Author Archives: rob butler

About rob butler

The Canadian Society of Ornithologists consider Rob Butler to be one of Canada’s outstanding ornithologists. He holds a doctoral degree in zoology and is a scientist and professor. He has studied, written and produced films about birds for over half a century. His accomplishments have been recognized by scores of national and international awards for his research and conservation in Canada and abroad. He wrote three books for the public. 'Pacific Flyway' won a silver medal from Nautilus Book Awards and 'Jade Coast' was a runner up in BC Book Awards. He has written over 150 works for scientific and public audiences. He has spoken hundreds of times to the public about birds and conservation and was a regular contributor to CBC radio in Vancouver. His research has been featured many times in newspapers, magazines and on television. His first novel 'Letters from Gerald' combines his passion for birds and adventure.

Crows at the Nest

Posted on May 12, 2024 by rob butler

I have forgotten how many times I have given public presentations on crows but in nearly every case, the audience has sold out or nearly so. Crows remain immensely popular and that trend continued on May 8 when I spoke … Continue reading →

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Upcoming Talk and Events

Posted on May 10, 2024 by rob butler

I will be speaking on Bird Facts and Fiction on May 10 at 6 pm at VanDusen Gardens in Vancouver as part of the opening of the Greater Vancouver Bird Celebration. This will be a fun filled event of weird … Continue reading →

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A Box of New Books Has Arrived

Posted on May 4, 2024 by rob butler

A shipment of newly printed copies of Letters from Gerald just arrived. Author and naturalist Audrey Benedict got her copy and sent the following review: “Rob Butler’s Letters from Gerald engages readers from the very first page. It is the story of … Continue reading →

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Letters from Gerald is in print

Posted on April 20, 2024 by rob butler

Writing a novel has as a reward finally seeing it in print. I am pleased to announce that Letters from Gerald is now available to readers at Friesens online book store and Amazon. You can find more about the synopsis, … Continue reading →

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Sneak Preview of New Novel: Letters from Gerald

Posted on March 30, 2024 by rob butler

In a few short weeks, my new novel Letters from Gerald will go to press. Before the book goes on sale I thought I would give you a hint of what is to come. Click on the link to go … Continue reading →

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Drawing Connections: 40 Years of Art and Hope

Posted on February 11, 2024 by rob butler

More than 40 years ago, I joined with seven other artists in a group art show about nature. Those same artists are joining forces once again with a show at the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea in Sidney British … Continue reading →

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First Day Feast from Globe and Mail

Posted on January 11, 2024 by rob butler

For over a decade, we have been holding a feast of locally grown food on January 1st. You can read about it in the story that the Globe and Mail published on January 1, 2024 in the column below. Enjoy and … Continue reading →

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Under the Covers: Designs for My Upcoming Novel, Letters from Gerald

Posted on December 19, 2023 by rob butler

Writing and publishing books is not only about the writing: there are decisions about marketing, pricing, book dimensions, hard cover, paperback, audio and e-book, and cover design. Right now, I am reviewing cover designs for my upcoming novel Letters from … Continue reading →

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Christmas Bird Count Day

Posted on December 16, 2023 by rob butler

I awoke before dawn, looked out the window to see the sunrise cracking between the clouds. The forecast was for sunny or overcast skies. After a quick breakfast I was off to my area to scour for birds. Scouring is … Continue reading →

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Christmas Bird Count is a Christmas Tradition

Posted on December 15, 2023 by rob butler

Tomorrow I don my boots and sling my binoculars around my neck to step out with scores of other keen birders on one of Vancouver’s oldest traditions – the annual Christmas Bird Count. The first count in North America started … Continue reading →

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