Winter is an awesome time for birds in Squamish. Being on the Pacific Flyway means that the migration seasons in May and October treat us to a plethora of species making their way north and south between their breeding grounds and overwintering areas.
A whole host of birds choose to overwinter here in Squamish. As well as the bald eagle, well-known to congregate in Brackendale and surrounding areas in the winter, we also have bufflehead, common and hooded merganser, and the odd trumpeter swan too!
In light of the delight that is winter birding in Squamish, we have curated some engaging events to get us all outside, observing birds and contributing to community science along the way! Here’s what’s coming up in December and January:
Monthly Bird Count:
Date: December 7, 2025
Time: 08:00 AM (the count usually lasts between 3-5 hours)
Meeting location: Howe Sound Brewing (37801 Cleveland Ave, Squamish, BC V8B 0A7)
What to bring: binoculars/spotting scope, warm clothes, rain gear (dress for the weather!)
Who to contact: Just show up! Any questions can be directed to Niall Bell
Other information: No need for registration! Just turn up at the right time and place and we’ll get you involved. The Monthly Bird Count takes place at multiple locations throughout the Squamish Estuary and Downtown area. It’s a brilliant morning connecting with others and learning about all the awesome birds that choose Squamish as their home! Perfect for any level of ID skills and interest.
Christmas Bird Count:
Date: December 14, 2025
Time: 08:00 AM
Meeting location: Howe Sound Brewing (37801 Cleveland Ave, Squamish, BC V8B 0A7)
What to bring: binoculars/spotting scope, warm clothes, rain gear (dress for the weather!)
Who to contact: Christopher Di Corrado
Other information: The count usually lasts between half a day to a full day. Plan to join us afterwards for a pot luck, to meet fellow birders and exchange stories from the day.
Brackendale Winter Eagle Count:
Date: January 4, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM
Meeting location: Brackendale Art Gallery
What to bring: Warm clothes, rain/snow gear, snow shoes or ice spikes (some locations are more remote than others), and binoculars/spotting scope!
Who to contact: Christopher Di Corrado
Other information: This count takes place over many locations throughout the area. The counts usually last up to half a day for the areas closer to town, or if you’re up for it, a full day at some of the locations further afield.
Bald eagles. Credit: Niall Bell
Varied thrush. Credit: Claudia Cridge
Steller’s jay. Credit: Claudia Cridge.