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 …
Field Notes – Reptile Surveys
My first expedition with The Couchiching Conservancy is one I will remember for a long time. I joined Conservation Biologist, Toby Rowland, Youth Stewardship Coordinator, Alysha Henry, and community science volunteers Morah Fenning and Paul Robinson for reptile surveys. Our goal was to observe as many species as possible while …
Field Notes – Amphibian Migration
Perhaps nothing symbolizes the end of winter like the return of the amphibians. Amphibians such as Jefferson-blue spotted salamanders, toads, and wood frogs emerge from winter hibernation, typically on the first warm/rainy/wet nights early spring, after the ground has thawed. They make their way into wetlands where they will mate …
Field Notes – Solar Eclipse & Wildlife Behaviour
People across the world prepared for and celebrated the solar eclipse on April 8, but what were wildlife doing? How did their behaviour change during this rare occurance? That was the question that spurred on a few of our staff to venture out on the solar eclipse day to get …
Field Notes – Using Data Loggers for Species Monitoring
In the expansive landscapes of our region, nature whispers its secrets…but who is there to hear their calls? A key aspect of monitoring for species at risk are inventories. Some are conducted by staff, and there is also on-going monitoring by trained Community Science volunteers. But what about the times …
Nature Counts Highlights
Our thanks to everyone who attended our in person Nature Counts summary, and to all volunteers who contributed to efforts in 2023 to protect nature in our region. Community Science Highlights:
Fantastic Fungi Foraging with Photography
September 10, 2023- Fantastic Fungi Foraging with Photography! On September 10th, we were joined by naturalist and community scientist David Cowl for our Passport to Nature: Foraging Fungi Photos event. We embarked on a mushroom hunt through Grant’s Woods Nature Reserve to identify a diverse range of fungi on the …
Local youth community science youth stewardship project to honour the memory of Angela Rehhorn and 17 other Canadians
Beginning this summer, a new youth community science program of The Couchiching Conservancy will provide opportunities for local youth (between the age of 16 and 30) to participate in conservation projects. The Angela Rehhorn Commemorative Project, as the new program is named, will allow youth to be involved in making …
Notes from The Field- Summer 2023
We hope you enjoyed reading about the kickoff of all our monitoring projects and outdoor activities in The Spring Edition of Notes from the Field! This summer is also packed with activities on our Nature Reserves. September 8, 2023- A Review of Fascinating Forests Passport to Nature Another Passport to …
A Big Thank You to the Youssef-Warren Foundation
The Youssef-Warren Foundation is a Canadian family foundation that has benefitted conservation, arts, and healthcare organizations worldwide since 1997. They took a chance on our fledgling Community Science Program in 2017, and became annual supporters. As the foundation closes this year, we wish to send our heartfelt thanks for both …