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Blackstrap Lake Birding and Bird Photo Tour
I will guide you on a 3 hour self-driving tour to observe birds near Blackstrap Lake Provincial Park. Over 175 bird species may be found here between May and September.
Novice and experienced bird watchers are especially welcome. A loaner pair of binoculars may be available if requested. The leader will bring a spotting scope to allow you to view the water birds under high magnification.
Good opportunities for bird photography.
Meeting Point
Wild Birds Unlimited parking lot
- Meet me in the parking lot in front of the Wild Birds Unlimited store, 2600 8 St E #330A, Saskatoon, SK S7H 0V7. This store is located in a mall on the SE corner of the intersection of 8th Street East and Emerson Avenue in Saskatoon.
Drive to south end of Blackstrap Lake
You will drive your own personal or rented vehicle from the meeting place to the south end of Blackstrap Lake. I can drive separately in my car or I can ride in your vehicle providing nobody smokes.
Blackstrap Lake south dam
Our first birdwatching stop will be at the dam at the south end of Blackstrap Lake. From the dam, we can observe many water birds up close including pelicans, gulls, terns and many species of ducks. We can also watch for herons and marsh songbirds including Marsh Wrens plus Red-winged and Yellow-headed Blackbirds.
Drive to Shields Viewpoint
We will drive to a viewpoint within Shields Cottage Area on the west side of the lake.
Birdwatching at Shields Viewpoint
We should find many Purple Martins, Western Kingbirds, Baltimore Orioles and other songbirds in the heavily treed cottage area at Shields. From their viewpoint, we might find loons, grebes, ducks and other water birds on Blackstrap Lake.
Drive to North Dam
We will drive to the North Dam on Blackstrap Lake.
Blackstrap Lake North Dam Birding
The wetlands adjacent to the north dam on Blackstrap Lake attract many shorebirds. We should avocets, godwits and many species of sandpipers.
Return to Saskatoon
After viewing and photographing the numerous birds at Blackstrap Lake, we will drive back to the starting point in Saskatoon.
Ending Point
Wild Birds Unlimited parking lot
Want to personalize this tour?
- Our tours can be customized according to your needs and preferences
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Inclusions & Exclusions
* Guiding Services
* Use of a Spotting Scope during Tour
* Use of a pair of binoculars if requested in advance
* Transportation costs during tour (car rental, gasoline, etc.)
* Meals
* Accommodation
* Other Costs
Tour Important Information
* There is a driving tour with no walking required.
* You will need to drive your own personal or rented vehicle.
* If you wish, the guide can ride in your non-smoking vehicle. Otherwise, the guide can drive separately and lead you to each birdwatching location.
* Dress for the weather. Wear a hat.
* Bring water to drink.
* Let me know if you need to detour to find a washroom.
During April and first half of May, tours only start at 1:30 pm (13:30).
Important message from the guide
For driving tours, clients generally need to drive their own personal or rented vehicle. I can ride in your vehicle. If you prefer, I can drive your vehicle if you accept liability in case of accident.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
