Gala Celebration with Keynote Speaker Dr. Rob Butler

Wings over the Rockies Nature Festival Gala Celebration & Keynote Speaker Event  
Now in its 28th year, the Wings Over the Rockies Nature Festival is thrilled to once again bring the community together for an unforgettable evening at the Gala Celebration and Keynote Speaker event. This year’s keynote features Dr. Rob Butler — renowned Canadian ornithologist, author, speaker, and artist — whose passion for nature and conservation spans over four decades.

Experience a captivating presentation as Dr. Butler masterfully weaves together our theme, “Our Place in Nature,” with “A Mountain Way of Life.” A renowned speaker, researcher, and storyteller, Dr. Butler brings his deep passion for birds, conservation, photography and culture to life. His inspiring insights will leave you with a renewed appreciation for the natural world.

Rob Butler is an ornithologist, author, film maker, artist and storyteller with over 50 years experience researching birds across the western hemisphere. A film called the Society of Crows will air later this year showcasing his life, art and research. Rob is a graduate of Simon Fraser University where he pioneered studies of the biology of crows, and the University of British Columbia where he studied heron biology. He was a scientist with Canadian Wildlife Service and an adjunct professor of Biology at Simon Fraser University specializing in bird migration. He is a fellow of the Explorers Club, Royal Canadian Geographic Society, an outstanding alumnus of two universities, and a Signature Member of Artists for Conservation. He has won numerous awards for his conservation and communication work. He has scores of appearances on television, radio and in newspapers and his art has been featured in many magazines, newspapers and shows. If it isn’t obvious, Rob likes sharing the lives of birds with anyone who is interested. 

Book – Letters from Gerald
Set in urban and rural England during the 1940s, a debut novel features a captivating heroine with a noteworthy story. It throws in mystery, intrigue, and ornithological details too. The story continues to build with many twists and turns along the way. And the big twist ending is totally unexpected. Be prepared for what you did not imagine!  
We will host a book purchase and signing opportunity with Dr. Butler at the evening event.
Join us for our Gala Celebration & Keynote Speaker event on Saturday May 10, 2025 at the Columbia Valley Centre.