During one of the very few really hot days we had this summer, a lady asked me how birds keep cool during those conditions.
They have a number of methods of beating the heat.
Featured Bird: Cuckoos (Not Just on Clocks!)
I also was delighted by the farm houses, because in those days, most had a cuckoo clock.? I was also thrilled, with a little help, to pull the long chains which wound up the clock mechanisms. Little did I know that there was a real bird called a Cuckoo!
Something to chirp about on Parliament Hill
Of all the bird species in North America, sixteen species have American in their name. There are only two species with Canada in their name.
Expedition Alvar: The 2017 Carden Challenge
Just imagine the opportunity to embark on an environmental expedition that immerses you in the depths of wilderness, where you get to learn, explore, and engage with nature alongside like-minded people. A whirlwind “safari,” if you will, for 24 hours observing species at risk, breathing in fresh air, and taking immediate conservation action all while having fun.
Featured Bird: Northern Flickers
We are blessed by Woodpeckers! Worldwide, there are 210 different species, but in Ontario we only have 9 of them.
Over 150 species counted during Carden Challenge
All together the eleven teams counted over 200 species – birds, butterflies, mammals and more. With their efforts, and your kindness, $19,200 has been raised to date, with more funds coming in daily to support our conservation efforts of the Carden Alvar!
Passport to Nature: Underway for a Third Year
This is just one possibility of sightings and experiences that you could encounter when you attend a Passport to Nature event at one of the 45 properties that The Couchiching Conservancy helps to protect.
The Carden Challenge: Working Together for Nature
It’s around 5:30 pm on Friday and the teams are starting to gather at the cabin. Tents are being pitched, cars parked and tally sheets distributed. It’s nearly time for the Carden Challenge to start.
Feature Bird: Eastern Towhees
After a minute or so listening and watching, the noise stopped and from out of the undergrowth, a male Eastern Towhee flew up to the rail fence, tipped his head up and began to sing his heart out….”drink your tea…drink your tea!”
A Challenge to Support Nature
May is also the month of the Couchiching Conservancy’s annual Carden Challenge, when teams of keen amateur naturalists compete to find as many species as possible over a 24-hour period.