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Explore the Okanagan
From grasslands and dry hillsides to wetlands, lakeshores, and riparian corridors, the Okanagan supports a remarkable diversity of habitats. Explore the region through ABNC's lens of discovery and stewardship.
Explore Together
- 1.
Choose a habitat card together and discuss what signs of it you might already recognise near home
- 2.
Compare what each person notices in the same landscape — perspectives differ more than you'd expect
- 3.
Use one of the seasonal prompts as a conversation starter about what the region looks like at different times of year
What Makes the Okanagan Special?
Grasslands and shrub-steppe are among the most endangered ecosystems in BC, supporting many species found nowhere else.
Wetlands are rare in this dry interior climate, yet support a disproportionate amount of the region's wildlife diversity.
Riparian corridors — the narrow green strips along streams — are critical movement routes for birds and mammals.
The Okanagan's warm, dry conditions create habitat patterns unusual for BC, making it a hotspot for species at the northern edge of their range.
Okanagan Habitats
Swipe to explore habitat types. Each one has distinct signs you can learn to recognize.
Signature Wildlife and Plants
Seasonal Notes
Spring
Wetlands come alive with returning waterfowl and migrant shorebirds. Hillside wildflowers peak early. Songbirds establish territories in riparian corridors.
Summer
Pollinators reach peak activity across grasslands and meadows. Breeding birds vocal in the early morning. Lakeshores see osprey and swallow activity.
Fall
Raptor migration peaks through open hillside areas. Wetlands fill again with migrating waterfowl. Grasslands shift colour as annual plants go to seed.
Winter
Resident birds easier to observe without foliage. Tracks and signs visible in snow near wetland and riparian edges.
Learn Before You Explore
Build habitat and species identification skills before heading into the field.
Journal Your Discoveries
Protecting Okanagan Nature
The Okanagan's most ecologically rich habitats — wetlands, grasslands, and riparian areas — are also among its most fragile. Responsible recreation makes a real difference.
Grasslands and shrub-steppe are rare and sensitive — stay on designated trails
Wetlands support disproportionate biodiversity — keep dogs on leash and avoid disturbing shorelines
Riparian areas are critical movement corridors — minimize bank disturbance near streams
Observe wildlife without approaching or flushing — especially near nesting areas
Avoid spreading invasive species — clean clothing and gear between habitats
Pack out everything — waste in natural areas affects wildlife and water quality