Sold Out! Meet the Foothills: Birding at Leighton Art Centre

Can you tell the difference between a Robin and a Sparrow? OK, that one might be a bit easy, but this is the workshop for you if you’ve ever wished you knew more about birds! This interactive outdoor experience will focus on the birds that can be found at the Leighton Art Centre in our Alberta Foothills. Come and learn about the special bird adaptations that make each species successful in the diverse environment at the Centre. We will look for the soarers (hawks and falcons), the perchers (wrens, bluebirds etc.), the walkers (plovers, killdeers, robins) and the waders and swimmers (ducks and geese). We will learn how to best use our binoculars, discover special identification features of each species of birds become familiar with using keys and field guides to identify the ones we do see. During the workshop, we will be taking a bird inventory too.  

For a more joyful and comfortable visit to the Leighton Art Centre, please bring a water bottle, long pants, insect repellant, sturdy shoes and sunscreen. Walking poles may be a good addition. We strongly suggest you bring your camera and binoculars too!   

Here is what past participants have said about Jim Critchley`s nature tour at the Leighton Art Centre: 

”I left with an excellent knowledge and understanding of the birds and animals that call the Leighton property and the general vicinity their home. Additionally, Jim provided me with insight about their distinguishing characteristics, habits, etc. ” 

”Leighton Art Centre is a superb location. Our kids enjoyed hunting for tracks and we all found out lots of information from Jim.” 

Audience: This nature tour is open to curious people of all ages! Families are welcome to join! 

Supplies: No supplies required. Remember your water bottle, long pants, insect repellant, sturdy shoes and sunscreen. 

Registration cost:   $15.00 per person (5 and under free)

*Did you know that Members of the Leighton Art Centre, get 10% off the registration cost of all workshops and kids’ summer camps? Visit our website to find out more about our memberships.

For our Cancellation and Refund Policy, please visit the Workshop page on our website. 

Guide’s Biography 

This workshop will be led by retired Science Teacher, biologist and naturalist, Jim Critchley B.E.S, B.Ed, M.Ed. Jim is an experienced field researcher and Educator. He holds an undergraduate degree in Environmental studies and has worked as a research technologist on an Atlantic Salmon spawning river for the Woods Hole Oceanographic institute.