Sketching Songbirds: Nature Journaling at Iona Banding Station

Nature Vancouver & WildResearch

Sun, May 17             9 AM – 11:00 AM                Iona Banding Station

Art Workshop                      

Join us for a special opportunity to observe and sketch wild songbirds up close at the Iona Island Bird Observatory banding station. During this quiet nature journaling session, participants will watch trained banders carefully process passerines and take time to draw what they see — noticing feather patterns, subtle field marks, and the remarkable diversity of migratory birds moving through the Fraser River estuary.  Nature journaling is not about artistic perfection; it’s about slowing down, observing closely, and deepening our connection with the living world. Sketching birds in hand offers a rare chance to see details that are often difficult to catch in the field.  Participants will be invited to quietly observe, sketch, and ask questions while respecting the banding workflow and the wellbeing of the birds. For the safety and comfort of the birds, participants will be asked to remain quiet and follow guidance from the banding staff during the session.  No art experience required — curiosity and attention are all you need.  Registration: Sliding scale starting at $10 per participant Group size: Limited to 16 participants  What to bring  · A folding chair or small camp chair  · A clipboard or firm surface for drawing  · Paper or a sketchbook  · Pencil or pen  Part of Vancouver Bird Celebration Week, hosted in collaboration with WildResearch and Nature Vancouver.

Registration Required  $10