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
Birding: Mallards galore in Ontario
Mallard ducks are now so common in our area that they can be found just about anywhere there is water. But it was not always so. When I was a small boy living in eastern Ontario, Mallards were seldom seen and when they were, they were referred to as “western ducks”. The most bountiful wild duck we had at the time was the American Black duck, a close relative of the Mallard. Now we see few “Blacks” and lots of Mallards. Both however are very beautiful birds.
Barn swallows: Gone in 24 hours
Executive Director, Mark Bisset, recalls his experiences with barn swallows through the years.
New discoveries at Grant Wetland
Our water monitoring project is growing and moving into town this year. Every time we add a new site we learn so much we wish we had done it sooner. We console ourselves with the adage: The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is today.