Anne along with her husband Stan moved back to Owen Sound around 1995 and began volunteering for everything conservation – the Owen Sound Field Naturalists, Grey Sauble Conservation Authority and its Conservation Foundation and, in Anne’s case, the Huron Fringe Birding Festival. Anne’s volunteering for nature can hardly be considered insignificant.
I often noticed that Anne performed those tasks that were in the background. Someone once said – “Never has anyone done so much for so many; and been observed by so few while doing it!”
Anne appreciated and valued nature. She did everything in the field naturalists from planting trees, being present at dedications, attending board meetings, ensuring that setup was done properly for Club potlucks and for many of the snacks we had before meetings. I remember gathering up her tablecloths and helping to carry boxes of items to her car. At one time, the field naturalists obtained permission to conduct roadside cleanup for the MTO. Anne seemed rather disappointed when the road moved from MTO to the county and the rules changed, resulting in the club stepping back from this task.
Our friend and fellow conservationist has passed away, but I can hear her loud and clear – “I don’t think I qualify. I looked at the criteria for Honourary Membership and Stan and I weren’t members from the beginning of the Club. I think the only way I could qualify relates to my volunteering, something insignificant like that.”
I am pleased that Anne Cathrae is being recognized as an Honourary Member of the Owen Sound Field Naturalists.
The featured speaker for the October presentation of the Owen Sound Field Naturalists (OSFN) will be Tyler Miller, with ‘Asters, Goldenrods & Fleabanes,’ for which it has been an amazing season. Bruce and Grey counties are home to 45 of these wildflowers, some of which have amazing stories and are unique to this landscape.
***Please Note a Change in Scheduled Speaker***
Jenna McGuire grew up on the north Bruce Peninsula. She left to get a degree in wildlife biology and scientific illustration and returned to work for Parks Canada in Tobermory in ecological research and nature interpretation. Her passion is learning about, teaching and preserving traditional Metis skills and knowledge. As an artist, it is her wish to create art that inspires others and hopefully, captures the Metis spirit.
Jenna has used her illustration and communication skills on signage throughout Bruce Grey. Of particular note to the OSFN are many of the interpretive signs at the Oliphant Fen and at Singing Sands in Bruce Peninsula National Park.
A huge thank you to Jenna who is presenting for Tyler Miller.
Tyler will help you understand the natural history of these neighbours of ours that illuminate autumn and feed many animals. Tyler is a skilled ecologist boasting more than fifteen years of experience, primarily in Bruce and Grey. A natural curiosity drives his desire to explore and understand the intricate connections within wild ecosystems, including alvars. As a leading botanist in the region, during the past five years, Miller updated the Vascular Plant List of Bruce and Grey, and has played a pivotal role as a supporting expert for updating OSFN’s popular Field Guides about Ferns, about Orchids and most recently about Asters, Goldenrods and Fleabanes.
This event is scheduled to take place at 7pm (doors open at 6:30pm) Thursday October 15, at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre.
Admission is by donation (free for OSFN members), and everyone is welcome. More information about the Owen Sound Field Naturalists, including upcoming field trips and raffles, is available at https://owensoundfieldnaturalists.ca/ If you are unable to attend in person, it will also be available on Zoom, and you can register for the Zoom meeting with the link https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/bQWb7jxNTTe0u7tYdL46LA
There’s a short window where you still have Great Egrets around while the leaves are turning. Benallen Nature Preserve.
The Bruce Peninsula Bird Observatory recently reported the news of its 25th anniversary, and the latest observations of birds and banding details.
However, they also shared the very sad news of the passing of one of its Co-founders, Ted Cheskey, a great naturalist I got to know a little when I first attended the Huron Fringe Birding Festival in 2001. I especially remember the way he demonstrated the bird banding process, and after documenting the banded birds, he then let us use a stethoscope to listen to the rapid (normal) heartbeat of the specimens to be released. He handed them to those in attendance (myself and also some children who were there) and I remember wonderful close encounters with a Cedar Waxwing, and the waxy feel of its red appendages. I also learned first hand that the small hook a Red-eyed Vireo has at the end of its beak is ‘very sharp’ and is well-designed to assist with its hunting operations. There are plans for a Celebration of Life for Ted Cheskey in Spring of 2027. Memorial donations to the Bruce Peninsula Bird Observatory would be appreciated.
Rare bird sighting – On September 29, my glance was drawn to the backyard where a dozen or so migrating sparrows, after flying all night, dropped by here in Owen Sound for some speedy refuelling. So, I took a quick look, and saw what looked a little like a junco, so I snapped a few photos, before they all scattered. A closer look at the photos revealed that the junco was instead a Gray-cheeked Thrush, (Thanks to Rob Wray for the ID), ‘a bird which prefers higher altitude, and taiga breeding territories, in the far northern parts of the province, and from the Yukon to Newfoundland and Labrador. Southern Ontario (such as Toronto or Owen Sound) is strictly a migration corridor rather than a breeding territory, where transients are occasionally spotted resting in dense brush – or ‘backyards.’ It was a ‘Lifer’ for me, Flesherton’s David Turner commented: ” A great bird for Grey County, John, let alone your backyard!” Not to be outdone, Bruce County’s Bruce Edmunds also had a sighting of a Gray-cheeked Thrush in downtown Kincardine on September 26, saying ” ‘Tis the time of year for these guys!” More migration news – Peter Metcalfe reported September 26, “Despite the cooler nights, we still have 3 little brown bats in our bat house. Soon, they’ll be flying off to their winter spots in caves and abandoned mine shafts.”
On October 6, Jan Pugsley was very surprised to see an adult Monarch Butterfly fuelling up on gorgeous goldenrods near Tobermory, the latest she has seen in the fall.
Despite the cooler nights, we still have 3 little brown bats in our bat house. Soon, they’ll be flying off to their winter spots in caves and abandoned mine shafts. Photo by Peter Metcalfe
Young Naturalists Coordinator, Amanda Eriksen, shared this: “I had a great time with some very curious and enthusiastic kids at our first Young Naturalist meeting September 27! It was time to check and clean out the Bluebird nesting boxes at the Grey Sauble Conservation Area Arboretum.” The evidence suggested many of the boxes had been used by wrens, flycatchers, mice, and possibly a few bluebirds too. Then, a little hike took them to where – “Of course we had to see how the salmon were doing and to witness their fishery activities. There were some logs there that were perfect for stadium seating and we saw several fish managing the jumps in the river. Next month we will be visiting the Bognor Marsh!” If you are interested email youngnaturalistsos@gmail.com. (it’s part of the family membership and grandparents can bring grandchildren).
Cleaning out the bird boxes at the arboretum at the GSCAOf course we had to see how the salmon were doing. There were some logs that were perfect for stadium seating. Saw several run up the jumps.
Congratulations to wildlife artist Sarah McComb-Turbitt, (also a new OSFN director) who was the recent recipient of two prestigious awards at the Artists for Conservation Festival in Vancouver. Locally, she was a guest for the unveiling of new educational signage for the Echoes of the Marsh project, highlighting the remarkable resilience of turtles and recognizing Bognor Marsh as an important Greenbelt wetland. To keep up with Sarah’s many activities visit https://www.facebook.com/sarahwildlifeartist
To close, a Nature quote from Ode to the Saugeen, by Paisley resident, longtime birder and writer Werner Sukstorf, excerpted from Black Bass & Lily Pads – Fishing Tips and Tales from the Saugeen: “I am in love! In love with a river, a river called the Saugeen…A river, enchanting and picturesque, with a personality that demands respect…travelling down the river in a small canoe, just you, the river and nature at its best.”
Showy Goldenrod flowers in the Pollinator Garden along the Healing path at the Hospital in Owen Sound September 14
The Owen Sound Field Naturalists (OSFN) club is ready to kick off its 2026-2027 season with the internationally celebrated, award-winning potter, artist, naturalist and photographer Steve Irvine, and his presentation
Exploring Nature Close to Home.
For many years Steve has done almost all of his photography and nature studies within two kilometres of his home near Big Bay.
Using a variety of cameras and techniques, he has found a rich natural environment with endless possibilities. I have been a fan of Steve Irvine’s works, and the ways he shares them, for close to thirty years now, marvelling at his innovative ‘pin-hole’ pottery cameras, and exquisite, detailed images, whether through a microscope, or of a flying squirrel peering in a window; or drone photographs of his ethereal Keppel Henge installation during a sunny solstice event, or of a Kingfisher exploding out of the water, his in-depth knowledge of the night skies, and of fireflies and so many other inhabitants of the natural world around him, and us.
Steve Irvine’s photographs have appeared in such publications as National Geographic Magazine, LIFE Magazine, Canadian Geographic Magazine, and in numerous other magazines and texts used in Canada, the U.S., the U.K. and Asia. Recently, his photographs were included in the book, Photo Viz, an international survey of contemporary photography by the Berlin based publisher, Gestalten. Irvine’s amazing photography is represented worldwide by National Geographic Stock Images, and by Getty Images.This event is scheduled for 7pm, Thursday September 10, in the Bay Room, at the Bayshore Community Centre. Doors will be open by 6:30pm for membership sales and renewals, along with sales of OSFN merchandise including field guides, and articles of clothing too. The event will also be available on Zoom, with a link available at https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/GAwRos4NQ1CiUsw6qEbctw
The Young Naturalists Club is also getting ready for another year!!
The Young Naturalist Club Coordinator is Amanda Eriksen and you may email her at this address youngnaturalistsos@gmail.com to confirm the schedule and pose any questions you may have.
The Young Naturalists’ Club is primarily for children aged 7 to 12 years old. They typically meet on the last Sunday of the month from 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm, but for some events the times may vary. The program operates from September to June but with no meeting in December. Parents and guardians are required to stay and participate.
The Bruce Peninsula Bird Observatory’s Station Scientist Stéphane Menu, has recently begun monitoring the southbound migration of birds at Cabot Head. Some of the many warblers seen there may have been resident there this past summer, and others may be arriving from further north, on their way to their winter destinations. In addition, shore birds and raptors have been observed working their way southward too. Here is an excerpt from his recent blog:
“Diversity of warblers was relatively good during this time, notably on August 28th. That day also marked a high point in banding with 47 birds of 19 species, following 44 birds of 13 species on the 27th. Nashville and Bay-breasted Warblers were among the most abundant birds captured, but Red-eyed Vireos were also banded in significant numbers: 15 birds during these two days and a total of 44 Red-eyed Vireos banded in these first two weeks.”
OSFN’s Audrey Armstrong and Patti Byers were on hand for the Escarpment Biosphere Conservancy’s (EBC) Monarch Festival at Tobermory on August 29, teaching about the Monarch butterflies’ life cycles and food requirements, and also tagging some of these long distance flyers who will be embarking on the longest journey of their lives, to their winter home in Mexico. Audrey told me she is very encouraged by the abundance of Monarch sightings these days and noted that the increasingly widespread swamp milkweed and common milkweed plants have provided a strong foundation for a healthy start in the butterflies’ early stages.
The Bruce Birding Club (BBC) held its first tour on September 2, after their summer break, and the dozen club members on hand enjoyed seeing and hearing the diverse birdlife at Shallow Lake, led by Rob Wray. In addition to the many egrets, trumpeter swans, plovers, sandpipers, and greater yellowlegs, sightings included Great Blue Herons, Belted Kingfishers and Bald Eagles too plus many Monarch butterflies everywhere we went. I also enjoyed re-discovering the many stunning Cardinal Flowers and Orange Jewelweeds on hand there. And that was just the first stop for the day!
OSFN will also be offering September field trips, first to club members, with chances to look downwards – one with a focus on mushroom/fungi identification, and another will highlight the diversity of ferns in this area, along with some of their history too.
Another September bonus is that Steve Irvine’s pottery will be included in the Pottery and Glass Show in the Legacy Gallery of the Owen Sound Artists Co-op, until October 28
Many Naturalists in the area have also been turning their eyes upwards lately to see some of the visual treats in the night skies, whether meteor showers, or the recent delight of the partial lunar eclipse.
To close, then, here is a Nature quote from An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth, by Chris Hadfield, who “had the opportunity to see our planet from afar… The shimmering, dancing show of the northern and southern lights, the gorgeous blues of the shallow reefs fanning out around the Bahamas… Space travel has made me feel I have a personal obligation to be a good steward of our planet and to educate others about what is happening to it … the deforestation in Madagascar… But we make matters infinitely worse through poor stewardship. We need to take a longer-term view of the environment and try to make things better wherever we can.”
The Owen Sound Field Naturalists (OSFN) are preparing for the 2026-2027 season and in the meantime, there are many Nature activities that are already underway this summer.
A Freshwater Mussels survey/workshop was presented on August 18, by Dr.Todd Morris at the Saugeen River access west of Elmwood, as a follow up to his talk in Owen Sound in June. It was a learning opportunity and a chance to learn how to identify (ID) the mussels still evident in that stretch or the river, to see if there were any changes, surprises, trends, etc.
OSFN’s Amy Darrell shared this report:”Owen Sound Field Naturalists had an amazing day in the Saugeen River with freshwater mussels specialists, Todd and Kelly. We discovered all but one of the expected mussel species for the area: Plain Pocketbook, Spike, Mucket, Fatmucket, Slippershell, Flutedshell and Creeper. Why do mussels have the best names? Mussels are officially my newest obsession. They are astonishingly cool. Follow Dr Todd J Morris on instagram to learn more about the amazing work being done to learn about and protect endangered freshwater mussels.”
Sample Mussels Photos – by Amy Darrell – August 18
In addition to the creatures in the river, there was some amazing butterfly activity on the wet sandy river bank too, as many Clouded Sulphur (yellow) and Cabbage White butterflies swirled and landed,. A beautiful American Lady butterfly also landed to follow their example, where they were actively ‘puddling’, acquiring dietary components from the damp earth, that complement their pollinating and regular dietary sources.
Clouded Sulphurs ‘puddling’ beside Saugeen River photo by John Dickson August 18
In fact it has been an amazing month or two for sightings of many butterflies, especially Canadian Tiger Swallowtails. Kincardine based Bruce Edmunds agreed – “Yes, plenty of Canadian Tiger Swallowtails in my neck of the woods in July.”
The annual Butterfly Count at MacGregor Point Provincial Park took place in early July and Bob Taylor of Tiverton explained that the Midsummer Tiger Swallowtail butterflies have been evident here through most of the summer, taking over from the Canadian Tiger Swallowtails who are slightly smaller, and are more evident in late Spring and early Summer.
Audrey Armstrong also reported: “It is the Canadian Tiger Swallowtail we have had in spades this summer. It was interesting to note that although I was seeing about a dozen a day over here in Georgian Bluffs, on the day of the NABA count in the Port Elgin Area, we saw only a few. A friend in Wiarton recently reported the Giant Swallowtail in her gardens.
Now I am seeing good numbers of adult monarchs, eggs, caterpillars and even chrysalis in abundance in our area. This makes me optimistic about a strong migration. The robust swamp milkweed in my butterfly gardens and our area lakes and wetlands are fueling many of the migratory super generation! We hope to have good numbers as we look for overnight roostings at this time of year.”
In fact, there is a MONARCH BUTTERFLY FESTIVAL planned for Saturday August 29, from 10am to 4pm at the Bruce Peninsula National Park Visitor Centre, 120 Chi sin tib dek Road, in Tobermory. Join the Escarpment Biosphere Conservancy, Parks Canada and the Ontario Land Trust Alliance for educational talks, children’s activities and the chance to watch trained professionals safely catch, tag and release monarch butterflies. Learn how each tiny tag helps scientists understand monarch migration routes, timing and survival. Featuring OSFN’s Audrey Armstrong and Patti Byers.
Monarch tagging is ‘weather and butterfly activity permitting.’ Parks Canada parking fees apply to the Visitor Centre.
Midsummer Tiger Swallowtail – photo by Bob Taylor
In addition to the many Monarch butterflies I have been seeing lately, I often think of August as Goldfinch month, when there are Goldfinches galore, singing and swooping, when I am near fields and forest edges, as well as in town.
Just like many of the ‘golden’ grain fields these days, the Goldenrod blooms have really brightened up the landscape as the plants get taller and other even more colourful summertime wildflowers are also blooming now too.
It was a real bonus for me earlier this week when I discovered some beautiful Cardinal flowers along the shore of the North Saugeen River in Scone.
As Barbara Palmer says: “Cardinal Flower: This one likes a marsh, stream, or wet ditch. A favourite of hummingbirds and bees.” And a favourite of mine, too.
Photos by Barbara Palmer, August 17th
To close, a Nature quote from Acoustic Espionage by Tim Harrison, (1951 – 2026), who, along with his brother John, worked to establish the Summerfolk Music and Crafts Festival. The site that was chosen was “used by very few people, and grown up with waist-high reeds due to the high-water table…” … and as the date was approaching, ” the city cut down the reeds. And lo and behold, a beautiful park with weeping willow trees, an amazing view of Georgian Bay, and a beautiful beach appeared…. I was born in the city of Owen Sound which is at the southern end of sparkling and beautiful Georgian Bay….Life was rich there…nor did we fail in finding its great beauty.”
The Owen Sound Field Naturalists (OSFN) held their Annual General Meeting (AGM) on June 11, which included taking care of club business, and updating the Board of Directors – adding new ones, and thanking those who had completed their terms.
The 2026 – 2027 slate includes Co-Presidents Bella Waterton and Paul Scriver, who conducted the meeting, plus incoming Vice -President Jenna McGuire; Treasurer Warren Steckle; Secretary Jeannine Kralt; Young Naturalists Coordinator Amanda Eriksen; plus Directors-at-large Marsha Courtney, Diane Lawler, Sarah McComb-Turbitt, and Mike Goodwin.
Programming of monthly speakers and field trips will be handled by Lee McArthur and Amy Darrell.Appreciation was expressed to Past President Brendan Mulroy, as well as outgoing directors Michael Rankin, Kathleen Pierce, and Lloyd Lewis.
The meeting also included award presentations: One – Former President Kate McLaren presented the OSFN Community Conservation Award to Norah Toth in special recognition of her outstanding efforts, publishing the Hart’s Tongue Herald (Club newsletter) and general communications, along with her involvement with Stewardship Grey Bruce, and the Huron Fringe Birding Festival.
Two – the OSFN Honourary Life Membership Award went to David Morris, in recognition of his valuable contributions to the Publications Committee, as well as his many teaching moments during field trips and presentations to the club over the years. I was always impressed with the way he educated himself on various topics, and then very effectively shared that knowledge with those in attendance, with his sense of humour always close to the surface too. Unfortunately David Morris was in failing health at the time of the AGM, so this award was given to him on June 10th, by Barbara Palmer. Sadly, David Morris passed away on June 24. Our sincere condolences to David’s family and friends.
Following the AGM guest speaker Research Scientist Todd Morris, (no relation) conducted an excellent tutorial on freshwater mussels, and techniques being used to help recover endangered or extirpated populations in Ontario.
Paintbrush in full bloom. June 2026 Photos by Rob Wray
The Bruce Birding Club wrapped up its Spring session on June 17 with a tour of favourite locations on the Saugeen Bruce Peninsula. Here are some highlights from Coordinator James Turland –
We enjoyed perfect weather for the BBC’s last hike of the season. We started our day with chimney swifts circling high overhead in Wiarton and ended with Black Terns at Boat Lake. At the Wiarton Lagoons, we encountered an interesting sight: a large Snapping Turtle laying her eggs in a gravel mound at the municipal yard. Several Wilson’s Snipe winnowed overhead, and an Osprey was spotted carrying something in its talons. As it came closer, we could see it was carrying a stick, which it placed on a nest high above us on a cell tower.
At Wiarton Harbour, my favourite moment of the day occurred when a female Common Merganser allowed all of her young to ride on her back as she gently shepherded them away from our encroachment. Out on the bay, we also found a lone Common Loon among the many Double-crested Cormorants.
At Isaac Lake turtle nesting season was clearly in full swing. Another remarkable sight was the abundance of Mourning Cloak caterpillars. Some participants were also rewarded with views of a Black-billed Cuckoo.
As we picnicked at Berford Lake Park, we were entertained by the sweet song of a Winter Wren. At Skye Lake, we heard Marsh Wrens calling, bringing our total to four wren species for the day. Typical of wrens, they were much easier to hear than to see.
At Boat Lake, the remaining participants were rewarded with views of a Species of Special Concern. Black Terns require large wetlands, build floating nests, and are highly sensitive to fluctuating water levels, boat wakes, and habitat loss.
Our personal final stop of the day produced another Bruce Peninsula specialty: Brewer’s Blackbird. North Diagonal Road remains the most reliable location to find them this year, and seeing this species provided a fitting conclusion to our last outing of the season.
Thank you to everyone who joined together throughout the season and helped create so many wonderful memories. Enjoy your summer, and we can look forward to our first hike of the fall season on Wednesday, September 4.
A vibrant, native Wood Lily (Lilium philadelphicum) on a rainy day. June 26, photo by Jeannine Kralt
I have certainly enjoyed the transition from Spring to Summer, especially many large yellow Tiger Swallowtail butterflies when they visited and blended into the very ‘yellow-looking’ linden trees in flower near us. Random sightings of Cedar Waxwings have also been a bonus for me when out for a run or even a walk on nearby trails. It has also been a treat to observe several patches of Wild Asparagus leafing out, plus the lovely blue Chicory flowers, and then discover the aromatic flowers of both the yellow and white varieties of Sweet Clover along a cycling route.
Back in the Valley again and delighted to see this Osprey hunting and fishing along the Beaver River. Photo by Ingrid Remkins July 2
Congratulations to John Bittorf on his recent retirement from Grey Sauble Conservation, after four decades of attention to the local watershed. He graciously helped out with our Young Naturalist events and also with a Benthic themed field trip before that.
I am very glad I invited him to speak about water monitoring and forecasting to OSFN in April 2025 and his presentation is on our Youtube Channel at https://owensoundfieldnaturalists.ca/
To close, a reminder that there is plenty of wonderful Nature-themed art to check out that is currently on display at the Owen Sound Artists’ Co-Op, along with paintings by Marie Knapp at the Owen Sound and North Grey Union Public Library, watercolours by Jane Burns at the Grey Gallery, and at the Ginger Press, a number of paintings by the celebrated wildlife artist Frank de Matteis. Be sure to pay each of them a visit or two!
A Cedar Waxwing I encountered while I was out for a run on the trails of Stoney Orchard Park – June 19 Photo by John Dickson
The next presentation by the Owen Sound Field Naturalists (OSFN) will feature Todd Morris, PhD, a prominent federal Research Scientist with Fisheries and Oceans Canada.
Morris’s talk here ten years ago was so enthusiastically received that I invited him to return this year, with ‘A Brief Introduction to Mussels of the World’ plus his main topic – ‘Is conservation translocation a path forward to recover Canada’s endangered freshwater mussels? The story of Kidneyshell (Ptychobranchus fasciolaris) in the Thames River, Ontario.’
Freshwater mussels are among the most endangered animals in the world. Their extended lifespan, sedentary nature and unique life history, requiring a period of parasitism on a vertebrate host, make them particularly vulnerable to habitat alteration through urban and agricultural development, plus overharvest for pearls and buttons, and the effects of invasive species.
Nearly 40% of all Canadian species have been assessed as at-risk by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) and most of those have experienced some local extirpations. Conservation translocation to re-establish extirpated populations is one approach being used in Ontario to help stabilize and recover aquatic species at risk. Kidneyshell were last recorded alive in the Thames River over two decades ago but efforts are now underway to re-establish this population through hatchery propagation with nearby Sydenham river stock. If successful, this approach will help to ensure the long term survival of the species in Canada.
This event will take place at 7pm just after the 6:15pm OSFN Annual General Meeting, on Thursday, June 11, at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre.
Everyone is Welcome! Admission is by Donation, Free for OSFN Members and doors will open by 6:00pm
In addition here is a Zoom link in order to register, in advance, for the Mussels presentation only:
Coordinator Amanda Eriksen reports on the May 31st Young Naturalists’ Introduction to Native Seed Planting with Nancy Brown at the Inglis Falls Arboretum Alliance (IFAA) & Nursery “Nancy was an excellent host for the Young Naturalists. We learned all about the native plants in Grey County and she had lots of different seeds for the kids to see. After a tour of the plant nursery, we helped gather up some leaves. We then helped to plant some seeds and ‘toddler trees’ and tucked them into their “crib” or the “playpen” with a good watering. Nancy provided a snack and a craft as well. We collected closed dandelions, set our “wish” or goal, then glued them in a jar. The hope is that they will open in the jar and the kids can look at it and be reminded of their goal. We had some budding entomologists who spent some time insect hunting and the kids ended by playing tigers in the grass. For next month, I am thinking of doing a mini bio blitz at the Oliphant Fen as we haven’t gone up the peninsula yet this year and it’s such a biodiverse place.”
Young Naturalists Photos by Amanda Eriksen Giving the ‘toddler trees’ a good watering.Young Naturalists Photos by Amanda Eriksen Nan quickly put the Young Naturalists to work!Photo by Pat Gillies May 29 Saugeen Shores area Bold and Bashful… On a beautiful sunny morning one of these two fox kits is up and ready to start the day. The other, not so much.
Thank you to Norah Toth, for this snapshot of the 2026 Huron Fringe Birding Festival, whose headquarters are at MacGregor Point Provincial Park, and which ran from May 22 to May 31. Over 90 events were enjoyed by the 462 Festival registrants, during which 196 bird species were recorded.
Highlights included the morning to night Big Day led by Kiah Jasper and Alessandra Kite. In 15.5 hours, this group of 20 participants broke the record from last year with a total of 155 species.
A highly sought after Connecticut Warbler caused quite a stir. This large warbler is a skulker, spending much of its time foraging on the ground. It breeds in boggy spruce or tamarack forests and winters in South America. Sighting the Connecticut Warbler during migration does not happen every year in Bruce County, so it was a lifer (first time ever seen) for many of the 50 people who got their eyes on it.
The most surprising, and exciting, observation was not seen, but heard, after dark. Two local birders, Pam Kinchen and Norah Toth, were sitting around a campfire and heard a bird that sounded somewhat like a Whip-poor-will. After discussion Pam said: “It’s a Chuck-will’s-widow.”
Realizing verification would be important, Norah taped it. This tape was sent to the local e-bird reviewer, Kiah Jasper, who replied very excitedly that indeed it was a Chuck-will’s-widow and a first record for Bruce County. This bird, which is considered threatened in the United States, overshot its destination during migration, as it nests no further north than southern Ohio.
Unfortunately, its visit to MacGregor Point was a one-night wonder. New in 2026 was a 100 Species pin which was received by a good number of participants. The Norah Toth Award was granted posthumously to Dave Schaus, at the Birder’s Banquet, for his many contributions to birding and nature in Bruce County.
A Black-throated Blue Warbler belts one out. May 30 Photo by Rob Wray
I have been able to get out for a few Nature Rambles myself, either on foot or cycling, and have enjoyed seeing many different butterflies and moths, birds, and blooms too, especially the wonderful parade of yellow wildflowers from Springtime to Autumn: Coltsfoot, Dandelion, Marsh Marigold, Violets, Buttercups, Yellow Lady’s Slipper Orchids, Wild Mustard, and more to come. An extra treat for me at this time of year is to experience the beautiful and fragrant blossoms of the Horse Chestnut trees.
To close, a Nature quote from Moira Welsh’s Happily Ever Older – Revolutionary Approaches to Long-term Care, published in 2021. Developing videos and virtual reality (VR) experiences with Nature themes, helps to create an environment that is safer, more welcoming … and have brought some relief, feelings of safety, comfort and even joy to some residents, providing the sounds of ‘water, wind and all the different types of birds… a dog barking… a visual of the ocean breaking on a rock accompanied by spatial audio that changes with the viewing experience.’ These approaches provide engaging experiences as well as a better comfort level for residents, minimizing the frequent medications and restraints that have been the norm for so long.
Horse Chestnut Tree blooms – photos by John Dickson June 5, Owen Sound
The Owen Sound Field Naturalists (OSFN) are pleased to offer ‘Gaia’s Gifts’ May 14, with special guest Peter Rasberry, a hobby photographer with a special interest in the natural world – birds, wildflowers, insects, landscapes and others.
“I had the great fortune of working in Outdoor and Environmental Education for 38 years which presented me with countless opportunities to learn about and photograph many species of wildlife, and to share my appreciation of the environment with others.’Gaia was the Greek Earth goddess who emerged from Chaos and created the Mountains, Sea and Sky. We know her as Mother Earth. The Gaia Hypothesis is a book written by Dr. James Lovelock, a British scientist working for NASA in the 1970’s in which he describes the Earth as a self-sustaining organism, providing and maintaining the conditions that support life. Both of these concepts inspired my choice of “Gaia’s Gifts” as the title for this presentation.”
This event is scheduled for 7pm Thursday May 14, at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre. Doors will be open by 6:30pm for checking goods and merchandise in the lobby, including Nature books, field guides, Nature Art, clothing, and more. Admission is by Donation (free for OSFN members). It will also be available on Zoom at this link – https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/sTRjRwCySSGK4JE7Be1a3Q
In addition to Gaia’s Gifts, also on May 14, OSFN is delighted to once again partner with Artist and Marine Biologist Sarah McComb-Turbitt in presenting ‘The OSFN Collection.’ In Sarah’s words:
“To celebrate Ontario’s backyard wildlife, I joined forces with the Owen Sound Field Naturalists (OSFN) for a special challenge: painting as many local species as I could throughout March 2026! Part of every sale goes to OSFN—15% from original art, 35% from limited-edition prints, and 50% from artwork cards. Your support helps fund programs for young naturalists, care for natural heritage sites in Grey and Bruce Counties, post educational signs, host guest speakers, and offer guided outdoor adventures!”
Now that she has completed this exciting task, Sarah says “I am THRILLED to finally share the complete OSFN collection with you, as we kept working toward our goal of 15 new wildlife paintings. Worth every hour! This series has been unlike anything I’ve painted before. Every piece is based on local reference photographs taken right here in Grey and Bruce Counties, and each one tells a real wildlife story. Some of the encounter tales are genuinely hilarious — I’ll be sharing more of those on the website pages.” To view more please visit https://www.smccombturbitt.com/
Trilliums – Photosand text by Pat Gillies May 9 I took a little hike this morning into the Hope Bay Nature Reserve, on the Jack Poste and Don Irish side trails. Trilliums are everywhere.
A message from Lloyd Lewis at NeighbourWoods North –
‘Hello Tree and Nature Lovers, NeighbourWoods North is welcoming all volunteers to help us with our Spring Tree/Plant work at the Owen Sound Hospital. We are meeting on Saturday mornings on May 9, 16, 30 and June 6th.from 9:30 to 11am, followed by coffee and cake, resting on your own upside down bucket 🙂 It’s all very satisfying work, knowing YOU are making an impact. We hope to see some of you.’
Shawna Macivor added these helpful details: NeighbourWoods North work bees will take place every Saturday in Spring 2026 until June 6th. Helpers should bring their own garden tools and meet at the shed to the north west of the Emergency drive near the hydro wires. More information can be found at https://www.facebook.com/NeighbourwoodsNorth
Keefer Falls Tree Planting Event – Something special is taking root at one of the Escarpment Biosphere Conservancy’s Living Landscapes 2026 initiatives. On Mother’s Day weekend – May 10, we will be gathering at Keefer Falls to celebrate a landscape that has captured the hearts of so many, owned for many years by Jim and Fran McArthur, and more recently by Lee McArthur and family. Flowing water, fresh spring air, and young trees planted with care, all in honour of the people and places that nurture us. This gathering marks an important step in our work to secure and protect this remarkable property. To learn more, visit – https://escarpment.ca/ To register, visit: https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/keefer-falls-tree-planting-event
This is a sample of the beautifully evocative leaf structures (clusters) of Horse Chestnut Trees. May 5, Owen Sound I hope I remember to check out the amazing flowering blossoms in another month or so… Photo by John Dickson
There are so many more signs of Spring these days. Finally, most of the well-known early wildflowers are blooming. Just a week ago, while I was enjoying some trail running, I noticed a patch of trilliums that included both white and red flowers. I also found a sample of fiddleheads and a larger area densely packed with two different yellow flowers – the taller Large-flowered Bellwort towering over the shorter Trout Lilies (also known as Adder’s Tongues, Dog-toothed Violets and Fawn Lilies). I had never seen these together in the same spot before. Trees are leafing out just in time to give the newly arriving birds more shelter for nesting. This week, while many local birders have been at Point Pelee and/or Pelee Island, there were still many of us here with the Bruce Birding Club enjoying the arrival of Baltimore Orioles, Palm Warblers, Northern Parulas, Blue-headed Vireos and more, at what we have dubbed ‘Pelee North,’ a birding hotspot on the south side of Kincardine. And I expect I will soon be watching the amazing displays of Chimney Swifts right here in Owen Sound.
One of 2 male Eastern Towhees vying for the affections of a female near Storybook Park Road. Photos by Rob Wray
Marsha Courtney tells of the OSFN Young Naturalists’ (YN) recent activities: Our Young Naturalist Group under the OSFN had a lovely hike in the Escarpment Biosphere Conservancy (EBC) Mooi reserve led by Amy Darrell. She put together a bingo for things that we might see and although we did not see the barred owls or the porcupine the kids had a pretty awesome bushwack through the woods to the Spey River. Such a gorgeous day and the weather was perfect for a change.YN Coordinator Amanda Eriksen added – Thanks to Amy Darrell of the Escarpment Biosphere Conservancy for hosting us!
Listening for birds Photo by Marsha Courtney
To close, a Nature quote from Vesper Flights by Helen Macdonald. As a writer “I choose to think that my subject is love, and most specifically love for the glittering world of non-human life around us…To rejoice in the complexity of things.”
Owen Sound Field Naturalists (OSFN) are pleased to welcome back Dr. Brent Patterson, with his new presentation – Understanding Drivers of Moose Population Dynamics in Ontario’s Boreal Forests.Based in the Peterborough area, Patterson is a Large Mammal Research Scientist with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Wildlife Research & Monitoring Section.
Patterson’s current research focuses on the population dynamics of deer, moose, and caribou – plus their predators. Brent Patterson joined the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources as a research scientist in 2001 and has been an adjunct professor at Trent University since that time as well. He also holds academic appointments at several other universities to facilitate his research with graduate students and other academics. Along with his students and colleagues he has published more than 130 scientific papers on wolves, coyotes, caribou, deer and moose in Ontario and beyond. Patterson presented to OSFN in 2012, and again in 2020, to a full house, with a focus on Wolves and Coyotes.
When he’s not working, he enjoys spending as much time as possible in the woods and on the water with family and friends.This Moose talk is scheduled for 7pm Thursday, April 9, at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre.Doors open at 6:30 to browse amongst the OSFN merchandise, learn about memberships and future activities, etc.Of special interest are many nature books from the extensive collection of the late Walter Muma, available by donation to OSFN. Everyone is welcome. Admission is by Donation, (free for OSFN members). To learn more about OSFN, please visit https://owensoundfieldnaturalists.ca/ If you are unable to attend in person, you may register for the Zoom meeting with this link:https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/0JEWe2YuTBy94efRPFPWPw
American Kestrel – photo by Marilyn Scriver, Georgian Bluffs American Kestrel – photo by Marilyn Scriver, Georgian Bluffs This American kestrel was hanging on in the wind! She seemed to enjoy the whole situation. April 3.
Now that Spring is finally here, I was especially delighted recently to go for a pleasant run and hear the beautiful warbling song of several Eastern Meadowlarks. But, I am still waiting to see them – as they were all hidden in the fog that day.
There are many other Nature themed events and talks being offered in the coming weeks: Grey Roots Spring Lectures will feature Allen Smutylo at 1pm Wednesday April 8, with his new book ‘Gold of Another Kind – The Lost Legacy of Georgian Bay.’ Details are here – https://greyroots.com/exhibit-event-program/spring-lecture-series-2026
Popular presenter Beth Gilhespy offers Geology of the Owen Sound Area in 5 Hikes on April 21 at 6pm at the Owen Sound and North Grey Union Public Library. You need to register in advance and details are here: https://owensound.libcal.com/event/3990528
The City of Owen Sound and the Saugeen Ojibway Nation Environment Office (SON EO) invite the public to attend a Marker Tree Dedication Ceremony recognizing this culturally significant tree located beside the river in the Harrison Park campground.The event will take place at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 22 – which is also recognized as Earth Day – and will begin with an Indigenous ceremonial fire, followed by drumming from members of the M’Wikwedong Indigenous Friendship Centre. The program will also include greetings from dignitaries, a teaching from Lenore Keeshig of Neyaashiinigmiing, and the unveiling of an interpretive plaque at the site.
The Bruce Birding Club had a strong turnout of birders and birds on April 1. James Turland reports: Fred and Marilyn scouted the route the day before in mild, foggy conditions, but we woke to below-zero temperatures on hike day. Oh well—we are a hardy bunch. We visited some favourite spots in search of migrating waterfowl and early arrivals. One particular Pied-billed Grebe gave us great views, paddling alongside Ring-necked Ducks at Browns Pond. At Baie du Dor, strong winds limited our ability to thoroughly check the gulls. On the way home along Bruce Road 20, there were great views of Tundra Swans. To see Marilyn’s Trip Report showing more details on where birds were seen click on the link.https://ebird.org/tripreport/495299
Photo by Rob Wray – Great Blue Heron, April 1, Bruce County
Sources of Knowledge is pleased to announce its upcoming annual forum, taking place May 1–3, 2026 at the Parks Canada Visitor Centre, Tobermory This year’s theme, Invasive Species, focuses on one of the most significant threats facing Canada’s native plants and wildlife.
The forum will open with a keynote presentation by Nick Mandrak, Professor of Biological Sciences at the University of Toronto and a resident of Grand Bend. To learn more please visit https://sourcesofknowledge.ca/
Keefer Falls Tree Planting Event – Something special is taking root at one of the Escarpment Biosphere Conservancy’s Living Landscapes 2026 initiatives.
On Mother’s Day weekend – May 10, we will be gathering at Keefer Falls to celebrate a landscape that has captured the hearts of so many, owned for many years by Jim and Fran McArthur, and more recently by Lee McArthur and family. Flowing water, fresh spring air, and young trees planted with care, all in honour of the people and places that nurture us. This gathering marks an important step in our work to secure and protect this remarkable property.
The first Painted turtle I have seen this year basking in a brief sunny interval the other day. Time to start watching for them as they start moving around near the local roads. Photo by Les Anderson, April 2
April 19 – 26 is Volunteer Week and I have learned that these volunteers at Ontario Nature – ‘Lynn Miller, M.K. Malik, Ted Higginbotham, Ron Corkum, Mao Shiba and Jesica Sobers – collaborated with ON Nature’s Editor John Hassell and Communications Technician Noah Cole, to source, scan and format more than 360?back?issues?of Ontario Nature’s periodicals with content spanning from present day to 1932.’ What a discovery for me, to learn that newsletters of the Federation of Ontario Naturalists (F.O.N. – now Ontario Nature) have also been digitized and are available for viewing. It was quite a treat to see newsletters from the early 1950s with the distinctive artwork of Thoreau MacDonald on the title page.
To close, a poem by an 11 year old Keith Conover, a member of the Toronto Junior Field-Naturalists Club, in October 1950, entitled:
‘Conservation’
We need our forests for water and wood For rayon and syrup and other things good. We need our grassland so we can keep Good soil and cattle and flocks of sheep. We need our swamps for they are able To keep wildlife and a high water table. So you can help by planting trees And leaving swamps like little seas. And wildlife should be able to thrive Cause they’re worth more when they’re alive.
The Owen Sound Field Naturalists (OSFN) will be offering up a bumper crop of exciting presentations for Members’ Night 2026, as coordinated by OSFN’s Brian Robin.
The seven featured speakers and topics will include: Robert Burcher: Plants of Wineland the Good; Amanda Eriksen: A Young Field Naturalists Update; Kristine Hammel: Ecological Agriculture can grow ‘Food and Biodiversity’ simultaneously; Barb Rabicki: An uplifting story of overcoming obstacles, and of being rewarded by the ‘Return of Wildlife in Abundance!’; Marcia Ranger: A ‘Bearvivr’s Tale’ of her 2017 bear attack experience, what she learned, and the messages she has for all of us; Marilyn Scriver: Antarctica – A Snapshot – from one of Marilyn’s trips to Antarctica; and Christopher Wren, Ph.D.: Another Hidden Jewel in Grey County – Chris will present an overview of this special property, its flora, fauna, geology, water features – and foxes too.
OSFN’s Members’ Night is scheduled for 7pm Thursday, March 12, at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre. Doors open at 6:30 to browse amongst the OSFN merchandise, learn about memberships and future activities, etc. Everyone is welcome. Admission is by Donation, (free for OSFN members). To learn more about OSFN, please visit https://owensoundfieldnaturalists.ca/
The Bruce Grey Woodlands Association (BGWA) has organized several chainsaw workshops and courses over the next couple of months as follows:
Chainsaw Safety Course – March 21; Chainsaw Certification Course – April 11/12;
Women’s Only Chainsaw Safety Course – April 18; Chainsaw Maintenance Course – April 25
There are still spaces available for the different courses. If you are looking for more information about any of these courses or would like to register, please email president@bgwa.ca
The 33rd Annual Grey Bruce Woodlot Conference is happening Saturday March 28, 2026, at the Elmwood Community Center (38 Concession Road 10, Elmwood). The conference runs from 8 AM to 3 PM, with speakers starting at 9 AM. Topics include tree planting and biodiversity impacts, spotted lantern fly, transitioning plantations to mixedwood forests, grassland restoration, and wild turkeys.
To learn more about the great lineup of speakers visit gbwc.blog. To register email info@gbwc.blog with your name and address. Tickets are $40 in advance, or $50 at the door. Ticket price includes lunch.
Yes, Spring is coming soon, and it is time to get ready for the 28th Huron Fringe Birding Festival, May 22-25 and May 28-May 31, 2026.
Registration, on-line, starts at 6am, March 13. Be sure to check the website in advance to set up an account and plan your events. Registration is always busy and it is best to be prepared.
Here are links for the website, for the event Schedule, and for registration.
It is advisable to select your preferred events in advance.
Pearl Bumstead shared this report about ‘Who Made Those Tracks and Why?’ a recent OSFN Tracking Tutorial February 21, with Jeff Kinchen.
Pearl Bumstead shared this report:
“A small group set out on a trek in search of tracks and Jeff led us to plenty.
The day was overcast with a bit of snow in the air, but evidence of a lot of wildlife was present: Skunk, deer, rabbit, and fisher, just to name a few.
Jeff was very knowledgeable, filling us in about the habits and nature of various species that live in the woods on family property near the Bognor Marsh, on Conc 4.
At the end of our trek, Pam Kinchen treated us all to some yummy goodies & hot tea. Thanks so much to Jeff and Pam, and to John Dickson for organizing yet another fabulous outing.”
On February 22nd, Amanda Eriksen and the Young Naturalists spent some quality time with Sarah McComb-Turbitt – (Artist, Marine Biologist, Naturalist and more), guiding them in painting images of wildlife.
Amanda confirms We had a great time painting wildlife with Sarah McComb-Turbitt! Thanks for your leadership!!!
and Marsha Courtney adds:
They all did so well and sure had fun. Thanks to Sarah McComb for hosting the Young Naturalist group.
Sarah has followed up in March with “Introducing the OSFN Collection.” In a collaboration to highlight the enjoyment of our backyard wildlife here in Ontario, the Owen Sound Field Naturalists and signature member of Artists for Conservation, Sarah McComb Turbitt, created a challenge to paint as many local species as she can during March 2026.
So far Coyote, Barn Owl and Dwarf Lake Iris have been voted to be painted by Sarah, with Turtles being featured next.
Fauna, flora, fungi – every species is a possibility, and YOU get to choose what she paints next! Have a favourite species you want championed or a stunning photo of Ontario wildlife? Email at sarah@smccombturbitt.com and help shape this unique collection! Two species will face off daily for selection, with voting taking place across Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn, and results tallied across platforms to determine the winners.
Let her know what species you want to see featured, and spread the word! Email Sarah at sarah@smccombturbitt.com
15% of original artworks, 35% of limited-edition prints, and 50% of artwork cards will be donated to OSFN
These past few weeks have been terrific for me to be active outside, mainly skiing on area trails, and within forests on top of the firm snow, as well as beside frozen shorelines. The sunshine has been a bonus, with high pressure and clear skies for many days in the past four to six weeks. However, the recent milder Springlike weather has lured
As our winter season unfolds and the landscape around us transforms, it has been a joy to witness both the beauty and the ecological rhythms that make this season special. With early snowfall beginning in November, many of us have enjoyed Lake Huron and Georgian Bay beginning to freeze, fostering important habitat benefits for wintering species and creating spectacular ice formations along the shoreline that have captured imaginations both near and far.
Our club has continued to meet outdoors and enjoy the wonders of the frozen world. Beth-Anne and John led a keen group of skiers and snowshowers around the trails at Cobble Beach on February 6th. Jeff Kinchen has another tracking event coming up that is widely popular! We owe a heartfelt thanks to the speakers who have kept us curious and engaged throughout the winter months. In January, Roman Lanno enlightened us on the fascinating world of environmental DNA, expanding how we can explore biodiversity using cutting-edge tools.
David Morris offered an insightful talk on soils, enriching our understanding of the foundation beneath our feet in February. We are excited for our Members Night presentations in March, where individuals from our own community will share their naturalist experiences and discoveries.
A special note of gratitude goes to Michael Rankin for his dedicated service as a director at large. His thoughtful contributions to board discussions and to the governance of the club have been deeply appreciated by all members. All the best with your future endeavours, Michael!
The Merchandise Committee has been working hard to ensure that the full range of club apparel is available online for your consideration. Wearing club gear is not only a wonderful way to show your support for the OSFN, it also makes a great conversation piece that can spark interest and invite others to learn more about what we do.
As an organization driven entirely by volunteers, we continue to look for support in a number of areas to sustain the club’s activities. We currently have three vacant board seats: Vice President and two Directors at Large. If you have interest in contributing your time and skills to help guide the club forward, please reach out to Bella or Paul – president@osfn.ca. We would be happy to answer questions about the duties involved. Past and current board members are also excellent resources for insight into these roles.
In addition, we are seeking volunteers interested in helping to create a Programming Committee. A small, dedicated group has already begun planning future activities, and we are looking for 2–3 additional members who would enjoy supporting the curation of the club’s programs in the coming years. If this opportunity interests you, please get in touch so we can discuss how your talents might support the committee’s needs. Special thanks and admiration to John Dickinson for holding this significant role for many years.
This winter, the club has also been able to support other naturalist activities in our broader community. We hope folks can enjoy the Grey Roots Museum’s Speaker Series, and we are pleased to have committed to sending two young people to BOEC for summer camp this year. Our Young Naturalists Program has featured some truly wonderful outings, and it is inspiring to see such enthusiastic engagement from our youngest members. A heartfelt thanks goes to Amanda Erickson for her continued leadership of this program.
Our Publications Committee and the team working on the updated Geology Book have been hard at work. We are eagerly anticipating the latest addition to our club’s publications, and we look forward to seeing it head off to the printer in the coming weeks.
Finally, we are so grateful to Norah Toth who is behind the wonderful communication you receive about programming and local initiatives you can choose to be a part of. Norah takes on the large task of collating this wonderful newsletter, and we appreciate her hard work and dedication to ensuring our community continues to stay well-informed! Thank you to all our members and volunteers for the energy, curiosity, and passion you bring to the Owen Sound Field Naturalists. We look forward to gathering together again this spring.
