | Meet at Rotacrest in Creston at 7:30 am. Tour starts in Crawford Bay at 9:00 am. |
