VANCOUVER celebr

MAY 4-11, 2013 BIRD

SCHEDULE
May 4 @ 10:00 Official launch of Bird Week, interactive bird art project and bird walk by
Society, 2099 Beach Avenue in Stanley Park
May 5 @ 1:30 Tour of the heron colony in Stanley Park. Meet at the Stanley Park Nature
May 6 @ 7:00 Amazing Birds in Vancouver - George Clulow *
May 8 @ 7:00 From Herring to Gray Whales: One Bird’s Partnerships in a Changing Sea -
May 11 @ 7:00 Society of Crows - Dr. Rob Butler *

Vancouver
May 11 World Migratory Bird Day Bird Walks
Join some of the best birders in Vancouver to learn more about our feathered friends.
held in Stanley Park, Queen Elizabeth Park, Hastings Park Sanctuary, Everett Crowley Pa
Park, Jericho Park and Pacific Spirit Park. All walks are open and free for all.

Bird Strategy
* All evening talks are from 7:00 to 8:00 in the Alma VanDusen & Peter Kaye rooms (lowe
Library, 350 West Georgia Street. Admission is free but seating is limited.

For more events & information: stanleyparkecology.ca

January 2015 (Updated December 2020)

Follow us on twitter: @VancouverBirds

Visit us at: stanleyparkecology.ca
 VANCOUVER BIRD STRATEGY PARTNERS

Vancouver Bird Advisory Committee. 2020. Vancouver Bird Strategy. City of Vancouver

Vancouver Bird Strategy ii

 VANCOUVER
BIRD STRATEGY
VISION
Vancouver is a world leader in supporting
a year-round rich and diverse assemblage
of native birds, accessible to Vancouver
residents in every neighbourhood and park
in the city, and attracting visitors from all
corners of the globe. iii
 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Over 250 species of resident, migratory and over-wintering birds are
regularly observed in greater Vancouver. The high visibility and auditory
presence of birds creates an experiential link with nature that can foster
stewardship of the natural environment and enrich the lives of Vancouver’s
citizens. Birds also provide important ecosystem services in the form of
pest control, pollination and seed dispersal. However, according to The
State of Canada’s Birds, 2019, birds across almost all habitats are in trouble.
Shorebirds, seabirds, birds that consume flying insects and forest seed-
eating birds are in particular trouble and spend more than half of the year
in our region. Therefore, Vancouver has a responsibility to reduce the impact
that urbanization has on birds along the Pacific Coast.

The goal of the Vancouver Bird Strategy is to create the conditions for
native birds to thrive in Vancouver and across the region. The Strategy
consists of five action areas that address the biological, social and economic
challenges to creating a bird friendly city. Specific activities have been
identified for each action area that the City, Park Board or partners are
currently implementing as well as recommendations to move forward.
In addition, the Strategy identifies key opportunities and challenges to
supporting native birds in Vancouver.

Vancouver Bird Strategy iv

 TABLE of
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY............................................................................. iv
GOAL AND OBJECTIVES......................................................................... 2-4
INTRODUCTION........................................................................................... 5
CONTEXT – EXISTING POLICY AND REGULATIONS................... 7
CITY BIRD....................................................................................................... 8

KEY OPPORTUNITIES............................................................................... 9
a. Protect and Restore Habitat....................................................... 10
b. Bird Friendly Development......................................................... 10
c. Bird Watching and Tourism......................................................... 11

KEY CHALLENGES..................................................................................... 12
a. Habitat Loss due to Urbanization............................................. 13
b. Invasive Species............................................................................... 14
c. Predation and Disturbance by Domestic Pets.................... 15
d. Building Collisions........................................................................... 16
e. Direct Human Disturbance.......................................................... 16

ACTION AREAS............................................................................................ 17
a. Bird Friendly Landscape Design Guidelines......................... 18-19
b. Bird Friendly Building Design Guidelines.............................. 20-21
c. Research and Monitoring............................................................. 22-23
d. Arts, Awareness and Education................................................ 24-25
e. Economic Development and Tourism..................................... 26-27

Vancouver Bird Strategy 1

 GOAL FOR A
BIRD FRIENDLY CITY
Create the conditions for native
birds to thrive in the City of
Vancouver and across the region.

Vancouver Bird Strategy 2

 OBJECTIVES
SUPPORT HABITAT:
Protect, enhance and create habitats for a
diversity of native birds.

REDUCE THREATS:
Reduce threats to birds in the
urban environment.

IMPROVE ACCESS:
Improve access to nature for Vancouver
residents and visitors to the city.

ENHANCE AWARENESS:
Increase awareness of the importance of birds
and their needs.

GROW BIRD RELATED TOURISM:

Encourage birding tourism and economic
development opportunities related to birding.
ss
ce
t
ita

ac

m
s
b

ris
es
ha

en

u
to
ar
s
at

aw
re
th

Vancouver Bird Strategy 3

THE FIVE OBJECTIVES
ACTION

AWARENESS
AREAS

ENHANCE
SUPPORT

IMPROVE

TOURISM
THREATS
HABITAT

REDUCE

ACCESS

GROW
LANDSCAPE DESIGN
GUIDELINES

BUILDING DESIGN
GUIDELINES

RESEARCH AND
MONITORING

ARTS, AWARENESS
AND EDUCATION

ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
AND TOURISM

Vancouver Bird Strategy 4

INTRODUCTION
WHY ARE BIRDS IMPORTANT Birds are particularly important in Vancouver
because of its location adjacent to the Fraser
IN VANCOUVER? River delta, a major stop along the Pacific
Birds bring Vancouver to life with their songs Flyway that extends north to south from Alaska
and flight: chatty Black-capped Chickadees, to Central and South America. The Pacific
trilling Song Sparrows, soaring Bald Eagles, and Flyway is traversed by at least a billion birds
colourful Rufous Hummingbirds animate our every year. In addition, unique to Canada, the
city. The high visibility and audibility of birds region hosts a high abundance and diversity
creates an experiential link between people and of birds during winter, many of which are in
local biodiversity. Social birding has been shown steep decline. The diversity of rich habitats in
to reduce stress, anxiety and risk of depression. the region, from estuary shorelines to mature
Birds also provide ecosystem services in the coniferous and deciduous forests, create a haven
form of pest control, pollination and seed for weary migratory birds as well as for resident
dispersal. Birding tourism contributes to local birds that live in the region year-round.
economies and accounted for approximately $41
billion in travel and equipment expenditures in There are also four Important Bird and
the United States in 2016. For the citizens of Biodiversity Areas (IBA) in greater Vancouver:
Vancouver, experiencing birds is a daily activity Fraser River Estuary; English Bay, Burrard
that creates a physical and emotional link Inlet and Howe Sound; Greater Vancouver
with nature. Watershed; and, Pacific Spirit Regional Park,
comprising an area over 1400 km². Vancouver’s
proximity to these IBAs (a worldwide
conservation initiative coordinated by BirdLife
International) represents a major opportunity to
encourage the greatest diversity and abundance
of native birds and thereby enhance access to
nature for Vancouver’s residents and visitors.
VANCOUVER
The Vancouver Bird Strategy is a priority with
PACIFIC important economic, social and environmental
FLYWAY
benefits as we work towards becoming a greener
city and region.

268 species
of resident, migratory and
over-wintering birds are
regularly observed in
greater Vancouver 5
Vancouver Bird Strategy 6
CONTEXT
Vancouver has long recognized the need to In subsequent years, Bird Week was proclaimed
incorporate nature in the urban environment, by the Mayor with the City, Stanley Park
including a diversity of bird life. This has Ecology Society, Birds Canada, Nature
spurred the development of a number of related Vancouver, Vancouver Public Library, Tourism
strategies that build upon the desire to provide Vancouver and others partnering in a week-
access to nature, including the Biodiversity long series of events increasing the awareness
Strategy, Urban Forest Strategy, VanPlay, Green of birds in the city. In 2018, the Mayor
Operations Environmental Framework, the proclaimed August Bird Month in Vancouver
Vancouver Food Strategy, the Healthy City in conjunction with the City hosting the
for All Action Plan and the Environmental International Ornithological Congress.
Education and Stewardship Action Plan.
In May 2013, Vancouver City Council and the
VanPlay, the 2020 Parks and Recreation Vancouver Park Board directed City staff to
Services Master Plan, sets priorities and develop a Bird Strategy for Vancouver. This was
provides tools and policies to support the approved by City Council on January 20, 2015
pursuit of equity, connectivity and access to and updated in 2020.
parks and recreation for all. Included are bold
directions, which support the Bird Strategy, There are also federal and provincial regulations
to weave the city together by protecting and in place that pertain to birds in Vancouver.
enhancing connected ecosystems and waterways Species listed under Schedule 1 of the federal
and to connect people with nature. Species at Risk Act (SARA) are extirpated,
endangered or threatened in Canada and are
Together with the Urban Forest Strategy afforded protection under the law. The purpose
(updated 2018), the Rewilding Action Plan of the federal Migratory Birds Convention Act
(2014), and the Biodiversity Strategy (2016), (1994) is to protect and conserve migratory
the Vancouver Bird Strategy (updated 2020) birds and their nests and eggs. For a complete
contributes to supporting biodiversity in parks, list of the species protected by the Act, refer to
and on other public and private lands, across the Environment and Climate Change Canada
Vancouver and the region. Collectively, these website.
strategies will improve and enhance experiences
of and access to nature for all. The British Columbia government lists species
that are imperilled in the province through the
Vancouver is a leader in Canada when it comes Conservation Data Centre. The BC Wildlife
to celebrating birds. World Migratory Bird Act protects birds, nests and eggs, and provides
Day (WMBD) is a United Nations sponsored year-round protection to a select group of birds’
initiative that recognizes the importance of nests including those of Bald Eagles and Great
birds as key indicators of the health of our Blue Herons. The Park Board also follows
environment. In 2011 and 2012, the Mayor Guidelines for Raptor Conservation during Urban
signed a proclamation recognizing WMBD. and Rural Land Development in British Columbia
developed by the BC Ministry of Environment.

Vancouver Bird Strategy 7

 City of Vancouver’s
CITY BIRD
H u m m in g
na’s bir
An d

“Classy, urban and stylish with the heart of a tiger”

describes this recent arrival to Vancouver. With their
iridescent emerald feathers and sparkling rose-pink
throats, Anna’s Hummingbirds are more like flying
jewelry than birds. Anna’s Hummingbird won the
election to become Vancouver’s official City Bird with
a commanding 42% of the ballots cast in 2017. As
our City Bird, this tenacious hummingbird is used to
promote environmental issues, to inspire local artists
and to act as an ambassador encouraging visitors and
welcoming them to Vancouver.

Vancouver Bird Strategy 8

 key opportunities

1/
protect and
restore habitat
2/
bird watching
and tourism

3/
bird friendly
development

9
KEY
OPPORTUNITIES
PROTECT AND
RESTORE HABITAT
Vancouver is known for its proximity to
stunning natural environments: mature forests,
riparian corridors, coastal shorelines and
intertidal zones provide habitat for a diversity of
birds and make the city a beautiful place to live.
Vancouver’s world-class parks such as Stanley
Habitat Island at Southeast False Creek provides habitat
Park, Jericho Beach Park and Queen Elizabeth and allows people to experience nature in the city.
Park attract an abundance and diversity of birds
and people.
BIRD FRIENDLY
DEVELOPMENT
Vancouver intends to become a global leader
in bird friendly development. Habitat Island
and Hinge Park at Southeast False Creek,
created as part of the Olympic Village, is a
model for sustainable urban development that
integrates nature into the city. A stormwater-
Stanley Park, Vancouver’s largest park, attracts the fed freshwater wetland and rocky intertidal
highest diversity of birds in the city. zone create valuable habitat for waterfowl.
Bald Eagles have been spotted perching on the
Stanley Park, Vancouver’s largest park and a branches of the Douglas Fir snags at Habitat
national historic site of Canada, is an excellent Island.
example of ongoing protection and maintenance
of existing bird habitat in an urban centre. Another example of a large-scale development
Through a partnership between Stanley Park that incorporates bird habitat is the River
Ecology Society and the Vancouver Park District, showing how Vancouver is taking
Board, best management practices for species steps towards incorporating bird friendly
of significance including nesting eagles, small design principles into urban development. New
owls, cavity nesting birds and migratory birds, Brighton Park, Queen Elizabeth Park and the
have been developed and implemented. This Arbutus Greenway also provide significant
partnership is a model that is being replicated opportunities to improve habitat for birds.
to promote the protection and restoration of
habitat for birds throughout the city.

Vancouver Bird Strategy 10

BIRD WATCHING
AND TOURISM
Bird watching is one of the fastest growing
leisure activities in North America, estimated
to generate billions of dollars in tourism and
recreation industries. According to a 2006 study,
more than 1.8 million Canadians participated
in a multi-day bird watching activity within
the previous two years. The Vancouver area
is recognized internationally as a year-round
hotspot for birds and a desirable destination
for bird watchers. Although there is very little
research on the current economic impact of
bird watchers or birders living in or visiting
Vancouver, opportunities exist to increase
the awareness of Vancouver as an important
In the U.S. in 2011,
destination in the birding market.
$41 billion
A 2011 report released by the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service which focuses specifically on
was spent by bird
birders in the U.S. revealed that bird watching watchers.
continues to grow in popularity and bird
watchers spent annually up to $41 billion on
travel and equipment to see birds. Promoting
bird watching in Vancouver has economic,
social and environmental benefits that
contribute to increasing awareness and
stewardship of birds while simultaneously
growing the green economy.

For a list of birds that can be seen in greater

Vancouver, please refer to Seasonal Check List
- Birds of Greater Vancouver (2018) on Nature
Vancouver’s website
(https://naturevancouver.ca).

Vancouver Bird Strategy 11

key challenges 1/
habitat loss
due to
urbanization

2/
invasive
species
3/
predation and
disturbance by
domestic pets

4/
building
collisions
5/
direct human
disturbance

12
KEY
CHALLENGES
HABITAT LOSS DUE
TO URBANIZATION
Habitat loss is the leading cause of bird
population declines in British Columbia.
According to The State of Canada’s Birds, 2019
report, habitat loss due to human settlement,
industry and forestry has caused a 35%
decline in characteristic bird species in the
Stanley Park is a forest remnant; approximately 87% of
Pacific Coast region of Canada since 1970. In Vancouver’s forest cover has been replaced with urban
Vancouver, it is estimated that approximately development since the 1850’s.
87% of the forest cover has been replaced with
urban development since the 1850’s. As urban This issue is now being studied on a global
development increases, habitat loss is expected scale. A 2001 study using the largest existing
to become the single largest driver of bird global dataset for birds in cities revealed that,
extinction in this century. although urbanization has caused declines in
bird populations, urban areas still retain endemic
Scientists have been increasingly interested native species. Researchers found that cities
in the effects of urbanization on birds and retain about 8% of their native bird species. On
the relationship is complex. An early study, a global scale, cities support close to 20% of the
conducted in Vancouver in 1979, found that world’s bird species. This study suggests that
the total bird density is actually higher in urban the conservation and restoration of vegetation
areas than rural areas, but species richness is within urban landscapes could support higher
lower, due to the dominance of a few introduced concentrations of native bird species and provide
species. Therefore, the Vancouver Bird Strategy opportunities for urban wildlife to thrive.
focuses on creating the conditions for native
birds to thrive.

A study performed in Vancouver in 2003 found

that species richness declined in relation to Habitat loss has caused a
increasing urbanization. The same study found
that site-scale habitat features, like mature trees
and fruit bearing plants, are correlated with
35% decline
increased bird diversity. When site-scale habitat in characteristic bird
features are multiplied across the landscape, the
result is a greener, bird friendly city.
species in the Pacific
Coast region of Canada
since 1970. 13
INVASIVE
SPECIES
Invasive plants and animals are non-native Invasive and nuisance birds out-compete native
organisms that spread quickly and pose birds, thereby causing overall bird diversity to
a threat to local ecosystems and species, decline, but it can be very difficult to exclude
further contributing to habitat loss. Native invasive birds. More research is needed to
birds and plants are adapted to each other so investigate the complex problem of invasive
when invasive plants are introduced in urban plants and animals and how they impact
landscapes they thrive on disturbed sites and Vancouver’s native bird populations.
outcompete native plants. Because of this they
pose a threat to native birds less adaptable to
change. Native bird species are less abundant
within urban landscapes where non-native
understorey vegetation is more common than
a diversity of native vegetation. Invasive plants
must be actively managed if native vegetation is
to be maintained and native birds are to thrive
in our urban forests.

The management of invasive plants is a complex

A House Finch eating invasive blackberries. Invasive
issue as it can pose a threat to birds if it disturbs plants must be managed with care as some birds will
nest sites. Bird breeding windows must be use them for nesting and foraging habitat.
considered to reduce operational impacts on
breeding birds and their nests and must ensure
they conform to the federal Migratory Birds
Convention Act (1994) or the BC Wildlife Act.
In addition, some invasive plants, particularly
Himalayan Blackberry, can provide food and
shelter for some birds, and research should
inform urban landscape management practices.

English ivy is an invasive plant and will outcompete

native plants that provide ideal habitat for native birds.

Vancouver Bird Strategy 14

PREDATION AND DISTURBANCE
BY DOMESTIC PETS
Predation by feral and house cats is considered Licensing owned, free-ranging cats is an
to be the largest source of direct human- option which has been undertaken by other
related bird mortality, with an estimated loss municipalities in Canada. However, cat
of 100-350 million birds per year in Canada. licensing has not been evaluated for its
The extent of the problem is currently under effectiveness in term of administrative and
investigation by partners of the Vancouver Bird enforcement costs or for its overall benefit to
Advisory Committee, in order to prioritize urban bird populations. Keeping cats indoors
outreach and education targeting cat owners can help reduce the threat of bird predation
and communities. from cats and is safer for cats. The BCSPCA
and the Stewardship Centre for BC strongly
Options to mitigate this loss are complex and recommend keeping cats indoors to protect
can be controversial. For example, trap, neuter them from traffic accidents, contagious disease
and release programs for feral cat colonies are and predation from wild animals.
considered to be largely ineffective in reducing
colony size and can be unpopular among local Dogs also pose a threat to birds when they are
residents. However, many stewards of these cat allowed to run off-leash, causing disturbance,
colonies and others concerned with cat welfare injury or even death to birds. Dogs should be
believe this is an acceptable option. Feral cat kept on leash except in designated off-leash
colonies aren’t prevalent in Vancouver primarily areas as per the Animal Control Bylaw No.
due to predation by coyotes. 9150. More cost-effective and humane solutions
to minimize predation and disturbance of birds
by domestic pets are needed.

It is estimated that
100 - 350
million birds
die every year in Canada
due to predation by feral
and house cats. 15
In Canada, an estimated
16-42
million birds DIRECT HUMAN
DISTURBANCE
collide with glass on Human activity is not always compatible with
buildings every year. bird habitat. Activities like off-trail hiking
and biking can cause disturbance to birds,
particularly ground nesting birds, and trail
networks can fragment habitat patches. Humans
are perceived as a threat by many birds and
when humans approach, birds will move away,
resulting in less time for feeding and tending to
their young. Direct human disturbance is also
a common issue along shorelines and beaches
where recreational users can conflict with
resting and feeding waterfowl and shorebirds.
Even overly aggressive wildlife photographers
can be problematic for birds.

Adopting strategies that simultaneously increase

recreational users’ appreciation of the parks they
BUILDING enjoy and the birds and other nature around
them, and minimizing disturbance impacts
COLLISIONS at key times of year, can cultivate voluntary
An estimated 16-42 million birds collide with stewardship and protect important habitat
clear and reflective glass on buildings and patches from direct human disturbance.
structures of all sizes each year in Canada.
Of the top ranking sources of mortality, bird Secondary poisoning of owls and other raptors
collisions with buildings is a threat for which is a serious problem, especially since rats are a
there are well-documented solutions; Vancouver significant part of urban owl diets. Rodents
can play a clear role by implementing Bird are both a health issue and a structural threat
Friendly Building Design Guidelines. (damage to wiring, insulation, membranes)
so rodenticides are widely used to control
Recent research indicates that collisions occur them. However, most rat poisons are blood
in Vancouver year-round, and can be very high thinners that cause rats who consume them to
in winter, in addition to the migratory periods. become sick and slowly die. In that time, they
A 2017 study looking at patterns of collisions often become prey to other animals, including
across North American, found that the pets, passing the toxins up the food chain.
problem is particularly acute at buildings near To prevent unintended secondary poisoning,
greenspace, so increasing plantings for birds alternative but effective control methods are
needs to be considered with window treatments. needed.

Vancouver Bird Strategy 16

Vancouver
Bird Strategy 1/
action areas landscape
design
guidelines

3/
research
and monitoring
2/
building
design
guidelines

4/
art,
awareness
and education 5/
economic
development
and tourism
17
 s
LANDSCAPE

es
en
1/

ss

ar
t

s
DESIGN

ta

ce
at

aw
bi

re

ac
ha

th
GUIDELINES
The Bird Friendly Landscape Design Guidelines
(refer to the City webpage for the guidelines and
the explanatory note are intended to protect,
enhance and create bird habitat in the city, as
well as reduce threats to birds in the urban
environment. The guidelines are targeted towards
developers, planners and designers and public
and private landowners. These guidelines provide
strategies to protect birds and enhance their
habitats and are for use when developing new
Hinge Park at Southeast False Creek is a model for sustainable
public and private landscapes. These documents urban development that integrates nature into the city.
will draw from existing best management
practices, relevant scientific literature and
emerging strategies. • Vancouver Park Board staff are increasingly
collaborating with people from Musqueam,
CURRENT ACTION Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh in ecological
restoration and management projects that create
• Park Board manages parks and street trees habitat for native birds.
which include a variety of habitats and
natural and naturalized areas, and supports non- • Stanley Park Invasive Plant Management Plan
profit societies to manage natural habitats across outlines an invasive plant species management
the city. approach including priorities and activities
used in Stanley Park which are transferrable to
• The Park Board has had an integrated pest other Vancouver parks.
management program (IPM) in
place since 1987 and banned the use of • Stanley Park Forest Management Plan
neonicotinoids in parks in 2014. includes guidelines for wildlife, invasive
species, tree disease, etc.
• The City requires or promotes bird habitat
on private property through various by-laws • Bird habitat is being created in parks such as
(e.g. tree by-law), guidelines (e.g. waterwise Hinge, Creekway, Jericho Beach, New
landscape guidelines), and awareness programs. Brighton and the Arbutus Greenway.

• Best Management Practices for Species • The City encourages the construction of green
of Significance in Parks are intended for roofs and walls in new developments.
the management of certain wildlife species
including most bird groups and species at risk.

Vancouver Bird Strategy 18

RECOMMENDATIONS
1.1 Apply and promote Bird Friendly Landscape 1.4 Apply and integrate Bird Friendly Landscape
Design Guidelines for developers, planners and Operational Guidelines into public land
designers and public and private landowners. operations and maintenance for staff,
stewardship groups and landscape
1.2 Apply the Bird Friendly Landscape Design industry personnel.
Guidelines and Bird Friendly Landscape
Operational Guidelines to parks, school 1.5 Encourage homeowners to access online
grounds and other civic properties, working resources, such as the growgreen guide to
with City staff and Vancouver School Board ecofriendly lawns and gardens in greater
to address potential challenges. Vancouver (growgreenguide.ca), Audubon’s
Plants for Birds (audubon.org/plantsforbirds)
1.3 Provide residents greater access to nature by or Environmental Youth Alliance’s A Guide
creating more diverse habitat for birds and to Birdscaping (eya.ca) to increase the number
other wildlife in neighbourhood parks and and mix of native plant species.
other open spaces.

BEFORE AFTER
Example of habitat enhancement for birds at a pond in Vanier Park.

Vancouver Bird Strategy 19

 s
BUILDING

es
en
2/

ss

ar
t

s
DESIGN

ta

ce
at

aw
bi

re

ac
ha

th
GUIDELINES
Collisions with glass are considered to be
one of the largest sources of direct human-
related mortality for birds in North America.
Awareness of this problem is growing and the
Bird Friendly Building Design Guidelines (refer
to the City webpage for the guidelines and
explanatory note) will help reduce bird deaths
caused by collisions with buildings. Birds collide
with clear and reflective glass on buildings and
structures of all sizes, including homes, bridges
and guardrails. Collisions occur day and night An example of a bird friendly design in Vancouver.
and throughout the year.

The Bird Friendly Building Design Guidelines

are intended to be used by planners, architects,
designers, builders and homeowners to provide
a basic understanding of bird friendly building
design and to offer practical solutions that can
be applied to new buildings and retrofit
existing structures.

CURRENT ACTION An example of a bird friendly retrofit in Vancouver.

• The City’s Rezoning Policy for Sustainable • “Seeing Spots” a public art participatory
Large Developments requires all large project was installed at Aberthau (West Point
development projects to review opportunities Grey Community Centre) by the Department
to support urban agriculture, trees and other of Bird Safety collective in 2015.
green initiatives through the rezoning process.
• In 2017 Park Board head office windows had
Feather Friendly treatment applied which
virtually eliminated bird collisions thereafter.

Vancouver Bird Strategy 20

RECOMMENDATIONS
2.1 Apply and promote Bird Friendly Building 2.3 Explore solutions to the impact of light
Design Guidelines for planners, architects, pollution on birds and select City-owned
designers, builders and homeowners to buildings and infrastructure of special
provide a basic understanding of the issue concern to demonstrate light pollution
of bird collisions and bird friendly building reduction.
design.
2.4 Promote Royal Astronomical Society
2.2 Initiate pilot projects on existing civic of Canada Dark Sky Urban Star Park
facilities to reduce the threat of bird designation for Beaver Lake in Stanley Park.
collisions and further integrate guidelines
into all new City-owned developments
such as child cares, community centres
and libraries.

Vancouver Bird Strategy 21

 s
RESEARCH

es
en
3/

ss

ar
t

s
AND

ta

ce
at

aw
bi

re

ac
ha

th
MONITORING
Research and monitoring of birds in Vancouver CURRENT ACTION
has been pursued by a number of researchers
and organizations, however more research • The primary organizations that monitor
and monitoring is required. Local naturalists birds in Vancouver include:
groups and post-secondary students have been
collecting data, and national initiatives such as Birds Canada - Christmas Bird Counts,
Christmas Bird Counts have been ongoing for Breeding Bird Atlas, Beached Bird
many years. Survey, Important Bird and Biodiversity
Area program (with BC Nature), Coastal
Data on birds in the city have been increasing Waterbird Survey
with the growing trend of birders recording
sightings through online resources such as Stanley Park Ecology Society - English
eBird. The primary data management location Bay, Burrard Inlet and Howe Sound IBA
for monitoring and sightings in Vancouver caretaker, Stanley Park Bald Eagle and Great
is Birds Canada’s Nature Counts website. Blue Heron nest monitoring, various other
Research is pursued by a variety of groups Stanley Park bird monitoring programs
and stored in a variety of places, so although
there is much known about birds in Vancouver, WildResearch runs a number of monitoring
more could be done to centralize access to this programs including a Nightjar Survey, an
information. Urban Raptor Monitoring Program and the
Iona Banding Station in Richmond

Vancouver Avian Research Centre runs a

banding station at Colony Farm

Previous research on urban bird diversity

has been conducted by UBC Geography
Department

eBird online resources (www.ebird.ca), run

by Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Governmental agencies such as the

Canadian Wildlife Service, Environment
and Climate Change Canada and the
Province of BC have extensive data on bird
populations

Vancouver Bird Strategy 22

RECOMMENDATIONS
3.1 Develop and review data collection and
reporting protocol with the Bird Advisory
Committee’s bird research and monitoring
advisory group.

3.2 Use e-Bird hotspots for a city-wide research

and monitoring program to conduct and
compile data from bird surveys to prioritize
bird habitat protection and enhancement
projects.

3.3 Continue to evaluate City-owned buildings

for bird collisions to assess the extent of
Monitoring by the Canadian Wildlife Service and
the problem. thousands of volunteers has found clear trends in bird
populations in Canada. Barn Swallows, previously a
common bird in Canada, have declined by over 70%
3.4 Monitor and assess the effectiveness of the across the country and by over 90% in our Pacific Coast
Bird Friendly Design Guidelines and update region since the early 1970s. One of the the largest
colonies in BC is in Stanley Park which had 48 active
them as appropriate. nests in 2019.

Vancouver Bird Strategy 23

 s
ARTS,

es
en
4/

ss

ar
AWARENESS

ce

aw
ac
AND EDUCATION
Arts and awareness programs can engage and
educate people about birds in Vancouver in a
fun and creative way. As a public engagement
tool, the Arts can draw attention to the
importance of birds, bird habitat and urban
biodiversity. Art makes ideas accessible by
representing them in alternative and creative
formats, whether visual, auditory or tactile.
Raising awareness of issues through creative
mediums can stimulate discourse and an
appreciation for birds in people of all ages.

Educating the public about threats to birds is

an important step towards protecting birds in
Vancouver and activating citizens. Education CURRENT ACTION
about native birds and their needs within the • In 2011 and 2012, Mayor Gregor Robertson
urban environment is essential for the successful signed a proclamation that recognized
implementation of the Vancouver Bird Strategy World Migratory Bird Day. In subsequent
and for the conservation of birds in the city. years, Bird Week has been proclaimed by the
Awareness about birds among Vancouverites Mayor featuring a week-long series of events
is growing due in part to an increasing interest in Vancouver and across the region.
in birding as a recreational activity as well as
through concerted efforts by non-governmental • Awareness projects and celebrations have
organizations to raise awareness of bird been integral parts of the public engagement
conservation. strategies of many of our partner
organizations.
Residents of Vancouver and across the region
would benefit from information about what • Past community art projects such as Mainly
they can do for birds in their own backyards. for the Birds, Strathcona Pavilion Frieze and
City staff and developers should be made Bird Project fieldhouse residencies, including
aware of threats to birds and their habitat Words Rising, Birds Rising, a Coast Salish
requirements to ensure that birds are considered artists’ residency directing a local Indigenous
during new developments as well as within lens at birds of the Northwest Coast, engage
existing operational regimes. people in the creative process to further
increase awareness.

Vancouver Bird Strategy 24

 D
AN
RECOMMENDATIONS N

IR
A’ B
S H U M MING

4.1 Increase awareness through the

continuation and expansion of events
celebrating birds in Vancouver and across 4.6 Continue to use Vancouver’s City Bird to
the region and the country. increase public awareness and generate a
high profile for birds.
4.2 Develop a communication strategy to
support the Vancouver Bird Strategy 4.7 The BCSPCA and Stewardship Centre for
Objectives. BC continue to collaborate on an awareness
campaign to educate people about the
4.3 Promote educational programs and online impact of domestic pets, especially cats, on
materials to inform different audiences birds.
about bird conservation (e.g. how to reduce
bird collisions with windows). 4.8 Promote the use of cat exclusion fencing,
catios and other means to make yards safe
4.4 Promote residential bird habitat programs for birds.
and online educational materials to engage
the public in bird conservation on 4.9 Continue to explore rodent control
private property. solutions that don’t use rodenticides.

4.5 Engage artists and the creative community

in highlighting, profiling and involving
the larger community in discussion and
awareness of birds.

Vancouver Bird Strategy 25

 s
ECONOMIC

es
en
5/

ism
ar
DEVELOPMENT

aw

ur
to
AND TOURISM
There is very little research at the present time
on the economic impact of bird watchers or
birders living in or visiting Vancouver.

A 2016 report released by the U.S. Fish and

Wildlife Service which focuses specifically
on birders in the U.S. revealed that bird
watchers spent an estimated $15 billion on trip
expenditures and $26 billion on equipment
expenditures. According to the agency, in 2011
48 million people in the U.S. age 16 or older
watched, fed, and/or photographed birds.
Relatively equal numbers of women (54%) and
men (46%) participated. Almost 42 million
watched, fed, and photographed birds around
the home, with around 20 million traveling
away from home to enjoy birds (an increase of
8% over the 2001 survey).

As the report suggests, this increasing interest

in nature tourism offers new economic
opportunities for Vancouver.

CURRENT ACTION
• Tourism Vancouver’s bid to bring the 27th
International Ornithological Congress to • Stanley Park Ecology Society, VanDusen
Vancouver in August 2018 was successful. Botanical Garden, Nature Vancouver and
There were over 1,700 delegates from around other groups offer bird-walking tours in
the world with events being held in tandem Vancouver.
with the first Vancouver International Bird
Festival and kicked off by Birds on Parade, • Although not native species, the Bloedel
led by T’satsu Stagaya from Musqueam. The Conservatory provides a unique climate-
congress brought $5-8 million to the city. controlled experience to visit more than 120
free-flying exotic birds.

Vancouver Bird Strategy 26

 RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1 Seek opportunities to host more large bird 5.4 Increase the awareness of Vancouver as
conferences in Vancouver in the future. a destination for the emerging birding
market and build content about birding for
5.2 Establish a comprehensive resource inventory marketing materials including websites, blogs
for Vancouver’s birding products and and visitor guides.
experiences by beginning an audit of existing
contacts, products, locations, venues and 5.5 Expand birding offerings for visitors to
programs. Vancouver, increase awareness of them and
encourage longer tourist visits through
5.3 Develop Vancouver-specific birding resources strategic partnerships with tour operators in
geared towards tourism. Vancouver and across the region.
Birding Hotspots - Birds You May See LEGEND
dynamic range of bird watching opportunities both in terms of species and habitats in which primary birding hotspots
lights many of Vancouver’s natural gems with some of its best scenery. The locations below
secondary birding hotspots
LEGEND
cies that have been sighted there. If you would like to know more about birds in the city,
Park Board website at: http://vancouver.ca/parks/environment

primary birding hotspots

ch John Hendry (Trout Lake) Park Burrard Inlet
• western gull secondary birding hotspots
• common redpoll
• osprey

Hastings Park – The Sanctuary

• cackling goose English Bay

k
Burrard Inlet
• red-breasted sapsucker
• yellow-bellied sapsucker
• common redpoll
uson Point
er New Brighton Park
• surf scoter
ye • mew gull

Pacific Spirit Park

nry • Wilson’s warbler
• Eurasian collared-dove
• pacific-slope flycatcher
Lagoon • western tanager
arrow
Musqueam Park
• northern waterthrush
er • western scrub jay

er Lake McCleery Golf Course

• Audubon Sanctuary Certification

Fraser River Park

• American wigeon
Gladstone Park
VanDusen Botanical Garden (admission fee) • song sparrow
er • olive-sided flycatcher • pine siskin
• Anna’s hummingbird
• Cooper’s hawk Fraserview Golf Course
de • Audubon Sanctuary Certification
Queen Elizabeth Park

birding hot spots

• white-throated sparrow Riverfront Park
• short-earred owl • white-crowned sparrow
• orange-crowned warbler • great blue heron Fraser River
• Townsend’s solitaire

in Vancouver
Everett Crowley Park
Langara Golf Course • black phoebe
• Audubon Sanctuary Certification • blue-gray gnatcatcher

Vancouver Bird Strategy 27

PARTNERS
The City of Vancouver partnered with a number of organizations to form the Vancouver Bird Advisory
Committee to develop and update as necessary the Vancouver Bird Strategy, and recognizes the need
to continue to build partnerships as we move forward towards a more bird friendly city. The Committee
and its partners have changed and expanded over the decade Vancouver has been celebrating birds. The
Committee continues to advise and co-ordinate on issues related to birds in Vancouver and across the
region and oversees the implementation of the Vancouver Bird Strategy.

VANCOUVER BIRD ADVISORY COMMITTEE

MEMBERS AND PARTNERS
• Birds Canada • Stanley Park Ecology Society
• Environment and Climate Change • Stewardship Centre for BC
Canada • Tourism Vancouver
• Nature Vancouver • Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation
• Pacific Wildlife Foundation • Various City of Vancouver departments

PHOTO AND IMAGE CREDITS

Right to left, and top to bottom where applicable.
• Page i, Robyn Worcester • Page 17, Nick Page, Michele Campbell, Karen
• Page ii and iii, Rob Butler Magill, Ann Hohenberger, Laslovarga
• Page iv, Stanley Park Ecology Society • Page 18, CofV
• Page 2, Robyn Worcester • Page 19, Michele Campbell
• Page 6, Tom Middleton • Page 20, Michele Campbell, Alan Duncan
• Page 8, Liron Gertsman • Page 21, Rob Butler, Krista de Groot, Sean
• Page 9, Mark White Alward, Alan Duncan
• Page 10, both photos CofV • Page 22, Robyn Worcester
• Page 11, Rob Butler • Page 23, Ken Billington
• Page 12, Liron Gertsman • Page 24, Alan Duncan
• Page 13, Stanley Park Ecology Society • Page 25, Genevieve Raiche-Savoie, Paula Jardine,
• Page 14, Ralph Hocken, Carmen Rosen
Wikimedia Commons • Page 26, Rockwood Adventures, Vanessa Timmer
• Page 15, Stock Photo • Page 27, CityStudio
• Page 16, Christine Sheppard • Page 29, Tim Matheson

Layout and graphic design by Michele Campbell and Genevieve Raiche-Savoie

Vancouver Bird Strategy 28

Vancouver Bird Strategy 29
Vancouver Bird Strategy 30