FAQ
Got Questions?
You’ve come to the right place. See below for frequently asked questions and answers! Or reach out at (403) 885-4477.
Do I need to make a reservation in the Ellis Cafe?
It is always a good idea to make a reservation, as the café is often fully booked for lunch. However, there is seldom a problem getting in for afternoon tea. If you wish to make a reservation or inquire about catering options, the Café can be reached at:
chefsheraz@gmail.com
How long should I plan to stay on site for?
If you are a birdwatcher or a keen gardener, plan to spend the afternoon. If you are just
interested in seeing the site, then two hours is usually sufficient.
What is the cost to visit?
We do not charge an admission fee. However, we are most grateful for donations. Suggested donation is $5 per person or $15 per family.
You can become a lifetime Friend of Ellis for $20 and help us continue to do important work like wildlife monitoring, land stewardship, educational programs, and environmental events.
Can we bring a lunch and have a picnic at Ellis Bird Farm?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own lunch to Ellis Nature Centre. We have numerous picnic tables around the site for use. Please note that the tables around the cafe are reserved for cafe patrons only.
Is the site wheelchair accessible?
Our main trail around the visitor centre and the cafe are wheelchair accessible. We have a couple of loaner wheelchairs and a walker on site.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are welcome on site, as long as they are kept on a leash and are cleaned up after. They are also welcome in the buildings (except for the cafe).
What about parking?
There are two lots for parking, one lower and a larger lot further up. Drop offs are welcome at the cafe and the Visitor centre. We also have one handicap parking spot right outside the visitor centre.
What can I expect to see on the site?
Depending on the weather, expect to see an abundance of backyard birds, including Mountain Bluebird, Purple Martin, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Pine Siskin, American Goldfinch, Black-capped Chickadee, Tree and Barn Swallow, Least Flycatcher, Yellow Warbler, Cedar Waxwing, Red-winged blackbird, Great Blue Heron and several different species of waterfowl. If we have a pair of Great Horned Owls nesting on the site, we live stream it on YouTube 24/7.
The gardens at Ellis Nature Centre have been designed to attract birds and native pollinators. We have several demonstration gardens, including a water garden, xeriscape garden, naturescape garden, hummingbird garden and butterfly garden.
We typically have farm 
animals over the summer, which is a big hit with children. Children can go net dipping at our pier for pond creatures, participate in a fun site bingo, check out the interactive games in the Visitor Centre, and participate in our children’s
programs.
When is the best time to come to Ellis Nature Centre?
If you want to see bluebirds visit in June. If you want to see the gardens at their best, come in July and August. If you want to see our Purple Martins, be sure to visit before the middle of August.
Can I smoke at Ellis Nature Centre?
Ellis Bird Farm is a non-smoking site. Thank you for not smoking.
When is the best time to see bluebirds?
Bluebirds arrive in mid-March and start nesting in early May. They are most active during the month of June. Some pairs raise two broods each season, so there are still bluebirds nesting into mid-July.
Why don't I see bluebirds on the site?
Mountain Bluebirds don’t typically nest where there is a lot of activity and noise. An extreme spring snowstorm hit Alberta’s bluebird population in 2008, so there are fewer bluebirds nesting now than even a few years
ago.
We do lead tours on the bluebird trail on Sundays (weather permitting). Pre-registration required.
What do I do if I find injured wildlife?
Please contact Medicine River Rehabilitation Centre to report any injured wildlife.
Have you found an injured animal?
Call (403) 728-3467. Get assistance with catching, handling, transport, and first aid.
