Shoal Harbour Migratory Bird Sanctuary, Migratory bird sanctuary in North Saanich, Canada
Shoal Harbour Migratory Bird Sanctuary is a protected coastal area on the east side of Vancouver Island with shallow bays, mudflats, and rocky shores. The landscape varies between sandy coves, expanses of exposed mud, and gravel banks that reveal open feeding grounds for waterbirds when the tide recedes.
The site was established as a protected area in 1931 to provide safe rest and feeding grounds for birds during seasonal migrations. The region had been used for thousands of years by Coast Salish peoples before becoming a formal sanctuary.
The name refers to the shallow water formations that characterize the coastal landscape and draw bird watchers from across the region. Visitors often become part of a network of nature enthusiasts who return seasonally to observe migrations.
The site is walkable with multiple entry points to different sections, but be mindful of tides and wear shoes with good grip since mudflats can be slippery. Visiting at low tide offers the best opportunities for spotting birds and exploring exposed areas.
The mudflats are covered with eelgrass and sea lettuce, creating unusual patterns that make them biologically productive feeding grounds for traveling birds. At low tide visitors can walk directly into these lush growth areas and witness their ecological importance firsthand.
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