EVENTS

What can we learn about wildlife by listening? Across Edmonton’s parks and natural areas, acoustic recorders help researchers document birds, bats, and other wildlife while investigating how noise and light pollution affect them. In this talk, Martin will share highlights from Edmonton’s acoustic monitoring project and how community involvement and regional partnerships are expanding this work beyond the city. From birdsong to nighttime bat activity, the presentation will explore what we are learning, some interesting detections, and how researchers, local organizations, and community members are working together to better understand and support urban biodiversity.

After Martin’s introduction, Nathan will detail how specific at-risk birds use Edmonton’s Urban Parkland. Edmonton is unique among North American cities because it contains the largest expanse of urban parkland. This expanse is made up of a network of natural areas both inside and outside of the River Valley. However, which types of habitat do birds within Edmonton select and thrive in? A 2026 Sustainability Scholar project explored this question, and learning the answer will become increasingly important as Edmonton continues to grow. 

If you love Edmonton’s birds, be sure not to miss this Spilling the Beans!