Our Presenter:
Michael Runtz, an Arnprior native, is one of Canada’s best-known naturalists, nature photographers, and natural history authors. He is an instructor and lecturer with the Department of Biology at Carleton University. He has published twelve books on a diverse array of natural history subjects, his most recent, Algonquin Wild: a celebration of the plants and wildlife found within Algonquin Park.
The Presentation:
From Badgers and Bighorn Sheep to Sea Otters and Steller Sea Lions, Michael’s and Britta’s cross-Canada road trip provided myriad encounters with wildlife in many different ecological settings ranging from prairie and mountain peaks to tidal pools and oceanic islands. This highly visual presentation will be an overview of the rich diversity of habitats and wildlife encountered on their remarkable journey. NOTE: AS THIS IS OUR AGM, REGULAR GUEST ATTENDANCE RULES DO NOT APPLY. The “seats” for the evening are free for MFNC members, but the club is making available 20 tickets at $20 each to non-members who would like to attend the talk portion beginning at 8:30 p.m. These tickets must be purchased in advance. Tickets are on sale now.
Biography:
Michael Runtz, an Arnprior native, is one of Canada’s best-known naturalists, nature photographers, and natural history authors. A birdwatcher since the age of five, he has lived, breathed and worked with nature all his life. He is equally at home in the television or radio studio, lecture hall or classroom. Since its inception, more than 45,000 students have signed up for his Natural History course at Carleton University. Michael is in great demand as a speaker for groups as diverse as outdoor educators, professional biologists, schoolchildren, and naturalists’ clubs. He is President of the Macnamara Field Naturalists’ Club based in Arnprior.
Twelve books on a diverse array of natural history subjects bear the stamp of Michael’s passion and knowledge. These include: Dam Builders: the natural history of beavers and their ponds and, his most recent, Algonquin Wild: a celebration of the plants and wildlife found within Algonquin Park.
Michael is also known for his educational and conservation efforts, for which he has received numerous awards, including an Outstanding Service Award from the Federation of Ontario Naturalists, a Lifetime Achievement Award from Carleton University, and The Distinguished Public Education Award from the Canadian Council of University Biology Chairs.