Tentative Schedule of Events for 2026

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Thursday, May 7

7:00 pm - 8:30 pm    Movie Night at the Creston Library

Friday, May 8

12:00 pm - 4:00 pm    Final Festival Registration
    Kayak the West Creston Channels
12:00 pm - 2:00 pm    Birds and History along the Erickson Train Tracks
1:00 pm - 4:00 pm    "Wander in the Woods" to the Ka Papa Cedars *NEW*
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm    Bear Safety Demonstration *NEW*
5:00 pm - 9:00 pm    "Birds are Back!" Evening Dinner and Presentation
    Banquet Presentation by Dr. Julia Zarankin

Saturday, May 9

6:00 am - 6:30 am    Tours Meet: Free Continental Breakfast
Bird Tours
6:30 am - 10:30 am    Birding by Car to Duck Lake
    Birding at Duck Lake
    Williams Creek Falls
    Birding the Farmlands West of the Kootenay River
    Birding the Farmlands East of the Kootenay River
    "Songster Challenge" at Dodge Creek Forest Road *NEW*
    Fox Tree, Mawson Lake, and Lister
    Corn Creek Cottonwoods and Balancing Rock *NEW*
    Birding the Wildlife Area Trails
8:30 am - 12:30 pm    Kayak Kootenay River to Cormorant Colony *NEW*
10:00 am - 2:00 pm    Birding the Wildlife Area Trails - Novice
    Birding at Duck Lake
Other Festival Events!!
9:30 am - 11:30 pm    Wildflower Wander up to Balancing Rock
10:00 am - 3:00 pm    Spread Your Wings! Drop-in activities and crafts for families!
10:30 am - 4:30 pm    Guided Canoe Trips
10:30 am - 4:00 pm    World Migratory Day Luncheon
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm    "Galapagos Islands" *NEW*
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm    "Gardening for Birds" *NEW*
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm    Brewery Tour *NEW*
12:30 pm - 2:30 pm    Kootenay Meadows Organic Dairy Farm Tour
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm    "Wander in the Woods" to Cottonwood Island *NEW*
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm    Photography Workshop with Lindsay Donald
2:30 pm - 4:30 pm    Tour of Swan Valley Honey
3:30 pm - 5:30 pm    Weeds to the Rescue - Medicine from your backyard
Evening Events
4:00 pm - 6:00 pm    Bird Brain Trivia at Wild North Brewing
7:00 pm - 10:00 pm    Go Batty! Presentation and Emergence with Capture! *NEW*
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm    Evening Sounds at Duck Lake

Sunday, May 10

6:00 am - 6:30 am    Tours Meet: Free Continental Breakfast
Bird Tours
8:30 am - 12:30 am    Kayak the West Creston Channels
6:30 am - 10:30 am    Birding by Car to Duck Lake
    Birding at Duck Lake
    Birding the Wildlife Area Trails
    Birding the Wildlife Area Trails - Novice
    Birding the Farmlands West of the Kootenay River
    Birding the Farmlands East of the Kootenay River
    "Mystery Morning" Tour: Where the Birds Are! *NEW!*
    Fox Tree Hill, Mawson Lake and Lister
    Corn Creek Cottonwoods and Balancing Rock *NEW*
10:00 am - 2:00 pm    Birding at Duck Lake
2:00 pm - 3:30 pm    Mother's Day Art Workshop *NEW*
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm    Slurp and Chirp at Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery

Monday, May 12

9:00 am - 12:00 pm    Birding in Crawford Bay




Thursday, May 7


Movie Night at the Creston Library

Come watch a documentary film at the Creston Valley Public Library!

 

Time   7:00 pm - 8:30 pm, Thursday
Meet   Creston Valley Public Library, 531 16th Ave S  (Map)



Friday, May 8


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 Valley View with a 10% discount and free delivery!!  250-428-2336 

https://www.thevalleyview.ca/explore-creston

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

Photo credit: Joelle Burnie

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


"Wander in the Woods" to the Ka Papa Cedars

Trails for Creston Valley Society (TCVS) is proud to share the story of the Ka Papa Cedars Trail, a 1.7 km loop traversing ancient cedar giants about 35 km west of Creston, toward Kootenay Pass. The trail’s name—Ka Papa—means “grandfather” in the Ktunaxa language, a fitting tribute to the majestic old-growth cedars that inspire awe in every hiker.

This is a magnificent walk amongst the giant trees undulates gently around a creek and through the forest. It crosses many small watercourses with covered walkways. We will see where old cutting cedar shingles have damaged some trees as well as new nurse trees where the next generation of trees are growing. We will stop and rest at the picnic table where you can read all about our local  environmentalist, Ralph Moore, who was instrumental in saving these trees for future generations.

https://www.crestonvalleytrails.ca/kapapa-trail

Tour leader   Doris Corbeil
Time   1:00 pm - 4:00 pm, Friday
Cost   $10
Limit   10
Where   Ka Papa Cedar Trail  (Map)
Meet   Rotacrest Hall, 230B-19th Ave N
Note   Please bring bear spray, a snack, binoculars, and hiking boots.


Bear Safety Demonstration

Join the Wildlife Coexistence Coordinator, Dee Howard, for a short and engaging Bear Safety Demonstration before heading out on your Creston Valley Bird Fest tours. Learn how to safely birdwatch in bear country, understand bear behavior, and pick up practical tips for avoiding conflicts in the field. The demonstration will include information on bear spray, along with an opportunity for participants to practice carrying and deploying it. This interactive session is suitable for all ages and experience levels – a great way to start the weekend feeling confident and prepared while enjoying Creston Valley’s incredible wildlife.

Tour leader   Dee Howard
Time   4:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Friday
Cost   FREE
Where   Rotacrest Hall, 230B-19th Ave N  (Map)


"Birds are Back!" Evening Dinner and Presentation

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.

There will be a raffle table and “Loonie Tree”!!  

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


Banquet Presentation by Dr. Julia Zarankin

Presentation to follow dinner by Dr. Julia Zarankin from Toronto!

“Seeing the World with Wonder: How Birding Makes us Better People””

The practice of birding isn’t just about seeing as many birds as possible. In fact, birding has a great deal to teach us about how to live a good life and how to be a better human being. Not only does birding help us feel more present, but it also encourages us to see the world with more nuance, wonder and empathy.




Saturday, May 9


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)


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   Sachi Snively
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.

Photo credit: Dale Floer (Sandhill Crane with colt)

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.

Photo credit: Seth Benoit: Forster's Terns

Williams Creek Falls

The Williams Creek Falls trail is a very diverse and scenic trail that follows the historic Dewdney pack trail along the western edge of the Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area. The trail meanders briefly through a cedar canopy along Summit Creek before gently climbing up onto rocky arid bluffs.

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.

https://www.crestonvalleytrails.ca/williams-creek-falls-trail

 

Tour leader   Marc-Andre Beaucher
Time   6:30 am - 10:30 am, Saturday
Difficulty   Difficult - approximately 5km walk
Cost   $25
Limit   10
Where   Williams Creek Fall Trail  (Map)
Meet   Rotacrest Hall 230B-19th Ave N
Note   This hike is not recommended if you have bad knees or hips. Bring bear spray, a snack, binoculars, and hiking boots. Please meet your bird guide at the Rotacrest at 6am for a 6:30am departure.

Photo credit: Remi Torrenta

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   Gaelen Schnare
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.

Photo credit: Betty Martin (Bobolink)

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   Gary Davidson
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.

Photo credit: Tammy Bradford (American Kestrel)

"Songster Challenge" at Dodge Creek Forest Road

In the springtime, mornings can be overflowing with bird songs – sometimes with more than one species calling all at once.  It can be very overwhelming to start picking apart the chirps, whistles, and thrills that are echoing out of the woods!!  Learning the songs is a great way to identify birds that are hidden in the dense foliage, far away, at night, or birds that look identical to each other.

When a bird sings, it is giving you hints of what it is and where it is.  Lyle will explain these mysterious bird songs and give you some tips on how to know what you are hearing.  It can open a new window on your birding skills!

Flycatchers in the Empidonax group can be very confusing as these birds look so similar.  But all that uncertainty vanishes as soon as the bird starts to sing.  Your guide will explain which flycatchers are expected to be singing in the forest.

Learn how to use the free Merlin Bird ID app that recognizes more than 1,300 species. 

Tour leader   Lyle Grisedale
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.

Photo credit: Jean Wallace (Yellow-rumped Warbler)

Fox Tree, Mawson Lake, and Lister

Fox Tree Hill, Mawson Lake, and Lister 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. 

Tour leader   Aiva Noringseth
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.

Photo credit: Jean Wallace

Corn Creek Cottonwoods and Balancing Rock

.Join Simone on an uphill trail towards the Balancing Rock to listen for song birds.  Then follow her along the Marsh Trail, under the highway bridge where the Cliff Swallows have their mud nest, and towards the look-out tower.  From there you can have a view of the marsh and species within such as Hooded Mergansers, Pied-billed Grebes, Ring-necked Ducks, Sandhill Cranes, and other waterfowl.  A stroll along the Cottonwoods could lead to seeing Bullock’s Orioles, flycatchers, vireos, and warblers.

Tour leader   Simone Littledale
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.

Photo credit: Tammy Bradford (Bullock's Oriole)

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   Dr. Julia Zarankin and Gretchen Whetham
Time   6:30 am - 10:30 am, Saturday
Difficulty   Moderate walking approximately 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.

Photo credit: Tammy Bradford (Ring-necked Duck)

Kayak Kootenay River to Cormorant Colony

Please bring your own kayak or canoe. Rentals are also available from the Valley View with a 10% discount and free delivery!!  250-428-2336 

https://www.thevalleyview.ca/explore-creston

Join Daryl on the Kootenay River for a paddle towards the Cormorant and Great-blue Heron Rookery.  Explore a channel to a Bald Eagle nest and along the way look for birds in the shrubs along the waterway.  A peek into Leach Lake could reward you with waterfowl sightings.

If the water is too challenging, the alternate tour will be driving/walking along Duck Lake Road and Channel Road.

Tour leader   Daryl Calder and Fred Gauthier
Time   8:30 am - 12:30 pm, Saturday
Difficulty   Possibly challenging waters
Cost   $25
Limit   10
Note   Suitable for experienced paddlers

Photo credit: Eloise Carr (Daryl Calder - Tour Guide)

Birding the Wildlife Area Trails - Beginner

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.

 

Tour leader   Carolee Colter and Sarah Fawcett
Time   10:00 am - 2:00 pm, Saturday
Difficulty   Moderate walking, approximately 4km
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.

Photo credit: Dale Floer (Tree Swallow)

Birding at Duck Lake

Not an early bird??  This tour leaves when the other tours return!

Join Seth 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 nowhere 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!

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   10:00 am - 2:00 pm, Saturday
Difficulty   Easy walking
Cost   $25
Limit   10
Meet   Rotacrest Hall, 230B-19th Ave N  (Map)
Note   Please meet your guide at the Rotacrest Hall for a 10am departure.

Photo credit: Seth Benoit (Short-billed Dowitcher)

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   Ed McMackin and Jesse Moreton
Time   9:30 am - 11:30 pm, Saturday
Difficulty   Difficult Uphill
Cost   $10
Limit   10
Meet   Rotacrest Hall 230B-19th Ave N  (Map)
Note   Please meet your tour guides at the Rotacrest Hall

Photo credit: Jesse Moreton (Indian Paintbrush))

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!  

Discovery Centre

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

Photo credit: Carla Ahern

World Migratory Day Luncheon

Raffle Table and “Loonie Tree”

Time   10:30 am - 4:00 pm, Saturday
Where   Rotacrest Hall 230B-19th Ave N  (Map)


"Galapagos Islands"

The Galapagos Islands
When Charles Darwin visited these enchanted islands in 1835 he was struck by the similarities, and yet the differences, between species in Chile and species on the various Galapagos Islands. This ultimately led to his groundbreaking publication, On The Origin of Species. In my presentation I will introduce you to the islands, their geography, and of course their wildlife. The so-called Darwin’s Finches are perhaps the best known of the avifauna. Darwin identified what he believed were 14 distinct species; today we recognise 17. But the uniqueness of Galapagos wildlife goes well beyond finches. This presentation will introduce you to some of the island’s other weird and wonderful inhabitants!

Tour leader   Gary Davidson
Time   12:00 pm - 1:00 pm, Saturday
Meet   Rotacrest Hall 230B-19th Ave N  (Map)

Photo credit: Gary Davidson (Waved Albatross)

"Gardening for Birds"

Habitat loss is one of the main threats facing birds in Canada today. In this talk, you’ll learn how to source plants, create habitat and transform your garden into a haven for wildlife! 

Tour leader   Simone Littledale
Time   1:00 pm - 2:00 pm, Saturday
Where   Rotacrest Hall, 230B-19th Ave N  (Map)


Brewery Tour

Take a break from birding and join us at Wild North Brewing for a complimentary one-hour brewery tour.  This guided experience offers a behind-the-scenes look at how our small-batch beers are brewed, along with the story of our brewery and our connection to the Creston Valley.

Guests will tour the brewhouse, learn about our brewing and packaging processes, and get a sense of what goes into each batch.  Following the tour, guests are welcome to stay and enjoy the taproom with fellow festival-goers, with pints and flights available for purchase.

A welcoming stop to slow down, gather, and enjoy a local taste of Creston.

Tour leader   Wild North Brewing
Time   12:00 pm - 1:00 pm, Saturday
Cost   FREE!
Meet   Wild North Brewing Company 125-16th Ave N  (Map)


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.

Kootenay Meadows

Time   12:30 pm - 2:30 pm, Saturday
Cost   $10
Limit   Unlimited
Where   Kootenay Meadows: 3071 - 16th Street  (Map)


"Wander in the Woods" to Cottonwood Island

This tour in Canyon takes us along a relatively steep trail system through an 115 year old conifer forest and then onto the Cottonwood Island on the south side of the Goat River. The island consists important of riparian habitat including an old cottonwood forest which grew up after the ancient cedars were logged in the late 1800’s (huge, old cedar stumps are of interest). The island is part of a series of Crown lands along the lower Goat River which Yaqan nuʔkiy and the RDCK are working to preserve.

Along the way we may encounter Pacific Wren, Chestnut-backed Chickadees, Western Fly-catcher, Western Wood-Pewee, Brown Creeper, Pileated Woodpecker, Warbling Vireo and other more common forest species.

Tour leader   Jim Smith
Time   1:00 pm - 3:00 pm, Saturday
Difficulty   Very difficult, steep trail
Cost   $10
Limit   10
Meet   4039 Zapp Road in Canyon  (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   2:00 pm - 4:00 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.

Honeybeezen.com

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.

Tilia Botanicals

Tour leader   Rachel Beck
Time   3:30 pm - 5:30 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
Difficulty   It could be challenging!!!
Cost   FREE
Where   Wild North Brewing Company, 125 - 16th Ave North  (Map)
Note   To sign up your team please contact info@crestonvalleybirds.ca

Photo credit: Ulrike Sliworsky

Go Batty!! Presentation and Emergence with Capture!

The Western Bat Program is dedicated to protecting bats and their habitats across Western Canada. This is achieved by conducting research to fill critical knowledge gaps, applying the best available science, monitoring bat populations, educating and training biologists, working with governments and partners to influence policy, and building strategic collaborations that engage the public and advance conservation.

Heather Gates will provide a Bats 101 overview, covering what bats are, their unique biological adaptations, their ecological and economic importance, and key aspects of their habitat and behavior, along with common conservation issues and misconceptions. The talk will be followed by a bat walk and emergence/capture event, offering a chance to get up close with some of the bat species found in the Creston area.

https://wcscanada.org/about/our-programs/western-bats/

Tour leader   Heather Gates
Time   7:00 pm - 10:00 pm, Saturday
Limit   25
Meet   Rotacrest Hall, 230B-19th Ave N  (Map)
Note   Bring a headlamp if you have one.


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.

Photo credit: Karen Whitford


Sunday, May 10


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 Valley View with a 10% discount and free delivery!!  250-428-2336

https://www.thevalleyview.ca/explore-creston

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   8:30 am - 12:30 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.

Photo credit: Tanna Patterson

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   Sachi Snively
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.

Photo credit: Karen Whitford (Lazuli Bunting)

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
Difficulty   Easy walking
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   Dr. Julia Zarankin
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.

Photo credit: Claude Rioux

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   Carolee Colter/Sarah Fawcett
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 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   Gaelen Schnare
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.

Photo credit: Tammy Bradford (Mountain Bluebird)

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   Gary Davidson
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.

Photo credit: Tammy Bradford (Lewis Woodpecker)

"Mystery Morning" Tour: Where the Birds Are!

With 12 festival tours and many eagle eyes watching through binoculars on Saturday, some great species will be spotted that day – some birds maybe rare, some are exciting finds, or there could be ones to add to your life list!  Lyle will take you to “where the birds are”!  Where you end up going will be a mystery until you head out for the day.

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.

Photo credit: Alyssa Hollyoake (Long-billed Curlew)

Fox Tree Hill, Mawson Lake and Lister

Fox Tree Hill, Mawson Lake, and Lister 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. 

Tour leader   Aiva Noringseth
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.

Photo credit: Jean Wallace (Spotted Towhee)

Corn Creek Cottonwoods and Balancing Rock

Join Simone on an uphill trail towards the Balancing Rock to listen for song birds.  Then follow her along the Marsh Trail, under the highway bridge where the Cliff Swallows have their mud nest, and towards the look-out tower.  From there you can have a view of the marsh and species within such as Hooded Mergansers, Pied-billed Grebes, Ring-necked Ducks, Sandhill Cranes, and other waterfowl.  A stroll along the Cottonwoods could lead to seeing Bullock’s Orioles, flycatchers, vireos, and warblers.

Tour leader   Simone Littledale
Time   6:30 am - 10:30 am, Sunday
Difficulty   Uphill with 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.

Photo credit: Dale Floer (Cliff Swallows)

Birding at Duck lake

Not an early bird??  This tour leaves when the other tours return!

Join Seth 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 nowhere 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   Seth Benoit
Time   10:00 am - 2:00 pm, Sunday
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 9:45am for a 10:00am departure.

Photo credit: Marc-Andre Beaucher (Northern Pintails)

Mother's Day Art Workshop

Yellowbird Linocut Stamp Making for Moms and Kids (Ages 8+)

Create Your Own Bird Tea Towel for Mother’s Day!
Experience the magic of printmaking together in this fun workshop. Design your own bird stamp, carve it out, and print it in multiple colors and patterns to create your own unique keepsake tea towel. Keep the stamps you create and print them again and again!

Cost includes supplies!

https://www.yellowbirdschool.ca/about

Tour leader   Yellowbird Art Studio
Time   2:00 pm - 3:30 pm, Sunday
Cost   $30 per mom/child
Limit   9 couples (mom/child)
Where   1229 Canyon Street  (Map)
Meet   Yellowbird School of Art
Note   Suggested age: 8+ 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   2:00 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.

Photo Credit: Ulrike Sliworsky

Branch Information

Contact

Box 1001
Creston, BC
V0B 1G0
crestonvalley@wildsight.ca