Nature Club News for April 2026

by John Dickson

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

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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

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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.

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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

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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/

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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 and to register visit – https://escarpment.ca/To register visit: https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/keefer-falls-tree-planting-event

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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/

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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

These are also listed on the BGWA website at https://bgwa.ca/ 

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

2026 Grey Bruce Woodlot Conference

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.

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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. 

https://huronfringebirdingfestival.ca/

https://huronfringebirdingfestival.ca/page/schedule-of-events

https://huronfringebirdingfestival.ca/page/registration

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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.”

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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.

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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

Check out her website where you can see the quality of art she is able to produce. Fine Art by Sarah McComb-Turbitt

15% of original artworks, 35% of limited-edition prints, and 50% of artwork cards will be donated to OSFN 

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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 

Nature Club News for February 2026

by John Dickson

The Owen Sound Field Naturalists (OSFN)  invite you to learn about the Soils of Grey and Bruce, with David Morris.bWhy do we have so many different types of soil? How were they formed? What makes one soil different from another? How do those factors affect the way they are managed? What makes for a “healthy” soil?

 David Morris’ long career included his work with OMAFRA where he also shared his expertise in nutrient management and soil fertility. In addition he was knowledgeable about field crop and corn production practices, and was a prolific author of many reports and  factsheets plus articles in the Ontario Corn Producer Magazine. In his own words “As a Soils and Crops Specialist, my primary function was to advise farmers on matters related to crop production and soil management practices.”

Morris has also been a key member of OSFN’s publication committee and has led many helpful botany themed hikes too.

This event is scheduled for 7pm Thursday February 12 at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre, with the doors open by 6:30.
 Everyone is welcome, with Admission by Donation and free for OSFN members.  To learn more please visit https://owensoundfieldnaturalists.ca/event/an-introduction-to-the-soils-of-grey-and-bruce-w-david-morris/

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Norah Toth reports: The Owen Sound Group of the Bruce Birding Club did a half day tour of bird feeders and Harrison Park on Wednesday, February 4. It was a cold start to the day but the eight of us had a great morning. A Bald Eagle perched in a tree near the Bayshore Community Centre was our first sighting for the morning. This adult eagle looked like a sentinel guarding the mouth of the Sydenham River.

Our first feeder stop was near the Bognor Marsh where over 60 Evening Grosbeaks looked like yellow decorations in the crowns of the trees covered with hoar frost. What a sight! This feeder was busy. Hairy, Downy and Red-bellied woodpeckers, American Goldfinch, White-breasted Nuthatch, Black-capped Chickadee were in abundance and at times they were joined by a lone Dark-eyed Junco.

Our next stop closer to town added a Cooper’s Hawk, Mourning Doves and just after we left, a Red-tailed Hawk. This feeder may currently be a birds of prey lunch spot.

Then to Harrison Park for some ducks. We were not disappointed. With the Sound frozen over, several hundred Mallards had found what little open water they could. They were joined by Canada Geese and Black Ducks; and by three hybrid ducks. The Goldeneye X Hooded Merganser was very distinctive with a completely dark head shaped like a “hoodie” and the very distinctive colouration of a Goldeneye, minus the white cheek patch. Its golden eye sparkled in the sunlight. This duck has been sighted around Owen Sound in the winter for at least two years. It was great to have a photographer along as the other two hybrids may need a bit more assistance to tie down exactly which species their parents had been.

Our final stop was in town where, among a flurry of other species, sat a Carolina Wren. Typically a fairly secretive species found further south, it appeared quite content with the feeder offerings it has been receiving this winter.

Thank you to the people who allowed us to visit their feeders, it was greatly appreciated. Our morning ended with 22 species and 3 hybrids which for a frosty morning in February was quite satisfying.

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I had some good bird sightings myself recently while skiing in the Owen Sound area. These included a Great Horned Owl, in a wooded area which just might also be a nesting area at this time of year. The next day I was skiing on the woodland trails at Hibou and encountered a Pileated Woodpecker and also a Hairy Woodpecker, both of which are always a treat to see.

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This coming weekend is also the opportunity to participate  in the annual Great Backyard Bird Count    More details are available at this link – https://www.birdcount.org/

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Another Agriculture highlight this month is the retirement from Markdale’s Grey Ag Services of Lorie Smith, a former recipient of the Tommy Cooper Award, and for me, the person to call to learn who might be a good fit for a talk or a field trip with a combined Nature and Agriculture theme for OSFN. Lorie Smith was always helpful, supportive and pleasant to interact with too. Congratulations Lorie! 

More accolades here for Lorie come from a former co-worker who told me – “Lorie has been a great person to work with  during the past 20 years. She has done an excellent job at GreyAg. I am so happy to witness the progress that Lorie and the team has achieved and truly proud of the job that Lorie has done at mentoring the current staff that will lead the team and continue the great reputation the Ag Centre has always been recognized for serving the Agricultural Community not only in Grey County but far beyond our boundaries.

Respectfully submitted!!,

Ray Robertson” 

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Thank You to Marsha Courtney for sharing this Young Naturalists report, and her photos too.

The Young Naturalist group had a fun outing, snowshoeing the trails at our the Eriksens’ property. . Amanda made the bannock and hot chocolate and we enjoyed a nice fire. We also had some cookies and marshmallows available and tracking ‘ hand-outs.’ We only saw bunny tracks and their dogs tracks. I hope everyone enjoyed it as much as I did.

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Walter Muma
Many in the Naturalist community were saddened recently to learn that renowned botanist Walter Muma had passed away unexpectedly on January 8, after a brief illness, at the age of 69.

OSFN’s Willy Waterton and Audrey Armstrong shared this tribute to Walter:

” Hi John,
 So shocking to hear of Walter’s passing. Very sad.  He didn’t suffer fools lightly, but  once he knew you were trust-worthy with not sharing locations of rare plants, he went overboard to help us.
Willy”

“Without Walter, the three publications of the OSFN Publications Committee, Orchids Bruce & Grey, Ferns Bruce & Grey and Asters, Goldenrods, Fleabanes Bruce & Grey would not be complete. He helped us so much in the field, finding the rare species for Willy to photograph.
 Audrey Armstrong”

OSFN’s Brian Maher:
So sorry to hear Walter is gone. He was one of the most knowledgeable botanists I’ve ever met. RIP

I too will miss Walter, and share here, in his own words, his delight after one of his recent summertime birthdays –  “Well I had a very nice day out and about on my birthday. I spent the day hiking and botanizing at an undisclosed location. Came upon an orchid I haven’t seen for many years – Dwarf Rattlesnake Plantain. Of course, it is easily overlooked due to its diminutive size. Also the Cardinal Flowers were out in their fullest glory.” 

Nature Club News for January 2026

by John Dickson

The Owen Sound Field Naturalists club (OSFN) invites you to its first speaker presentation of 2026, ‘Applications of Environmental DNA – [eDNA] – in Ecology’ with  Dr. Roman Lanno.

Environmental DNA [eDNA] is a rapidly emerging technology, with the potential to dramatically change ‘Ecosystem Assessment.’
Environmental Toxicologist Dr. Roman Lanno will guide you through the basics of eDNA, and its myriad applications in ecology, plus its future applications.    

Dr. Lanno recently retired to Owen Sound from his position since 2001 as a Professor in the Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology at the Ohio State University  in Columbus, where his areas of expertise included Ecotoxicology, terrestrial, aquatic, invertebrates, fish, mammals, bioavailability, metals, and organic chemicals. His earlier academic training was at U of Guelph (Bachelor of Science Fisheries Biology and Master of Science – Fish Nutrition) and U of Waterloo – PhD In Environmental Toxicology)

This event is scheduled for 7pm, Thursday January 8, at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre.

Admission is by donation (free for OSFN members), and doors are open by 6:30 to check the OSFN publications, merchandise and membership information available there. 

Other event features include recent ‘nature sightings’ with audience members reporting a few highlights they have observed in the area. 
To learn more about OSFN, including the Young Naturalist Club (they are planning to do some snowshoeing and  making bannock too, on Sunday, January 25 at Greystone Trails, Georgian Bluffs).

The event will also be on Zoom and you may register for the Zoom meeting with this link:
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/LYvQc3voTMul1VAfpvj4Ag

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Here are some excerpts from recent Christmas Bird Counts (CBCs) in the area, as organized by regional ‘Compilers’ who have kindly shared some of their CBC count reports with me. A sampling of their observations follows here: Owen Sound CBC: 

On December 14th, 41 participants tallied 6,425 individual birds of 57 species. Unusual species from this year’s count included a Ring-necked Duck, a Carolina Wren, and several Red-winged and Rusty Blackbirds. Many species were seen in lower numbers this year compared to usual. Surprisingly, however, even more species were seen in higher numbers thanusual, including Redhead, Greater Scaup, Horned Grebe, Bald Eagle (which set a new record for the count this year), American Tree
Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, and several species of finches. The irruption of certain northern species of finches we’ve been seeing this
winter are likely due to food shortages in the north. 

 Erik Van Den Kieboom, Compiler

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The 15th Neyaashiinigmiing CBC was also held December 14, with inclement weather as well as illness resulting in several last-minute cancellations, and only 10 participants ultimately covering the circle. Results: a record low species total of 31, well below the average of 40. The 710 individual birds counted was also a record low, and well below the average of 1,062.

 Notable misses included Common Merganser, Ruffed Grouse (first ever miss), Rock Pigeon and Mourning Dove, and Golden-crowned Kinglet (first ever miss.

Despite their presence elsewhere on the Saugeen Peninsula this winter, no winter finches were recorded.  American Goldfinches were present in average numbers.

Jarmo Jalava and Miptoon (Anthony Chegahno), compilers.

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The 52nd Wiarton CBC was held December 21, with 24 participants and one feeder watcher tallying 53 species.  The total of 3,917 individual birds was above the overall average of 3,767, but well below the recent ten-year average of 4,983 and less than half the record total of 8,628 set in 2023.

Only one record high species total was recorded: Dark-eyed Junco (105, previously 102).  

Other good finds included a Gadwall, an Iceland Gull, a Golden Eagle, a Merlin, White-winged Crossbill and a Common Grackle.

Winter finches were limited to White-winged Crossbill (2), Redpoll (43), Pine Grosbeak (23) and Evening Grosbeak (113).  As noted, American Goldfinches were present in above average numbers (351). The small House Finch population persists in Wiarton, with a relatively high tally of 16 individuals this year. 

Jarmo Jalava, Compiler.

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The 55th Meaford CBC on December 28th and the combined efforts of 6 teams and 5 feeder-watchers resulted in finding 50 species. No new species were added to the all-time cumulative total for this count leaving that number at 129 species.  One new ‘High’ came in, for Horned Grebe with an amazing 72 counted, topping the 52 seen in 2023. In the ‘Unusual’ category, a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (YBSA) was videoed at a valley property. YBSA has not been recorded on the Count since 1973! A Gray Catbird was photographed at the same property the day before the Count, making it only the second record. Total birds were on the low-average side at 3745 birds, with this number bolstered by approximately 500 over-wintering Canada Geese.  Thanks so very much to everyone, and the best for 2026 to all!

Lynne Richardson,  Compiler

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I am looking forward to my next visit to the  Owen Sound and North Grey Union Public Library (OSNGUPL) which supplies me with most of my closing Nature quotes (see below) and which is currently featuring the photography collection of AJ Lawrence, a local photographer inspired by the quiet beauty of local landscapes and public places, and the subtle stories of the natural world.

Living with PTSD, ASD, and Auditory Processing Disorder has shaped AJ’s perspective, strengthened his resilience, and enhanced his ability to work independently–qualities he brings to every photographic project.
AJ’s photography will be on display on display until January 31.

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In closing, and as one who first had the pleasure of hiking a section of the Bruce Trail in August of 1970, (from Walters Falls to Inglis Falls), I would like to acknowledge here, the passing of Dr. Philip Gosling, who was the last co-founder of the Bruce Trail Conservancy, when he passed away on December 3, at the age of 97. His conservation leadership earned him several honours, including the Order of Canada and an honorary degree from the University of Guelph. Gosling’s tremendous legacy is also celebrated in these evocative words: By the “…sparkling white cliffs and blue vastness of Georgian Bay we hikers enjoy this, the most spectacular stretch of the Bruce Trail… When we trek back from the bay, we silently thank the hikers and conservation groups who fought  for the Bruce Trail, making it possible to follow this great escarpment from Queenston to Tobermory.”  from The Heart of the Country, (which I borrowed recently from our wonderful library OSNGUPL), written in 1988 by Fred Dahms (also now in his 90s), Professor Emeritus, founding member and former Chair of the Department of Geography, University of Guelph, and Illustrated by his wife Ruth.

Nature Club News for November 2025

by John Dickson

The Owen Sound Field Naturalists club (OSFN) is pleased to welcome back its November speaker,  Adam Shoalts, for a presentation that highlights his diverse skill-set as a naturalist, historian, archaeologist, explorer plus storyteller, as evidenced by his reputation as Canada’s Indiana Jones and a best selling author too.

Featuring a launch of his latest book, Vanished Beyond the Map – The Mystery of Lost Explorer Hubert Darrell, (both famed for their long solo journeys ranging from Alaska to Hudson Bay),  Adam Shoalts tells how he traces Darrell’s lost pathways a century later, to solve one of exploration history’s enduring cold cases—the mystery of Hubert Darrell.

National bestselling author Adam Shoalts will join us to discuss his well-known expeditions in Canada’s wilderness, including paddling and portaging across nearly 4,000 km of Canada’s Arctic, alone. 

Adam Shoalts is a professional adventurer and Westaway Explorer-in-Residence at the Royal Canadian Geographical Society. His expeditions range from mapping rivers to archaeological projects, but Shoalts is best known for his long solo wilderness journeys Named one of the “greatest living explorers” by CBC and declared “Canada’s Indiana Jones” by the Toronto Star, and his many books, including Where the Falcon Flies, The Whisper on the Night Wind, A History of Canada in 10 Maps, and Beyond the Trees: A Journey Alone Across Canada’s Arctic, all of them national bestsellers. He has a PhD from McMaster University in history, and in his free time, enjoys long walks in the woods. All of these books by Adam Shoalts will be available on site, for purchase.

This event is Sponsored by Dr. Mark Robertson  and is scheduled for 7pm Thursday November 13, at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre.

It will take place ‘in person only’ with no zoom or recording to take place. Doors will be open by 6:30pm, with opportunities to check out OSFN’s popular publications and merchandise, as well as membership information. Admission is by donation, with everybody welcome.

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Bruce Peninsula Bird Observatory

Posted by Station Scientist Stéphane Menu, October 31, 2025 (Excerpt) “The last week of monitoring offered us many treats, as well as reasonably good weather.  On the last four days, Pine Grosbeaks were detected every day, with a few small flocks (6 or 7 birds) on the 29th and 30th. One Pine Grosbeak was captured and banded on the 28th and a second one on the very last day, the 31st! Both were adult females. It is only the sixth fall season with banding for this species.  This species is a rare visitor from the Boreal Forest and an even more rare privilege to have in-the-hand (they are very soft and fluffy!).

Evening Grosbeaks were also detected almost every day during the final week, with an astonishing group of 55 birds on the morning of the 28th! I have never seen such a big flock. [Of warblers] the treat was a Nashville Warbler captured on the 29th! It is the latest record (both for banding and detection) for this species, with one bird seen on the 28th in 2004.And then, it was the last day, as all things eventually come to an end. The final treat was on the final net check, when we extracted a Redpoll: what a nice little bird! This species has been banded in only six previous fall seasons (one to six birds per season), the last one in 2021.It has been another wonderful bird migration monitoring season at Cabot Head for yours truly. I am so grateful to spend my spring and fall seasons here. But nothing would be possible without the help of the wonderful volunteers who give their time and enthusiasm so generously. Like the birds, they are more treats than tricks.”

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Amanda Eriksen reported that the Young Naturalists met in Harrison Park October 26, to learn about aquatic invertebrates, fungi, and other species that inhabit the river area there. 

Special guest Naturalist Elaine van den Kieboom led in explaining what to look for in the water as well as under the microscopes they had set up. In addition to the ‘young humans’ in attendance, a juvenile Turkey Vulture also watched the proceedings – from across the river. Young Naturalists had a great meeting on Sunday. Thanks to Elaine from GSCA for sharing her knowledge!

The proposed upcoming schedule for the Young Naturalists looks very inviting – with future experiences that include hikes, snowshoeing, nature art, astronomy, ferns and more. To learn more please visit https://owensoundfieldnaturalists.ca/young-naturalists/young-naturalist-program/

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I always enjoy November, as it generally offers some wonderful colour transitions, in particular those of tamarack trees which really put on a show before dropping their ‘golden needles.’  In addition, I especially enjoy the lovely Paper (white) Birch trees whose trunks can gleam in the sunshine while their leaves of golden yellow are backed up by a blue sky.  Much smaller  are the Wild Asparagus plants I have discovered, with their delicate and feathery golden tresses, sometimes with bright red berries.

Recent bird sightings of note, with OSFN last weekend, included a ‘drift’ of Snow Buntings, swirling near the shoreline some distance away. We had a pleasant surprise however, when we had shifted ourselves from Leith to Hibou, and the snow buntings also ‘drifted’ there, foraging amongst the shoreline rocks and giving us excellent views of these visually striking visitors.  During the afternoon, our luck continued, with Redpolls being seen in two locations – atop  a Paper Birch tree, and at another spot, in low shrubs by the shore of the bay. To top it off,  a mature Bald Eagle flew overhead for us to admire too. November also reveals bird nests that were previously hidden from view. Enjoy!

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To close, a quote from Beyond the Trees, by Adam Shoalts: “I needed to do some serious thinking. Whenever I was confronted with some momentous decision, I preferred to go where my mind was clearest – to the place I knew best, where I’d grown up, the woods of my childhood… I felt sure I’d know what to do.”

Nature Club News for October 2025

by John Dickson

The Owen Sound Field Naturalists (OSFN) are pleased to welcome to an Owen Sound audience on October 9, renowned Wildlife Biologist Dr. Martyn Obbard with his presentation about the Black Bear population of the Saugeen Bruce Peninsula.

A dedicated Research Scientist, Martyn Obbard will discuss the ecology and behaviour of the small, at risk, genetically isolated and unique population of black bears on the Saugeen Bruce Peninsula and how these bears differ from bears elsewhere in Ontario. The presentation will draw on results of a long-term research study conducted jointly by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Parks Canada and graduate students from Trent University in Peterborough.

Dr. Martyn Obbard is an Emeritus Research Scientist with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, and adjunct professor in the Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate Program at Trent University.

During his long career as a wildlife biologist Dr. Obbard has engaged with many different species and programmes: “As an undergraduate student, I worked on research projects studying Canada Geese and Snow Geese, and Northern Cardinals. My graduate work was on snapping turtles. In my career with OMNR I studied both black bears and polar bears.  As an adjunct at Trent University, I didn’t do any undergraduate teaching but mentored several graduate students, including several who were part of the Saugeen/Bruce Peninsula black bear project.”
This event is scheduled for 7pm Thursday October 9, at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre. This event is also open to the general public, with admission by donation. It is also to be shared on zoom – with a link to be found at https://owensoundfieldnaturalists.ca/event/black-bears-of-the-saugeen-bruce-peninsula-w-martyn-obbard/

The doors will be open by 6:30pm for meeting friends, membership purchases, and to check out the many items for purchase – clothing, and award winning publications too, etc.

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Kudos to Mike Campbell and his team, supporters and cyclists at the Bruce Peninsula Biosphere for staging the 7th Annual Gravel Gran Fondo  on Sunday October 5.  A cycling event from Lighthouse to Lighthouse (from Lion’s Head to Cabot Head), this very successful event is in support of their cause  – Protecting the Bruce Peninsula Biosphere. All funds raised by the Fondo will go to the Bruce Peninsula Biosphere Association (a charitable non-profit organization) to undertake environmental projects on the Bruce. Check out www.bpba.ca for more information. 

Coincidentally, Just this morning I was speaking to someone who cycled it last year, and had a memorable sighting, observing a healthy young Black Bear stretched out on a limb of an apple tree, enjoying a feed of apples from a former orchard along one section of the route, while cyclists pedalled by. The weather also cooperated for a great ride and a wonderful experience too. Bravo!

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Young Naturalists report from Amanda Eriksen:

On September 28, the Young Naturalists had a beautiful day to clean out the bird boxes. There were no signs of  bluebirds but someone “laid” some acorns. We did check out the salmon in the river as well, but I was too busy keeping kids dry to take photos! Seems like there are a lot of fish this year!” The club, aimed at ages 7 to 12 (with some leeway), generally meet from 2 to 4pm on the last Sunday of the month, from September to June, with some adjustments for holidays, etc.
To learn more and to register, email youngnaturalistsos@gmail.com

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Bruce Peninsula Bird Observatory An excerpt from this weeks’ blog 
Posted by Stéphane Menu, September 26, 2025

The past week, September 20-26, marked a radical change from all the previous weeks of this fall season: there were very, very, very few birds captured in our nets. So few that the week total is actually the lowest ever in 24 fall seasons for the week, with only 63 birds banded, five less than the previous lowest totals (in 2017 and 2018). It is such a contrast from the week before (September 13-19), when the banding total came within a few feathers of breaking the record for that week (249 birds in 2024, 246 in 2025!): the higher the climb, the harder they fall!

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OSFN’s Stewardship Director Jeannine Kralt recently shared this exciting news:

Congratulations to OSFN on being awarded the Bruce Trail Conservancy’s (BTC) prestigious Calypso Award, presented by BTC staff member Rhiannon to OSFN representative Barbara Palmer at the Peninsula Bruce Trail Club’s annual Hiking Festival this weekend, with comments by PBTC/OSFN member Marg Glendon.From BTC CEO Michael McDonald:

“I am pleased to inform you that the Owen Sound Field Naturalists have been selected as this year’s recipients of the Bruce Trail Conservancy’s Calypso Orchid Environmental Award. Each year we present the Calypso Orchid Environmental Award to an individual or organization that has made a significant contribution to the restoration and preservation of the Bruce Trail conservation corridor or significantly enhanced the education of users or potential users of the Trail. The Owen Sound Field Naturalists are a perfect fit.

The Bruce Trail Conservancy would like to recognize and celebrate OSFN’s outstanding dedication to nurturing the appreciation and conservation of our natural world. In particular OSFN’s educational activities, Young Naturalist program and newly revised guidebooks are stellar examples of how OSFN promotes understanding and inspires action for the protection of nature. Through the Calypso Orchid Environmental Award 2025, the Bruce Trail Conservancy honours OSFN’s tremendous volunteer efforts to increase public awareness on environmental issues affecting the Niagara Escarpment, boost understanding and appreciation of Escarpment biodiversity, and contribute to the preservation of the Bruce Trail’s conservation corridor. Congratulations Owen Sound Field Naturalists!”

Congratulations OSFN members, past and present, for your contributions that have led to this award!

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To close, a quote from The Book of Hope, by the  esteemed primatologist and conservationist Jane Goodall.  Goodall died on October 1, aged 91, while continuing to tour with her important messages, 

including slowing the growth of the human population:  “By destroying habitats we force animals into closer contact with people… And as the human population grows, people and their livestock are penetrating ever deeper into remaining wilderness areas, wanting more space to expand their villages and to farm.” 

Nature Club News for September 2025

by John Dickson

The Owen Sound Field Naturalists (OSFN) are pleased to kick off the 2025 -2026 Season with special guest speaker, the award-winning author and artist Allen Smutylo.

Featuring his new book, Gold of Another Kind – The Lost Legacy of Georgian Bay, this presentation is scheduled for 7pm Thursday September 11, at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre. Allen Smutylo: Gold of Another Kind – The Lost Legacy of Georgian Bay, by a Governor General’s Literary Award nominee, is a historical, as well as a personal account of the once staggering quality and quantity of fur bearing animals, virgin timber and multitudes of fish that once thrived in Georgian Bay and vicinity. The thrust of European ambition in the New World, plus the pursuit of the Bay’s natural resources, rivalled the voracity of any ‘gold rush.’ Signed copies of Smutylo’s book will be available.

Having lived in this area for more than half a century, engaging with the peoples and the elements here, delving into their stories, Smutylo is renowned for his hands-on research and lifestyle, documenting and interpreting what he discovers, exquisitely, in print and in paint. Smutylo’s artwork and writing has been based on extensive travels to some of the Earth’s most remote places. This includes eight years spent depicting the extraordinary life of the Tibetan Buddhist nomads in the Central Himalaya. He is the recipient of many nominations (Governor General Literary)  and awards for prestigious galleries and categories (Best Adventure Book, Banff Film and Book Festival) locally and internationally, and was an engaging presenter in the BALL (Bluewater Association for LifeLong Learning) series some years ago. He has made over 20 sea kayaking and backpacking expeditions into the Canadian High Arctic and Greenland,  and many more right here, in and around Georgian Bay. 

In Allen Smutylo’s own words – ‘My main interest over the last forty years has been the relationship between human cultures and the natural world.’ Doors open by 6:30, Thursday September 11, at the Bayshore Community Centre, to facilitate OSFN publications, merchandise and membership sales/renewals too. 

Everyone is welcome, with Admission by donation (unless already OSFN members).

This event will also be available on Zoom with a link available and posted at osfn.ca or https://owensoundfieldnaturalists.ca/nature-club-news/nature-club-news-for-july-2025/ where you can also check on the Young Naturalists club too. 

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As for the rest of the 2025-2026 season here is a brief outline so you can add these dates to your calendar for talks you don’t want to miss: October 9, with Martyn Obbard and Black Bears of the Saugeen Bruce Peninsula; November 13, with Adam Shoalts and his new book Vanished Beyond the Map – the Mystery of Lost Explorer Hubert Darrell (sponsored by Dr. Mark Robertson); December 11 with Keriann McGoogan and her new book Sisters of the Jungle – The Trailblazing Women who Shaped the Study of Wild Primates;  January 8, 2026 – OSFN’s 

Jeannine Kralt presents Engaged Stewardship plus the role of Conservancies and Land Trusts in our region; February 12, with OSFN’s David Morris and an Introduction to the Soils of Grey and Bruce; March 12 is Members’ Night with several brief presentations, coordinated by Brian Robin; April 12 with the return of wildlife biologist Brent Patterson and ‘Understanding Drivers of Moose Population Dynamics and Challenges in Ontario’s Boreal Forests’; May 14 with award-winning photographer and artist/potter Steve Irvine – Exploring Nature Close to Home; June 11 with Research Scientist Todd Morris and ‘Is Conservation Translocation a path forward to recover Canada’s endangered Freshwater Mussels?’

These talks are complemented by many diverse hikes and field trips with such diverse themes as mushroom/fungi ID, Old Growth Forests, Migrating Waterfowl and other birds, late-winter tracking, geology, botany, and more.

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CLEARING A FOREST TRAIL AT OUR HOSPITAL

We need your help!

For 8 years, NeighbourWoods North has been planting trees/ shrubs and flowers at our Owen Sound Hospital. The ultimate goal is to create a 2 kilometre naturalised walking trail that circles the hospital grounds. This Fall, we are clearing a trail through the north wood lot creating a 200m path through mostly invasive buckthorn.

Can you help us?

When: Saturday, September 6 and 13th, 9:30 – 11:30am.

Where: Meet at the NWN shed, located 100m north of the emergency entrance on Hospital grounds.

Clothing: Old clothes, long sleeved shirt, sturdy gloves to guard against thorns.

Tools:  Bring the following if you have them- small pruners, long handled loppers, battery operated reciprocating saw.

FALL TREE PLANTING AT OUR HOSPITAL

Come out and help us plant trees at the hospital!
Every Saturday, starting on September 20th, through to the end of October, we will be planting trees, shrubs and flowers and protecting our current plants. We currently have nearly 200 different trees and shrubs to be planted this year.  This selection enhances our biodiversity through the 45 different species that has been selected.  It’s very satisfying work, made even more enjoyable by working in teams.

We would love to see you!

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Amanda Eriksen coordinates the OSFN Young Naturalists Club: It is starting up again soon! I have been working on the program and we have some fun stuff in store this year! From painting with a real nature artist, star gazing, planting native seeds, to lots of great hikes with knowledgeable leaders, this year is full!

Our first meeting is Sunday September 28th at 2 p.m. primarily for ages 7-12.We will meet near the pavilion at the arboretum at the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority building. We will get registered, see who used the birdhouses this year and check on the salmon. Can’t wait to get to know nature better with you! Amanda.

To register, email youngnaturalistsos@gmail.com Or check out https://owensoundfieldnaturalists.ca/young-naturalists/young-naturalist-program/

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To close, a Nature quote from Allen Smutylo: “The planet is, by many accounts, in the midst of the Sixth Great Extinction. What is causing this to happen? Long before humans applied themselves, the Earth had a long track record of environmental assaults and past extinctions. This time, however, the reasons for it point to us.” from Gold of Another Kind: The Lost Legacy of Georgian Bay

Nature Club News for August 2025

by John Dickson

The Owen Sound Field Naturalists Club (OSFN) is getting busier now with various types of hikes taking place and monthly speaker events starting on September 11, at 7pm, with acclaimed author and artist Allen Smutylo, to add to your calendar.

You can check some of these out at www.osfn.ca as well as looking into the Young Naturalist Club, aimed primarily at ages 7-12.

 OSFN’s Audrey Armstrong held a Monarch butterfly tagging program at Isaac Lake,  Sunday August 24, and shared this report. ‘A group of 8 OSFN members joined Audrey Armstrong, Willy Waterton and Patti Byers  for a fun afternoon of chasing butterflies with nets and learning about monarch butterflies in migration.

As Citizen Scientists, we tag monarchs for Monarch Watch and apply tiny round tags with unique numbers to help scientists learn more about monarch behaviour and migratory patterns. This is when the long-lived super generation begins their 4,000 km journey to Michoachan, Mexico. We know monarch numbers are in decline and on Sunday we tagged only  5 monarchs, compared to almost 50 in 2021.

People want to help monarchs and the best way to make their world better is to create habitat.  If you plant milkweed in your garden, females will find them and lay eggs on your plants so you will have an opportunity to witness their magical life cycle in your own back yard.

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The Bruce Birding Club (BBC)  is ready to kick off its fall season too, with two scheduled hikes most months on the first and third Wednesdays, usually in Bruce County, plus a few in Grey, and in a few other counties too. There is no cost to join, beginners and seasoned birders are welcome and it provides many learning opportunities too. Many of the club members are actively birding throughout the months as well. If you are interested in doing some birding with some scouting and guidance to enhance each event, please email James Turland at  jaturland@gmail.com for the schedule of activities and ask to be added to his email list.

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The Bruce Peninsula Bird Observatory’s Stéphane Menu is back on site and guiding the operations there as the migration of many birds has already begun. Here is an excerpt from his weekly blog –

‘On August 15, the nets were open for the first time for the fall migration monitoring, the first of 78 straight days when a dedicated team of volunteers and the bander-in-charge will get up before sunrise to count, catch, and band birds….  

We’ve been fortunate to greet a new family at Cabot Head: Peregrine Falcons have bred nearby and raised two young this year (females based on their size). The young have been very vocal, advertising their presence by long harsh calls, making it easy for us to detect and admire them. Over the last few years, there were signs of Peregrine Falcons establishing a territory around West Bluff, but it is the first year that there has been tangible evidence of successful breeding. What a delight!’

For more please visit www.bpbo.ca 

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OSFN’s Erik van den Kieboom, has been in the north this summer and I asked him to share some details of the work he has  been doing and some of the highlights  he has encountered as well.

“This summer I had the opportunity to work with Birds Canada and collect data for the Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas in the southern boreal forest. With this year being the fifth and final year of the project, our goal was to find the highest possible number of breeding bird species in every atlas square we visited. In one and a half months, I visited 15 squares, conducted 81 point count surveys, and saw approximately 150 species of birds. Some highlights included a Great Grey Owl, a Black Tern colony, a Black-backed Woodpecker nest, and a Black-and-white Warbler nest.

In addition to the birds there were also a few interesting sightings – bears, moose, some cool turtles and snakes. The bugs were pretty bad this year, but easy enough to prevent too many from biting.

This fall I am volunteering with the Hilliardton Marsh Research and Education Centre as a bird bander. The station is located in the boreal forest region of Ontario, just north of New Liskeard. The banding process involves catching birds with mist nets we’ve set up around the property. We then place a metal band on the leg of each bird with a unique identification number. Finally, we record some information about the bird, including its age, sex, mass, and wing length, before releasing it back into the wild. Currently we are catching a number of warbler and flycatcher species that will soon be passing through southern Ontario. Besides songbirds, a large number of waterfowl and shorebirds also stage here in the marsh before heading further south for the winter. Keep an eye out for any birds this fall with a silver band on their leg, there’s a chance they may have come from here. I was camping in a tent this summer but here at the station we have small cabins to stay in.”

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In addition to all of the activity with birds and butterflies, many naturalists are enjoying the latest blooming wildflowers as we enter the season of Asters and Goldenrods, while others are enjoying some astronomy and observing the night skies, or are scouting out the various fungi and mushrooms often found in forested areas.  I now have three different patches of Wild Asparagus which I have found and which I like to see at various stages, including when it has bright red berries. 

It also looks like it will be what some call a ‘mast year’ with not only most fruit trees having abundant produce, but also various nut trees that have a good crop, as I have observed many laden Black Walnut, Oak  and Horse Chestnut trees with nuts galore this year.

Nature Club News for July 2025

by John Dickson

On June 12, following a social time with light refreshments,  the Owen Sound Field Naturalists (OSFN) held their Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre.  President Dr. Brendan Mulroy conducted the meeting which included completion of his term and a move to Past President, making room for the incoming new co- Presidents Bella Waterton and Paul Scriver. 

 Congratulations to Lois Johnson and Ernie Vanleeuwen, who received the OSFN Community Conservation Award  in recognition of their caring and successful efforts to provide housing for Purple Martins.

The club’s Honourary Life Membership was then awarded to Jim and Judy Duncan. After the AGM was adjourned, the audience was treated to a special presentation by Marine Biologist and Artist,  Sarah McComb-Turbitt  about the Whales of Canada, with a focus on the Atlantic coast.

OSFN has a few outdoor events during July and August but generally increases activities in early September.

To learn more about OSFN please visit www.osfn.ca as well as the Facebook page.

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Here are excerpts from James Turland’s  Bruce Birding Club  (BBC) report to the club. ‘On June 18, we met in Tobermory for a day of birding and were led by Doug Pedwell. We began with a lakeside property recently donated to the Escarpment Biosphere Conservancy (EBC). The lake was calm, and there was lots of bird activity. A variety of species, including cormorants and mergansers were diving for food, while Common Terns patrolled overhead, calling sharply as they plunge-dived for minnows.

At the Shining Rainbow Deer Nature Preserve of the Nature Conservancy Canada (NCC), a boardwalk over wetlands led to an observation deck and to trails with winter wrens, orchids and samples of pincushion moss. At a nearby roadside fen a Sedge Wren emerged just a few metres away, singing loudly from a bush. It gave excellent views for everyone, especially in a scope.

Later we visited Singing Sands, exploring the boardwalk and nearby trails. Because of the cool weather, early spring flowers were still in bloom, Yellow Lady’s Slippers, in particular, lined many roads and trails. Mindy Buckton, a plant expert and co-leader for the day, pointed out several botanical highlights.

We continued on to Dyers Bay Road and the ‘sparrow fields.’   In a wetland area, a Sora called out and was seen by a lucky few close to the road. Many Cedar Waxwings perched close by, preening after a recent bath. New bird sightings continued right up to our final stop. It was a wonderful day filled with camaraderie and great birding. Be aware there are reports of returning shorebirds already. Many thanks to Doug and Mindy for leading. Also a thank you to all who’ve led hikes this season. Sharing the leadership keeps the diversity in the outings.

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Young Naturalist club members wrapped up their season with a special hike June 29 with guest leader Caley Doran, who introduced them to the amazing Boyd’s Crevice Caves section of the Bruce Trail.

Many thanks to OSFN’s  Amanda Eriksen for coordinating the activities of this club, which will be starting up again in September.  https://owensoundfieldnaturalists.ca/category/young-naturalists/

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On a rather hot Saturday, July 5th,  the annual Butterfly Count was held at MacGregor Point Provincial Park, and conducted by seven teams of observers, with ‘cabbage whites’ being the most numerous sighting. 

Chris Sheedy,  Senior Park Naturalist wrote – 

‘Thanks to all who attended the 2025 NABA annual count with us this year, it was the year of the Cabbage White with a sweeping total of 2350 observations!

It sure was a hot one and we do appreciate the commitment to stick it out for the whole day of surveying.

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I have also had the pleasure – and surprise – to notice large Yellow Tiger Swallowtail Butterflies fluttering around tree tops and visiting the blossoms there, right in Owen Sound. Other observers in the area have seen the larger silk moths, including Polyphemus and Luna. Our scarlet runner bean flowers may be attracting hummingbirds when we aren’t looking, but we have noticed that they also are quite popular with many bumble bees visiting them.

 As James Turland mentioned above –  ‘be aware there are reports of returning shorebirds already’. In fact a Ruddy Turnstone, which nests  in the high Arctic tundra was spotted recently by William Gray at Hibou, already on its way further south.

I have also seen several large flocks of black birds already, likely both grackles and red-winged blackbirds

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If you would like to shop early for those on your list, Photographer and Naturalist Arni Stinnissen has two different 2026 calendars available. These include his ‘Birds of Ontario’, and the Saugeen Bruce Peninsula calendar, with wild landscapes, peaceful shoreline scenes, animals and birds, celebrating the beauty of our region all year long.

Both calendars are available at Bains General Store in Ferndale and the Readers Haven in Tobermory carries the Bruce Peninsula one. Arni is also at the marketplace in Tobermory on Wednesdays and will be at the Art Show at the District School in Lions Head on the August long weekend and the Artists Tour the weekend of Aug 23-24.

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It was a very special day for about 30 OSFN members who took part in tours of a recently acquired property now protected by NCC on the Saugeen Bruce Peninsula. It includes many species of flora and fauna, which require specialized habitat features, including the limestone pavement alvars there. OSFN recently donated funds that had been earmarked for conservation, to NCC in memory of OSFN’s founding President Lorraine Brown, to support the protection of this special property.  On July 3rd, two separate tours with about 15 members each were co-led by NCC staff members Esme and Alex. Afterwards, I received this note from Kate McLaren (a former OSFN President) ‘Hi John, It was great to see the new NCC acquisition and to hike the path with such knowledgeable and friendly people. Much appreciated!’ And this one from Ruth Nielsen – ‘The hike was wonderful. What extraordinary rock formations!’ 

Nature Club News for June 2025

by John Dickson

At 7pm Thursday June 12, Sarah McComb-Turbitt, a local artist and marine biologist will cap off the 2024-2025 monthly speaker series of the Owen Sound Field Naturalists (OSFN), at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre.

This event will take place ‘in person’ only. OSFN Meetings are Open to the Public, with Attendance by Donation. For Membership and Young Naturalist Club Information, please visit www.osfn.ca  

 McComb-Turbitt will give an overview of many of the whales found in eastern Canada and then share some of her personal journey studying the long-finned pilot whales there, and what Marine Biologists are learning about whales from the Whale Watching industry. ‘Disruptions from whale-watching vessels to behaviors such as foraging can be particularly harmful to cetaceans, but impacts could be reduced if areas essential for these sensitive behaviors are identified. We used data collected onboard whale-watching vessels to explore space-use patterns in long-finned pilot whales (Globicephala melas) off northern Cape Breton Island, Canada, an area where tourism is essential.’ 

Sarah McComb-Turbitt, a Marine Biologist turned artist and new mom, has dedicated her life to wildlife conservation. Although her high school focus included a strong art component with then teacher Jim Sebesta, Sarah also had memorable science teachers, including Deane Atherton, Jen Wardell, and Fred Schlenker, and she followed up with degrees and a career in Marine Biology that included the penguins of the Falkland Islands and whales. Along the way she also became a very proficient wildlife photographer.  

‘Restoring Canada’s oceans strengthens our communities, creates economic and nutritional benefits, and protects our future, as we believe Canada has a national and global obligation to manage our natural resources responsibly.’

Most recently, Sarah teamed up with Wildlife Preservation Canada (WPC) to raise awareness about Canada’s most vulnerable species at risk. As her career as a wildlife artist grows, Sarah hopes to expand her support and partner with other organizations and researchers to highlight animals and locations from around the world. Her work goes beyond art as a powerful tool to capture the unique behaviours of animals and foster a deeper appreciation for our planet’s diversity. Sarah’s ultimate goal is to enhance the connection between the viewer and the natural world and create a window into the sentimental moments in the lives of animals. Since transitioning to painting full-time in 2020, she has supported conservation with every wildlife work created, underlining her unwavering commitment to the cause. Sarah has achieved standing in AFC’s annual juried exhibit for the past four years. 

Her academic journey from researching whales and penguins to the vibrant art world has created a unique collision point between the science and art worlds. Since transitioning to painting full-time in 2020, she has supported conservation with every wildlife work created, underlining her unwavering commitment to conservation. When you observe her art, you will recognize how well it captures the raw beauty and personalities of her subjects. 

Sarah is a Signature Member of Artists for Conservation and has a passion for Canada’s, and the Globe’s, most vulnerable species at risk. To learn more, visit https://www.smccombturbitt.com/

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The Owen Sound Young Naturalists May meeting was held at the Hibou Conservation area. Marsha Courtney and I led – with me, (Amanda Eriksen) looking for birds and Marsha’s eyes on the ground. I kept track of all the birds we ended up hearing or seeing and we had a final tally of 21 species. We saw some orchids, jack in the pulpit, and a few damsel
flies and bees. It was a beautiful day for a hike, and it is always great to see what the kids notice. We took so long on the boardwalk that we didn’t even make it to the beach!  Our June meeting is planned with Caley Doran at the Boyd’s Crevice.

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Carol Edwards-Harrison shared these observations about the Swiftwatch event on June 2 – ‘Last evening’s presentation on Chimney Swifts by BIRDS CANADA’s Gabriel Evans-Cook and OSFN was both informative and fascinating. Peter Middleton followed up with well animated fun facts and we all were delighted to hear about how the preservation of the Old Courthouse chimney came about. Kudos to the present owners and BIRDS CANADA for all their excellent work to save this precious roosting home for the at risk Chimney Swifts.The Chimney Swifts put on a dazzling show to the oohs and awes of the gathering and turned us all into another version of Swifties!’

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Members of the Bruce Birding Club (BBC) were invited to visit Grey County on June 4, to enjoy some wonderful birding opportunities right here in Owen Sound. Led by Judy Duncan and Norah Toth, along with advisor Rob Wray,  we started out in Harrison Park, which in recent years I have realized can be like a funnel and staging area for migrating birds to rest and forage for their continuing journey north. However, they may find just the diversity of habitat they need, to stay and raise their families right here. Other birding hot spots we visited were the Inglis Falls Arboretum, the rail line north from Rockford and The West Rocks area as guests of Peter and Elizabeth Korpal, whose innovative trail system offered many bird sightings as well as bees, butterflies and botany to enjoy. 

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The Bruce Peninsula Bird Observatory Blog (BPBO) shows it has been active again this Spring with lots of dedication to observe and document the migration activities at this special location. ‘

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Big flocks of fast-flying Cedar Waxwings are also seen at this time of year, another fun challenging bird to count as they speed across the sky in an ever-mingling flock. Common Mergansers are also seen in large numbers now, with up to 26 birds on June 2nd. But they are much easier to count as they either lounge on the shoreline or float on the surface of the water, diving from time to time for a fish. These groups are composed mostly of males, enjoying life after their brief reproductive duties, leaving the females alone to incubate and raise the young.’