Birds & Wild Life
Ecological Reserve - Wildlife & Bird Sanctuary
For over 33 years, the property has been carefully stewarded and preserved as a natural habitat where wildlife can thrive. Through ongoing planting, restoration, and protection of the land, the environment continues to support a rich ecosystem of birds, animals, and plant life.
This is more than a place to observe wildlife. It is a living sanctuary shaped by time, care, and a deep respect for nature.
Bird Watching at Ruby Lake Resort
A Birdwatching Destination in British Columbia, Canada
Located on the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia, Ruby Lake Resort is an 88-acre bird sanctuary and ecological reserve offering exceptional birdwatching opportunities on Canada’s West Coast.
With over 120 bird species recorded, the property is recognized as a productive birding location for both resident and migratory species, attracting birdwatchers, wildlife photographers, and nature enthusiasts throughout the year.
Diverse Habitat for Resident & Migratory Birds
The combination of freshwater lake, wetland edges, forest, and open shoreline creates ideal conditions for a wide range of species.
Birdwatchers can expect consistent sightings of:
Great Blue Herons
Bald Eagles
Belted Kingfishers
Ospreys and Hawks
Turkey Vultures
Hummingbirds
Ruby Lake is also known for its notable population of wood ducks, a key highlight for birders visiting the Sunshine Coast.
Seasonal Birding & Migration Activity
Bird activity changes throughout the seasons, offering unique experiences year-round.
Spring migration is particularly active, with large flocks of swallows feeding over the lake, creating excellent opportunities for observation and photography.
Year-round residents, combined with seasonal migration patterns, make Ruby Lake a reliable and rewarding stop for birdwatching in British Columbia.
Birding Habitat & Conservation
The sanctuary supports more than 150 species of trees and plants, contributing to a stable and diverse ecosystem.
Over 40 birdhouses have been installed across the property to support nesting and encourage long-term habitat sustainability.
These efforts help maintain a healthy environment for both common and less frequently observed species.
Birdwatching Experience at Ruby Lake Resort
Birdwatching here is easily accessible and integrated into the natural landscape.
Guests can observe birdlife directly from:
Lakeside areas and shoreline
Forest paths and open clearings
Cottage decks and quiet viewing spots
The property is also part of the eBird network, allowing birders to explore recorded sightings and contribute their own observations.
A Recognized Birding Location on the Sunshine Coast
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Ruby Lake Resort offers a natural, accessible, and species-rich environment in one of the most scenic regions of coastal British Columbia
Wood Ducks Sanctuary
A Highlight for Birdwatching on the Sunshine Coast
The wood duck (Aix sponsa) is one of the most striking and recognizable birds found at Ruby Lake Resort, and a true highlight for birdwatching on the Sunshine Coast, British Columbia.
Known for their vivid colors and elegant markings, male wood ducks are often considered among the most beautiful waterfowl in North America. Their presence on Ruby Lake adds a unique visual element to the sanctuary, attracting both birdwatchers and wildlife photographers throughout the season.
A Strong and Established Nesting Program
Ruby Lake Resort is home to a well-established wood duck nesting program, carefully developed over the years to support and protect local populations.
While wood ducks naturally nest in tree cavities, they have adapted well to the nesting boxes installed throughout the property. These birdhouses provide safe and elevated spaces for nesting, contributing to a stable and thriving habitat.
Guests can observe these nesting sites across the resort, particularly near the lagoon and quiet water areas.
Seasonal Activity & Duckling Hatchings
Each spring and early summer, the sanctuary becomes especially active as wood duck families begin to grow.
It is not uncommon to witness ducklings emerging from nesting boxes, guided by their mother toward the water. These early-life moments are one of the most memorable wildlife experiences on the property.
A Photographer’s Favorite
With calm waters, natural reflections, and close viewing opportunities, Ruby Lake offers excellent conditions for bird photography in British Columbia.
Wood ducks are a favorite subject thanks to their color, movement, and accessibility, making the resort a rewarding location for both amateur and experienced photographers.
A Unique Wildlife Experience
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Ruby Lake Resort provides a rare opportunity to observe these birds in a protected and natural setting.
Painted Turtles | Ruby Lake Resort Wildlife Sanctuary
The painted turtle is one of the most charming and frequently observed species at Ruby Lake Resort, adding to the rich biodiversity of this 88-acre wildlife sanctuary on the Sunshine Coast, British Columbia.
Recognized for their colorful markings and calm presence, painted turtles are a favorite among guests, nature lovers, and wildlife photographers.
Nesting Program & Baby Turtle Hatchlings
Ruby Lake Resort supports a painted turtle nesting program, helping protect and encourage local turtle populations.
During the warmer months, guests may have the rare opportunity to observe baby turtles (hatchlings) emerging and making their way toward the water. These moments are both memorable and educational, especially for families and children.
Basking in the Lagoon
Painted turtles are often seen resting in the sun, a behavior known as basking.
Along the lagoon and quiet water areas, turtles gather on logs, sometimes stacked together, absorbing warmth and creating one of the most iconic and peaceful scenes on the property.
This natural behavior not only supports their health but also offers excellent viewing opportunities for guests.
A Favorite for Wildlife Photography
With their distinctive patterns and vibrant colors, painted turtles are a rewarding subject for wildlife photography in British Columbia.
The calm waters of Ruby Lake, combined with close viewing access, make it easy to capture unique and detailed images of turtles in their natural habitat.
A Widely Recognized North American Species
Painted turtles are one of the most widespread turtle species in North America, found from southern Canada through the United States.
At Ruby Lake Resort, they are part of a protected and thriving ecosystem, where guests can observe them respectfully in a natural setting.
Our resident Beaver
The North American beaver (Castor canadensis) is one of the most iconic animals in Canada and an important part of the ecosystem at Ruby Lake Resort.
Within this 88-acre wildlife sanctuary on the Sunshine Coast, British Columbia, beavers play a vital role in shaping the natural landscape, creating wetlands that support a wide range of plant and animal life.
Natural Engineers of the Wetlands
Beavers are known as ecosystem engineers, meaning they actively transform their environment.
By building dams and lodges, they create calm ponds and wetland habitats that benefit birds, amphibians, fish, and other wildlife. These water systems help maintain biodiversity and are a key part of the natural balance found at Ruby Lake.
A Unique Wildlife Experience
Guests may observe signs of beaver activity throughout the property, including:
• Lodges and dam structures
• Tree markings from feeding activity
• Calm pond areas shaped by their work
With patience, early morning or evening visits may offer the chance to see a beaver swimming quietly through the water.
A Symbol of Canadian Nature
As the largest rodent in North America, the beaver is both a symbol of Canada and a fascinating species to observe in its natural habitat.
North American River Otter
The North American river otter is one of the most exciting and memorable wildlife encounters at Ruby Lake Resort.
Living in the calm waters of the Ruby Lake Lagoon, these intelligent and playful animals are often seen swimming, diving, and chasing one another through the water.
Nature’s Show — Right from the Waterfront Patio
One of the most unique experiences at the resort is spotting otters while enjoying dinner on the waterfront patio.
Their playful behavior creates a natural show that unfolds right in front of guests — often in the evening hours, when the lagoon becomes calm and active with wildlife.
Sightings happen regularly, and during active periods, the otters can be seen:
Swimming and diving in the lagoon
Playing and chasing each other through the water
Surfacing unexpectedly near the shoreline
Built for Life in the Water
River otters are perfectly adapted to their environment, with sleek bodies, powerful tails, and webbed feet that allow them to move effortlessly through the water.
They are highly intelligent, social animals, known for their curiosity and playful nature — traits that make them a favorite among guests and wildlife photographers.
A Highlight for Wildlife Viewing & Photography
For visitors seeking wildlife experiences on the Sunshine Coast, otters are one of the most rewarding animals to observe.
Their movement, interaction, and unpredictability make every sighting unique — whether you’re watching quietly from the lagoon edge or capturing the moment with a camera.
Swallows
Three species of swallows Barn Swallows, Tree Swallows, and Violet-green Swallows return to the sanctuary every year, and we welcome them back as part of our bird program.
Hundreds of birdhouses are placed throughout the property, and swallows build their nests in nearly every corner, with their babies present all around during the season.
Nesting sites can be found near many of our rooms, as well as around the restaurant and cottage areas, creating a constant presence of movement and life.
Their aerial feeding and graceful flight make them one of the most active and enjoyable birds to watch.
In spring, large flocks gather over the lagoon, filling the sky with a lively and beautiful display that has become a favorite moment for guests and birdwatchers alike.
Bald Eagles
Ruby Lake is home to an incredible population of bald eagles, offering one of the most rewarding birdwatching experiences on the Sunshine Coast.
Guests can observe these majestic animals throughout the day, whether while enjoying dinner, paddleboarding on the lake, or relaxing on the dock.
It is a paradise for birdwatching and wildlife photography, with frequent sightings even from your room as you wake up or wind down in the evening.
An unforgettable experience surrounded by nature and one of British Columbia’s most iconic species.
A Legacy of Stewardship
For more than three decades, the land has been carefully maintained and restored to support a healthy and balanced ecosystem.
Trees and shrubs have been replanted to attract birds, butterflies, and dragonflies, creating a natural environment where everything works in harmony.
This ongoing effort reflects the core legacy of the family, preserving the land for future generations.
The Spirit of the Rainforest Village Event Site
The Spirit of the Rainforest Village is part of Ruby Lake Resort and represents the upper village portion of the property, a space specifically designed for gatherings, events, weddings, and retreats on the Sunshine Coast, British Columbia.
This unique setting has been developed to host meaningful experiences where people come together through food, music, and connection, all within a natural rainforest environment.
Whether you are planning a destination wedding, wellness retreat, corporate retreat, bachelor or bachelorette celebration, private event, or a music experience under the stars, this space offers the flexibility to bring your vision to life.
A Unique Event Setting
At the heart of the village is a beautiful 300 seat outdoor amphitheatre, built around a 600 year old fir tree that rises through the structure.
The site also includes an outdoor kitchen with a wood fired pizza oven, a full catering setup, and flexible spaces designed for a wide range of events.
We can host food style events for up to approximately 300 to 350 guests, as well as seated events for up to around 150 guests.
An outdoor bar and full event infrastructure are all in place.
Fully Equipped and Ready
The property is fully licensed and fully zoned for events.
We offer on site parking, a central washroom and shower facility, and the ability to organize shuttle transportation from nearby resorts.
Up to 70 to 80 guests can be accommodated on site, making it ideal for multi day gatherings.
A Space for Creativity and Collaboration
We are extremely interested in working with people who want to create events with us.
We are open to weddings, retreats, concerts, food experiences, workshops, product launches, and creative gatherings.
We welcome both for profit and non profit collaborations.
Bring Your Vision to Life
If you are searching for a wedding venue, retreat location, or a unique event space on the Sunshine Coast, this is a place where something meaningful can be created.
For inquiries and collaborations: