IMG
© Stephen Matthews

Seal Bay Nature Park

49.76125 , -124.98171

Canada

Seal Bay Nature Park lies on the Comox Peninsula on the East coast of Vancouver Island, close to the Comox-Powell River ferry terminal. The area was logged in the early 20th century and has been protected for around 100 years, leading to the development of a large and relatively mature secondary forest. The park lies on the traditional territory of the Coast Salish people, and this is recognised by giving Salish as well as English names to the trails that criss-cross the park.

While there are many such forests in British Columbia, Seal Bay is especially diverse in its vegetation and wildlife. Conifers include Western Hemlock, Western Red Cedar, Douglas Fir, White Pine and Shore Pine. Deciduous trees include Maple, Alder and Silver Birch.  Areas of mixed forest such as those surrounding Melda's Marsh are especially rich in bird life.

At the centre of the park is Melda's Marsh, named in memory of Melda Buchanan who was instrumental in protecting this area and in building trails to allow the public to experience the natural beauty of the marsh and surrounding forest (Ian Moul and Wendy Kotilla, Ecological Inventory of Melda’s Marsh, 2012). Surrounded by forest on all sides, the marsh owes it tranquility to the fact that one must walk for at least 20 minutes to reach it from the nearest road. It is an ecologically rich spot: in summer, dragonflies swarm over the lily ponds and birds hawk for insects. Mature trees beside the water offer ideal habitat for Red-breasted Sapsuckers whose intermittent drumming can be heard regularly. Hairy, Downy and Pileated Woodpeckers are also present along with Northern Flickers. Dead trees in the marsh provide perches for Cedar Waxwings, Olive-sided Flycatchers and Merlins. Pacific Slope and Willow Flycatchers, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Western Tanagers and Red Crossbills forage at the forest edges.

The shoreline at Seal Bay draws gulls, notably large numbers of Bonaparte's Gulls in late summer, as well as ducks, grebes and loons in winter. With its combination of marsh, forest and rocky shore, the park offers a substantial cross-section of the birds of Vancouver Island. As of July 2023, 140 species had been recorded on eBird.

Delete exact location

The introductory text should contain general information about the site, which may include for instance:
• geographic/ biogeographic location
• habitat and vegetation
• typical bird species/bird communities
• protection status
• land use and history
• importance for birdwatching

Coordinates were changed by Stephen Matthews : 49.7613/-124.9817 (2023-07-25 03:11:10 )

Coordinates were changed by Stephen Matthews : 49.7613/-124.9817 (2022-07-30 21:51:06 )

Coordinates were changed by Stephen Matthews : 49.7613/-124.9817 (2022-07-30 20:43:51 )

Coordinates were changed by Stephen Matthews : 49.7613/-124.9817 (2022-07-29 23:12:18 )

Coordinates were changed by Stephen Matthews : 49.7613/-124.9817 (2022-07-29 23:06:16 )

Coordinates were changed by Stephen Matthews : 49.7613/-124.9817 (2022-07-29 22:14:04 )

Coordinates were changed by Stephen Matthews : 49.7613/-124.9817 (2022-07-29 21:04:03 )

Coordinates were changed by Stephen Matthews : 49.7613/-124.9817 (2022-07-29 21:00:48 )

Coordinates were set by Stephen Matthews : 49.7613/-124.9817 (2022-07-29 20:37:09 )

Site name was set by Stephen Matthews as "Seal Bay Nature Park" (2022-07-29 20:37:09 )

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-25 03:57:50
Seal Bay Nature Park lies on the Comox Peninsula on the East coast of Vancouver Island, close to the Comox-Powell River ferry terminal. The area was logged in the early 20th century and has been protected for around 100 years, leading to the development of a large and relatively mature secondary forest. The park lies on the traditional territory of the Coast Salish people, and an effort has been made to recognise this is recognised by giving Salish as well as English names to the trails that criss-cross the park. While there are many such forests in British Columbia, Seal Bay is especially diverse in its vegetation and wildlife. Conifers include Western Hemlock, Western Red Cedar, Douglas Fir, White Pine and Shore Pine. Deciduous trees include Maple, Alder and Silver Birch.  Areas of mixed forest such as those surrounding Melda's Marsh are especially rich in bird life. At the centre of the park is Melda's Marsh, named in memory of Melda Buchanan who was instrumental in protecting this area and in building trails to allow the public to experience the natural beauty of the marsh and surrounding forest (Ian Moul and Wendy Kotilla, Ecological Inventory of Melda’s Marsh, 2012). Surrounded by forest on all sides, the marsh owes it tranquility to the fact that one must walk for at least 20 minutes to reach it from the nearest road. It is an ecologically rich spot: in summer, dragonflies swarm over the lily ponds and birds hawk for insects. Mature trees beside the water offer ideal habitat for Red-breasted Sapsuckers whose intermittent drumming can be heard regularly. Hairy, Downy and Pileated Woodpeckers are also present along with Northern Flickers. Dead trees in the marsh provide perches for Cedar Waxwings, Olive-sided Flycatchers and Merlins. Pacific Slope and Willow Flycatchers, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Western Tanagers and Red Crossbills forage at the forest edges. The shoreline at Seal Bay draws gulls, notably large numbers of Bonaparte's Gulls in late summer, as well as ducks, grebes and loons in winter. With its combination of marsh, forest and rocky shore, the park offers a substantial cross-section of the birds of Vancouver Island. As of July 2023, 140 species had been recorded on eBird.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-25 03:11:10
Seal Bay Nature Park lies on the Comox Peninsula on the East coast of Vancouver Island, close to the Comox-Powell River ferry terminal. The area was logged in the early 20th century and has been protected for around 100 years, leading to the development of a large and relatively mature secondary forest. The park lies on the traditional territory of the Coast Salish people, and an effort has been made to recognise this by giving Salish as well as English names to the trails that criss-cross the park. While there are many such forests in British Columbia, Seal Bay is especially diverse in its vegetation and wildlife. Conifers include Western Hemlock, Western Red Cedar, Douglas Fir, White Pine and Shore Pine. Deciduous trees include Maple, Alder and Silver Birch.  Areas of mixed forest such as those surrounding Melda's Marsh are especially rich in bird life. At the centre of the park is Melda's Marsh, named in memory of Melda Buchanan who was instrumental in protecting this area and in building trails to allow the public to experience the natural beauty of the marsh and surrounding forest (Ian Moul and Wendy Kotilla, Ecological Inventory of Melda’s Marsh, 2012). Surrounded by forest on all sides, the marsh owes it tranquility to the fact that one must walk for at least 20 minutes to reach it from the nearest road. It is an ecologically rich spot: in summer, dragonflies swarm over the lily ponds and birds hawk for insects. Mature trees beside the water offer ideal habitat for Red-breasted Sapsuckers whose intermittent drumming can be heard regularly. Hairy, Downy and Pileated Woodpeckers are also present along with Northern Flickers. Dead trees in the marsh provide perches for Cedar Waxwings, Olive-sided Flycatchers and Merlins. Pacific Slope and Willow Flycatchers, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Western Tanagers and Red Crossbills forage at the forest edges. The shoreline at Seal Bay draws gulls, notably large numbers of Bonaparte's Gulls in late summer, as well as ducks, grebes and loons in winter. With its combination of marsh, forest and rocky shore, the park offers a substantial cross-section of the birds of Vancouver Island. As of July 2022, 138 2023, 140 species had been recorded on eBird.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-08-02 06:08:14
Seal Bay Nature Park lies on the Comox Peninsula on the East coast of Vancouver Island, close to the Comox-Powell River ferry terminal. The area was logged in the early 20th century and has been protected for around 100 years, leading to the development of a large and relatively mature secondary forest. The park lies on the traditional territory of the Coast Salish people, and an effort has been made to recognise this by giving Salish as well as English names to the trails that criss-cross the park. While there are many such forests in British Columbia, Seal Bay is especially diverse in its vegetation and wildlife. Conifers include Western Hemlock, Western Red Cedar, Douglas Fir, White Pine and Shore Pine. Deciduous trees include Maple, Alder and Silver Birch.  Areas of mixed forest such as those surrounding Melda's Marsh are especially rich in bird life. At the centre of the park is Melda's Marsh, named in memory of Melda Buchanan who was instrumental in protecting this area and in building trails to allow the public to experience the natural beauty of the marsh and surrounding forest (Ian Moul and Wendy Kotilla, Ecological Inventory of Melda’s Marsh, 2012). 2012). Surrounded by forest on all sides, the marsh owes it tranquility to the fact that one must walk for at least 20 minutes to reach it from the nearest road. It is an ecologically rich spot: in summer, dragonflies swarm over the lily ponds and birds hawk for insects. Mature trees beside the water offer ideal habitat for Red-breasted Sapsuckers whose intermittent drumming can be heard regularly. Hairy, Downy and Pileated Woodpeckers are also present along with Northern Flickers. Dead trees in the marsh provide perches for Cedar Waxwings, Olive-sided Flycatchers and Merlins. Pacific Slope and Willow Flycatchers, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Western Tanagers and Red Crossbills forage at the forest edges. The shoreline at Seal Bay draws gulls, notably large numbers of Bonaparte's Gulls in late summer. summer, as well as ducks, grebes and loons in winter. With its combination of marsh, forest and rocky shore, the park offers a large substantial cross-section of the birds of Vancouver Island. As of July 2022, 138 species had been recorded on eBird.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-07-30 21:51:06
Seal Bay Nature Park lies on the Comox Peninsula on the East coast of Vancouver Island, close to the Comox-Powell River ferry terminal. The area was logged in the early 20th century and has been protected for around 100 years, leading to the development of a large and relatively mature secondary forest. The park lies on the traditional territory of the Coast Salish people, and an effort has been made to recognise this by giving Salish as well as English names to the trails that criss-cross the park. While there are many such forests in British Columbia, Seal Bay is especially diverse in its vegetation and wildlife. Conifers include Western Hemlock, Western Red Cedar, Douglas Fir, White Pine and Shore Pine. Deciduous trees include Maple, Alder and Silver Birch.  Areas of mixed forest such as those surrounding Melda's Marsh are especially rich in bird life. At the centre of the park is Melda's Marsh, named in memory of Melda Buchanan who was instrumental in protecting this area and in building trails to allow the public to experience the natural beauty of the marsh and surrounding forest (Ian Moul and Wendy Kotilla, Ecological Inventory of Melda’s Marsh, 2012). Surrounded by forest on all sides, the marsh owes it tranquility to the fact that one must walk for at least 20 minutes to reach it from the nearest road. It is an ecologically rich spot: in summer, dragonflies swarm over the lily ponds and birds hawk for insects. Mature trees beside the water offer ideal habitat for Red-breasted Sapsuckers whose intermittent drumming can be heard regularly. Hairy, Downy and Pileated Woodpeckers are also present along with Northern Flickers. Dead trees in the marsh provide perches for Cedar Waxwings, Olive-sided Flycatchers and Merlins. Pacific Slope and Willow Flycatchers, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Western Tanagers and Red Crossbills forage at the forest edges. The shoreline at Seal Bay draws gulls, notably large numbers of Bonapart'e Bonaparte's Gulls in late summer. With its combination of marsh, forest and rocky shore, the park offers a large cross-section of the birds of Vancouver Island. As of July 2022, 138 species had been recorded on eBird.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-07-30 20:43:51
Seal Bay Nature Park lies on the Comox Peninsula on the East coast of Vancouver Island, close to the Comox-Powell River ferry terminal. The area was logged in the early 20th century and has been protected for around 100 years, leading to the development of a large and relatively mature secondary forest. The park lies on the traditional territory of the Coast Salish people, and an effort has been made to recognise this by giving Salish as well as English names to the trails that criss-cross the park. While there are many such forests in British Columbia, Seal Bay is especially diverse in its vegetation and wildlife. Conifers include Western Hemlock, Western Red Cedar, Douglas Fir, White Pine and Shore Pine. Deciduous trees include Maple, Alder and Silver Birch.  Areas of mixed forest such as those surrounding Melda's Marsh are especially rich in bird life. At the centre of the park is Melda's Marsh, named in memory of Melda Buchanan who was instrumental in protecting this area and in building trails to allow the public to experience the natural beauty of the marsh and surrounding forest (Ian Moul and Wendy Kotilla, Ecological Inventory of Melda’s Marsh, 2012). Surrounded by forest on all sides, the marsh owes it tranquility to the fact that one must walk for at least 20 minutes to reach it from the nearest road. It is an ecologically rich spot: in summer, dragonflies swarm over the lily ponds and birds hawk for insects. Mature trees beside the water offer ideal habitat for Red-breasted Sapsuckers whose intermittent drumming can be heard regularly. Hairy, Downy and Pileated Woodpeckers are also present along with Northern Flickers. Dead trees in the marsh provide perches for Cedar Waxwings, Olive-sided Flycatchers and Merlins. Pacific Slope and Willow Flycatchers, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Western Tanagers and Red Crossbills forage at the forest edges. The shoreline at Seal Bay draws gulls, notably large numbers of Bonapart'e Gulls in late summer. With its combination of marsh, forest and rocky shore, the park offers a large cross-section of the birds of Vancouver Island. As of July 2022, 138 species had been recorded on eBird.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-07-29 23:12:18
Seal Bay Nature Park lies on the Comox Peninsula on the East coast of Vancouver Island, close to the Comox-Powell River ferry terminal. The area was logged in the early 20th century and has been protected for around 100 years, leading to the development of a large and relatively mature secondary forest. The park lies on the traditional territory of the Coast Salish people, and an effort has been made to recognise this by giving Salish as well as English names to the trails that criss-cross the park. While there are many such forests in British Columbia, Seal Bay is especially diverse in its vegetation and wildlife. Conifers include Western Hemlock, Western Red Cedar, Douglas Fir, White Pine and Shore Pine. Deciduous trees include Maple, Alder and Silver Birch.  Areas of mixed forest such as those surrounding Melda's Marsh are especially rich in bird life. At the centre of the park is Melda's Marsh, named in memory of Melda Buchanan who was instrumental in protecting this area and in building trails to allow the public to experience the natural beauty of the marsh and surrounding forest (Ian Moul and Wendy Kotilla, Ecological Inventory of Melda’s Marsh, 2012). Surrounded by forest on all sides, the marsh owes it tranquility to the fact that one must walk for at least 20 minutes to reach it from the nearest road. It is an ecologically rich spot: in summer, dragonflies swarm over the lily ponds and birds hawk for insects. Mature trees beside the water offer ideal habitat for Red-breasted Sapsuckers whose intermittent drumming can be heard regularly. Hairy, Downy and Pileated Woodpeckers are also present along with Northern Flickers. Dead trees in the marsh provide perches for Cedar Waxwings, Olive-sided Flycatchers and Merlins. Pacific Slope and Willow Flycatchers, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Western Tanagers and Red Crossbills forage at the forest edges. On the west side of the marsh is Melda's Lookout, a raised area which allows views of the marsh. edges. With its combination of marsh, forest and rocky shore, the park offers a large cross-section of the birds of Vancouver Island. As of July 2022, 138 species had been recorded on eBird.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-07-29 23:06:16
Seal Bay Nature Park lies on the Comox Peninsula on the East coast of Vancouver Island, close to the Comox-Powell River ferry terminal. The area was logged in the early 20th century and has been protected for around 100 years, leading to the development of a large and relatively mature secondary forest. The park lies on the traditional territory of the Coast Salish people. An people, and an effort has been made to recognise this by giving Salish as well as English names to the trails that criss-cross the park. While there are many such forests in BC, British Columbia, Seal Bay is especially diverse in its vegetation and wildlife. Conferes Conifers include Western Hemlock, Western Red Cedar, Douglas Fir, White Pine and Shore Pine. Deciduous trees include Maple, Alder and SIlver Silver Birch.  Areas of mixed forest such as those surrounding Melda's Marsh are especially rich in bird life. At the centre of the park is Melda's Marsh, named in memory of Melda Buchanan who was instrumental in protecting this area and in building trails to allow the public to experience the natural beauty of the marsh and surrounding forest (Ian Moul and Wendy Kotilla, Ecological Inventory of Melda’s Marsh, 2012) 2012). Surrounded by forest on all sides, its the marsh owes it tranquility derives from to the fact that one must walk for at least 20 minutes to reach it from the nearest road. It is an ecologically rich spot: in summer, dragonflies swarm over the lily ponds and birds hawk for insects. Mature trees beside the water offer ideal habitat for Red-breasted Sapsuckers whose intermittent drumming can be heard regularly. Hairy, Downy and Pileated Woodpeckers are also present along with Northern Flickers. Dead trees in the marsh provide perches for Cedar Waxwings, Olive-sided Flycatchers and Merlins. Pacific Slope and Willow Flycatchers, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Western Tanagers and Red Crossbills forage at the forest edges. On the west side of the marsh is Melda's Lookout, a raised area which allows views of the marsh. With its combination of marsh, forest and rocky shore, the park offers a large cross-section of the birds of Vancouver Island. As of July 2022, 138 species had been recorded on eBird.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-07-29 22:14:04
Seal Bay Nature Park lies on the Comox Peninsula on the East coast of Vancouver Island, close to the Comox-Powell River ferry terminal. The area was logged in the early 20th century and has been protected for around 100 years, leading to the development of a large and relatively mature secondary forest. The park lies on the traditional territory of the Coast Salish people. An effort has been made to recognise this by giving Salish as well as English names to the trails that criss-cross the park. While there are many such forests in BC, Seal Bay is especially diverse in its vegetation and wildlife. Conferes include Western Hemlock, Western Red Cedar, Douglas Fir, White Pine and Shore Pine. Deciduous trees include Maple, Alder and SIlver Birch.  Areas of mixed forest such as those surrounding Melda's Marsh are especially rich in bird life. At the centre of the park is Melda's Marsh, named in memory of Melda Buchanan who was instrumental in protecting this area and in building trails to allow the public to experience the natural beauty of the marsh and surrounding forest (Ian Moul and Wendy Kotilla, Ecological Inventory of Melda’s Marsh, 2012) Surrounded by forest on all sides, its tranquility derives from the fact that one must walk for at least 20 minutes to reach it from the nearest road. It is an ecologically rich spot: in summer, dragonflies swarm over the lily ponds and birds hawk for insects. Mature trees beside the water offer ideal habitat for Red-breasted Sapsuckers whose intermittent drumming can be heard regularly. Dead trees in the marsh provide perches for Cedar Waxwings, Olive-sided Flycatchers and Merlins. Pacific Slope and Willow Flycatchers, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Western Tanagers and Red Crossbills forage at the forest edges. On the west side of the marsh is Melda's Lookout, a raised area which allows views of the marsh. With its combination of marsh, forest and rocky shore, the park offers a large cross-section of the birds of Vancouver Island. As of July 2022, 139 138 species had been recorded on eBird.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-07-29 21:04:58
Seal Bay Nature Park lies on the Comox Peninsula on the East coast of Vancouver Island, close to the Comox-Powell River ferry terminal. The area was logged in the early 20th century and has been protected for around 100 years, leading to the development of a large and relatively mature secondary forest. The park lies on the traditional territory of the Coast Salish people. An effort has been made to recognise this by giving Salish as well as English names to the trails that criss-cross the park. While there are many such forests in BC, Seal Bay is especially diverse in its vegetation and wildlife. Conferes include Western Hemlock, Western Red Cedar, Douglas Fir, White Pine and Shore Pine. Deciduous trees include Maple, Alder and SIlver Birch.  Areas of mixed forest such as those surrounding Melda's Marsh are especially rich in bird life. At the centre of the park is Melda's Marsh, named in memory of Melda Buchanan who was instrumental in protecting this area and in building trails to allow the public to experience the natural beauty of the marsh and surrounding forest (Ian Moul and Wendy Kotilla, Ecological Inventory of Melda’s Marsh, 2012) Surrounded by forest on all sides, its tranquility derives from the fact that one must walk for at least 20 minutes to reach it from the nearest road. It is an ecologically rich spot: in summer, dragonflies swarm over the lily ponds and birds hawk for insects. Mature trees beside the water offer ideal habitat for Red-breasted Sapsuckers whose intermittent drumming can be heard regularly. Dead trees in the marsh provide perches for Cedar Waxwings, Olive-sided Flycatchers and Merlins. Pacific Slope and Willow Flycatchers, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Western Tanagers and Red Crossbills forage at the forest edges. On the west side of the marsh is Melda's Lookout, a raised area which allows views of the marsh. With its combination of marsh, forest and rocky shore, the park offers a large cross-section of the birds of Vancouver Island. As of July 2022, 139 species had been recorded on eBird.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-07-29 21:04:03
Seal Bay Nature Park lies on the Comox Peninsula on the East coast of Vancouver Island, close to the Comox-Powell River ferry terminal. The area was logged in the early 20th century and has been protected for around 100 years, leading to the development of a large and relatively mature secondary forest. The park lies on the traditional territory of the Coast Salish people. An effort has been made to recognise this by giving Salish as well as English names to the trails that criss-cross the park. While there are many such forests in BC, Seal Bay is especially diverse in its vegetation and wildlife. Conferes include Western Hemlock, Western Red Cedar, Douglas Fir, White Pine and Shore Pine. Deciduous trees include Maple, Alder and SIlver Birch.  Areas of mixed forest such as those surrounding Melda's Marsh are especially rich in bird life. At the centre of the park is Melda's Marsh, named in memory of Melda Buchanan who was instrumental in protecting this area and in building trails to allow the public to experience the natural beauty of the marsh and surrounding forest (Ian Moul and Wendy Kotilla, Ecological Inventory of Melda’s Marsh, 2012) Surrounded by forest on all sides, its tranquility derives from the fact that one must walk for at least 20 minutes to reach it from the nearest road. It is an ecologically rich spot: in summer, dragonflies swarm over the lily ponds and birds hawk for insects. Mature trees beside the water offer ideal habitat for Red-breasted Sapsuckers whose intermittent drumming can be heard regularly. Dead trees in the marsh provide perches for Cedar Waxwings, Olive-sided Flycatchers and Merlins. Pacific Slope and Willow Flycatchers, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Western Tanagers and Red Crossbills forage at the forest edges. On the west side of the marsh is Melda's Lookout, a raised area which allows views of the marsh. With its combination of marsh, forest and rocky shore, the park a large cross-section of the birds of Vancouver Island. As of July 2022, 139 species had been recorded on eBird.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-07-29 21:00:48
Seal Bay Nature Park lies on the Comox Peninsula on the East coast of Vancouver Island, close to the Comox-Powell River ferry terminal. The area was logged in the early 20th century and has been protected for around 100 years, leading to the development of a large and relatively mature secondary forest. The park lies on the traditional territory of the Coast Salish people. An effort has been made to recognise this by giving Salish as well as English names to the trails that criss-cross the park. While there are many such forests in BC, Seal Bay is especially diverse in its vegetation and wildlife. Conferes include Western Hemlock, Western Red Cedar, Douglas Fir, White Pine and Shore Pine. Deciduous trees include Maple, Alder and SIlver Birch.  Areas of mixed forest such as those surrounding Melda's Marsh are especially rich in bird life. At the centre of the park is Melda's Marsh, named in memory of Melda Buchanan who was instrumental in protecting this area and in building trails to allow the public to experience the natural beauty of the marsh and surrounding forest (Ian Moul and Wendy Kotilla, Ecological Inventory of Melda’s Marsh, 2012) Surrounded by forest on all sides, its tranquility derives from the fact that one must walk for at least 20 minutes to reach it from the nearest road. It is an ecologically rich spot: in summer, dragonflies swarm over the lily ponds and birds hawk for insects. Mature trees beside the water offer ideal habitat for Red-breasted Sapsuckers whose intermittent drumming can be heard regularly. Dead trees in the marsh provide perches for Cedar Waxwings, Olive-sided Flycatchers and Merlins. Pacific Slope and Willow Flycatchers, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Western Tanagers and Red Crossbills forage at the forest edges. On the west side of the marsh is Melda's Lookout, a raised area which allows views of the marsh.

  • Top species

List up to ca. 25 species that:
• have a limited distribution range and/or are rare on a global level
• are most sought-after by birdwatchers at this site
• and are relatively easy to see at this site (year-round or seasonally)

Harlequin Duck (Histrionicus histrionicus)
Bonaparte's Gull (Chroicocephalus philadelphia)
Red-breasted Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus ruber)
Hairy Woodpecker (Dryobates villosus)
Merlin (Falco columbarius)
Hammond's Flycatcher (Empidonax hammondii)
Hutton's Vireo (Vireo huttoni)
Cassin's Vireo (Vireo cassinii)
Varied Thrush (Ixoreus naevius)
Swainson's Thrush (Catharus ustulatus)
Red Crossbill (Loxia curvirostra)
Black-throated Gray Warbler (Setophaga nigrescens)
Townsend's Warbler (Setophaga townsendi)

Bonaparte's Gull (Chroicocephalus philadelphia) was added by Stephen Matthews (2023-08-08 09:34:31)

Red Crossbill (Loxia curvirostra) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-07-29 23:22:56)

Black-throated Gray Warbler (Setophaga nigrescens) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-07-29 23:22:09)

Merlin (Falco columbarius) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-07-29 23:21:46)

Varied Thrush (Ixoreus naevius) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-07-29 23:20:58)

Hammond's Flycatcher (Empidonax hammondii) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-07-29 23:20:41)

Townsend's Warbler (Setophaga townsendi) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-07-29 23:19:51)

Swainson's Thrush (Catharus ustulatus) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-07-29 23:19:33)

Harlequin Duck (Histrionicus histrionicus) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-07-29 23:18:22)

Red-breasted Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus ruber) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-07-29 23:18:03)

Cassin's Vireo (Vireo cassinii) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-07-29 23:17:50)

Hutton's Vireo (Vireo huttoni) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-07-29 23:17:31)

Hairy Woodpecker (Dryobates villosus) was added by Stephen Matthews (2022-07-29 23:16:21)

  • Timing and strategy

Seal Bay is of interest thoughout the year, but especially rewarding in spring and summer when additional woodland birds are breeding. Three species of flycatcher and three species of vireo are recorded regularly. Both morning and evening are productive in summer. The shoreline offers ducks and grebes in winter.

A visit calls for at least two hours, and could easily extend to a half day. The most productive area around Melda's Marsh requires a walk of around 20 minutes from the nearest road (Larch Road or Bates Road). Instead of following the whole Melda's Marsh Loop, one can circumnavigate the marsh by taking a short cut along the Creek Trail. This will take about 30 minutes, or an hour or more including birding interludes. 

The trails are well marked, though it is best to carry a trail map (available online or at some of the park entrances) to avoid getting lost. Some of the these ("multi-use trails", such as the Forest Loop) allow cycling and horse-riding, but those of greatest interest for birding (Melda's Marsh Loop, Seal Loop) do not.

The marsh can be viewed from at least three spots:

1. an observation platform on the south side (reached by a short, unmarked trail leading north from Melda's Marsh Loop).

2. Melda's Dam, with seats and views over ponds (another seat can be reached via a short trail to the east of the Dam, which looks more like a wooden bridge).

3. Melda's Lookout, a raised area on the west side reached by a short, marked trail leading east from Melda's Marsh Loop (shown as the Swamp Circle on some maps). Birds such as Cedar Waxwing, Olive-Sided Flycatcher and Red-winged Blackbird often perch in the dead trees in the marsh.

The forest between Melda's Dam and Melda's Lookout is especially rich in summer birdlife, probably because of the relatively open, mixed forest adjoining the marsh. This is ideal habitat for the resident Red-breasted Sapsucker (usually located by its intermittent drumming), but is also home to Western Tanagers, Brown Creepers, Western Tanagers, Yellow-rumped Warblers and Red Crossbills.

Another area of interest is the beach which can be reached via Seal Loop (from Seabank Road) or Coupland Loop (from Bates Road). The shoreline here is rocky and thus not as productive for waders as muddy shores such as those around Oyster River to the north or Comox Bay to the south. Nevertheless it may yield shorebirds such as Spotted Sandpiper and Killdeer in summer, and Greater Yellowlegs on migration. The beach may have Bonaparte's Gulls in late summer, and also provides views of the Inside Passage which is home to a variety of ducks and grebes in winter.

Give recommendations for making your visit as productive as possible.
This may include for instance:
• best season
• best time of the day
• how much time to spend at the site
• best means of locomotion within the site
• recommended routes / areas within the site
• guiding

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-25 03:57
Seal Bay is of interest thoughout the year, but especially rewarding in spring and summer when additional woodland birds are breeding. Three species of flycatcher and three species of vireo are recorded regularly. Both morning and evening are productive in summer. The shoreline offers ducks and grebes in winter. A visit calls for at least two hours, and could easily extend to a half day. The most productive area around Melda's Marsh requires a walk of around 20 minutes from the nearest road (Larch Road or Bates Road). Instead of following the whole Melda's Marsh Loop, one can circumnavigate the marsh by taking a short cut along the Creek Trail. This will take about 30 minutes, or an hour or more including birding interludes.  The trails are well marked, though it is best to carry a trail map (available online or at some of the park entrances) to avoid getting lost. Some of the these ("multi-use trails", such as the Forest Loop) allow cycling and horse-riding, but those of greatest interest for birding (Melda's Marsh Loop, Seal Loop) do not. The marsh can be viewed from at least three spots: 1. an observation platform on the south side (reached by a short, unmarked trail leading north from Melda's Marsh Loop). 2. Melda's Dam, with seats and views over ponds (another seat can be reached via a short trail to the east of the Dam, which looks more like a wooden bridge). 3. Melda's Lookout, a raised area on the west side reached by a short, marked trail leading east from Melda's Marsh Loop (shown as the Swamp Circle on some maps). Birds such as Cedar Waxwing, Olive-Sided Flycatcher and Red-winged Blackbird often perch in the dead trees in the marsh. The forest between Melda's Dam and Melda's Lookout is especially rich in summer birdlife, possibly probably because of the relatively open, mixed forest next to adjoining the marsh. This is ideal habitat for the resident Red-breasted Sapsucker (usually located by its intermittent drumming), but is also home to Western Tanagers, Brown Creepers, Western Tanagers and Tanagers, Yellow-rumped Warblers. Warblers and Red Crossbills. Another area of interest is the beach which can be reached via Seal Loop (from Seabank Road) or Coupland Loop (from Bates Road). The shoreline here is rocky and thus not as productive for waders as muddy shores such as those around Oyster River to the north or Comox Bay to the south. Nevertheless it may yield shorebirds such as Spotted Sandpiper and Killdeer in summer, and Greater Yellowlegs on migration. The beach may have Bonaparte's Gulls in late summer, and also provides views of the Inside Passage which is home to a variety of ducks and grebes in winter.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-25 03:55
Seal Bay is of interest thoughout the year, but especially rewarding in spring and summer when additional woodland birds are breeding. Three species of flycatcher and three species of vireo are recorded regularly. Both morning and evening are productive in summer. The shoreline offers ducks and grebes in winter. A visit calls for at least two hours, and could easily extend to a half day. The most productive area around Melda's Marsh requires a walk of around 20 minutes from the nearest road (Larch Road or Bates Road). Instead of following the whole Melda's Marsh Loop, one can circumnavigate the marsh by taking a short cut along the Creek Trail. This will take about 30 minutes, or an hour or more including birding interludes.  The trails are well marked, though it is best to carry a trail map (available online or at some of the park entrances) to avoid getting lost. Some of the these ("multi-use trails", such as the Forest Loop) allow cycling and horse-riding, but those of greatest interest for birding (Melda's Marsh Loop, Seal Loop) do not. The marsh can be viewed from at least three spots: 1. an observation platform on the south side (reached by a short, unmarked trail leading north from Melda's Marsh Loop). 2. Melda's Dam, with seats and views over ponds (another seat can be reached via a short trail to the east of the Dam, which looks more like a wooden bridge). 3. Melda's Lookout, a raised area on the west side reached by a short, marked trail leading east from Melda's Marsh Loop (shown as the Swamp Circle on some maps). Birds such as Cedar Waxwing, Olive-Sided Flycatcher and Red-winged Blackbird often perch in the dead trees in the marsh. The forest between Melda's Dam and Melda's Lookout is especially rich in summer birdlife, possibly because of the relatively open, mixed forest next to the marsh. This is ideal habitat for the resident Red-breasted Sapsucker (usually located by its intermittent drumming), but is also home to Western Tanagers, Brown Creepers, Western Tanagers and Yellow-rumped Warblers. Another area of interest is the beach which can be reached via Seal Loop (from Seabank Road) or Coupland Loop (from Bates Road). The shoreline here is rocky and thus not as productive as muddy shores such as those around Oyster River to the north or Comox Bay to the south. Nevertheless it may yield shorebirds such as Spotted Sandpiper and Killdeer in summer, and Greater Yellowlegs on migration. The beach may have Bonaparte's Gulls in late summer, and also provides views of the Inside Passage which is home to a variety of ducks and grebes in winter.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-25 03:19
Seal Bay is of interest thoughout the year, but especially rewarding in spring and summer when additional woodland birds are breeding. Three species of flycatcher and three species of vireo are recorded regularly. Both morning and evening are productive in summer. The shoreline offers ducks and grebes in winter. A visit calls for at least two hours, and could easily extend to a half day. The most productive area around Melda's Marsh requires a walk of around 20 minutes from the nearest road (Larch Road or Bates Road). Instead of following the whole Melda's Marsh Loop, one can circumnavigate the marsh by taking a short cut along the Creek Trail. This will take about 30 minutes, or an hour or more including birding interludes.  The trails are well marked, though it is best to carry a trail map (available online or at some of the park entrances) to avoid getting lost. Some ("multi-use trails", such as the Forest Loop) allow cycling and horse-riding, but those of greatest interest for birding (Melda's Marsh Loop, Seal Loop) do not. The marsh can be viewed from at least three spots: 1. an observation platform on the south side (reached by a short, unmarked trail leading north from Melda's Marsh Loop). 2. Melda's Dam, with seats and views over ponds (another seat can be reached via a short trail to the east of the Dam, which looks more like a wooden bridge). 3. Melda's Lookout, a raised area on the west side reached by a short, marked trail leading east from Melda's Marsh Loop (shown as the Swamp Circle on some maps). Birds such as Cedar Waxwing, Olive-Sided Flycatcher and Red-winged Blackbird often perch in the dead trees in the marsh. The forest between Melda's Dam and Melda's Lookout is especially rich in summer birdlife, possibly because of the relatively open, mixed forest next to the marsh. This is ideal habitat for the resident Red-breasted Sapsucker (usually located by its intermittent drumming), but is also home to Western Tanagers, Brown Creepers, Western Tanagers and Yellow-rumped Warblers. Another area of interest is the beach which can be reached via Seal Loop (from Seabank Road) or Coupland Loop (from Bates Road). The shoreline here is rocky and thus not as productive as muddy shores such as those around Oyster River to the north or Comox Bay to the south. Nevertheless it may yield shorebirds such as Spotted Sandpiper and Killdeer in summer, and Greater Yellowlegs on migration. The beach may have Bonaparte's Gulls in late summer, and also provides views of the Inside Passage which is home to a variety of ducks and grebes in winter.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-25 03:15
Seal Bay is of interest thoughout the year, but especially rewarding in spring and summer when additional woodland birds are breeding. Three species of flycatcher and three species of vireo are recorded regularly. Both morning and evening are productive in summer. The shoreline offers ducks and grebes in winter. A visit calls for at least two hours, and could easily extend to a half day. The most productive area around Melda's Marsh requires a walk of around 20 minutes from the nearest road (Larch Road or Bates Road). Instead of following the whole Melda's Marsh Loop, one can circumnavigate the marsh by taking a short cut along the Creek Trail. This will take about 30 minutes, or an hour or more including birding interludes.  The trails are well marked, though it is best to carry a trail map (available online or at some of the park entrances) to avoid getting lost. Some ("multi-use trails", such as the Forest Loop) allow cycling and horse-riding, but those of greatest interest for birding (Melda's Marsh Loop, Seal Loop) do not. The marsh can be viewed from at least three spots: 1. an observation platform on the south side (reached by a short, unmarked trail leading north from Melda's Marsh Loop). 2. Melda's Dam, with seats and views over ponds (another seat can be reached via a short trail to the east of the Dam, which looks more like a wooden bridge). 3. Melda's Lookout, a raised area on the west side reached by a short, marked trail leading east from Melda's Marsh Loop (shown as the Swamp Circle on the map above).some maps). Birds such as Cedar Waxwing, Olive-Sided Flycatcher and Red-winged Blackbird often perch in the dead trees in the marsh. The forest between Melda's Dam and Melda's Lookout is especially rich in summer birdlife, possibly because of the relatively open, mixed forest next to the marsh. This is ideal habitat for the resident Red-breasted Sapsucker (usually located by its intermittent drumming), but is also home to Western Tanagers, Brown Creepers, Western Tanagers and Yellow-rumped Warblers. Another area of interest is the beach which can be reached via Seal Loop (from Seabank Road) or Coupland Loop (from Bates Road). The shoreline here is rocky and thus not as productive as muddy shores such as those around Oyster River to the north or Comox Bay to the south. Nevertheless it may yield shorebirds such as Spotted Sandpiper and Killdeer in summer, and Greater Yellowlegs on migration. The beach also provides views of the Inside Passage which is home to a variety of ducks and grebes in winter.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-25 03:12
Seal Bay is of interest thoughout the year, but especially rewarding in spring and summer when additional woodland birds are breeding. Three species of flycatcher and three species of vireo are recorded regularly. Both morning and evening are productive in summer. The shoreline offers ducks and grebes in winter. A visit calls for at least two hours, and could easily extend to a half day. The most productive area around Melda's Marsh requires a walk of around 20 minute's walk minutes from the nearest roads road (Larch Road or Bates Road). Instead of following the whole Melda's Marsh Loop, one can circumnavigate the marsh by taking a short cut along the Creek trail.Trail. This will take about 30 minutes, or an hour or more including birding interludes.  The trails are well marked, though it is best to carry a trail map (available online or at some of the park entrances) to avoid getting lost. Some ("multi-use trails", such as the Forest Loop) allow cycling and horse-riding, but those of greatest interest for birding (Melda's Marsh Loop, Seal Loop) do not. The marsh can be viewed from at least three spots: 1. an observation platform on the south side (reached by a short, unmarked trail leading north from Melda's Marsh Loop). 2. Melda's Dam, with seats and views over ponds (another seat can be reached via a short trail to the east of the Dam, which looks more like a wooden bridge). 3. Melda's Lookout, a raised area on the west side reached by a short, marked trail leading east from Melda's Marsh Loop (shown as Swamp Circle on the map above). Birds such as Cedar Waxwing, Olive-Sided Flycatcher and Red-winged Blackbird often perch in the dead trees in the marsh. The forest between Melda's Dam and Melda's Lookout is especially rich in summer birdlife, possibly because of the relatively open, mixed forest next to the marsh. This is ideal habitat for the resident Red-breasted Sapsucker (usually located by its intermittent drumming), but is also home to Western Tanagers, Brown Creepers, Western Tanagers and Yellow-rumped Warblers. Another area of interest is the beach which can be reached via Seal Loop (from Seabank Road) or Coupland Loop (from Bates Road). The shoreline here is rocky and thus not as productive as muddy shores such as those around Oyster River to the north or Comox Bay to the south. Nevertheless it may yield shorebirds such as Spotted Sandpiper and Killdeer in summer, and Greater Yellowlegs on migration. The beach also provides views of the Inside Passage which is home to a variety of ducks and grebes in winter.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-08-09 00:07
Seal Bay is of interest thoughout the year, but especially rewarding in spring and summer when additional woodland birds are breeding. Three species of flycatcher and three species of vireo are recorded regularly. Both morning and evening are productive in summer. The shoreline offers dusks ducks and grebes in winter. A visit will take calls for at least two hours, and could easily extend to a half day. The most productive area around Melda's Marsh requires a walk of around 20 minute's walk from the nearest roads (Larch Road or Bates Road). Instead of following the whole Melda's Marsh Loop, one can circumnavigate the marsh by taking a short cut along the Creek trail. This will take about 30 minutes, or an hour or more including birding interludes.  The trails are well marked, though it is best to carry a trail map (available online or at some of the park entrances) to avoid getting lost. Some ("multi-use trails", such as the Forest Loop) allow cycling and horse-riding, but those of greatest interest for birding (Melda's Marsh Loop, Seal Loop) do not. The marsh can be viewed from at least three spots: 1. an observation platform on the south side (reached by a short, unmarked trail leading north from Melda's Marsh Loop). 2. Melda's Dam, with seats and views over ponds (another seat can be reached via a short trail to the east of the Dam, which looks more like a wooden bridge). 3. Melda's Lookout, a raised area on the west side reached by a short, marked trail leading east from Melda's Marsh Loop (shown as Swamp Circle on the map above). Birds such as Cedar Waxwing, Olive-Sided Flycatcher and Red-winged Blackbird often perch in the dead trees in the marsh. The forest between Melda's Dam and Melda's Lookout is especially rich in summer birdlife, possibly because of the relatively open, mixed forest next to the marsh. This is ideal habitat for the resident Red-breasted Sapsucker (usually located by its intermittent drumming), but is also home to Western Tanagers, Brown Creepers, Western Tanagers and Yellow-rumped Warblers. Another area of interest is the beach which can be reached via Seal Loop (from Seabank Road) or Coupland Loop (from Bates Road). The shoreline here is rocky and thus not as productive as muddy shores such as those around Oyster River to the north or Comox Bay to the south. Nevertheless it may yield shorebirds such as Spotted Sandpiper and Killdeer in summer, and Greater Yellowlegs on migration. The beach also provides views of the Inside Passage which is home to a variety of ducks and grebes in winter.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-07-29 22:05
Seal Bay is of interest thoughout the year, but especially rewarding in spring and summer when additional woodland birds are breeding. Three species of flycatcher and three species of vireo are recorded regularly. Both morning and evening are productive in summer.   The shoreline offers dusks and grebes in winter. A visit will take at least two hours, and could easily extend to a half day. The most productive area around Melda's Marsh requires a walk of around 20 minute's walk from the nearest roads (Larch Road or Bates Road). Instead of following the whole Melda's Marsh Loop, one can circumnavigate the marsh by taking a short cut along the Creek trail. This will take about 30 minutes, or an hour or more with including birding interludes.  The trails are well marked, though it is best to carry a trail map (available online or at some of the park entrances) to avoid getting lost. Some ("multi-use trails" trails, trails", such as the Forest Loop) allow cycling and horse-riding, but those of greatest interest for birding (Melda's Marsh Loop, Seal Loop) do not. The marsh can be viewed from at least three spots: 1. an obsevrtain platofrm observation platform on the osuth south side (reached by a short, unmarked trail leading north from Meld'as MArsh Loop; Melda's Marsh Loop). 2. Melda's Dam, with seats and views over ponds; ponds (another seat can be reached via a short trail to the east of the Dam, which looks more like a wooden bridge). 3. Melda's Lookout, a raised area on the west side reached by a short, marked trail leading east from Melda's Marsh Loop (shown as Swamp Circle on the map above). Birds often perch in the dead trees in the marsh, including such as Cedar Waxwing, Olive-Sided Flycatcher and Red-winged Blackbird. Blackbird often perch in the dead trees in the marsh. The forest between Melda's Dam and Melda's Lookout is especially rich in summer birdlie, posisble birdlife, possibly because of the realtvely relatively open, mixed forest next to the marsh. This is ideal haobitat habitat for the resedient resident Red-breasted Sapsucker (usually located by its intermittent drumming), but is also home to Western Tanagers, Brown Creepers, Western Tanagers and Yellow-rumped Warblers.Warblers. Another area of interest is the beach which can be reached via Seal Loop (from Seabank Road) or Coupland Loop (from Bates Road). The shoreline here is rocky and thus not as productive as muddy shores such as those around Oyster River to the north or Comox Bay to the south. Nevertheless it may yield shorebirds such as Spotted Sandpiper and Killdeer in summer, and Greater Yellowlegs on migration. The beach also provides views of the Inside Passage which is home to a variety of ducks and grebes in winter.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-07-29 21:39
Seal Bay is of interest thourghout thoughout the year year, but espeically especially rewarding in spring and summer when additional woodland birds are breeding.breeding. Three species of flycatcher and three species of vireo are recorded regularly. Both morning and evening are productive in summer.   A vist visit will take at least two hours, and could easily extend to a half day. The most productive area around Melda's Marsh requires a walk of aroudn around 20 inute's minute's walk from the nearest roads (Larch Road or Bates Road). Instead of the whole Melda's Marsh Loop, one can circumnagicaae circumnavigate the marsh by taking a short cut along the Creek trail. This will take about 30 minutes, or an hour or more with birding.birding interludes.  Trails The trails are well marked, though it is best to carry a trail map (available online or at some of the park entrances). entrances) to avoid getting lost. Some ("multi-use trails" trails, such as the Fist Forest Loop) allow cycling and horse-riding, but those of greatest interest for birding (Meld'as (Melda's Marsh Loop, Seal Loop) do not.not. The marsh can be viewed from at least three spots: 1. an obsevrtain platofrm on the osuth side (reached by a short, unmarked trail leading north from Meld'as MArsh Loop; 2.Melda's Dam, with seats and views over ponds; 3. Melda's Lookout, a raised area on the west side reached by a short, marked trail leading east from Melda's Marsh Loop (shown as Swamp Circle on the map above). Birds often perch in the dead trees in the marsh, including Cedar Waxwing, Olive-Sided Flycatcher and Red-winged Blackbird. The forest between Melda's Dam and Melda's Lookout is especially rich in summer birdlie, posisble because of the realtvely open, mixed forest next to the marsh. This is ideal haobitat for the resedient Red-breasted Sapsucker (usually located by its intermittent drumming), but is also home to Western Tanagers, Brown Creepers, Western Tanagers and Yellow-rumped Warblers.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-07-29 21:26
Seal Bay is of interest thourghout the year but espeically in spring and summer when additional woodland birds are breeding. Both morning and evening are productive in summer.   A vist will take at least two hours, and could easily extend to a half day. The most productive area around Melda's Marsh requires a walk of aroudn 20 inute's walk from the nearest roads (Larch Road or Bates Road). Instead of the whole Melda's Marsh Loop, one can circumnagicaae the marsh by taking a short cut along the Creek trail. This will take about 30 minutes, or an hour or more with birding.  Trails are well marked, though it is best to carry a trail map (available online or at some of the park entrances). Some ("multi-use trails" trails, such as the Fist Loop) allow cycling and horse-riding, but those of greatest interest for birding (Meld'as Marsh Loop, Seal Loop) do not.
  • How to get there

By car, the park is around 15 minutes from either Comox or Courtenay. Cycling from Comox or Courtenay, which are served by buses, would be easy (over largely flat terrain). If arriving at Comox by ferry from Powell River, one could reach Seal Bay easily by bicycle, or by a lengthy walk on foot.

Explain from where and how to get to this site with private and public transport.

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-08-09 00:10
By car, the park is around 15 minutes from either Comox or Courtenay. Cycling from Comox or Courtenay, which are served by buses, would be easy (over largely flat terrain). If arriving at Comox by ferry from Powell River, one could reach Seal Bay easily by bicycle, or by a lengthy walk on foot.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-07-29 22:10
By car, the park is around 15 minutes from either Comox or Courtenay. Cycling from Comox or Courtenay, which are served by buses, would be easy (over largely flat terrain). If arriving by ferry from Powell River, one could reach Seal Bay easily by bicycle, or by a lengthy walk on foot.

There are multiple access points with trails leading into the park. The parking spots marked on the map are merely those in easy reach of the birding spots discussed here. Bates Road runs through the park and could serve as a base for exploring both the marsh to the south and the coast to the north.

Provide information on how to enter this site, which may include:
• entry points
• entry permits / entry tickets and fees
• opening hours / opening season
• other restrictions

Note that this section should only contain information on how to ACCESS (= enter) a site. Info on how to REACH a site should be added to "How to get there" section.

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-25 03:59
There are multiple access points with trails leading into the park. The parking spots marked on the map are merely those in easy reach of the birding spots discussed.discussed here. Bates Road runs through the park and could serve as a base for exploring both the marsh to the south and the coast to the north.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-07-29 22:14
There are multiple access points with trails leading into the park. The parking spots marked on the map are merely those in easy reach of the birding spots discussed. Bates Road runs through the park and could serve as a base for exploring both the marsh to the south and the coast to the north.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-07-29 22:13
There are multiple access points with trails leading into the park. The parking spots marked on the map are merely those in easy reach of the birding spots discussed. Bates Road runs through the park and could serve as a base for the marsh to the south and the coast to the north.
  • Other attractions

The park derives its name from the Harbour Seals which forage in the bay and rest on the spit. The Vancouver Island subspecies of Red Squirrel (confusingly more grey than red, but much smaller than the invasive Eastern Grey Squirrel) is common. Deer and beavers are resident, while black bears and cougars are seen occasionally. Dragonflies and damselfies are numerous in summer, as are frogs in the marsh. The park is botanically rich, with diverse trees and shrubs in the understory.

The trails are mostly flat and make a pleasant walk for non-birding companions. For this purpose, the beach (Eagle Trail) and the Melda's Dam area are especially picturesque. 

Add information about other attractions at this site, including
• wildlife (apart from birds)
• sights (natural, cultural, archaeological, etc.)
• activities (e.g. for non-birding companions)

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-08-09 00:11
The park derives its name from the Harbour Seals which rest on the spit and forage in the bay.bay and rest on the spit. The Vancouver Island subspecies of Red Squirrel (confusingly more grey than red, but much smaller than the invasive Eastern Grey Squirrel) is common. Deer and beavers are resident, while black bears and cougars are seen occasionally. Dragonflies and damselfies are numerous in summer, as are frogs in the marsh. The park is botanically rich, with diverse trees and shrubs in the understory. The trails are mostly flat and make a pleasant walk for non-birding companions. For this purpose, the beach (Eagle Trail) and the Melda's Dam area are especially picturesque. 
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-07-30 21:14
The park derives its name from the Harbour Seals which rest on the spit and forage in the bay. The Vancouver Island subspecies of Red Squirrel (confusingly more grey than red, but much smaller than the invasive Eastern Grey Squirrel) is common. Deer and beavers are resident, while black bears and cougars are seen occasionally. Dragonflies and damselfies are numerous in summer, as are frogs in the marsh. The park is botanically rich, with diverse trees and shrubs in the understory. The trails are mostly flat and make a pleasant walk for non-birding companions. The For this purpose, the beach (Eagle Trail) and the Melda's Dam area are especially picturesque. 
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-07-29 23:14
The Vancouver Island subspecies of Red Squirrel (confusingly more grey than red, but mush csmaller much smaller than the invasive Eastern Grey Squirrel) is common. Deer and beavers are resident, while black bears and cougars are seen occasionally. Dragonflies and damselfies are numerous in summer, as are frogs in the marsh. The park is botanically rich, with diverse trees and shrubs in the understory. The trails are mostly flat and make a pleasant walk for non-birding companions. The beach (Eagle Trail) and the Melda's Dam area are especially picturesque. 
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-07-29 22:22
The Vancouver Island subspecies of Red Squirrel (confusingly more grey than red, but mush csmaller than the Eastern Grey Squirrel) is common. Deer and beavers are resident, while black bears and cougars are seen occasionally. Dragonflies and damselfies are numerous in summer, as are frogs in the marsh. The park is botanically rich, with diverse trees and shrubs in the understory. The trails are mostly flat and make a pleasant walk for non-birding companions. The beach (Eagle Trail) and the Melda's Dam area are especially picturesque. 

Information points at several entrances offer leaflets which include an invaluable trail map (also available online).

There is no catering or accomodation inside the park, but Seal Bay RV Park is close to the entrance on Larch Road. Bed & Breakfast and other accommodation options are available in Comox and Courtenay.

There is an observation platform on the south side of the marsh, as described above.

Provide information about what type of facilities are available at
or near this site, including:
• information centers / information points
• catering
• accommodation
• hides and watchtowers
• restrooms / toilets

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-07-30 20:54
Information points at several entrances offer leaflets which include a an invaluable trail map (also available online). There is no catering or accomodation inside the park, but Seal Bay RV Park is close to the entrance on Larch Road. Bed & Breakfast and othe other accommodation options are available in Comox and Courtenay. There is an observation platform on the south side of the marsh, as described above.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-07-29 22:58
Information points at several entrances offer leaflets which include a trail map (also available online). There is no catering or accomodation inside the park, but Seal Bay RV Park is close to the entrance on Larch Road. Bed & Breakfast and othe accommodation options are available in Comox and Courtenay. There is an observation platform on the south side of the marsh, as described above.

The park is very safe as long as one keeps to the marked trails. Once off the trail, one risks stepping into bogs and getting scratched or lost. Trails may be muddy after rain. Insects are plentiful but biting ones few.

The park is very quiet except for the areas next to Bates Road. There is occasional aircaft noise from Comox Airport and Air Force Base.

Are there any security issues or other annoyances at this site? For
instance, these may include:
• offenses like robbery or theft
• natural hazards
• dangerous or annoying animals or plants (mosquitoes, leaches, thorn bushes, etc.)
• noise pollution

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-25 04:01
The park is very safe as long as one keeps to the marked trails. Once off the trail, one risks stepping into bogs and getting scratched or lost. Trails could may be muddy after rain. Insects are plentiful but biting ones are few. The park is very quiet except for the areas next to Bates Road. There is occasional aircaft noise from Comox Airport and Air Force Base.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-07-30 20:55
The park is very safe as long as one keeps to the amrked marked trails. Once off the trail, one risks stepping into bogs or and getting scratched or lost. Insects Trails could be muddy after rain. Insects are plentiful but biting ones are few. The park is very quiet except for the areas next to Bates Road. There is occasional aircaft noise from Comox Airport and Air Force Base.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-07-29 23:13
The park is very safe as long as one keeps to the amrked trails. Once off the trail, one risks stepping into bogs or getting lost. Insects are plentiful but biting ones are few. vry queit ecept The park is very quiet except for the ares areas next t BAtes to Bates Road. There is occasional aircaft noise from Comox Airpiort Airport and Air forec Base are nearby, leading to ociasajl aircaft noise.Force Base.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2022-07-29 23:01
The park is very safe as long as one keeps to the amrked trails. Once off the trail, one risks stepping into bogs or getting lost. Insects are plentiful but biting ones are few. vry queit ecept for the ares next t BAtes Road. Comox Airpiort and Air forec Base are nearby, leading to ociasajl aircaft noise.
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2022-07-24 to 2022-07-31 Vancouver Island: Seal Bay Nature Park in July Stephen Matthews
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