The Meewasin Valley Authority in Saskatoon has announced the arrival of the first pelican of the season in the “Splash Zone” along the South Saskatchewan River. The pelican was spotted between the CPR Bridge and the Weir on April 8th, marking the official start of spring in the area. Andrea Lafond, CEO of Meewasin, expressed excitement at the return of the pelicans, noting that their arrival signals the change of season.
The Pelican Watch program was established in 1996 to track the arrival dates of pelicans in Saskatoon. Over the years, the pelicans have been known to arrive as early as April 2nd and as late as April 20th. This year, the first pelican landed one week earlier compared to 2023. The Meewasin Valley Authority reported that the pelicans seen at the Weir in Saskatoon have traveled from Redberry Lake, located 70 km northwest of the city. These birds make a daily round trip of 140 kilometers between the lake and the city.
Residents of Saskatoon are encouraged to participate in the Pelican Watch contest, which involves guessing the date of the first pelican touchdown of the season. The contest has become a popular tradition in the city, with many eagerly awaiting the arrival of the pelicans each year. The Meewasin Valley Authority provides updates on the pelicans’ movements and encourages community engagement in tracking and observing the birds as they return to Saskatoon.
The return of the pelicans to Saskatoon is a significant event for the city, symbolizing the arrival of spring and the rejuvenation of the natural environment along the South Saskatchewan River. The pelicans bring with them a sense of wonder and excitement for residents, who take pride in welcoming the birds back to their habitat. Their presence serves as a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts and maintaining a healthy ecosystem for wildlife to thrive.
The Meewasin Valley Authority plays a vital role in protecting and preserving the natural habitat along the river valley, ensuring the well-being of wildlife such as pelicans. Through initiatives like Pelican Watch, the Authority engages the community in environmental awareness and conservation practices. The sightings of pelicans in Saskatoon serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness of humans and nature, highlighting the importance of coexisting with wildlife in urban environments.
As the pelicans continue their journey between Redberry Lake and Saskatoon, residents and wildlife enthusiasts alike can enjoy the spectacle of these majestic birds gracing the skies and waters of the South Saskatchewan River. The Pelican Watch program serves as a testament to the harmony between humans and wildlife, showcasing the beauty of nature and the resilience of migratory birds. The annual return of the pelicans to Saskatoon is a symbol of hope and renewal, signaling the changing of seasons and the promise of a brighter future for all living beings in the river valley.
