Bird Watching
Birds of the Okanagan Valley
Peregrine Falcon
Falco peregrinus
The Peregrine Falcon is a striking bird of prey known for its exceptional speed, capable of reaching over 300 km/h during its hunting stoop, making it the fastest bird in the world. Adults are characterized by their blue-grey wings, barred underparts, and a distinctive black 'moustache' mark contrasting their white faces.
In Summerland, Peregrine Falcons are most likely to be spotted along the cliffs of the Okanagan Valley, particularly near the bluffs and rocky outcrops that provide excellent vantage points for hunting. You will most likely see them during the spring and fall migration seasons as they travel through the region.
Northern Goshawk
Accipiter gentilis
The Northern Goshawk is a powerful and agile bird of prey, easily recognizable by its robust build, broad wings, and long tail. Adults have a slate-grey back, white underparts finely barred with grey, and striking red eyes. These raptors are known for their stealth and speed when hunting, often gliding silently through dense forests to surprise their prey, which includes birds and small mammals.
In Summerland, Northern Goshawks are most commonly found in mature forests, particularly around coniferous trees where they nest and hunt. They are year-round residents in the region but are most likely to be seen during the late winter and early spring when they become more active as they prepare for the breeding season.
Golden Eagle
Aquila chrysaetos
The Golden Eagle is one of the largest birds of prey, known for its robust build, broad wings, and striking golden-brown plumage, with a golden sheen on the back of its head and neck. These eagles have a wingspan that can exceed two metres, and they are renowned for their impressive hunting skills, often soaring high above open areas in search of mammals like rabbits and ground squirrels.
In Summerland, Golden Eagles are typically found in open habitats such as grasslands and mountainous areas, particularly around the rugged terrain of the Okanagan Valley. They are year-round residents in the region but are most commonly observed during the winter months when they are more active in hunting and are easier to spot against the snowy landscape.
Canvasback
Aythya valisineria
The Canvasback is a large, elegant diving duck, easily recognized by its distinctive sloping profile, red eyes, and striking colouration. Males have a chestnut-red head, a black chest, and a white body, while females are more subdued with a brownish head and greyish body. Canvasbacks are known for their diving ability, often submerging themselves to feed on aquatic plants, seeds, and small invertebrates.
In Summerland, these birds are typically found on large, open bodies of water, such as Okanagan Lake, where they gather during migration. Canvasbacks are most likely to be seen in the area during the fall and winter months, especially from late October through early spring, as they migrate to and from their breeding grounds.
Blue-winged Teal
Spatula discors
The Blue-winged Teal is a small, dabbling duck known for its striking appearance and agile behaviour. Males are easily identifiable by their blue-grey heads, distinctive white crescent in front of the eyes, and body with brown and black patterns. Females are mottled brown, but both sexes display the characteristic blue wing patches visible in flight.
In Summerland, blue-winged teals are most commonly found in wetlands, marshes, and along the edges of ponds and lakes, particularly during their migration. They are typically seen in the area during the spring and fall migration periods, with the best chance of spotting them occurring from late April to early June and from late August to October.
Ruddy Duck
Oxyura jamaicensis
The Ruddy Duck is a small, energetic diving duck known for its compact body, stiff tail, and striking breeding plumage. Males are especially eye-catching in the breeding season, with bright chestnut bodies, a sky-blue bill, and a blackish head. Ruddy Ducks are known for their distinctive habit of keeping their tails cocked up, often seen bobbing on the water or diving for aquatic insects and plants.
In Summerland, these ducks are typically found on quiet ponds, small lakes, and marshes where they can feed and breed. They are most commonly observed during the spring and summer as they migrate to the region for breeding.
Pileated Woodpecker
Dryocopus pileatus
The Pileated Woodpecker is a large, striking bird, easily recognized by its bold black and white plumage and a red crest, making it one of North America's most iconic woodpeckers. These woodpeckers are known for their powerful drumming and large rectangular holes they excavate in dead or decaying trees while searching for insects, particularly carpenter ants, their favourite food.
In Summerland, Pileated Woodpeckers are most likely found in mature forests and wooded areas, especially where large, old trees are present. They are year-round residents, meaning they can be seen at any time of year, but they are most active and easier to spot during the spring and summer months when they are busy nesting and feeding young.
Northern Flicker
Colaptes auratus
The Northern Flicker is a medium-sized woodpecker, easily identifiable by its brownish body, barred back, and striking black crescent on its chest. What sets the Northern Flicker apart from other woodpeckers is its more terrestrial habits, often seen foraging on the ground for ants and beetles, which make up a large part of its diet. In flight, these birds reveal a bright flash of colour on their wings and tail.
Northern Flickers are commonly found in various habitats, including forests, woodlands, and even urban areas with abundant trees. They are year-round residents in Summerland, making them visible throughout all seasons, though they are most active during the spring and summer months.
Lewis's Woodpecker
Melanerpes lewis
The Lewis's Woodpecker is a distinctive and colourful woodpecker, easily recognized by its dark greenish-black back, pinkish belly, and striking red face bordered by a silver-grey collar. Unlike most woodpeckers, Lewis's Woodpeckers are less inclined to drill into trees; instead, they prefer to catch insects in mid-air, often flying out from a perch like flycatchers.
In Summerland, these woodpeckers are typically found in open woodlands, particularly areas with large, dead trees or snags that provide good perches and nesting sites. They are most likely to be seen during the spring and summer, especially in the Ponderosa pine forests and areas with scattered trees.
Great Horned Owl
Bubo virginianus
The Great Horned Owl is large and powerful, easily recognizable by its tufted "horns," which are feathered ear tufts and deep yellow eyes. These owls have a mottled brown and grey plumage, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. Known for their eerie, deep hooting calls, Great Horned Owls are formidable nocturnal hunters, preying on various animals, including rodents, birds, and even other raptors.
In Summerland, Great Horned Owls are typically found in forested areas, open woodlands, and even near agricultural fields where they can hunt. They are year-round residents, making them a familiar presence throughout all seasons.
Barred Owl
Strix varia
The Barred Owl is a medium to large owl known for its round head, dark eyes, and distinctive horizontal "bars" of brown and white across its chest, giving it its name. Unlike some owls, Barred Owls do not have ear tufts. These owls are skilled hunters, primarily feeding small mammals, birds, and amphibians.
In Summerland, Barred Owls are typically found in dense forests, particularly in areas with large, mature trees and nearby water sources like streams or wetlands. They are year-round residents so that you can spot them in any season, but they are most active at night.
Mourning Dove
Zenaida macroura
The Mourning Dove is a slender, graceful bird known for its soft, mournful cooing calls, which give it its name. These doves have a light grey-brown body with black spots on the wings, and a long, pointed tail edged with white. Their large, dark eyes and pinkish legs add to their delicate appearance. Mourning Doves are ground feeders, often seen foraging for seeds in open fields, along roadsides, or under bird feeders.
In Summerland, these birds are commonly found in open areas, including grasslands, agricultural fields, and suburban gardens. They are most frequently seen during the spring and summer, though some may remain in the area year-round if the conditions are mild.
American Coot
Fulica americana
The American Coot is a unique and somewhat peculiar waterbird, often mistaken for a duck but more closely related to cranes and rails. These birds have a dark, slate-grey body, a white, chicken-like bill, and distinctive lobed toes that are well adapted for swimming. American Coots are known for their awkward, bobbing gait on land and ability to dive and swim effortlessly in water. They primarily feed on aquatic vegetation, insects, and small fish.
In Summerland, American Coots are commonly found on freshwater lakes, ponds, and marshes, particularly those with ample vegetation. They are most likely seen during the fall and winter months as they migrate to the region in large flocks.
Sandhill Crane
Antigone canadensis
The Sandhill Crane is a tall, elegant bird known for its long legs, long neck, and distinctive red crown. These cranes have grey plumage that may be tinged with rust from preening with iron-rich mud, and they are renowned for their graceful flight and loud, rolling calls that can carry for miles. Sandhill Cranes are social birds, often seen in pairs or large flocks, especially during migration.
In Summerland, Sandhill Cranes are most likely to be spotted during their migration periods, particularly in the spring and fall. They can be found in open fields, wetlands, and along the shores of lakes, where they stop to rest and feed.
California Quail
Callipepla californica
The California Quail is a small, plump bird easily recognized by its distinctive forward-curving black plume on top of its head, known as a "topknot." These quails have grey and brown plumage with a scaled pattern on their undersides and white stripes on their faces. California Quails prefer to run rather than fly when startled, and they often take cover in dense shrubbery.
In Summerland, these birds are commonly found in open woodlands, brushy areas, and gardens, particularly those with plenty of ground cover. They are year-round residents, so you can spot them in any season.
Baird's Sandpiper
Calidris bairdii
The Baird's Sandpiper is a small, slender shorebird characterized by its long wings, short legs, and a delicate, slightly down-curved bill. Its plumage is a mix of brown and grey with a pale underside, providing excellent camouflage against the sandy or muddy shores where it forages.
In Summerland, Baird's Sandpipers are most likely to be found along the shores of lakes, mudflats, and marshes, particularly during their late summer and early fall migration periods. The best time to spot these birds is from August to September when they are passing through the region.
Sooty Grouse
Dendragapus fuliginosus
The Sooty Grouse is a large, stocky bird with a dark, dusky appearance, well adapted to the coniferous forests it inhabits. Both males and females have mottled grey-brown plumage that blends seamlessly with the forest floor, helping them stay hidden from predators. Sooty Grouse are ground-dwellers, often found foraging for seeds, berries, and insects among the underbrush, though they will also roost in trees.
In Summerland, these birds are typically found in higher-elevation forests, especially in areas with dense pine and fir trees. They are year-round residents but are most often seen during the late spring and early summer when males call to attract mates.
Killdeer
Charadrius vociferus
The Killdeer is a medium-sized plover with a brown back, white belly, and two black bands across their chest, with a bright red-orange rump visible in flight. Killdeers are ground-nesting birds often seen running along the ground in open areas, stopping abruptly to peck at insects and other invertebrates. They are famous for their "broken-wing" display, a behaviour used to distract predators away from their nests.
In Summerland, Killdeers are commonly found in open habitats such as fields, golf courses, shorelines, and gravel roads. They are most frequently seen when they breed and raise their young in the spring and summer.
Great Blue Heron
Ardea herodias
The Great Blue Heron is a large, majestic, wading bird, easily recognized by its tall stature, long legs, and striking blue-grey plumage. It has a long neck, often held in an S-shape and a sharp, yellowish bill used for spearing fish and other aquatic prey. Great Blue Herons are solitary hunters, typically seen standing still or slowly wading through shallow waters while searching for food.
In Summerland, Great Blue Herons are commonly found along the edges of lakes, rivers, and wetlands, particularly around Okanagan Lake and other bodies of water. They are year-round residents, although they are most easily spotted during the spring and summer when actively foraging and raising their young.
Common Nighthawk
Chordeiles minor
The Common Nighthawk is a medium-sized, nocturnal bird known for its cryptic plumage and unique aerial displays. It has a mottled brown and grey body with a distinctive white bar across each wing, visible in flight. Despite its name, the Common Nighthawk is not a hawk; it is a member of the nightjar family, and it feeds on flying insects, which it catches in flight with its wide, gaping mouth.
In Summerland, Common Nighthawks are typically found in open areas such as grasslands, fields, and near bodies of water, where they forage for insects at dusk. They are most commonly observed during the late spring and summer months, particularly from May to September, when they migrate to the area to breed.
Calliope Hummingbird
Selasphorus calliope
The Calliope Hummingbird is the smallest in North America and is known for its compact size and remarkable agility. Males are particularly striking with their iridescent magenta throat feathers, known as a gorget, which fan out like rays when displaying. Females and juveniles have a more subdued appearance, with greenish backs and white underparts. Calliope Hummingbirds are highly active and feed primarily on nectar from flowers, supplemented by small insects.
In Summerland, these hummingbirds are typically found in gardens, open woodlands, and along the edges of forests, mainly where flowering plants are abundant. They are most likely to be seen during the late spring and summer months, from May to August, when they migrate to the area for breeding.
Rufous Hummingbird
Selasphorus rufus
The Rufous Hummingbird is a feisty and energetic hummingbird known for its striking orange-red plumage. Males are incredibly colourful, with a brilliant orange throat (gorget) and rusty-red body, while females are greenish above with a slightly less vivid throat. Rufous Hummingbirds are highly territorial and are known for their aggressive behaviour, often chasing away other hummingbirds from their feeding areas.
In Summerland, Rufous Hummingbirds are commonly found in gardens, meadows, and forest edges, mainly where flowers are plentiful. They are most likely to be seen during the spring and early summer months, from April to July, when they migrate through the region and establish breeding territories.
White-throated Swift
Aeronautes saxatalis
The White-throated Swift is a sleek, fast-flying bird known for its streamlined body, long wings, and rapid, agile flight. Its striking black-and-white appearance has a white throat and belly contrasting sharply against its dark back and wings. These swifts are among the fastest fliers in the bird world, capable of making sharp turns and sudden dives as they catch insects in mid-air, their primary food source.
In Summerland, these birds are most commonly found around steep, rocky areas and canyons, particularly near the cliffs along the Okanagan Valley. Giant's Head Mountain is an ideal location to catch a quick glimpse of these fast flying birds of prey. They are most likely to be seen during the spring and summer months, from April to September, when they are breeding and feeding.
Cinnamon Teal
Spatula cyanoptera
The Cinnamon Teal is a small, colourful duck known for the rich, cinnamon-red plumage of the males, while females are more subtly patterned in brown with a slightly lighter face. They have bright red eyes and a distinctive blue patch on their wings, which is especially noticeable in flight. Cinnamon Teals are dabbling ducks, meaning they feed by tipping in shallow waters to forage for aquatic plants, seeds, and small invertebrates.
In Summerland, Cinnamon Teals are most commonly found in wetlands, marshes, and along the edges of ponds and lakes where the water is shallow and vegetation is abundant. They are most likely to be seen during the spring and summer months, particularly from April to August, when they migrate to the area for breeding.
Trumpeter Swan
Cygnus buccinator
The Trumpeter Swan is the largest native waterfowl in North America, known for its impressive size, all-white plumage, and long, graceful neck. Adult Trumpeter Swans have a black bill and legs, with a wingspan reaching 3 metres. Trumpeter Swans feed on aquatic plants, which they forage for in shallow waters, often tipping forward to reach vegetation beneath the surface.
In Summerland, Trumpeter Swans are most commonly seen during the winter months, from late November to early March, when they migrate to the region to escape colder climates further north. They are typically found in lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers, where the water remains unfrozen.
Canada Goose
Branta canadensis
The Canada Goose is a large, familiar waterfowl species easily recognized by its black head and neck, white chinstrap, and brownish-grey body. These birds are known for their loud, honking calls and V-shaped migratory flight formations. They are primarily herbivorous, feeding on grasses, grains, and aquatic plants, but will also graze on lawns and agricultural fields.
In Summerland, Canada, Geese are a common sight year-round, although their numbers increase significantly during the fall and spring migration. They are often found near Okanagan Lake, along shorelines, fields, and open parklands. These birds may look harmless and even a little silly while waddling around, but be aware to stay far away from them as they can be pretty vicious and territorial if approached.
Wood Duck
Aix sponsa
The Wood Duck is one of North America's most colourful and striking waterfowl, known for its iridescent plumage and ornate patterns. Males are eye-catching with glossy green and purple heads, red eyes, and intricate white markings, while females have a more subdued grey-brown colour with a distinctive white eye-ring.
In Summerland, Wood Ducks are typically found in wooded swamps, marshes, and along the edges of ponds and slow-moving rivers, where trees and vegetation provide the cover they prefer. They are most likely to be seen during the spring and summer months, from April to September, when they breed and raise their young.
Hooded Merganser
Lophodytes cucullatus
The Hooded Merganser is a small, striking duck known for its distinctive fan-shaped crest, which can be raised or lowered, creating a dramatic effect. Males are especially eye-catching with a black head, a large white crest, and striking black and white markings on their bodies. Females have a more subdued brownish-grey plumage with a smaller, reddish-brown crest.
In Summerland, Hooded Mergansers are typically found in wooded ponds, small lakes, and slow-moving rivers, especially in areas with abundant vegetation that provides cover and food. They are most likely to be seen during the fall and winter months, from October to March, when they migrate to the region. Located nearby in Penticton, a popular restaurant named after the striking bird is worth checking out for their gourmet food and stunning waterfront views.
Osprey
Pandion haliaetus
The Osprey is a large, powerful raptor known for its striking appearance and remarkable fishing skills. It has a white underside, dark brown back, and a distinctive dark eye stripe contrasting with its white head. Ospreys have long, narrow wings with a noticeable kink, giving them a unique M-shape. These birds are expert fish hunters, diving feet-first into the water to catch fish with their sharp talons.
Ospreys are often seen hovering above bodies of water before they dive to make their catch, particularly around Okanagan Lake, where fish are abundant. They are most likely to be seen during the spring and summer months, from April to September, when they migrate to the area to breed.
Bald Eagle
Haliaeetus leucocephalus
The Bald Eagle is a majestic bird of prey and a symbol of strength and freedom, easily recognized by its white head and tail contrasting with a dark brown body and wings. These large raptors have a massive wingspan of up to 2.4 metres and a sharp, hooked yellow beak ideal for tearing into their prey. Bald Eagles are primarily fish eaters, often seen soaring above lakes and rivers or perched in tall trees near water as they scan for fish, which they catch with their powerful talons.
In Summerland, Bald Eagles are commonly found around Okanagan Lake and other large bodies of water, where fish are plentiful. They are most frequently seen during the winter months, from November to March, when they migrate to the region, though some remain year-round.
Northern Shrike
Lanius borealis
The Northern Shrike is a medium-sized songbird with a predatory nature, earning it the nickname "butcher bird." It has a grey body, black wings, and a distinctive black mask that runs across its eyes. Despite its small size, the Northern Shrike is a formidable hunter, preying on insects, small birds, and mammals. Known for its unusual habit of impaling prey on thorns or barbed wire to store food for later, the shrike uses its strong, hooked beak to catch and kill its prey.
In Summerland, Northern Shrikes are typically found in open habitats such as fields, shrublands, and forest edges, especially during the winter when they migrate to the region from their northern breeding grounds. They are most likely seen from late fall through early spring, often perched conspicuously on a tree or fence post, scanning the area for prey.
Western Meadowlark
Sturnella neglecta
The Western Meadowlark is a medium-sized songbird known for its bright yellow belly, adorned with a distinctive black "V" shape on its chest, and its melodious, flute-like song often heard before the bird is seen. The upper parts are brown and heavily streaked, providing excellent camouflage in the grasslands.
In Summerland, these birds are typically found in open grasslands, meadows, and agricultural fields. They are most likely to be seen during the spring and summer months, from April to September, when they are breeding and raising their young.
Black-capped Chickadee
Poecile atricapillus
The Black-capped Chickadee is a small, energetic songbird recognized by its distinctive black cap and bib, contrasting with its white cheeks. Its body is soft grey with buffy sides, and it has a short, stout bill perfect for its diet of insects, seeds, and berries. Known for its curious and friendly nature, the Black-capped Chickadee is often seen flitting about in flocks, sometimes mixed with other small birds, as it searches for food. These birds are also known for their remarkable memory, enabling them to find hidden food stores even in winter.
In Summerland, Black-capped Chickadees are commonly found in various habitats, including forests, woodlands, parks, and backyards, making them frequent bird feeders visitors. They are year-round residents so that they can be seen at any time of the year. Their cheerful "chick-a-dee-dee-dee" call is a familiar sound in the area, especially during the winter, when they become more vocal as they forage in groups.
Canyon Wren
Catherpes mexicanus
The Canyon Wren is a small, elusive songbird known for its rich, cascading song that echoes through the rocky landscapes it inhabits. It has a rusty-brown body, a white throat and chest, and a long, slender bill that is ideally suited for probing into crevices in search of insects and spiders. The Canyon Wren's short tail and slightly curved wings give it a compact appearance, and its specialized feet allow it to cling to vertical surfaces with ease.
In Summerland, Canyon Wrens are typically found in steep, rocky canyons, cliffs, and rugged terrain, where they can be seen hopping among rocks and ledges. These birds are year-round residents in the area but are most likely to be seen during the warmer months when they are more active and vocal.
American Robin
Turdus migratorius
The American Robin is a familiar and widely recognized songbird, known for its bright orange-red breast, greyish-brown back, and melodious song. This medium-sized thrush is often one of the first birds to appear in spring, symbolizing the season's arrival. They are also known for their distinctive "tut-tut" calls and cheerful, whistling songs that fill the air during the breeding season.
In Summerland, American Robins are commonly found in various habitats, including gardens, parks, forests, and open fields. They are most active during the spring and summer months, from March to September, when they breed and raise their young. Robins are a sign of good luck, so keep a lookout for these songbirds on your next birding expedition.
Hermit Thrush
Catharus guttatus
The Hermit Thrush is a small, slender songbird known for its rich, ethereal song, often considered one of the most beautiful in North America. This bird has a warm brown back, a reddish tail, and a spotted white breast, giving it a somewhat understated but elegant appearance. They are also known for flicking their wings and raising their tail, which helps to identify them in the field.
In Summerland, Hermit Thrushes are typically found in forests and wooded areas, especially in dense undergrowth or near the edges of clearings. They are most likely to be seen during the spring and fall migration periods, from April to May and September to October.
Western Wood-Pewee
Contopus sordidulus
The Western Wood-Pewee is a small, inconspicuous flycatcher known for its dusky grey-brown plumage and faintly streaked breast. It has a slight crest on its head, and its long wings and tail give it a slender appearance. These birds are skilled aerial insect hunters, often seen perched on a branch or treetop from which they dart out to catch flying insects.
In Summerland, these birds are commonly found in open woodlands, forest edges, and riparian areas, particularly in regions with scattered trees and open spaces for hunting. They are most likely to be seen during the spring and summer months, from May to August, when they migrate to the area to breed.
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Corthylio calendula
The Ruby-crowned Kinglet is a tiny, energetic songbird known for its remarkable vocal abilities and distinctive crown. While generally olive-green with a pale eye ring and wing bars, the male Ruby-crowned Kinglet has a hidden, bright red crown patch that is only occasionally visible, typically when the bird is excited or displaying. Despite their small size, Ruby-crowned Kinglets are known for their loud and complex song, which can be heard during the breeding season.
In Summerland, these birds are typically found in coniferous and mixed forests, especially during migration. They are most likely to be seen during the spring and fall migration periods, from April to May and September to October, as they pass through the region on their way to and from their breeding grounds.
Lark Sparrow
Chondestes grammacus
The Lark Sparrow is a strikingly patterned songbird, recognized by its bold facial markings, which include a chestnut-brown crown, white cheeks, and black whisker stripes. It also has a distinctive black central spot on its white breast and a long, rounded tail with white edges. Lark Sparrows feed primarily on seeds and insects, often foraging on the ground in open areas.
In Summerland, they are most commonly found in dry, open habitats such as grasslands, fields, and sagebrush areas, where they can easily find food and nesting sites. These birds are most likely to be seen during the spring and summer months, from April to August, when they migrate to the area to breed.
Sage Thrasher
Oreoscoptes montanus
The Sage Thrasher is a medium-sized songbird known for its subtle, muted colours and strong association with sagebrush habitats. It has a greyish-brown body, pale underparts streaked with dark spots, and a short, straight bill. The Sage Thrasher is most notable for its complex and melodic song, which it often delivers from a high perch within its preferred habitat.
In Summerland, Sage Thrashers are typically found in areas dominated by sagebrush, such as open shrublands and arid grasslands. They are most likely to be seen during the breeding season, which occurs from late spring to mid-summer, generally from May to July.
Lazuli Bunting
Passerina amoena
The Lazuli Bunting is a small, spirited songbird known for its brilliant blue plumage. Males are especially striking with their bright turquoise-blue head and back, warm orange breasts, and white bellies, while females are more subdued in colour, with brownish tones and hints of blue on their wings and tails. These birds are often perched in open areas, singing their cheerful, sweet song.
In Summerland, Lazuli Buntings are typically found in open woodlands, brushy areas, and along the edges of fields, particularly in areas with plenty of shrubs and small trees that provide cover and nesting sites. They are most likely to be seen during the spring and summer months, from May to August, when they migrate to the area to breed.
Yellow Warbler
Setophaga petechia
The Yellow Warbler is a small, resonant songbird known for its bright yellow plumage, which is incredibly vivid in males, who also sport subtle reddish streaks on their chests. Females are similarly yellow but with a slightly duller appearance. They are known for their sweet, whistling song, usually described as "sweet-sweet-sweet, I'm so sweet."
In Summerland, Yellow Warblers are commonly found in riparian habitats, such as streams, rivers, and wetlands, where willows and dense vegetation provide ideal nesting sites. They are most likely to be seen during the spring and summer months, from May to August, when they migrate to the region to breed.
Horned Lark
Eremophila alpestris
The Horned Lark is a small, ground-dwelling bird recognized for the tiny black "horns" of feathers that rise from its head, which are more pronounced in males. It has a pale brown back, white underparts, and a distinctive black mask and bib. The yellow face and throat make it unique, especially in males during breeding.
They are well-adapted to harsh environments and can be found in various open habitats, including grasslands, fields, and deserts. These birds are present year-round, but they are most easily observed during the late winter and early spring, particularly from February to April, when they begin their courtship displays.
American Crow
Corvus brachyrhynchos
The American Crow is a large, all-black bird known for its intelligence and adaptability. It has a glossy black plumage, a stout bill, and a fan-shaped tail. American Crows are highly social birds, often seen in large flocks, and they are known for their complex vocalizations, which include a wide variety of calls beyond the familiar "caw." They are also known to use tools and exhibit problem-solving abilities, making them one of the most intelligent bird species.
In Summerland, American crows are commonly found in many habitats, including forests, fields, urban areas, and shorelines. They are year-round residents so that they can be seen at any time of year. A crow never forgets, so treating these birds with kindness and respect is wise.
Canada Jay
Perisoreus canadensis
The Canada Jay, also known as the Gray Jay or Whiskey Jack, is a medium-sized, fluffy songbird with soft, pale grey plumage, a white face, and a darker grey crown and nape. Known for its bold and curious nature, the Canada Jay is a year-round resident of the northern forests. It is often seen fearlessly approaching humans, especially in search of food.
In Summerland, Canada, Jays are typically found in coniferous forests, especially in higher-elevation areas with dense spruce and fir trees. They are year-round residents, so they can be seen in any season, though they are particularly active in the fall when they are busy storing food for the winter.
Common Raven
Corvus corax
The Common Raven is a large, intelligent bird with glossy black plumage, a thick, powerful bill, and a distinctive wedge-shaped tail. Known for its deep, resonant croaking calls, the Common Raven is one of the world's most widespread and adaptable birds. Ravens are highly intelligent, displaying complex problem-solving skills, and they are known for their playful behaviour, which includes aerial acrobatics and even games with other ravens.
In Summerland, Common Ravens are typically found in various habitats, including forests, mountains, fields, and urban areas. They are year-round residents so that they can be seen at any time of the year. Ravens are often spotted perched on trees or utility poles or soaring high in the sky, where their acrobatic flight is easily noticeable.
Steller's Jay
Cyanocitta stelleri
The Steller's Jay is a striking and bold bird, easily recognized by its vibrant blue body, black crested head, and piercing dark eyes. The only crested jay found in the western parts of North America has a prominent triangular crest that can rise or lower depending on its mood. Steller's Jays are known for their raucous calls and ability to mimic other birds, animals, and human sounds.
In Summerland, Steller's Jays are typically found in coniferous and mixed forests, particularly in areas with dense tree cover. They are year-round residents so that you can see them at any time of year.
Black-billed Magpie
Pica hudsonia
The Black-billed Magpie is a large, striking bird known for its bold black and white plumage and long, iridescent blue-green tail. The magpie is distinctive and eye-catching, with a black head, chest, and back, contrasting with white shoulders and belly. These birds are highly intelligent and social, often seen in pairs or small groups. Magpies are resourceful and adaptable, often building large, dome-shaped nests high in trees or shrubs.
In Summerland, Black-billed Magpies are commonly found in open habitats such as grasslands, agricultural fields, and the edges of forests. They are also frequent visitors to suburban areas, where they can be seen foraging on the ground or perched on fences and rooftops.
Yellow-breasted Chat
Icteria virens
The Yellow-breasted Chat is a large and elusive songbird, notable for its bright yellow breast, olive-green back, and striking white spectacles around its eyes. Despite its vivid colouring, the Yellow-breasted Chat is often challenging to spot due to its secretive nature and preference for dense, shrubby habitats. Unlike many other singers, the Yellow-breasted Chat has a chunky build and a longer tail, making it unique among its relatives.
In Summerland, Yellow-breasted Chats are typically found in thick, brushy areas near streams, rivers, and wetlands, particularly in areas with dense understory vegetation like willows and blackberry thickets. They are most likely to be seen during the spring and summer months, from May to August, when they migrate to the region for breeding.
Gray Catbird
Dumetella carolinensis
The Gray Catbird is a medium-sized songbird with a sleek, slate-grey body, a black cap, and a distinctive rust-coloured patch under its tail. Named for its cat-like "mewing" call, the Gray Catbird is also an accomplished mimic, capable of imitating the songs of other birds and even mechanical sounds.
In Summerland, Gray Catbirds are most commonly found in areas with dense, brushy cover, such as riparian zones, overgrown fields, and thickets along the edges of forests and wetlands. They are most likely to be seen during the spring and summer months, from May to September, when they migrate to the region to breed.
Bird Watching
Frequently Asked Questions
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Summerland is home to several bird-watching hotspots. Adams Bird Sanctuary is a key location for bird enthusiasts, offering a quiet, scenic spot with opportunities to spot a variety of local bird species. Additionally, the Summerland Ornamental Gardens attract many different birds due to the diversity of plants and flowers.
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Common birds in Summerland include the Western Meadowlark, Great Blue Heron, and various species of woodpeckers and warblers. The region’s diverse habitats—ranging from lakeshore to forested areas—make it a great place to spot both migratory and resident birds.
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Spring and fall are ideal for bird watching in Summerland due to the migratory patterns of many species. During these seasons, you are more likely to spot birds like the American Robin, Mountain Bluebird, and various species of sparrows as they pass through the Okanagan Valley.
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Events like the Meadowlark Nature Festival, held in nearby communities, often feature bird-watching activities and excursions. These events focus on conservation and bird education, attracting both amateur and experienced bird watchers.
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Basic bird-watching equipment includes a good pair of binoculars and a field guide to help identify species. A camera with a zoom lens can also be useful for capturing bird images. Since some areas can be uneven or forested, comfortable walking shoes are also recommended.
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Local conservation groups and parks, such as the Summerland Ornamental Gardens, work to preserve bird habitats by maintaining natural landscapes. The Adams Bird Sanctuary is also a protected area dedicated to preserving the local bird population and their habitats.
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Yes, Okanagan Lake is home to a variety of waterfowl, including Canada Geese, Mallards, and American Coots. Lakeside areas such as Rotary Beach and Peach Orchard Park are ideal for watching waterfowl, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon when the birds are most active.
