With a mission to protect the natural landscapes and wildlife habitats within the region, we employ various strategies to ensure the sustainability and health of these ecosystems. One pivotal method in our conservation toolkit is the use of Ecological Land Classification (ELC). Understanding Ecological Land Classification Ecological Land Classification is …
Summer Warblers: Part Two
Let’s dive into some of the top birding spots in the Great Lakes region, where you can experience the peak of warbler migration and discover some of the most renowned locations for birdwatching. We’ll also discuss the remaining warblers in the Setophaga genus that weren’t covered in the previous article. …
Field Notes: Community Effort to Combat Invasive Species- Join Us!
How do we take care of the land we love? One critical action is invasive species removal to ensure species like Monarch Butterflies have suitable habitat to thrive and survive. Over the past two months, our staff and volunteers have come together to remove over 1,000 lbs. It’s absolutely inspiring …
Summer Warblers: Part One
In the Great Lakes Region of North America, wood-warblers, Parulidae, are one of the most diverse groups of birds with over 40 species. There is a warbler for every habitat type, and of almost every colour pattern – although I haven’t seen any purple warblers! Considering the beautiful and striking …
Field Notes: Megan’s Stewardship Update on Our Nature Reserves
As the summer season has progressed, so have the flora and fauna in the Couchiching region. As a new staff member to The Couchiching Conservancy, I’ve really been enjoying my role! I have a degree in Environmental Science from Fleming College in Lindsay, Ontario and have worked in the non-profit …
Unveiling of the Deverell-Morton Nature Reserve
On July 13, over 30 people gathered together to celebrate the unveiling of the Deverell-Morton Nature Reserve. At 417-acres, the property is connected to Wolf Run Alvar and North Bear Alvar making a stronger connected corridor of wilderness. We are so grateful to the Deverell-Morton families, our supporters and volunteers …
From England to the Alvar: A first-timer’s perspective on the Carden Challenge
As a birding novice (and first-time visitor of Canada!), the 2024 Carden Challenge was a memorable introduction to species identification, and a unique opportunity to learn more about the region and its wildlife. The Carden Challenge is a birding event and fundraiser hosted by the Couchiching Conservancy, taking place on …
Field Notes – Monarch Monitoring
With the return of the monarch butterfly, begins the start of the monarch monitoring season for the Couchiching Conservancy community science program. Monarchs are Endangered in Canada1 , and face various threats across their range including habitat loss, pollution (herbicides and insecticides), extreme weather, and disease 2. Our monarch monitoring …
Release the Wild – Youth in Action
Youth in our region are acting to help species like White-tailed Deer, Moose, and Black Bear by participating in hands-on conservation projects! On June 1st, 2024, the Angela Rehhorn Commemorative Project hosted an impactful workshop focused on removing fences that obstruct wildlife corridors. This initiative not only aimed at enhancing …
Who are the Sentinel Species?
It’s dark, damp, dripping. Workers with sore backs descend staggering depths to reach their claustrophobic destination. Dangerous, dirty, sweaty; one heavily geared man carries precious cargo, a brightly coloured, charming bird. Yes, it’s a Canary in a coal mine. Canaries were used in mining as recently as the 1980s. These …