Did you know Canadians spend up to 10 hours on screens a day? Spending less time outdoors means you might be missing out on the health benefits of being in nature. Spending time in green space can improve working memory, cognitive flexibility and attentional control. Even exposure to nature sounds can be recuperative. Take advantage of being in nature today by eating lunch outside, taking a walk or simply enjoying a window view – even feeling connected to nature can improve mental health and emotional wellbeing.
How Many Nature Reserves Have You Visited?
From Ontario Nature:
Our nature reserves protect some of the province’s best remaining examples of imperiled and vulnerable habitats.
Which ones have you visited? We have 26 to choose from (including the Lawson Nature Reserve)!
Fun Dragonfly Facts
Dragonflies are among the oldest flying insects — they’ve been around for 250-300 million years — but scientists are still just learning about them.
Here are 10 cool facts about the mysterious and majestic dragonfly from Ontario Parks.
The Oxford County Trails Council’s Summer 2022 Newsletter
Some great information to read from our friends at Oxford County Trails Council. The Summer 2022 Newsletter is now online.
The NCC’s Big Backyard BioBlitz
Monarch butterflies added to international list of threatened species – CBC
The migratory monarch butterfly fluttered a step closer to extinction on July 21, 20222, as scientists put the iconic orange-and-black insect on the international endangered list because of its fast dwindling numbers.
Take Action Today to Save Our Pollinators
In this time of climate change, and loss of habitat, think about supporting this worthy cause…
Nature Canada’s Fund for Reforestation protects and restores Canada’s natural habitats and wildlife, and right now you can double your impact! From now until July 31st your gifts will be matched, dollar for dollar, up to $75,000!
Your gift today will:
- Insisting that the the federal government pick up the pace to plant 2 billion trees in the right places, for the right reasons;
- Partnering with Indigenous groups to support reforestation plans and Indigenous-led forest management efforts;
- Provide support for community actions, such as helping nature groups do crucial restoration work in your communities, like planting trees or removing invasive species;
- Protecting wilderness and wildlife by advocating for new and expanded protected areas and restoration of threatened ecosystems;
How you can help turtles cross the road
From Ontario Nature:

Please be on the lookout for turtles crossing roads. Seven of their species are listed as at-risk in Ontario. Here’s how you can help them: http://ow.ly/BlbA50JH1vp
Should we be working 15-hour weeks?
The David Suzuki Foundation asks “Should we be working 15-hour weeks?”
“Along with other benefits like increased vacation time and flexibility, and working from home, shorter workweeks not only give people better lives, they’re also good for the environment. Fewer people commuting means reduced pollution, greenhouse gas emissions and traffic congestion.”
Read more at https://davidsuzuki.org/…/should-we-be-working-15-hour…/
Easy-To-Make Habitat for Fireflies
From Homegrown National Park:
Firefly populations are declining. We can help by providing the HABITAT they need in our yards and gardens!
Start a New Habitat®
ON THE MAP
Add your new and existing native plantings to our map, and be a critical part of regenerating biodiversity.