Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park contains some of the last remaining foothills fescue grassland as well as a scattered mosaic of wetlands and wooded areas. This diverse habitat provides home to a wide variety of bird species. Unfortunately, many of the best birding locations are far from the parking lot. Join GRPF Conservation Program Coordinator Blake Weis and Steward Annie Finch to visit the best locations on a golf cart tour of up to four hours where we’ll cover nearly 20 km of trail.
We are likely to see or hear around 30 to 50 bird species. During spring and fall migration we can expect to find a wide variety of migrating birds such as warblers, sparrows, and raptors. The breeding season offers grassland and foothills specialties like Vesper Sparrow, Mountain Bluebird, and Western Meadowlark as well as riparian species like Baltimore Oriole and many swallows, sparrows, and flycatchers. Some uncommon possibilities include Turkey Vulture, Prairie Falcon, Rock Wren, Sprague’s Pipit and Spotted Towhee. Late September also boasts stunning fall colors and possibly some early fall waterfowl migration.
There is no age restriction for this tour, but it is only recommended for children who are specifically interested in birds and bird watching. All children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult on every tour.
The program will run rain or shine! However, if inclement weather prevents GRPF from delivering the program safely, you will receive a full refund.
Start time is 8 AM for all birding tours this year
Meet at the parking lot
Dress for all weather as it can be cold in the morning but very hot by the middle of the day. Most of the park is open grassland and is very exposed to the elements. Recommended items to bring include a jacket, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, water, snacks, and of course binoculars or a camera.
