The latest Oxford County Trails Council newsletter has information on the “Take a Hike, Oxford!” June 1st Trails Festival and developments on the Oxford Thames River Trail. Read it here.

From Ontario Nature:

The conversation around protected areas is evolving in response to the challenge of protecting 30% of Canada’s lands and waters by 2030. What protected areas traditionally have been, and what they can be, encompass many forms.

Learn more.

From Oxford County’s Facebook Page:

The “Get Smart! Energy audits for greener homes” presentation is now available online.

Watch as Partner and Senior Energy Engineer at Walter-Fedy, Patrick Darby and South-West Oxford Mayor David Mayberry outline the steps for conducting an energy audit in your home at https://www.oxfordcounty.ca/en/news/the-get-smart-learn-from-local-smart-energy-experts-presentation-is-now-available-online.aspx

The hike at Herbert Milne’s Trail outside Woodstock on March 16, 2024, featured a beautiful walk on a groomed trail where club members saw 20 tundra swans flying overhead with numerous other bird sightings within the property… nuthatch, red bellied woodpecker, juvenile bald eagle, robins, sparrows…easy walking, highly recommended. Followed up with pancakes at Jakeman’s at Sweaburg and a walk in Trillium Woods. Great morning!

From Fatal Light Awareness Program (FLAP) Canada:

Far too often we see disturbing products like this: they promise you privacy and climate control, but fail to inform of the numerous birds that will die once installed.

Birds collide with glass for two primary reasons: either they can see through the glass to something desirable, or they are attracted to reflected habitat.

There are many cost efficient solutions to create privacy at home that don’t put birds at risk: flap.org/stop-birds-from-hitting-windows. Mirrored films like this product from Window Film World, should be avoided.

In the latest edition of Ontario Nature Magazine, Scott Gillingwater, UTRCA Species at Risk Biologist, shares his insight into the poaching of spotted turtles. Check out the article, “Protecting All That Hops, Slithers and Crawls”, for info on the Ontario Reptile and Amphibian Atlas and the six biggest risks to Ontario’s native species. Read it here.

From the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority

The March edition of the Thames River Current has hit inboxes! Find out what’s happening in your watershed including Tree Power sales, the extended season at our conservation areas, educational programming including spring Nature School, job opportunities, and so much more. Check it out at: https://mailchi.mp/thamesriver.on.ca/thames-river-current-march-2024

Another great Lecture Series talk to a full house tonight with Tim Arthur, field biologist, and his presentation on Algonquin Park and the effects of climate change on resident species. Well researched and presented through his own photos. Climate change effects are irrefutable and our current trajectory is not great. More effort needs to go into protecting our environment. Thanks are extended to the Ingersoll Public Library for hosting!

Originally posted by Chelsey Park Long-Term Care Home on their Facebook page.

As the weather becomes more inviting, why not embrace a new and exciting hobby: bird watching! This delightful pastime requires nothing more than an open heart and keen senses, making it the perfect activity for seniors seeking enjoyment and relaxation in nature.

Listening to the melodious tunes of birdsongs can uplift your spirits and infuse your day with joy and positivity. For seniors, bird watching offers a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with the natural world, fostering a sense of fulfillment and contentment.

Engaging in bird watching not only keeps your mind sharp and engaged but also provides numerous mental health benefits associated with spending time outdoors. Whether you’re sitting in your backyard or taking a leisurely stroll, take a moment to admire the beauty of the birds around you. Allow their presence to bring you peace and serenity.

Great night at the Ingersoll Public Library on February 21, 2024, learning about the benefits of native species gardening with Liam Kijewski and Crystal Bradford of Wildlife Gardening. The full house was very appreciative of their informative presentation. Check them out at wildlifegardening.ca – plants, seeds and landscaping!