Inglewood Bird Sanctuary and Nature Centre

Inglewood Bird Sanctuary

The Inglewood Bird Sanctuary and Nature Centre have been providing migratory birds with a place to rest their wings since 1929. That's more than 80 years of conservation!

To date, 270 species of birds, 21 species of mammals and 347 species of plants have been recorded at the Sanctuary and Nature Centre by members of the public, volunteers and staff.

About the park

The sanctuary is an ecological safe haven, surrounded by a bustling city, that connects people to their wild neighbours and the wonders of nature. Watch for some of the incredible wildlife while exploring this protected natural environment. 

Please pay attention to signage on site for safety, access information and directions.

Reminder: Inglewood Bird Sanctuary is a natural environment - no bicycles or dogs permitted on site (except assistance dogs).

Inglewood Bird Sanctuary Reconnection Project

The City of Calgary and our funding partners recently completed the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary Reconnection project. This project improves the water quality in the lagoon, benefits the health of the birds, fish and other wildlife visiting the park, and creates a passage to prevent fish from becoming trapped in the lagoon. 

Learn more about the project

Address: 2425 Ninth Ave. S.E.

Area: 36 hectares 

Nature Centre hours of operation:

Open 9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Wednesday - Sunday

Closed Mondays, Tuesdays and statutory holidays

Visitor Center will be closed between Christmas and New Years, reopening at 9:30am on January 2.

Closed December 25 to January 1

Sanctuary trail hours: Sunrise to sunset, with half hour grace period

Portable washrooms are available during sanctuary trail hours.

Entrance fee: Free

  • Features

    Find more information about the sanctuary, the ‘Winged Wisdom trail', and other features located at the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary.

  • Activities

    Learn more about our courses, programs, and special events that explore the wonders of nature and promote environmental stewardship.

  • Rentals and bookings

    The Inglewood Bird Sanctuary provides a unique setting for your corporate function, wedding, social event or photography session.

History

In 1883, Colonel James Walker settled the land that is now occupied by the sanctuary. In 1910, the current brick house - then named Inglewood - was built, and the surrounding area was named for the most prominent property in the area.

From 1929 to 1952, several Chinese families leased land from Colonel Walker and established market gardens to serve the needs of a growing city. These highly productive gardens were used to grow vegetables and bedding plants, and represent an early example of urban agriculture and horticulture in the city. As part of the engagement process for Bend in the Bow, it was discovered the descendants of one of the families, the Koo family, still reside in Calgary.

Colonel Walker's son, Selby, applied to the Federal government in 1929 to have 59 acres on the west side of the Bow River be designated as a Federal Migratory Bird Sanctuary. His request was granted and the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary was born.

When Selby died in 1953, Ed Jefferies acquired the property and leased it to the Alberta Fish & Game Association. In 1970, The City of Calgary purchased the property and has been managing it as a natural reserve ever since.

The sanctuary's Nature Centre was built in 1996 and grassland restoration projects began in that same year.

The Colonel Walker House is currently used by Parks staff and volunteers as a classroom and office.​​​​​​​​​​​​

  • Self-guided walking tour

    Explore and discover the park's rich history, stunning landscapes, and diverse ecosystems and wildlife.

  • Calgary Parks

    There are numerous community and public parks in Calgary to explore.

    All Calgary parks

  • Contact us

    Need additional information on our parks and activities? Want to request maintenance?

    Contact Calgary Parks
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