Stanley Park Ecology Society News

Something that has always fascinated me about living in Vancouver is how we share our streets and yards with what SPES refers to as “urban wildlife.” Having only lived here for about 5 years now, I have to admit that I am tickled every time I meet a pigeon on the sidewalk and it steps around me like any other pedestrian would. I suppose, if I had lived here all of my life, that I might eventually take the more common urban wildlife for granted but as soon as you start to do that - you miss out on all the cool stuff.
Today was just such an occasion as two of our staff suddenly dropped everything to rush outside and take a look at what I thought were “just” more Canada geese. But, lo and behold, there in amongst the regulars was my first Greater White-fronted Goose, grazing on the manicured lawns of Stanley Park right by the rose gardens. The picture below clearly illustrates several of the differences between the two species including the white facial blaze, the pinkish bill and the black bars on the belly. This is why it always pays to look twice.
And if you liked looking at these birds, check out our events calendar for the next birding walk - it’s your park!