BC Parks Foundation

5 Adventures to Celebrate Biodiversity in BC Parks 

These days, more and more people are taking the time to reexamine their relationship with the natural world. We know that our screens don’t make us happy, and we also know that going outdoors can bring us unparalleled joy.  

These simple truths indicate a more complex reality: although we may feel dependent on our technological devices, it’s nature, and the biodiversity within it, that truly give us life.

Humans rely on biodiversity for numerous basic needs, such as food, fuel, shelter, and medicine. Many new medicines have been discovered in biodiverse habitats, including rainforests and coral reefs. In agriculture, biodiversity helps with pollination, nutrient cycling, water purification, and pest control. 

The land comprising parks, Indigenous protected areas, ecological reserves and nature conservancies in BC is the most biodiverse in Canada. It’s also home to the greatest number of species under threat.  

From the little brown bats who regulate our insect population, to the coastal temperate rainforest that mitigates climate change, every living being in BC is part of a system that allows us to thrive.

Today, we celebrate how incredibly lucky we are to experience life on this planet, and challenge you to connect with biodiversity in your favourite BC park. Here are five fun activities to help you on your way!

1. Kickininee Park: The western painted turtle is a beautiful example of BC's biodiversity. This activity will show you how you can help protect it.

2. Goldstream Park: Listen to this recording that will help you spot salmon, otter, mink, deer, and sapsuckers on this nature walk.

3. Summit Lake Park: June is the time to spot thousands of Western Toad Tadpoles as they migrate from the lake depths to feed off the algae on the rocks.

4. Alice Lake Park: You can expect to encounter many animals in BC parks, from squirrels to coyotes to bears. They all deserve our protection. This activity will help you learn how to keep wildlife wild.

5. Porpoise Bay Park: Spread your wings with this introduction to the world of birding. Not only does it have wonderful impacts on mental health, you'll also be a part of a growing community of people who are participating in the monitoring and stewarding of BC’s precious wildlife.

Discover more activities to connect you to BC’s magnificent biodiversity at DiscoverParks.ca.

Like Manning Park Bird Blitz—BC’s longest running bird count—happening on June 16.

Learn more!