FortWhyte Alive

At FortWhyte Alive, we believe that nature—and access to nature—is for everyone. The outdoors should be a place where all people feel a sense of belonging, connection, and freedom to be themselves.

Whether you're exploring our trails, paddling on the water, gathering with friends and family, or simply enjoying a moment of peace in nature, please know that you are always welcome here.

Happy Pride from all of us at FortWhyte Alive. 💚

All our welcome in our herd!

These bison t-shirts were designed by our own graphic designer.

(Psst you can also buy these t-shirts in our Nature Shop, just in time for Pride! )

📸 Capturing the beauty of nature should never put it at risk.

As nesting season kicks into high gear, FortWhyte Alive is asking our community of photographers — from smartphone amateurs to seasoned pros — to practice ethical bird photography. At FortWhyte, we follow the Bird Photography Code of Ethics.

Nesting birds are especially vulnerable this time of year. Getting too close, staying too long, or disturbing habitat for the perfect shot can put eggs and chicks at risk from predators, weather, and stress.

When visiting FortWhyte, please follow these guidelines:

- Limit your time near any nesting areas so parents can freely return to feed their young.

- Respect the habitat by staying strictly on our boardwalks and designated trails.

- Give birds the space they need to behave naturally.

Let’s lead by example and help protect the wildlife we all love to photograph. 💚

June is packed with adventure at FortWhyte Alive! 🦬

🗓 June 1
Paddle Nights
Spend your evening canoeing or kayaking across FortWhyte’s beautiful lakes.
Every Tuesday + Thursday

🗓 June 2 and 16
Wild Edibles Workshop
Learn the basics of safe foraging in Manitoba in this beginner-friendly session.

🗓 June 6 and 7
Turning your first Bowl: Lathe
In this fun, beginner-friendly course, learn the basics of the lathe and create your own bowl.

🗓 June 13
Geocaching: A FortWhyte Adventure
Explore FortWhyte Alive from end to end and discover new event-exclusive geocaches thanks to the Manitoba Geocaching Association (MBGA)

🗓 June 17
FortWhyte Farms Pizza Dinner
Enjoy a summer evening at the farm with homemade pizza and learn more about FortWhyte Farms.

🗓 June 21
Pollinator Garden Walk
Tour the gardens at FortWhyte Farms with the volunteers who help them thrive.

🗓 June 21
Father’s Day Baby Bison Walk
Join us on Father’s Day and meet North America’s largest land mammal and spot the newest arrivals.

🗓 June 27
Medicine Garden Tour
Discover the traditions behind medicine gardens and learn about the plants that grow there during a guided visit to the medicine garden at FortWhyte Farms.

✨ Plus so much more happening all month long — check out the full calendar at the link in our bio 🔗

🎣 Cast into fishing season starting today!

Hit the shoreline with your own gear or rent everything you need at the Alloway Reception Centre. Rods, tackle, pliers, and nets are ready to go — just bring your fishing luck! 🐟

A reminder that our free fishing weekend is today and tomorrow!

Spotted today outside one of our windows at FortWhyte Alive, the first real sign that spring has finally arrived in Manitoba, baby goslings!

After a long winter, moments like this feel extra special.

Looking for a way to enjoy the long weekend? We’re open on Victoria Day from 9am–5pm — come by and see if you can spot some adorable baby goslings! 🪿💛

Happy Mother’s Day! 💕💕

In honour of Mother’s Day, we’re sharing a few fun facts about female geese that might surprise you!

Female geese choose the nesting site and build the nest using twigs, grass, and soft down feathers. Once the eggs are laid, she incubates them for 25–28 days while dad stands guard nearby.

After the goslings hatch, mom keeps them warm and protected—especially during cold, wet, or windy weather, and while they sleep during their first week of life.

Female geese are also fierce protectors and take the lead in defending the nest. If they feel threatened, they’ll hiss loudly and charge with powerful wings and sharp beaks to keep their babies safe.

Happy Mother’s Day to every mom out there, may your day be filled with appreciation, warmth, and maybe just a little peace and quiet (if the goslings allow it).

Today is World Migratory Bird Day!

A day to celebrate migratory birds, the incredible journeys they make across cities, countries, and continents, and the actions we can all take to help protect them.

Every year, observations from birdwatchers, communities, and scientists help piece together these amazing migrations. This year’s theme, “Every Bird Counts – Your Observations Matter!”, reminds us that every bird sighting contributes valuable data that supports science, informs policy, and strengthens conservation efforts.

Whether you’re an avid birder or simply notice birds in your neighbourhood, your observations can make a difference.

Pictured here is a yellow crowned night heron.

What birds have you seen lately? 🐦️

Tickets are nearly sold out for our Annual Sunset BBQ!

Join us on Wednesday, June 10 for an unforgettable evening of lakeside views, delicious food, and great company — all in support of environmental education. 🌿✨

🎟️ Go to our website now to grab your tickets before they're gone:
https://www.fortwhyte.org/explore/events/signature-event/sunset-bbq/