Get ready to spread your wings and celebrate the return of our feathered friends.
Victoria Bird Week is back, soaring into the region from May 10 to 17 with a week-long extravaganza dedicated to birds and birding.
Organized by Rocky Point Bird Observatory (RPBO), the event kicks off with World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) on Saturday, May 10, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the scenic Beacon Hill Park.
This year promises to be more exciting than ever, with RPBO hosting its inaugural "Scream-Like-a-Gull" contest, encouraging participants to don their best bird-inspired costumes and unleash their inner gull.
Fun for all ages, the event will also feature colouring activities, an exploration table and other engaging activities.
Adding to the excitement, RPBO will officially proclaim Greater Victoria as the "Birding Capital of Canada" on the same day.
According to the organization, a recent analysis revealed that the region boasts an impressive 423 confirmed bird species, surpassing all other areas in the country. This avian diversity, coupled with three historic migratory bird sanctuaries and a thriving natural environment within an urban setting, makes Greater Victoria a birdwatcher's paradise.
Throughout Victoria Bird Week, RPBO will offer a variety of free activities, including guided bird walks, a challenging bird trivia night, and a special birding tour in partnership with Eagle Wing Tours.
These accessible events aim to provide unique experiences, foster education and raise awareness about the beauty and fragility of our bird populations.
This year, Victoria Bird Week is proud to partner with organizations like the Capital Regional District, Cowichan Bring Back the Bluebirds, Nature Victoria, Friends of Bowker Creek, Wild Birds Unlimited and the Gorge Waterway Action Society.
A special appearance by the Vancouver Island Raptors will also allow visitors to get up close and personal with these majestic birds, learning about their biology, behaviour and conservation needs.
Aligned with the 2025 WMBD theme, "Creating Bird-Friendly Cities and Communities," this year's event underscores the critical need for urban environments that support birdlife.
To learn more and find a full schedule of events, visit rpbo.org/what-we-do/community-education/calendar/.
Share your Victoria Bird Week experiences online using the hashtags #VictoriaBirdWeek, #LikeABird, #WMBD24 and #yyj.
Let's celebrate the birds and ensure their song continues to fill our island home.
