TOFINO BIRD WATCHING TOURS

Tofino is a wonderful destination for bird watching, offering a diverse range of habitats that attract various bird species. Here are some tips to enhance your bird-watching experience in Tofino.

1. Join a Guided Tour: Consider joining us on the Tofino Bird Watching Tour or the Pelagic Bird Watching Tour led by our local experts. They can provide valuable insights, share knowledge about the local birdlife and take you to prime birding locations.

2. Research Bird Species: Before your trip, research the bird species you’re interested in observing. Tofino is known for both resident and migratory birds, so knowing what to look for can enhance your birding experience.

3. Visit Key Birding Hotspots:

   Pacific Rim National Park Reserve: Explore the different areas within the park such as rainforest trails and the beach shoreline.

   Tofino Mudflats: These mudflats are important for migratory shorebirds, especially during the migration seasons.

   Chesterman Beach: Walk the beach. Sometimes you will see migratory shorebirds.

4. Bring Binoculars and Field Guide: Binoculars are essential for observing birds from a distance. A field guide specific to the region can help you identify the different species you encounter.

5. Seasonal Considerations: Different seasons bring different bird species to the area. Spring, summer and fall are the best times for bird watching due to migration. We see the Tufted Puffins late May - the end of August.

6. Be Patient and Observant: Bird watching requires patience. Spent time quietly observing surroundings, listen for bird calls and if you are on the ocean look for bird activity on the water.

   Remember to check for any specific regulations or restrictions in protected areas, and always prioritize the well-being of the birds and their habitats. Enjoy your bird-watching adventure in Tofino!

Shorebird Migration in Tofino

Shorebirds are a diverse group of birds that are known for their long migrations. They typically breed in the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions during the summer months, and then migrate to warmer regions in the winter.

Every year from late April through May, flocks of sandpipers, plovers, whimbrels and many other shorebirds pass through our local beaches and mudflats. Thousands of shorebirds stop here to feed and rest as they make their impressive journey from South and Central America northward to their Arctic breeding grounds.

The Tofino Mudflats comprise one of ten most critical wetland areas for migratory birds on the west coast and have been designated an “important bird area” of Canada. The mudflats rich nutrients and organic sediment host the marine worms, clams, crabs, and ghost shrimp that make the site a critical stopover site for migrating shorebirds, particularly Western Sandpipers. The best look out for shorebirds on the mudflats is at the end of Sharp Road. The mudflats at this location offer some of the best and most accessible high-quality shorebird viewing in Tofino. We suggest going to view the birds at low tide.