Birdwatching
in Greater Victoria
Nestled on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Greater Victoria is nothing short of a birdwatcher’s oasis. The region sits on a unique position in a migratory bird corridor, allowing over 400 recorded bird species to inhabit and pass through the region’s diverse environments.
March to June is the best time to visit for bird sightings; however, thrilling birding encounters can be made year-round. Pack your binoculars and get ready to cross a range of seabirds, shorebirds, songbirds and raptors off your birding bucketlist.
Where to See the Birds
From our ocean’s edge to the lush marshlands, beautiful experiences in conservation, wildlife, and exploration await. These are the best locations around Greater Victoria to see resident and migratory birdlife.
Birding In All Four Seasons
In the springtime, visit the coastline to hear a chorus of Brant geese celebrating their arrival. In autumn, the towering trees of Goldstream Provincial Park come alive with mergansers, gulls, and bald eagles, drawn towards a feast of chum salmon. The natural wonders of Greater Victoria never pause, meaning any season offers a chance to revel in the beauty of the west coast.
Of a Feather, Flock Together
Whether you are a seasoned birdwatcher or just taking off, Greater Victoria has passionate birding communities that welcome all ages and experience levels.
In fact, Victoria holds many records for the Christmas Bird Count – a tradition that is now celebrated in over 2,000 communities worldwide. Our region holds the highest number of species on a Christmas Bird Count – 154 – and the highest number of field participants in North America!
The Christmas Bird Count dates back to December 25th of the year 1900, when ornithologist Frank Chapman suggested that instead of hunting birds, enthusiasts would come together to count them. From first light to pre-dawn, experts are paired with novices to tally as many birds as possible in a 24-kilometre diameter. 2023 saw a tally of 85,000 birds of 143 species, as well as two species that had never been seen before in the region.
Not able to make it for the holidays? No problem. The BC Bird Trail also features several Outposts that are a hop-and-skip from Greater Victoria, with carefully crafted itineraries that have even the most discerning enthusiasts soaring.
Langford is easily accessible from Victoria through a quick drive or by transit, and is a haven for migrating waterfowl and majestic raptors. Just past it sits Sooke, a rejuvenating community that packs a plethora of outdoor experiences. North of Victoria, take a quick ferry ride towards the birding opportunities of the Southern Gulf Islands – an island that packs its own artistic charm.
Below is a list of key organizations associated with birding in Greater Victoria:
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