2026 Migratory Shorebirds Day Tour

2026 Migratory Shorebirds Day Tours

Discover the unparalleled birdlife of Lac La Biche, a recognized bird sanctuary since 1920 and a vital hub along the central migratory pathway. Nestled in the heart of the Boreal Forest, this area is a haven for over 200 bird species throughout the year. From sandpipers and herons to pelicans, loons, grebes, ospreys, eagles, and ducks, the diversity of wildlife offers incredible photography opportunities along the scenic shores of Lac La Biche Lake.

Your Photography Adventure:

This private wildlife photography tour is tailored to give you access to the best locations for capturing stunning images of shorebirds. Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park and other lakeside areas offer prime spots to explore and photograph. With over 20 kilometers of lakeshore, there’s no shortage of breathtaking backdrops for your shots.

• Maximized Shooting Opportunities: The tour spans two half-days, starting on the evening of the first day and concluding the following morning. This schedule allows you to arrive, settle into your accommodation, enjoy evening and morning bird sessions, and head home by checkout—keeping accommodation costs minimal.
• Optimal Lighting: We’ll focus on the golden hours of early morning and evening for the best light and most active bird behavior.
• Customizable Experience: The itinerary can be adapted to suit your skill level, interests, and activity preferences, ensuring a personalized and rewarding experience.

Ethics and Expertise:

Throughout the tour, I emphasize ethical wildlife photography practices, prioritizing your safety and the well-being of the birds. I’ll teach you to observe and photograph in a way that minimizes stress on the wildlife.

As an internationally acclaimed, award-winning wildlife photographer, I’ll guide you every step of the way—helping you understand bird behavior, master action shots, and compose captivating images.

Why Lac La Biche?

This region is a true birder’s paradise. With its protected sanctuary status and pristine habitats, it provides unparalleled opportunities to photograph a wide variety of species in their natural environment.

Tour Location:

All tours take place in the beautiful Lac La Biche region of Alberta, Canada. Whether you’re an experienced photographer or just beginning your journey, this tour offers something for everyone.

Join me for an unforgettable experience in one of Canada’s richest birding regions and leave with incredible photos and memories to cherish!

2026 Tour Dates

Spring dates

In the springtime, the ice is thawing, but the lake is still mostly frozen. This is a great time to photograph great blue herons and waterfowl that stay close to the shore in large groups where the lake is opening. The birds exhibit mating behaviours at this time and are in full plumage. 

April 18 & 19
April 25 & 26

Late summer dates

As the summer begins to wind down, thousands of sandpipers are migrating back south from the far north, passing through Lac La Biche. A wide variety of pipers, from yellowlegs to godwits to avocets, can be encountered in late August. Pelicans, comorants, and loons are still plentiful, however, the ducks will be out of plumage. 

August 22 & 23

Costs

$700- One participant 
$1100- Two participants

What is covered in the cost?

• Pick up and drop off at your accommodations for tour
• In-field photography tips and teaching

What is not covered in the cost?

• Transportation to and from Lac La Biche, Alberta, Canada
• Accommodations
• Meals

What level of physical activity is required?

• Ability to walk up to 1.5km carrying camera gear. Ability to get up and down from the ground.

What will the weather be like?

• Weather is relatively cool in April but much warmer in August. In April, it can be from below zero to 15C, and in August, temperatures tend to be around 20C to 25C 
• An updated forecast will be provided closer to the actual date of the tour. 

What should you bring?

• Plenty of batteries
• A lens that has reach to at least 400mm

Itinerary (subject to change)

First Evening

5:00 pm - pick up at accommodations
5:20 pm - arrive at first location
5:20 pm - 8:00 pm - on the beach photographing birds, will move locations as necessary
8:00 pm - return to accommodations
8:20 pm - arrive at accommodations

Second Morning
5:45 am - pick up at accommodations
6:00 am -  arrive at first location
6:00 am - 9;30 am - on the beach photographing birds, will move locations as necessary
9:30 am- return to accommodations
9:45 am - arrive at accommodations

NOTE: While we will make every attempt to find the wildlife during the tour there is NO guarantee that we will. Inability to find wildlife does not warrant a refund.