The sanctuary was once a farm, and remnants of old dikes and drainage systems remain integral to the wetland hydrology.
It is one of the few places in the region where sandhill cranes successfully nest and raise their young.
The sanctuary is a designated Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International.
Thousands of snow geese utilize the surrounding agricultural fields and the sanctuary during their annual migration.
The sanctuary maintains a small internal population of non-migratory birds that interact closely with visitors at established feeding stations.
The brackish water environment supports a unique intersection of freshwater and saltwater plant species.
The George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary covers 850 acres of managed wetlands, marshes, and low dikes on Westham Island in the Fraser River Estuary. It serves as a vital stopover on the Pacific Flyway, supporting thousands of migratory birds annually. The site features a network of gravel trails, elevated viewing platforms, and hidden blinds designed for wildlife observation. Visitors can encounter over 300 bird species, including sandhill cranes, bald eagles, and various waterfowl. The sanctuary is managed by the British Columbia Waterfowl Society to preserve critical nesting and feeding habitats. The landscape is characterized by its man-made ponds, sloughs, and protected grasslands. Because it is a protected nature reserve, human activity is strictly confined to designated paths to minimize disturbance to local fauna.
The elevated viewing tower located near the center of the sanctuary trails.
Bring high-quality binoculars or a camera with a telephoto lens, as wildlife viewing is best at a distance.
Check the daily bird sightings board at the entrance kiosk to see what rare species have been spotted recently.
Wear layers and waterproof footwear, as the trails can be muddy and the wind off the river is significant.
Do not wander into the tall grass or off-trail areas, as this disturbs sensitive nesting habitats.
Closed on Mondays throughout the year.
No dogs allowed; stay strictly on the gravel trails; do not feed wildlife outside of designated areas.
