george c. reifel migratory bird sanctuary

mikekO2544KH

My wife, daughter and I visited the bird sanctuary on March 7th, 2015. It was my wife's idea to go and initially I didn't want to make the trip. I'm glad that I did! We had a wonderful time exploring the sanctuary and identifying as many bird species as possible - which was only eight compared with other people that identified over thirty different species on the property that day. Watching and listening to the Sandhill Cranes was a real treat. Our daughter really enjoyed feeding the wide variety of duck species at the sanctuary as well. The price to get in is very reasonable and the visitors and staff are friendly. This is a great place to go if you want to get into bird watching or just stroll around for a few hours, taking in the fresh air and relaxing.If you are going to visit the sanctuary, I would recommend picking up a bird guide that has color pictures before you visit. It might make the experience even more enjoyable.If you would like to read a more detailed blog post about the sanctuary, please visit our site at:www.toddlerintowfromcanada.com

shirleyb730

Beautiful relaxing area to walk through and enjoy nature. Flat shaded safe walking paths past ponds and ocean to view the migratory birds. Washrooms and gift shop available at free parking lot. It is a oasis away from the city.

rosemaryz588

Went during migration. Lots of different birds coming and going. Beautiful park to walk around in. Get there early to avoid the crowds and get good parking. We try to go every year. It's very peaceful and relaxing

Heyman5

This is a great place to go for a stroll and see many different birds. Bring birdseed or buy it there. Some birds will take food from your hand. This is an easy walk for all ages. Will be going again soon. Have had bird land on our heads lol.

Boone8

As easterners, we were amazed at the number of birds in this area that we just don't get to see. There were a number of mature bald eagles in various locations as well as a couple of immature ones that were up close and personal, making for great pictures. Tons of ducks including the most Wood Ducks I've seen in one place ever. The highlight was a pair of Barred Owls nestled near the top of a huge pine tree, a Golden Eagle and some sandhill cranes right beside the path on the way back.Wonderful bird viewing, easy walking with lots of well marked trails and at only $3.00 for seniors, a bargain too. We'll definitely be back before we head home in a couple of weeks.

DeanaChilliwack

We went early in the morning before it got too busy. Lots of ducks to greet you, and hope for handouts! This day the volunteers were great at telling you what birds and where they were located. some volunteers even walked us to where we could find the owls in the tall trees. This is a great walk for any age and the walkways are clean and well kept so any person even with disabilities can manage.

DonP457

A great way to start off the new year by visiting with some of our little (and big) feathered friends. We got there early and therefore were able to get a good parking spot as it fills up very fast and you would have to park on the road and walk back. It was quite cold but lots of brave people and of course a never ending supply of hungry ducks and Sandhill cranes. We were also entertained by watching the ducks coming in for a landing on the frozen ponds. We saw more than one quack up (lol). If I might make a suggestion, especially families with small children. I suggest that you make use of the wash-room facilities at the start of the walk as it can be a very long walk in discomfort as there was only one port-a-potty along one of the trails and it was out of commission. The entry cost is very reasonable at $3.00 for seniors and $5.00 for adults, and the duck feed is only a dollar. Kids of all ages enjoy feeding the birds and hungry squirrels. Bring good walking shoes as the trails can be muddy and a little slippery, and most importantly bring your camera and field glasses.

mrlogboy

We were brought to the place for a day family event and did not know what to expect. the place was packed but since there was so much land it was acutally quite nice you just passed people every so often. the bids were everywhere and very very polite. there were lots that would eat out of your hand from the very big to very small. the chickadees and the big crane were out main attractions we were there just over two hours and could stay a bit more. we will defintally e back a warmer time of the year. maybe spring when the babbies are out.

pgscmk

This sanctuary is a little out of the way, but more than worth the trip. It was recommended to us by a local BC birding expert as a real hot spot of birding. There are so many birds, and so many birders around you that if you need help identifying, you can just ask someone. Even the Sandhill Cranes are easy to spot. This is a must-visit spot for anyone who is a birder, or interested in birding or even just nature. It is very reasonably priced, and you only have to be 60 to get senior rates.

madmaxthebabycat

I love this place. In fact, I have a yearly membership which is tucked into my camera case and I go at least once a month - you never know what/who will have stopped by Reifel. Depending on the time of year there will be different birds to search for and there are some resident birds that never let you down. It's a great activity for everyone at anytime of year in any type of weather (just dress for it). The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. You can purchase bags of birdseed at the entrance and kids love it- especially when the Blackcapped Chickadees eat from your hand. It's fun, educational, relaxing and a bit of exercise. The drive to Reifel through Westham Island offers lovely scenery and you should keep watch for some great birding opportunities on the way in and out.

Picker48

A great visit for an afternoon, particularly with young children. Hundreds of ducks waiting to be fed with dollar bags of bird feed available from the gift shop. This is at no charge. For the more adventurous, you can enter the sanctuary for a small fee and wander the paths to various blinds for specialized watching. Many varieties of birds to be seen and a scenic walk.

BPutt

An enthusiastic birdwatcher, I visit Reifel at lease once each time I visit Vancouver. This year did not disappoint. The 10-15,000 Snow Geese were waiting for me just outside the Sanctuary in one of their favourite fields. I stood for an hour just watching, listening and taking pictures. Cannot fail to be impressed by this spectacle. Just back in my car and there was a ring-necked Pheasant walking along the side of the road! I spent a few hours in the park and was able to accumulate 55 species, pretty respectable considering the time of year. Maybe next time I will get that Saw-whet owl that eluded me! If you like nature, you cannot help but like this park. Lots of Mallard ducks for the kiddies to feed and lots of interesting trails for all. There is a nice little visitor's centre, good washroom facilities and a very nice "warming shack" heated by a wood stove that was definitely welcome during my visit (picnic table in the shack where I enjoyed my packed lunch).

kate_n_van_2001

I love the bird sanctuary; it’s an awesome place. There are so many different types of wild birds to feed from your hands, for example Canadian Geese, Pigeons, Chickadees, and ducks. I feel good to be close to nature and interact with wild animals. The Red Wing Black Bird sings a distinctive song that I love. Other things to see are the squirrels and the Carp fish in the slough both of which love to eat seeds. The climate is dryer and the air is fresh. There is not that many people or cars so you feel you are a part of nature. That is why I love the bird sanctuary. I recommend taking your own seeds and coming before lunch.

BhajT

Set up the tripod and start walking. There are birds and ducks all around. The day we were there, cloudy and between rains, it was heron afternoon. They were flying about, landing in different parts of the sanctuary. I understand there is a resident crane or two or...They were not visible on that day. I would return for the fall migration

Molly6147

I am not a bird watcher but I can imagine that this would be a dream place for one. I enjoyed trying to feed the chickadees with seeds in my hand as I saw others doing but no such luck for me. Loved the ducks following us around for seeds. If you walk on the outer path you have a lovely view of the sea. Walk on the inner path and you meet almost no one. Lots of informative signs along the paths. The weather was excellent when we went in September so it made for a nice afternoon family walk. Closes at 4pm although you have until 5 to get out. No receipts given for your entrance fee.