Nature Canada

Nature groups make winter greener with the Lower Mainland’s first ever NatureBlitz event

For Immediate Release

Delta, BC (February 27, 2016) ― Nature Canada, NatureKids BC and wildlife experts from the Delta region are gathering today to host a winter “NatureBlitz” event at the Alaksen National Wildlife Area (NWA) and George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary on Westham Island, 45 minutes south of Vancouver. The day-long NatureBlitz will give participants a close look at local winter wildlife, including birds, mammals and invasive species, as well as owls and bats after dark, through a series of guided activities taking place at the two sites between 7am and 8pm. Part of Nature Canada’s national NatureHood program, free NatureBlitz events provide family-friendly nature education activities through the exploration and discovery of local flora and fauna.

“Our goal is to help people appreciate the diversity of nature that’s all around them by showing them what’s there, and to have fun while doing it,” said Alex MacDonald, Nature Canada’s Senior Conservation Manager. Kristine Webber, Executive Director of NatureKids BC adds, “Our hope is that lots of people join us for a fun, engaging day at these unique, near-urban wilderness areas”.  Webber, MacDonald and other Delta-area nature and wildlife experts are aiming to locate, identify and photograph as many different species as possible around the sites during the day-long event. “Today’s observations will give us a baseline list of winter wildlife observed that we can then add to through future activities,” offered MacDonald.

For more information including a full schedule of events and directions to the site, members of the public are encouraged to visit https://naturecanada.ca/news/blog/lower_mainland_natureblitz/. Pre-registration is required for the event.

– 30 –

About Nature Canada

Nature Canada is the oldest national nature conservation charity in Canada. Over the past 75 years, Nature Canada has helped protect over 63 million acres of parks and wildlife areas in Canada and countless species that depend on this habitat. Today, Nature Canada represents a network of more than 45,000 members and supporters and more than 350 nature organizations across the country, with affiliates in every province. Nature Canada focuses on effecting change on issues of national significance including bird conservation, citizen science initiatives, urban nature initiatives, encouraging volunteers to care for critical natural habitat and acting as a voice for nature at the federal level.

Media Contacts:

Alex MacDonald, Senior Conservation Manager, Nature Canada – 613-324-7003 (mobile) or  amacdonald@naturecanada.ca.

Kristine Webber, Executive Director, NatureKids BC, 604-833-8001 (mobile), kristinewebber@naturekidsbc.ca.

Want to Help?

Canada’s wilderness is the world’s envy. It’s our duty to keep our true north strong and green.

Donate