Birds, Beaches, and Big Discoveries – See What’s Happening This May!

Spring is in full swing, and May is blooming with opportunities to connect with nature, learn about local wildlife, and take action to protect our coastal ecosystems. Whether you’re an early bird, a beach cleaner, or a curious conservationist, there’s something for everyone this month. Here’s what’s happening:

Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day – May 10 | Location: Elgin Heritage Park | Start time: 7:30 AM (Bird Walk) | Main Event: 9 AM–3 PM

Join the Friends of Semiahmoo Bay Society and partners for a day of bird-themed fun and discovery.

• Begin with a guided bird walk at 7:30 AM

• Then enjoy family activities, crafts, live owl presentations, and expert talks from 9 AM to 3 PM

• This year’s theme, "Shared Spaces," reminds us how our communities can become more bird-friendly

• For bird walk registration and details: blueheron@birdsonthebay.ca

Shoreline Cleanup – Saturday, May 17 | 1:30–3:30 PM | Location: West Beach (Bayview Park, 14486 Marine Dr, White Rock)

Give back to the shore with a community cleanup following Mother’s Day.

• Tools provided—just bring gloves, water, and dress for the weather

• Register with Sharon: mshiker4@gmail.com

Get Hands-On with Marine Conservation | Forage Fish Habitat Sampling Training |Friday, May 24 | 10 AM–12 PM | Beecher Place, Crescent Beach

Join us for a free, hands-on session to learn how to survey local beaches for forage fish spawning habitat—vital for marine food webs.

• Open to all ages and experience levels

• Great for volunteers—hours available

• Bring water and snacks. Light refreshments will be provided. Register here

Invasive Species Alert: European Green Crab Discovery

On Thursday, May 1, our European Green Crab (EGC) trapping volunteers discovered a female crab carrying a full egg sac—an important but concerning find. A single female can release up to 200,000 eggs, twice per season. EGCs are invasive and threaten native marine life.Learn more at the Fisheries and Oceans Canada website. Thank you to our volunteers and the DFO team for their ongoing efforts to manage this invasive threat.

Coastal Education in Action – Pro-D Day at Surrey Museum

On Friday, May 2, we brought ocean-themed activities to the Surrey Museum for Pro-D Day. Children made sculpin hats, families explored information on local beaches and parks, and the shell touch & feel box was a huge hit.

Thank you for being part of our community. We hope to see you at an event this month!

With gratitude,

Friends of Semiahmoo Bay Society