Background:

The Eldridge Nature Reserve is a stunning landscape we are thrilled to protect. Our previous Reserve Steward spotted this property for sale and knew because of its proximity to Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands Provincial Park (QE II) and other properties like Reid, Marley & Taylor nature reserves, it was in the perfect location to enhance corridor protection for species along the Black River. Thanks to your support of The Corridors Campaign, we were able to purchase this property from the Eldridge family. We are grateful to the Eldridge family for working with us to ensure this land is now protected forever.

Animals living in QEII with wide ranges like American Black Bear, Fisher and Moose can now include this land in their territory. The diverse terrain within Eldridge makes it perfect breeding grounds for smaller species too. Because of Eldridge’s location and habitat, up to 26 species at risk are expected to be present, including Monarchs and Wood Thrushes which thrive here.

Landscape and Species

A mixed forest of Balsam Fir, Red Oak and White Birch supports Fishers and Snowshoe Hares. Keep an eye out for Northern Ring-necked Snakes and Smooth Green Snakes and be listening for Veeries and Black-throated Green Warblers. If you’re especially lucky you might notice an Eastern Red-back Salamander.

Among the granite rock barrens you’ll spot Sweet Fern, Poverty Oat Grass and Common Juniper which provide shelter and nesting habitats for Field Sparrows and Eastern Towhees.

The vast marshes and thickets on the edges of forests are what excited us about this property. It’s perfect habitat for Midland Painted Turtles, Northern Watersnake, Blue-spotted Salamander, Gray Treefrog and Wood Frogs as well as Northern Harriers.