Look out for trail-side signs at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park in Saanich as the park hosts Beginner Birding Basics, a self-guided walk for all ages, Sunday.
The information panels advise visitors of what to look for, and listen to, in identifying the birds in the area. They are an important tool for enhancing visitor knowledge and understanding during nature walks.
“We initially introduced the self-guided walks during the pandemic, due to social distancing,” said Emma Jane Vignola, a naturalist with CRD Parks. “We found out that people liked them because of the flexibility they offer.”
She said that unlike a guided tour, people can spend as much or as little time as they wish exploring. People saw the signs providing a learning experience in lieu of an actual guide.
There will be 16 panels set up at various points of the 800-metre trail route on Sunday. Staff will also set up an information stand at the kiosk at the Filter Beds parking lot. Participants can ask CRD Parks naturalists about the program before they set out, or enquire about birds they saw at the conclusion of their walk.
“It has been a very popular program. In the future we may offer self-guided walks on different topics or use the same topic, but in a different park,” said Vignola.
The Beginner Birding Basics is an all-ages activity that is free to join. It runs 10 a.m. to noon, Nov. 12 and begins at the information kiosk at the Filter Beds parking lot of Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. Free parking. The trail consists of compact surface with roots and no incline. It is wheelchair accessible.
Visitors can access the park on B.C. Transit routes 70, 72 or 75.
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Get a jump on Christmas at the Creative Craft Fair
See an array of crafts accompanied by the sights, sounds and the familiar aromas of Christmas at the Creative Craft Fair, Friday to Sunday at G.R Pearkes Recreation Centre.
This is the 44th year of the annual event — and the 30th year held at Pearkes. The fair boasts more than 125 exhibitors, with artisans offering crafts, gourmet food, fine art, photography, clothing, glass art, jewellery, bath and beauty products, wine, spirits and fine woodwork.
Visitors will also find a section of high-quality imports and fair trade goods.
Admission is $6.75 a day or $7.50 for a three-day pass. Children 12 and under are free when accompanied by an adult. The event runs 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at G. R. Pearkes Recreation Centre, 3100 Tillicum Rd. The site is wheelchair accessible.
Food truck on site providing food and refreshments.
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