Have you ever spotted a bird and wondered if your observation could make a real difference? The answer is yes.

On May 2, Stanley Park Ecology invites you to Your Observation Matters: Citizen Science in Birding, an engaging panel discussion exploring how everyday bird sightings contribute to real scientific research and conservation efforts.

Meet the Panelists

This panel brings together experienced voices in birding and conservation:

• Scott Loarie – the Executive Director at iNaturalist, empowering Citizen Science around the world
• John Reynolds – a professor at Simon Fraser University, where he holds the Tom Buell Chair in Aquatic Conservation
• David Bird – an Emeritus Professor of Wildlife Biology at McGill University in Montreal, Quebec
• Jeffrey Nicholls – a member of the Ganhada – ‘Raven Clan’ of the Tsimshian Nation, president of RAVEN Trust
• Trenton Schulz-Franco – an advocate for Indigenous-led stewardship, and artist with a background in law, ecology, and geo-political commentary
• Sydney Burstein – the founder behind Vancouver Queer Birders (VQB) and a lifelong fan of noticing things. For her, birding is a way to situate yourself in the world. It’s an opportunity notice the ebb and flow of the world around you, and feel yourself become a part of it.

Each panelist brings unique insights into how community-driven data is shaping bird conservation and how you can get involved.

Let your Bird Celebration experience take flight at the Opening Event on May 2

There are 50 bird celebration activities across the region! Join an event near you.