Bird Day Ottawa was a great success this year, drawing close to a thousand people in the Ottawa-Gatineau area to Nature Canada’s annual bird and wildlife event.

There were crafts for kids, live falcon demonstrations, and guided nature walks throughout the day.

Bird Day is an event dedicated to celebrating nature, getting people excited about nature in their NatureHoods and connecting people – especially kids – to the nature all around them.

Here are our top three reasons for celebrating nature in your NatureHood.

1. Discover something new about your neighbourhood! Each guided nature walk at Bird Day revealed a different set of species and a variety of habitats. Depending on the time of day and the season, you will likely see a different group of animals and plants. Exploring your NatureHood on foot or by bicycle is a great way to get to know your local plants and wildlife.
2. Contribute to science through a citizen science program. Make your observations of nature count by sharing them with scientists and other nature enthusiasts through the Explore NatureHood app.
3. Give your brain a natural boost. Studies have shown that time spent in nature not only increases your energy level, it also promotes positive emotions.