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 …
Unveiling the Hancock Hermitage Easement
On Friday May 3rd, Conservancy staff, board members, volunteers, and easement holders gathered for a celebration of the completion of the Hancock Hermitage Easement, held by Ron and Sharon Hancock. The easement was completed in January 2023 – check out the OrilliaToday article here. This 47-acre easement is in a …
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 …
Jump into spring with us: nine ways to honour our Earth
Spring has arrived, and there are so many ways to celebrate our beautiful planet during April, May and June: Passport to Nature 2024-25 program launch! Monday, April 22 We will be launching the 10th annual Passport to Nature program on Earth Day, with the digital booklet available for viewing on …
Recap of the first Youth Program Workshop
What do animal tracks, trail cameras and fencing have in common? A lot! This was the focus of our first Youth Program Workshop, which looked at barriers wildlife face on the landscape and what we can do to help. We kicked off the first 2024 event of the Angela Rehhorn …
Couchiching Conservancy Becomes a Certified Living Wage Employer
The Couchiching Conservancy has officially become certified as an Ontario Living Wage Employer! This means that all full-time staff earn at least a living wage – what is needed to cover the actual costs of living in the community. Living wage rates in Ontario vary by region and can be …
Exploring the Wonders of Wintergreens
The warm days of summer are highly valued by naturalists and outdoor enthusiasts in the Great Lakes Region – some perks include warm hiking days, peaceful canoe outings, observing Ontario’s vast selection of migratory birds, and for botanists, ample opportunity for plant-identification. After fall’s vibrant colors, the lack of plant …
Celebrating the Female of the Species
Through the years I have always taken time in the Villager to celebrate International Women’s Day, discussing my heroes abroad and locally. All women who make a difference in saving the planet, but, there is a large group I have left out until now, female wildlife. It is undeniable that …