Feeding birds in the summer features a different cast of characters from the usual winter crew. Nuthatches, chickadees and blue jays disappear, distracted by the duties of nest-building and egg-sitting. In their place, local woodpeckers have become regular visitors to the peanut feeder just outside our window.
17% Pledge Aims to Protect Nature
As a part of a Global mission to secure Earth’s biodiversity, Canada has committed to having 17% of land and inland water protected by 2020. Because Canada has 10% of the world’s forest, 25% of the world’s wetlands, and 20% of the world’s fresh water, achieving this goal will be influential across local and global scales.
Register for the Passport to Nature Cycle Copeland event
Register today to explore Copeland Forest by bicycle with a guide
You’re Invited to the Official Office Re-opening!
Join us for the grand re-opening of the office! Take a tour of the improvements, take a walk in the woods and re-connect with the staff and Board of The Couchiching Conservancy.
Birding on the alvar: Wilson’s Snipe
One of the more interesting birds in our region is the Wilson’s Snipe. Classified as a Shorebird, this species inhabits flooded grasslands, bogs and marshes. They are frequently seen, as this one in the accompanying picture, standing on a fence post scanning the surrounding area and uttering a very loud and weird “tuck-a-tuck-a-tuck-a-tuck” call!
Notes from the Field: Scout Valley
This summer drought has dried up may creeks around the region, and highlighted the importance of protected headwaters. Mill Creek originates in the wetland above Scout Valley and then winds it way through the forest and downhill to join up with Ben’s Ditch.
When the Going Gets Tough, the Naturalist Gets Going
Knowledgeable, passionate and ambitious are three champion terms that describe avid outdoor enthusiasts and naturalists. As a young naturalist who is continually developing new and existing skills, I have found that taking part in adventures and nature studies always pose tremendous learning opportunities. Approaching these with a positive attitude is key for personal development, but it is not always easy. Sometimes small bumps in the road can challenge you as you learn, but ultimately better you as an aspiring professional in the field of environmental conservation.
Property Stewardship: The Long Walk In
Follow along with Volunteer Property Team Leader, Tom Wilson, as he recalls the ‘long walk in’ at Wolf Run Alvar.
Summer activities at the Conservancy
Get out to some of the properties we protect and attend events in support of our conservation efforts. There is a lot going on this summer!
Upcoming Event: July 21, All for Nun…the 2nd Coming
Fill our Seats to Protect our Trails!
Order your tickets today! All for Nun…The 2nd Coming! Special price $25 per person on Thursday, July 21st 8pm at the OCC…with a portion going back to Couchiching Conservancy! OCC Box Office (former Cinema 4) Mon-Sat 11 – 2 p.m. call 705-242-4092 or at White Lions Tea House 33 Westmount Dr N, Orillia 705-259-0568