View a list of upcoming Explorer Days and read our Explorer Day Etiquette below!
In response to COVID-19, NatureKids BC is providing online resources and interactions, such as Virtual Explorer Days, to ensure the safety of our members. Please read our COVID-19 Guidelines and Policy for any potential in-person gatherings this summer.
Hawk Watch!
We have been generously invited to join our adult nature club and nature mentors at the Victoria Natural History Society (VNHS) to learn about the phenomenon of the fall migration and to join them for a BBQ at 3 p.m.
It’s migration time! From mid-September to late October, birds gather in East Sooke Regional Park riding the thermals and waiting for the perfect opportunity and good weather to cross 27 km of the Strait of Juan de Fuca to Washington State and further south. At the peak of migration as many as 1000 Turkey Vultures can be seen kettling over the coastal hills along with a mix of other raptor species, including Red-tailed Hawk, Peregrine Falcon, Merlin, American Kestrel, Cooper’s Hawk, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Northern Harrier, Osprey, and Bald Eagle. If you’re lucky, you may spot some other rare raptors that pass through at this time of year, including the Golden Eagle, Rough-legged Hawk, Northern Goshawk, and Broad-winged Hawk.
Meet at 11 am near the VNHS tent at the far end of the parking lot, Aylard Farm entrance of East Sooke Regional Park. If you come late and just want to join us for the BBQ- this will be in the same spot, in the grassy area at the far end of the Aylard Farm parking lot.
WHAT TO BRING? Appropriate clothing for changeable weather (it can be cooler and windy on Beechey Head), sturdy shoes for the walk up to Beechey Head (mostly easy except for a short steep and rocky section at the end), binoculars if you have them (if not, there are some available to borrow). Also snacks and water (no water available on site). If you plan to stay for the picnic BBQ starting at 3, you may want to bring a picnic blanket and/or lawn chairs and picnic supplies (plates/cutlery/drinks). Don’t forget your Passports to Nature!