Birdwatching takes flight in Regina with library backpacks and brewery competition

(Damian Smith / CTV News)

Birdwatching is soaring in popularity across Regina, and two local institutions are giving residents everything they need to keep their eyes on the skies.

The Regina Public Library (RP)L has re-launched the fourth year of their birding backpacks, available for anyone with a library card. Each backpack includes high-quality binoculars, a Saskatchewan bird field guide, and even some room to pack a lunch.

“You can pack your lunch and a water bottle as well. There are some really high-quality binoculars, a birding guide, and the Field Guide to Saskatchewan Birds for quick identification.” said Geoffrey Allen, director of collections at RPL.

The program is designed to make birdwatching accessible for beginners and encourages people of all ages to explore nature in and around the city.

The bird packs can be borrowed for up to three weeks at a time and also includes a one-week visitor pass to any Regional Park in Saskatchewan.

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Even without a backpack, Allen recommends trying the free Merlin Bird ID app, which can identify birds through photos and sound recordings.

“It’s a really wonderful way to get introduced to birding,” he said.

Meanwhile, just a few blocks away in Regina’s Heritage neighbourhood, Malty National Brewing is also embracing the birding boom. The local craft brewery is hosting a month-long birdwatching competition, inviting patrons to spot as many bird species as they can.

“It’s been great,” said Adam Smith, co-owner of Malty National. “We’ve been having people come down who haven’t been here before. It’s been a fun thing, and you see people online tagging us.”

The competition idea came from one of Smith’s business partners, Kelsey Beach, who is an avid bird watcher himself. The final event on Aug. 19 will wrap up the challenge, will include trivia, a meet-and-greet for local birders, and the announcement of the big contest winner.

“It’s all honour-based,” Smith laughed. “You solemnly swear that you saw all the birds—but we believe you.”

With free gear, friendly competition, and a growing community of bird lovers, Regina citizens are keeping their eyes on the prize - and the skies.