Recognized Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network site.
THANK YOU!
Thank you to all who were able to join us June 7th for our annual Fundraiser Supper and Auction. Your support means a lot!
The Chaplin Nature Centre is conveniently located just off the TransCanada # 1 highway at the mid-point between the cities of
Moose Jaw and Swift current at the Village of Chaplin. Chaplin Lake is one of the most important sites for birds making their migratory journey. More than 30 species of shorebirds, including endangered species such as the Piping Plover, stop or nest here every summer beginning in mid-to-late May. Over half of the worlds population of Sanderlings stop to rest and eat here before continuing their journey to the Canadian Arctic.
You’ll notice as you drive into our parking area that there are five flags. These flags represent the countries of the migration routes of the birds that stop at Chaplin Lake. Stop in to ask us about the best stops to view the birds and pick up a map for a self-driving tour.
Come visit us
The Nature Centre is a must stop as you drive along the TransCanada #1 highway. Be sure to explore our large interpretive area with beautiful displays and a wealth of information about Chaplin Lake, the area’s shorebirds, as well as points of interest in and around the area. Also check out our gift shop full of quality Saskatchewan arts and crafts and resource materials. We have drinks, ice cream, and snacks to help you refuel and two clean restrooms for your convenience.
Shorebirds
The Chaplin Lake area is one of the most critical refuges for shorebirds in North America. More than 30 species of shorebirds, over 100,000 in number, stop at Chaplin Lake to refuel or nest and raise their young on their migratory journey. See our Shorebird page for more information on some of these birds.
Interpretive Centre
Also known as “Millar’s Marsh”, the interpretive centre features a number of beautiful exhibits, informational displays, dioramas, and an area for kids with an interactive display table and a video theatre featuring wildlife films and features of the area.
Lookout
Just next to the parking lot you’ll find a lookout station to help you get a better view of the area and perhaps get a glimpse of some of the many birds that enjoy the lake.
Gift Shop
Our Gift Shop contains a wealth of quality merchandise and arts and crafts from Saskatchewan artists. We also have educational materials and brochures, snacks and drinks, and two clean washrooms for your convenience.
News
Saskatchewanderer
Check out this post from Saskatchewanderer about the Chaplin shorebirds: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1ANqAjUG2H/
Chaplin Nature Centre Fundraiser
Join us on June 7th for our annual fundraiser at the Chaplin Community Complex. Cocktails: 5:00pm Roast Beef Supper: 6:00pm Live Auction: 7:30pm Tickets are $35.00. Available at the Chaplin Village Office. Call Raegan: (306) 315-2478 or Pam: (709) 660-0311 for more details.
Mackie Ranch Added as Conservation Site
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/saskatchewan/nature-conservancy-of-canada-mackie-ranch-conservation-1.6265833
Piping Plover
The Piping Plover was listed as endangered by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) in 1985.
The Piping Plover is a small migratory shorebird that makes its nests and feeds along the shoreline around Chaplin Lake. They begin arriving in late April/early May and will stay in the area until early August.
Visit Nature Saskatchewan for more information about the Piping Plover. Piping Plover Brochure
Where to Find Us?
Our Supporters
Thank you to our amazing supporters and sponsors who enable us to continue to fulfill our mission to provide education and resources.