Red Deer River Naturalists

Bird Focus Group Field Trip
2024-06-29 10:00 - 18:00 (America/Edmonton) | alberta
You are all invited to the Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Field Trip
Location: Medicine Lake Provincial Recreation Area (north of Rocky Mountain House on Hwy 22) see map, best to use a mapping app on your phone as a guide if you have one. Cell phone service is poor at the campground, but probably text msgs. will get through.
Host: Chris Olsen
When: June 29, 2024 bird walk from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and paddling from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 or 6:00 p.m. Bring a bag lunch.

Meet: Day use area/boat launch for both the birding walk and paddling. We may shuttle from there for the walk, or simply hike back to the trail head. We’ll paddle the lake counter-clockwise, and so people that want a short outing can see ‘water lily bay’ and do a short loop (about 2 kms) back to the launch. Those that are up for a longer paddle can continue along the far shore for as long as they like, and eventually we’ll explore the mouth of the Medicine River and loop back to the boat launch (about 4 hrs).
Chris will be camping in Loop A, site A-8 from Thursday night on and so people can find him there ahead if they are camping too. Will and Cathy Steele (RDRN Director) will also be camping Saturday in site A-4.
While Medicine Lake Rec. Area camping appears ‘fully booked’ on line, there are two non-reservable sites in each loop, and those are usually available to access on-site if you are interested in camping, first come first served.
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learn from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars,* camera/phone, insect repellent, bear spray and sunscreen. Wear sturdy hiking footwear. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Carry water and an energy snack. Wear layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Bird Focus Group Walk Field Trip
2024-09-07 10:00 - 13:00 | Alix Lake Campground, Alix Lake, Alix, Alberta, T0C 0B0, Canada
You are all invited to the Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Alix Lake Nature Trail
Meet: Alix Lake Campground
When: September 7, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Maybe longer.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend.
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water, energy snack, bear spray, bug spray and sunscreen. Wear sturdy hiking footwear, dress in layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Bird Focus Group Walk Field Trip
2024-09-14 10:00 - 16:00 | alberta
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Field Trip
Location: Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park – The Dry Island Buffalo Jump outing is a full day outing. We meet at the overlook at 10:00 a.m., and we will set our route from there depending on moisture conditions. Note, that the full walk leads around and back over the ‘Island’. It as an ‘intermediate’ hike, and there will certainly be rough and steep portions. Wear good hikers and bring poles if you use them. The hike will take about 5 hours from the day use area, so allow 6 hours overall (lunch and water along). If some people are hesitant about the steeper portions, they can join us for the early stages along the river and then circle back to return by those same trails (the first 2-3 km).
When: September 14, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend.
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water, energy snack, bear spray, bug spray and sunscreen. Wear sturdy hiking footwear, dress in layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.
Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park

Bird Focus Group Walk
2024-09-21 10:00 - 13:00 | Heritage Ranch, 6300 Cronquist Drive, Red Deer, Alberta, Canada
Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Heritage Ranch, meet in the first parking lot past the entrance.
When: September 21, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Host: No Host today, but you are welcome to come and go as a group un-escorted.

All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars and camera/phone. Carry water, energy snack, bug spray and sunscreen. Wear sturdy hiking footwear, dress in layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Some trails are on rough terrain.

Bird Focus Group Walk Field Trip
2024-09-28 10:00 - 13:00 | alberta
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Springbrook Natural Area, take the main road into Springbrook (Red Deer Airport). Just before the bend to the right there is a small gravel parking lot where you can park at the entrance to Tamarack Blvd. We cross over the road into the park.
When: September 28, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Maybe longer.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water, energy snack, bear spray, bug spray and sunscreen. Wear sturdy hiking footwear, dress in layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.
Springbrook Natural Area

Bird Focus Group Walk Field Trip
2024-10-05 10:00 - 13:00 | alberta
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Nova Chemicals Community Nature Trail
Meet: Before you visit you can get a detailed map showing how to get there, and learn more about the area and visitor guidelines: https://www.novachem.com/wp-content/uploads/Legacy-fact-sheet-1.pdf
The Community Nature Trail is located within easy driving distance of many Central Alberta communities: just southwest of the Hamlet of Joffre on Township Rd 390. Directions from Red Deer, travel east on Highway 11 and turn left onto highway 815. Proceed to Range Road 390 and turn left. It’s a short distance and you will see a sign.
When: October 5, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Maybe longer.

Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water, energy snack, bear spray, rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking footwear, water resistant and with ice cleats as required by the season. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Nova Chemicals Community Nature Trail

Bird Focus Group Walk
2024-10-12 10:00 - 13:00 | Maskepetoon Park, Maskepetoon Park, Red Deer, Alberta, Canada
Location: Maskepetoon Park – located in the subdivision of Oriole Park West.
Meet: In the fitness park parking lot of Kerry Wood Drive/Oak Drive. Parking lot is on the west side of Kerry Wood Drive/Oak Drive.
When: October 12, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water, energy snack, bear spray, rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking footwear, water resistant and with ice cleats as required by the season. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Bird Focus Group Walk Field Trip
2024-10-19 10:00 - 14:00 | alberta
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Crimson Lake Provincial Park – Amerada trail follows the lake perimeter for about 10 km. Bring your own lunch for a break at about the mid-point, and plan for about 4 hours of walking.
Meet: At the main parking lot
When: October 19, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water, energy snack, bear spray, rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking footwear, water resistant and with ice cleats as required by the season. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.
Crimson Lake Provincial Park
Crimson Lake Provincial Park

Bird Focus Group Walk
2024-10-26 10:00 - 13:00 | River Bend Golf and Recreation Area, 3800 River Bend Drive, Red Deeer, Alberta, T4P 0Y4, Canada
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: River Bend Golf & Recreation Area – Upper Trail
Meet: In the main parking lot
When: October 26, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Maybe longer.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water, energy snack, bear spray, rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking footwear, water resistant and with ice cleats as required by the season. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

River Bend Golf & Recreation Area
River Bend Golf & Recreation Area

Bird Focus Group Walk Field Trip
2024-11-02 10:00 - 13:00 | alberta
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Dickson Point Trout Pond
Meet: South of Dickson for 4.1 kilometres on Range Road 31. Located on Gleniffer Lake Reservoir.
When: November 2, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Maybe longer.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water, energy snack and bear spray. Dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking footwear, water resistant and with ice cleats as required by the season. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.
Dickson Point Trout Pond

Bird Focus Group Walk
2024-11-09 10:00 - 13:00 | Burman University Admin. Building Auditorium, 6730 University Drive, Lacombe, AB, T4L 2E5, Canada
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Barnett, Elizabeth and Cranna lakes – Lacombe
Meet: Burman University Physical Education Centre parking lot
When: November 9, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Maybe longer.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water and an energy snack. Dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking footwear, water resistant and with ice cleats as required by the season. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Bird Focus Group Walk
2024-11-16 10:00 - 13:00 | Rotary Park, 4837 43 Street, Red Deer, Alberta, Canada
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Barrett, Coronation and Gaetz Park Trails
Meet: Rotary Park parking lot, and we’ll walk East and North from there. For those that want to walk the full distance 3.5 kms, we’ll finish at the stairs/landing at 45 Avenue and 59 Street. People can arrange for a shuttle or pick-up there, or simply return along the reverse route.
When: November 16, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. May be longer.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water and an energy snack. Dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking footwear, water resistant and with ice cleats as required by the season. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.
Rotary Park

Bird Focus Group Walk
2024-11-23 10:00 - 13:00 | Bower Woods, Selkirk Boulevard, Red Deer, Alberta, Canada
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Bower Woods
Meet: In the green space across from 37 Selkirk Boulevard
When: November 23, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water and an energy snack. Dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking footwear, water resistant and with ice cleats as required by the season. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.
Bower Woods

Bird Focus Group Walk
2024-11-30 10:00 - 13:00 | McKenzie Trails, McKenzie Trails Red Deer, Red Deer, Alberta, Canada
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: McKenzie Trails Recreation Area
Meet: In the main parking lot near the shelter
When: November 30, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water and an energy snack. Dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking footwear, water resistant and with ice cleats as required by the season. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Bird Focus Group Walk
2024-12-07 10:00 - 13:00 | River Bend Golf and Recreation Area, 3800 River Bend Drive, Red Deeer, Alberta, T4P 0Y4, Canada
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: River Bend Golf & Recreation Area – Perimeter Trail
Meet: In the main parking lot
When: December 7, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Maybe longer.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water and an energy snack. Dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking footwear, water resistant and with ice cleats as required by the season. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Bird Focus Group Walk
2024-12-14 10:00 - 14:00 | Gaetz Lakes Migratory Bird Sanctuary, gaetz lake mirgratory bird sanctuary, red deer, alberta, Canada
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Gaetz Lake Migratory Bird Sanctuary
Meet: Inside the Kerry Wood Nature Centre
When: December 14, 2024 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Host: Chris Olsen
This will be our last scheduled walk for the season. Coffee and treats to follow (about 1:00 p.m.) at the Kerry Wood Nature Centre. We’ll use this opportunity to debrief our season, so even if you can’t make the walk, try and come out to enjoy the group and to share your feedback and ideas/suggestions for next year.
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water and an energy snack. Dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking footwear, water resistant and with ice cleats as required by the season. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Bird Focus Group Walk Field Trip
2025-03-22 10:00 - 13:00 | Carburn Park, 67 Riverview Drive SE, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
You are all invited to the Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk Field Trip

Host: Chris OlsenLocation: Carburn Park, 67 Riverview Drive SE Calgary, AlbertaCarburn Park is a large natural area park nestled along the Bow River. It features two man-made ponds, a regional pathway and numerous, wildlife and waterfowl to experience.Meet: In the main parking lot at Carburn Park.When: March 22, 2025 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!

Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Wear layers and sturdy hiking footwear, water resistant with ice cleats as required by the season. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Carry water and an energy snack. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.

*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Carburn Park site information and link to site map

Carburn Park Driving Map

Bird Focus Group Walk
2025-03-29 10:00 - 13:00 | River Bend Golf & Recreation Area, 3800 River Bend Drive, Red Deer, Alberta, T4P 0Y4, Canada
You are all invited to the Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: River Bend Golf & Recreation Area – Perimeter Trail
Meet: In the main parking lot
When: March 29, 2025 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Maybe longer.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water and an energy snack. Dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking footwear, water resistant and with ice cleats as required by conditions. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.
River Bend Golf & Recreation Area

Bird Focus Group Walk
2025-04-05 10:00 - 13:00 | Kerry Wood Nature Centre, 6300 45 Avenue, Red Deer, AB, T4N 3M4, Canada
You are all invited to the Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Gaetz Lake Migratory Bird Sanctuary
Meet: Inside the Kerry Wood Nature Centre 6300 – 45 Avenue Red Deer, AB T4N 3M4
When: April 5, 2025 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water and an energy snack. Dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking footwear, water resistant and with ice cleats as required by conditions. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Bird Focus Group Walk
2025-04-12 10:00 - 13:00 | McKenzie Trails, McKenzie Trails Red Deer, Red Deer, Alberta, Canada
You are all invited to the Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: McKenzie Trails Recreation Area to River Bend Golf & Recreation Area
Meet: In the main parking lot at McKenzie Trails near the shelter. Arrange your own shuttle from River Bend or return to McKenzie Trails.
When: April 12, 2025 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Maybe longer.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water and an energy snack. Dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking footwear, water resistant and with ice cleats as required by conditions. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Bird Focus Group Walk
2025-04-19 10:00 - 13:00 | Maskepetoon Park, Maskepetoon Park, Red Deer, Alberta, Canada
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Maskepetoon Park – located in the subdivision of Oriole Park West.
Meet: In the fitness park parking lot of Kerry Wood Drive/Oak Drive. Parking lot is on the west side of Kerry Wood Drive/Oak Drive.
When: April 19, 2025 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water and an energy snack. Dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking footwear, water resistant and with ice cleats as required by conditions. Carry rain gear and a hat as required. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Bird Focus Group Field Trip
2025-04-26 04:00 - 08:00 | alberta
Our Host Chris Olsen has booked the Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk to join the Wainwright Wildlife Society (WWS) in their annual Sharp-tailed Grouse Tour on April 26, 2025. WWS set comfortable blinds on a lek site. The birds come in the pre-dawn to display to potential mates, and it is truly amazing to witness the strutting, posturing, rattling and even aggression in the dawn light. Dancing at this very site was recently filmed and shown on the Nature of Things. Go to CBC GEM and search the Nature of Things; look for a 3-part documentary titled the ‘Secret World of Sound’. The segment that includes Sharp-tailed Grouse on this lek is in part 2, ‘Love and Rivals’.
Pre-registration is required contact olsencdel@gmail.com to participate. Deadline for registering is April 5, 2025. Chris has reserved 15 seats for $35 adults, $15 students (cash) to support the WWS – bring exact change. We are full but you can be added to a waitlist. This outing will meet at a parking lot (tba) in Wainwright and depart for the lek at 4:00 a.m. sharp. Plan to be in the blinds until about 8:00 a.m., dress in warm layers, and bring a hot thermos and a snack. If you are unfamiliar with this spectacle, you will be amazed! If you wish to attend on your own on a different date the WWS runs this Sharp-tailed Grouse Watch from mid April to mid May. See www.facebook.com/WainwrightWildlifeSociety for details and more information about the tour.
The Tofield Snow Goose Festival also runs the weekend of April 26-27, 2025, based on offerings of years’ past, there is a ‘bird festival’ site in the Town and guided bus excursions with a biologist or interpreter to area wetlands. You can expect to see very large aggregations of Snow Geese and other migrating waterfowl and shore birds. Two or three hour bus tour options, tickets go on sale March 4, 2025. You can pre-register to reserve your seat! Visit www.snowgoosefestival.ca for more information. It may be something you may want to do after the Sharp-tailed Grouse watch, or the next day, depending on travel logistics.
Photo by Chris Olsen

Bird Focus Group Walk
2025-05-03 10:00 - 13:00 | Heritage Ranch, 6300 Cronquist Drive, Red Deer, Alberta, Canada
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Heritage Ranch, meet in the first parking lot past the entrance.
When: May 3, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water and an energy snack. Dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking footwear, water resistant and with ice cleats as required by the season. Carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Bird Focus Group Field Trip
2025-05-10 10:00 - 13:30 | alberta
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Raven Brood Trout Station
Directions: 54034 Twp Rd 36-0. From Hwy 54, go south on Hwy 22 approximately 5 km, turn west onto Twp Rd 36-0. Turn right at the first fork.
Meet: Park by the picnic shelter.
When: May 10, 2025 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Maybe longer.

Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend.
Bring your binoculars,* camera/phone, bug spray and sunscreen. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Carry water and an energy snack. Wear sturdy hiking footwear, dress in layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Bird Focus Group Field Trip
2025-05-17 10:00 - 13:00 | Alix Lake Campground, Alix Lake, Alix, Alberta, T0C 0B0, Canada
You are all invited to the Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Alix Lake Nature Trail
Meet: Alix Lake Campground
When: May 17, 2025 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water, energy snack, bug spray and sunscreen. Wear sturdy hiking footwear, dress in layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Bird Focus Group Field Trip
2025-05-31 10:00 - 13:00 | Kuhnen Park
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Kuhnen Park https://www.lacombecounty.com/index.php/parks-and-trails or https://birdingtrailsalberta.com/central-alberta-east/kuhnen-park-2/
When: May 31, 2025 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Maybe longer.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars*, camera/phone, bug spray and sunscreen. Wear sturdy hiking footwear, some trails are on rough terrain. Carry water and an energy snack. Wear layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first serve) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Bird Focus Group Walk
2025-06-07 10:00 - 13:00 | River Bend Golf & Recreation Area, 3800 River Bend Drive, Red Deer, Alberta, T4P 0Y4, Canada
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: River Bend Golf & Recreation Area – Upper Trail
Meet: In the main parking lot
When: June 7, 2025 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Maybe longer.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars*, camera/phone, bug spray and sunscreen. Carry water and an energy snack. Wear sturdy hiking footwear, some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Wear layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first serve) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.
River Bend Golf & Recreation Area

Bird Focus Group Field Trip
2025-06-14 10:00 - 18:00 | alberta
You are all invited to the Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Field Trip
Location: Medicine Lake Provincial Recreation Area (north of Rocky Mountain House on Hwy 22) see map, best to use a mapping app on your phone as a guide if you have one. Cell phone service is poor at the campground, but probably text msgs. will get through.
Host: Chris Olsen
When: June 14, 2025 bird walk from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and paddling from 3:00 p.m. onward.
Meet: Day use area/boat launch for both the birding walk and paddling. We may shuttle from there for the walk, or simply hike back to the trail head. We’ll paddle the lake counter-clockwise, and so people that want a short outing can see ‘water lily bay’ and do a short loop (about 2 kms) back to the launch. Those that are up for a longer paddle can continue along the far shore for as long as they like, and eventually we’ll explore the mouth of the Medicine River and loop back to the boat launch (about 4 hrs).
While Medicine Lake Rec. Area can be booked, there are two non-reservable sites in each loop, and those are usually available to access on-site if you are interested in camping, first come first served. Chris will be camping June 13th to 15th,
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learn from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars,* camera/phone, bug spray and sunscreen. Wear sturdy hiking footwear. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Carry water and an energy snack. Wear layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.

Bird Focus Group Field Trip
2025-06-15 10:00 - 14:00 | alberta
You are all invited to the Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Field Trip
Location: Crimson Lake Provincial Park – Amerada trail follows the lake perimeter for about 10 km. Bring your own lunch for a break at about the mid-point, and plan for about 4 hours of walking.
Meet: At the main parking lot
When: June 15, 2025 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Maybe longer.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learns from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars,* camera/phone, bug spray and sunscreen. Wear sturdy hiking footwear. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Carry water and an energy snack. Wear layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.
Crimson Lake Provincial Park
Crimson Lake Provincial Park

Bird Focus Group Field Trip
2025-06-28 10:00 - 13:30 | alberta
You are all invited to the Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Field Trip
Location: Radar Hill – see Alberta Discover Guide – https://www.albertadiscoverguide.com/site.cfm?grid=E3&number=12
Meet: End of RR 260 – This 480-acre site is approximately 14 km SE of Red Deer. To access the site, travel 16 km E of Red Deer on Highway 595, then S 4.8 km on RR 260.
When: June 28, 2025 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. May be longer.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learn from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars*, camera/phone, bug spray and sunscreen. Wear sturdy hiking footwear. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Carry water and an energy snack. Wear layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first serve) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.
