I am often asked how to differentiate between a Downy and Hairy Woodpecker, as for many new to Bird watching it seems to be a bit of a challenge. It need not be, even though they do look much alike.
Bill Grant gives a living gift that will endure
Bill Grant left Grant’s Woods, a 52 acre forest in Orillia, Ontario, to The Couchiching Conservancy in memory of his brother Jack. When Bill passed away some months ago, he left another legacy to the Conservancy.
Seeking a Balance Between Farmers & Bobolinks
Conserving species under threat is always difficult, but especially so when their habitats are on active farmland. When a scientific assessment four years ago concluded that Ontario populations of bobolinks and eastern meadowlarks were plummeting, many farmers worried that regulations to save the birds under the Endangered Species Act might threaten their incomes.
Woodpecker: The signs of spring
This winter seems to have been a long, cold, and snowy one with many of us yearning for signs of spring
Conserving the tradition of volunteering
Each year during the annual general meeting, we recognize volunteers who have made a long-term contribution to the Couchiching Conservancy. These volunteers assist us in a number of ways every year. Some sit on the board of directors or on committees, while others do work in the field.
At the feeder: Red-bellied Woodpecker
In 2012 the Carden Christmas Bird count recorded two individuals during the count. This year Carden had three individuals. Two individuals were recorded during the Orillia count this year. So it seems the species is certainly putting down roots in our area.
Highlights of the 2014 Annual General Meeting
The Annual General Meeting and 20th anniversary was featured in the Orillia Packet & Times.
American Tree Sparrow; a welcome visitor
Although it may not be as colourful and dazzling as other birds of winter such as chickadees, nuthatches, blue jays, juncos and northern shrikes, The American Tree sparrow is a welcomed visitor. One cannot deny its beauty either, for with its rufous- coloured crown and stripe behind its eye, the streaking on its back and the dark spot on its predominantly gray breast, it is a lovely looking bird.
Neighbourhood green space is like money in the bank
Real estate agents use every tool at their disposal to get an edge in a competitive market when they are trying to sell homes.
More winter greenery than just Christmas trees
Now that late fall is here and leaves have fallen from the trees, it may seem like there isn’t much to see in our area forests until springtime.