Northern Canada

Yukon Species

• Birding in the Yukon is all about big wilderness and incredible migrations. In the short but intense summer, you’ll see shorebirds, warblers, and waterfowl returning to breed under nearly endless daylight. The Tintina Trench, a major migration corridor, brings in thousands of birds, including Sandhill Cranes in huge flocks. Winter birding is quieter but rewarding, with hardy species like the Boreal Owl and Common Redpoll sticking around.

• More than 340 species of birds can be found in the Yukon.

  • eBird list here

  • Printable list here

  • Yukon Bird Club checklists

  • The Yukon Government has a created a really great Guide to Common Yukon Birds

  • Rare bird alert

• The Raven is the provincial bird

Clubs and Organizations 

• The Yukon Bird Club is the most active birding group in the Yukon. They host interesting guest speakers as well as outdoor events, hikes, and workshops.

​​

​Hotspots

• Territorial eBird hotspot list

• The Yukon Bird Club has a nice list of birding locations in Whitehorse.

• Dawson City has a list of birding areas in and around the city.

• The Yukon government has created a nice introduction on birding in the territory.

​

​Events & Festivals 

• April 1-30, 2025: A Celebration of Swans Yukon’s premier birding festival brings residents and visitors alike out to great swan viewing areas to welcome spring to the north. Events include photography and art workshops, presentations, guided walking tours, campfire storytelling, children’s activities, and more. Based out of Marsh Lake.

• May 2025? (details and date not readily available online): Tombstone Territorial Park Weekend on the Wing.

• Various dates: Yukon Bird Club hosts many events, including birding walks, from April – November.  

​

Guided Tours

• Vancouver Birding Tours: offers 2 tours in June, return from Whitehorse.