Past Events & Meetings

What have MFNC members done in the past? Find out here in our archive of past field trips and meetings through to the beginning of 2014!

  • Sat
    09
    Sep
    2023
    9:00 am to noonSheila McKee Memorial Park
  • Thu
    08
    Jun
    2023
    6:00 - 9:00 PMBill Mason Centre

    Members’ Only Outing – Casual Birding Walk on the BMC

    with MFNC Board Members Janet and Maureen

    Date:  Thursday 8 June

    Time: 6:00 to 9:00pm (approx.)

    Meeting Location: Bill Mason Centre 3088 Dunrobin Road (Follow road to back of school)

    If gate is closed, please park in school lot and walk back.

    Please no dogs for any MFNC outing.

    Please join Janet McCullough and Maureen Carrier for a casual birding walk through Bill Mason Centre.  Bring your ears, eyes and binoculars if you have them. While the walking is fairly easy, sometimes the path is muddy so please wear appropriate footwear.  As this is an evening walk in wooded and marshy environment, bug repellent or netting would be advised.

    A note about Covid:  While COVID restrictions have eased, you are still asked to maintain physical distancing.  Please bring and wear a mask where physical distancing is not possible.  Please do not come if you are ill or have come in contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid 19 or have been told to isolate.  Notification of cancellation as soon as possible would be appreciated.

    You may register yourself and anyone in your own household only. Confirmation emails will be sent.  Please do not assume you are registered if you have not received and email.

    Register for this outing at mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com no later than Tuesday June 6th

    Please include the full names of all in your household who will be attending.

    If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

  • Sat
    03
    Jun
    2023
    7:00 - 10:00 AMClaybank Park

    Meeting Location: Clay Bank Nature Park – Off White Lake Road toward the Claybank Boat Launch

    Please park in the large parking lot near the gardens.  Not at the boat launch.

    Please no dogs for any MFNC outing.

    Leader: Ken Allison

    Ken has been interested in the natural world his whole life.  He has been a birder for more than 5 decades but worked as a botanist for most of his career.  He is also interested in many groups of insects, reptiles and amphibians etc.

    Ken will lead the group through the park to listen and look for birds.  Bring your ears, eyes and binoculars if you have them. While the walking is fairly easy, sometimes the path is muddy so please wear appropriate footwear.

     

    A note about Covid:  While COVID restrictions have eased, you are still asked to maintain physical distancing.  Please bring and wear a mask where physical distancing is not possible.  Please do not come if you are ill or have come in contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid 19 or have been told to isolate.  Notification of cancellation as soon as possible would be appreciated.

    You may register yourself and anyone in your own household only. Confirmation emails will be sent.  Please do not assume you are registered if you have not received and email as registration may be limited.

     

    Register for this outing at mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com no later than Tuesday May 30th

     

    Please include the full names of all in your household who will be attending.

     

    If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

  • Wed
    03
    May
    2023
    7:00 pmArnprior Curling Club AND Zoom

     

    Alexa Goodman, May 2023 speaker

    Marine debris is a rising problem. Just ask our May guest speaker Alexa Goodman. A scientist, intersectional environmental activist and practising yogi, Goodman has been a driving force in managing abandoned, lost and discarded (ALD) fishing gear, also called “ghost gear.” Goodman first got involved in the retrieval of such gear in Southwest Nova Scotia, on a team assessing environmental and economic impacts to the commercial lobster industry.

    The proliferation of discarded ghost nets is a major issue for marine life and sea habitats, as well as the commercial fishing industry and marine vessels themselves.

    Estimated to account for 10% (640,000 tonnes) globally of all marine litter, ghost gear causes economic losses and hazards to safety at-sea for fishers and marine fauna abandoned, lost or discarded, causing so-called “ghost fishing.” Up to a million tons of ghost finishing nets enter the oceans each year, notes a study reported by earth.org.

  • Wed
    05
    Apr
    2023
    7:00 pmIn person, Arnprior Curling Club hall; also remotely via Zoom

    Winter feeder challenge cc: Karen Runtz

    From dodging collisions to choosing your friends, behaviour provides a means for animals to respond to diverse challenges.

    Roslyn Dakin’s group at Carleton University studies the dynamics of behaviour with the goal of understanding how behaviours work and how they have evolved. In this talk, she will look at social behaviour in two systems: first, winter bird communities visiting backyard feeders – what they found may surprise you – and, second, a population of wire-tailed manakins, tropical birds that spend most of their time on the ground, and that, like us, co-operate to attain status.

     

  • Sun
    26
    Mar
    2023
    7:00 pmPackenham-Arnprior

    Members’ Only Outing – Owl Prowl

    Date:  Sunday 26 March

    Time: 7:00 PM – probably late

    Meeting Location: We will meet in the Arnprior Metro store parking lot.  Park opposite the store but close to the road.

    Carpooling:  You must let me know when you register if you will be carpooling with anyone (and if so, with whom), if you are willing to carpool with someone or if you would take someone in your vehicle.

    I have put a multiple-choice selection for this in the email.  Please copy and paste (or highlight) the relevant choice(s) as mentioned in the email in your registration email.  Preference will be given to those with two or more people in their vehicle or those willing to carpool.  I will need to know the number of vehicles expected as it may not be safe to stop at some points along the route with an unlimited number of vehicles and the number will therefore be capped. (I will assume members of the same household will travel in one vehicle.)

    Please no dogs for any MFNC outing.

    Leader: Michael Runtz

    Michael will lead the group to several locations along rural roadways in the Arnprior/Pakenham area where we can expect to find owls.  Target species are:  Barred Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl and Eastern Screech Owl.  Along the way, the group will learn about the ecology and behaviour of these beautiful and fascinating birds.  Dress very warmly (warm comfortable boots are especially important as are ice grips depending on conditions) as we will be standing outside for periods of time.  Bring a flashlight/headlamp and binoculars if you have them.

    The duration of the event will depend on the time it takes the group to find our target species.  This may make it a bit of a late evening.  Please respect that quiet is sometimes essential when getting out of vehicles (please close doors softly and keep any talking to a low whisper).  Also respect that there is other traffic on the roadways where we stop.  Please consider these things when deciding whether this is an appropriate event for your children both for their benefit and that of the other participants.

    A note about Covid:  While COVID restrictions have eased, you are still asked to maintain physical distancing.  Please bring and wear a mask where physical distancing is not possible.  Please do not come if you are ill (with any virus), have come in contact with someone who is ill (with any virus) or has tested positive for Covid 19 or has been told to isolate.  Please check this on behalf of the children you are bringing.  Notification of cancellation as soon as possible would be appreciated.

    While registration will be by first come, first served basis, maximizing participation through carpooling will also be registration priority. Confirmation emails will be sent. You may register yourself and anyone in your own household only but I must have the required information about your carpool plans at the time of registration.

    Register for this outing at mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com Please include the full names of all in your household who will be attending no later than Tuesday March 21st.   Please also list if you have room in your vehicle for passengers, if you would prefer to ride with someone.  Further carpooling may be arranged on site prior to the outing.

     

  • Sun
    19
    Mar
    2023
    10:00 amKinburn

    MFNC Children’s Outing - Maple Syrup From The Tree to The Jar

    Event Date:  Sunday 19 March    Start Time: 10:00 am.

    Meeting Location: Kinburn location will be confirmed with registrants

    This temperature dependant outing (the sap has to be running) is for Members with their children/grandchildren.  We would like to keep the numbers manageable so please, a maximum two adults with a family of children (i.e. not grandma, grandpa, mom, dad and Auntie May etc.)  This outing is for the kids. If a second adult is required for care of the little ones, they need not be a member.

    Trip Rating:  3/5  Walking in woods – no groomed trails, late Winter/early Spring conditions, cold, snow, ice, mud and uneven terrain.  Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear (hats, coats, gloves, warm boots with good grips) for the conditions that we may find. A sled to pull the little ones might be in order.  Walking sticks for those of us who may be a little balance challenged.

    This is an outing to a private sugar bush.  A liability waiver to protect the property owner must be signed and brought with you in order to attend.   These will be sent to those registered.  We will cross the road from our parking location to the Maple Sugar Bush property where we will see how the sap is collected and our host will answer any questions the kids have (I guess the grownups can ask some too – LOL).

    From the woods where the sap is collected, we will return to our vehicles for a 2 minute drive to where the sap is boiled to see the process and get all our questions answered.  I am also informed that there may even be some syrup for sale.

     A note about Covid:  While COVID restrictions have eased, you are still asked to maintain physical distancing.  Please bring and wear a mask where physical distancing is not possible.  Please do not come if you are ill (with any virus), have come in contact with someone who is ill (with any virus) or has tested positive for Covid 19 or has been told to isolate.  Please check this on behalf of the children you are bringing.  Notification of cancellation as soon as possible would be appreciated.

    During the two weeks after attending a field trip:  If you experience any COVID symptoms or you test positive for COVID-19, please notify the Field Trip Coordinator at mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com so that other participants may be informed of their potential exposure. Your confidentiality will be respected.

     Registration is limited and first come first served so please register ASAP at mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com but by no later than Wednesday March 15 and include the full names of those you wish to register.

    Confirmation emails will be sent.  Please do not assume you are registered if you have not received and email.

    If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

    THANK YOU – YOUR COOPERATION WILL HELP KEEP US ALL SAFE

  • Wed
    04
    Jan
    2023
    7:00 pmZoom Meeting

    Our club's January Members' Night tradition lives on in 2023 but with a twist. To simplify the process this year we invite you to showcase a prized nature or natural history possession or experience via Zoom. We will not be meeting in person at the Arnprior Curling club in January.

    Please email the visuals (photo or PPT) of the item(s) or topic(s) you wish to showcase to Roger Magoon at memberships@mfnc.ca by Monday, January 2, 2023.

  • Sun
    11
    Dec
    2022
    8:00 am to noon (approx)Packenham-Arnprior

    Members’ Only Outing – Birding by Car Blitz with Michael Runtz

    Date:            Wednesday 14 December 8:00 am to noon (approx.)

    Rain date:    n/a.  

    Meeting Location:  Arnprior Metro store parking lot (South East corner)

    Guide: Michael Runtz besides being our club President and a professor at Carleton University, will be participating in the upcoming Pakenham-Arnprior Christmas Bird Count. He is hopeful that this outing will help familiarize club members with local birding hotspots in the Arnprior area.  Sites which may be visited are the Madawaska Headpond and the Ottawa River in several locations for waterbirds, and local fields for hawks and owls.

    (Level of difficulty 1 out of 5) Most of the sites will be very short walks (if any at all) away from the comfort of your car.  Please make sure you are warmly dressed (hands and feet can get especially cold).  A thermos of something warm to drink (non-alcoholic of course) is a good idea.  At this time of year with snow and changing temperatures, slippery spots are possible so please ensure stable outdoor footwear and a walking stick if you need for balance.

    Please bring a pair of binoculars (let me know if you need a pair – the club has a few to lend for the outing), a spotting scope and a camera if you have them.

    We will be maintaining physical distancing requirements.  Please bring a non-medical mask to be worn when physical distancing is not possible. Please do not come if you are ill (COVID, Flu etc.) or have come in contact with someone who is.  Notification of cancellation as soon as possible would be appreciated.

    Register at mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com no later than Friday 9 December at noon.

    Participation will be on a first come first registered basis but as this is a car blitz in fairly open environments, I expect to be able to accommodate a larger group size than on previous outings.

    It would be appreciated if you could please arrange carpooling in advance with others if you are comfortable as fewer cars will make for a safer and more pleasant outing for all.

    Please let me know when you register if you are carpooling and with whom or if you have room for others or if you would like to carpool with someone.

    Please include the full names of all in your household who wish to attend;

    If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.  Hope you can join us.

  • Wed
    07
    Dec
    2022
    7:00 pmZoom meeting + Arnprior Curling Club

    Canadian Geographic called Louise de Kiriline Lawrence Canada’s Rachel Carson and Canada’s Thoreau, noting that she spent 50 years studying birdlife in a remote forest on the Mattawa River.

    An endlessly curious self-trained amateur ornithologist and nature writer, de Kiriline Lawrence changed the way we think about birds.

    Merilyn Simonds started watching birds when she was seven and has been a writer for almost as long. Her latest work—Woman, Watching—is an innovative memoir/biography of de Kiriline Lawrence.

    Zooming in from the mountains of Mexico on December 7, 2022, Simonds will be presenting to MFNC members the fascinating story of Louise de Kiriline Lawrence: The Making of a Midcentury Amateur Ornithologist. 

  • Wed
    02
    Nov
    2022
    7:00 pmZoom meeting + Arnprior Curling Club

    Canadian marine biologist Shane Gero is the Biology Lead for Project CETI, (Cetacean Translation Initiative ) an interdisciplinary A‑team of badass scientists: marine robotics specialists, cetacean biologists, AI wizards, linguistics and cryptography experts and data specialists.* Their project--a 2020 TED initiative applying advanced machine learning and state-of-the-art robotics--aims to decode the communication of whales.

    The founder and lead scientist of the Dominica Sperm Whale Project (DSWP), Gero has spent nearly two decades following and studying a clan of some 40 families of sperm whales in the Eastern Caribbean, research that was key to the Emmy-winning documentary The  Secrets of Whales.

    On November 2 Shane will share stories from thousands of hours spent in the company of sperm whales in the pursuit of answering what is it like to grow up in a whale family? What might whales say to one another when they talk? And what  is lost when we lose a whale culture?

    As noted on his website, Gero frequently speaks about his science, whale stories, and conservation of our oceans, at museums and universities around the world; and recently on the National Geographic and TEDx stages.

    We are fortunate to have him share his findings with our club.

    *The Guardian

     

     

  • Wed
    05
    Oct
    2022
    7:00 pmVia Zoom + In person Arnprior Curling club

    Patrice Bouchard looking for beetles on trees at night with a headlamp

    Beetles are remarkably adaptable and beautiful creatures found almost everywhere on earth. Incredibly visually diverse ­with nearly 400,000 described species – compared for example to some 5,500 mammal species or 6,500 amphibian species – they make up more than one-fifth of all known life forms on this planet!

    Our guest speaker Patrice Bouchard, a Research Scientist with Entomology, Ottawa Research and Development Centre with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, will show us how beetles are both an ally and an adversary for our crops, forests and natural ecosystems.

    His richly illustrated presentation will explore recent research results in Canada and beyond, with a brief summary of two beetle book projects aimed at a broad audience.

  • Wed
    07
    Sep
    2022
    7:00 pmZoom Meeting

    What better way to welcome September and the return of our club meetings than a presentation by our president, renowned naturalist/educator/author/nature photographer Michael Runtz. And what better subject than The Howls of Autumn, illuminating the elusive and infamous wolves of Algonquin. Their wild sounds add another dimension to any Algonquin Park trip and are part of the reason Michael is drawn back year after year.

  • Sat
    09
    Jul
    2022
    9:00 am to noonMorris Island Conservation Area

    Members’ Only Outing – Morris Island Conservation Area – General Interest

    Date:  Saturday July 9, 2022         Time: 9:00 am to noon (approx. 3 hrs)

    Trip Rating:  1/5 or 2/5 (for forest trails)

    Meeting Location: Morris Island Conservation Area parking lot

    Google Maps link: https://goo.gl/maps/M7QjuyERF62M7YRZ9

    There is a fee to park – with debit/creditThe parking lot fills early so either arrive early and do a little exploring on your own (as I will be doing) or at least in time to find a spot and deal with the parking machine.

     From Arnprior

    East on Madawaska Blvd

    Continue on HWY 17 for 3.7 km

    Turn left on Galetta Side Road (County Rd 22) 4.2 km

    Turn left on Loggers Way 5.3 km

    Turn right on Morris Island Drive 170 meters

    Slight right on Morris Island Access Rd 450 meters

    Arrive at parking (payment machine at far end of lot)

     

    Please no dogs for any MFNC outing.

     

    Leader:  Derek Dunnett – Participants as always are encouraged to share their knowledge and observations.

    Derek has been a member of MFNC for many years and has led club outings in the past (Morris Island, Burnt Lands).  His interests include birds, herpivores, insects of all kinds (especially tiger beetles) and he has most recently gone down the rabbit hole with moss and lichen.  He is an active contributor to citizen science projects via eBird, the Breeding Bird Atlas and iNaturalist and is currently the author of the OFNC weekly bird report.

    Club members on this outing are encouraged to fully participate in finding and identifying flora and fauna of all types.  The route will run along an old railroad line for a good portion of the way and therefore will be in full sun exposure for much of the outing.   Depending on conditions, Derek may continue into more rugged terrain where other interesting things may be seen.  Please wear Solid, comfortable closed toe footwear and bring a travel stool and or/walking sticks if you need.  It can get hot so please bring water to drink, wear a hat, sunscreen, bug spray and long pants tucked into your socks (poison ivy and ticks).  Binoculars, a hand lens (small personal magnifying glass) and a camera are always a good idea if you have them.

    A note about Covid:  While COVID restrictions have eased, you are still asked to maintain physical distancing.  Please bring and wear a mask where physical distancing is not possible.  Please do not come if you are ill or have come in contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid 19 or have been told to isolate.  Notification of cancellation as soon as possible would be appreciated.

     Register at mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com ASAP as spaces may be limited but no later than Thursday July 7th

    You may register yourself and anyone in your own household only. Confirmation emails will be sent.  Please do not assume you are registered if you have not received and email.

     Please include:     

    • The full names of all in your household who wish to attend;
    • A statement that you have read and answered “No” to all questions on the attached COVID questionnaire (this is on behalf of all in your household).

    If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

    Macnamara Field Naturalists’ Club Pre-trip COVID-19 Questionnaire

    Dear potential field trip participant,

    We know that field trips have been an appreciated feature of your Macnamara Field Naturalists’ Club membership and while we have had to scale down our numbers to keep participants and leaders safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, we are glad to have been able to keep them running for some of that time.  We have one change while the risk of spreading COVID-19 continues: Field trip participants will be required to read and attest that they have answered no to all questions on this pre- trip questionnaire.

     PRE-TRIP QUESTIONNAIRE:

    1. Do you have any of the following symptoms: fever/feverish, new or existing cough, difficulty breathing, new loss or decrease in sense of taste or smell, runny nose, sneezing (non-allergy related), hoarse voice, nasal congestion, chills, headache, unexplained fatigue or malaise, difficulty swallowing, nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, pink eye?

    YES                      NO

    1. Have you traveled internationally or had close contact with anyone who has travelled outside Canada within the last 14 days?

    YES                      NO

    1. Have you been tested positive for COVID or have you had close contact with anyone with respiratory illness or a confirmed or probable COVID-19 case in the last 14 days without wearing the required or recommended PPE (e.g. goggles, gloves, mask and gown)?

    YES                      NO

    The Field Trip Coordinator will advise you by email if you have forgotten to include the statement but cannot hold your place in the registration queue until your statement has been received.

    Prior to or on the day of the field trip:  Please review this questionnaire.  If you answer “YES” to any questions in the questionnaire above, do not attend this field trip and please contact the Field Trip Coordinator at mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com as soon as possible to deregister you so that someone on the waiting list may take your place.  You do not have to report any of the answers to the questionnaire; Just request to be removed from the list.

    During the two weeks after attending a field trip:  If you experience any of the symptoms in question #1 or you test positive for COVID-19, please notify the Field Trip Coordinator at mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com so that other participants may be informed of their potential exposure. Your confidentiality will be respected.

     

    THANK YOU – YOUR COOPERATION WILL HELP KEEP US ALL SAFE

  • Thu
    23
    Jun
    2022
    5:30 pm112 Lynx Hollow Rd, Pakenham, ON K0A

    Members’ Only Outing – Nature’s Apprentice Farm Tour

    Date:  Thursday 23 June 2022 (rain date 30 June 2022)

    Time: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM (approx.)

     

     Leaders:                          Alberto Suarez-Esteban                              and                                         Joanna Jack

                                     

     

     

    Alberto and Joanna have graciously agreed to conduct a tour of their farm for MFNC members.  Alberto, born in Spain where he grew up helping his grandparents in their farms, developed a deep fascination for the natural world.  After 10 years in academia and with a PhD in Ecology, he dedicated himself “to working with nature to address the most destructive human activity on the planet: agriculture.”  While no longer publishing in scientific journals, he is learning and sharing the knowledge he gleans from his new career of “regenerative agriculture” with others including MFNC members.  His regular contributions to the club’s monthly sightings are always a treat.

    Joanna was born in the Yukon and raised in Pakenham growing up with the satisfaction of growing her own food and appreciating the natural world.  Alberto introduced her “to a different kind of vision for food production”, “that goes beyond organic certification and is designed to work with nature.”  She is the farm’s marketing and communications advisor, “helping to share nature-based solutions for a happier, healthier world.”

    Owned and operated by Alberto and Joanna, Nature’s Apprentice Farm is a regenerative farm which sells fresh produce, conducts farm tours, and offers consulting services on chemical-free farm design, set up, production and crop storage.

    During the tour, people can expect to see/learn:

    • How a diverse, small-scaled regenerative fam can help wildlife
    • How to attract wildlife to a farm/yard
    • Wildlife viewing, particularly birds (a mix of grassland, forest and edge species), insects, flowers, amphibians, snakes and medium to large size mammals if we are lucky.

    For more information about the farm, please have a look at their website:

    Nature's Apprentice Farm (naturesapprenticefarm.ca) ,

    their Facebook page:

    (1) nature's apprentice farm - Search Results | Facebook ,

    and be sure to read their blog:

    Blog - Nature's Apprentice Farm (naturesapprenticefarm.ca)

     

    Meeting Location: 112 Lynx Hollow Rd, Pakenham, ON K0A 2X0

    Google map link: https://goo.gl/maps/g1G9nUbhXaMnxhuF6

         

    From Antrim Truck Stop

    • South on 417,
    • West on Ottawa Rd 29
    • Alternatively from 417:
    • West on Kinburn Side Rd (Ottawa Rd 20)
    • (Both routes lead to Five Span Bridge Park)
    • Continue or turn South on 29.
    • West on McWatty Rd.
    • South on Lynx Hollow Road.

    Please no dogs for any MFNC outing.

    A note about Covid:  While COVID restrictions have eased, you are still asked to maintain physical distancing.  Please bring and wear a mask where physical distancing is not possible.  Please do not come if you are ill or have come in contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid 19 or have been told to isolate.  Notification of cancellation as soon as possible would be appreciated.

    You may register yourself and anyone in your own household only. Confirmation emails will be sent.  Please do not assume you are registered if you have not received and email.

    Register for this outing as soon as possible at events@mfnc.ca

    but no later than Monday June 20th.

     

    Please include:     

    • The full names of all in your household who will be attending;
    • A statement that you have read and answered “No” to all questions on the attached COVID questionnaire.

     

    If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

     

    Macnamara Field Naturalists’ Club Pre-trip COVID-19 Questionnaire

    Dear potential field trip participant,

    We know that field trips have been an appreciated feature of your Macnamara Field Naturalists’ Club membership and while we have had to scale down our numbers to keep participants and leaders safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, we are glad to have been able to keep them running for some of that time.  We have one change while the risk of spreading COVID-19 continues: Field trip participants will be required to read and attest that they have answered no to all questions on this pre- trip questionnaire.

     PRE-TRIP QUESTIONNAIRE:

    1. Do you have any of the following symptoms: fever/feverish, new or existing cough, difficulty breathing, new loss or decrease in sense of taste or smell, runny nose, sneezing (non-allergy related), hoarse voice, nasal congestion, chills, headache, unexplained fatigue or malaise, difficulty swallowing, nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, pink eye?

    YES                      NO

    1. Have you traveled internationally or had close contact with anyone who has travelled outside Canada within the last 14 days?

    YES                      NO

    1. Have you been tested positive for COVID or have you had close contact with anyone with respiratory illness or a confirmed or probable COVID-19 case in the last 14 days without wearing the required or recommended PPE (e.g. goggles, gloves, mask and gown)?

    YES                      NO

    The Field Trip Coordinator will advise you by email if you have forgotten to include the statement but cannot hold your place in the registration queue until your statement has been received.

    Prior to or on the day of the field trip:  Please review this questionnaire.  If you answer “YES” to any questions in the questionnaire above, do not attend this field trip and please contact the Field Trip Coordinator at mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com as soon as possible to deregister you so that someone on the waiting list may take your place.  You do not have to report any of the answers to the questionnaire; Just request to be removed from the list.

    During the two weeks after attending a field trip:  If you experience any of the symptoms in question #1 or you test positive for COVID-19, please notify the Field Trip Coordinator at mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com so that other participants may be informed of their potential exposure. Your confidentiality will be respected.

     

    THANK YOU – YOUR COOPERATION WILL HELP KEEP US ALL SAFE

  • Wed
    01
    Jun
    2022
    7:00 pmZoom Meeting - Details to follow

    Club members can’t get enough of Tree educator Owen Clarkin!

    Soon after he spoke at our December 2021 meeting Owen agreed to deliver a second presentation on trees, this one focusing on tree identification for our June 1 meeting.

    Did you check out Owen’s list of helpful books on trees and shrubs in our area

    Here is his list in case you missed it first time around or if you’re a new member.

    Members will access this Zoom meeting via   https://us06web.zoom.us/j/4908487254

    Not an MFNC member?

    A membership for 2022 costs just $25 single or $30 family.

    OR

    a voluntary donation of $5 to the Macnamara Field Naturalists Club through Canada Helps  would be most welcome.

  • Sat
    30
    Apr
    2022
    6:30 am start and 9:00 am start (your choice)Clay Bank Nature Park for Outdoor Learning

    Date:  Saturday 30 April

    Time: 6:30 am – 8:30 am (approx.) for the keeners (registration for early time closed)

              9:00 am – 11:00 am for those less enthusiastic about dawn birding (spots remaining)

    Meeting Location: Clay Bank Nature Park – Off White Lake Road toward the Claybank Boat Launch

    Please park in the large parking lot near the gardens.  Not at the boat launch.

    Click here for map: map

    Please no dogs for any MFNC outing.

    Leader: Michael Runtz

    Michael will lead the group through the park to listen and look for birds as part of a survey.  Bring your ears and binoculars if you have them. (The club has a few extra pairs of binoculars, not ears – please let me know when you register if you would like to borrow some).

    A note about Covid:  While COVID restrictions have eased, you are still asked to maintain physical distancing.  Please bring and wear a mask where physical distancing is not possible.  Please do not come if you are ill or have come in contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid 19 or have been told to isolate.  Notification of cancellation as soon as possible would be appreciated.

    You may register yourself and anyone in your own household only. Confirmation emails will be sent.  Please do not assume you are registered if you have not received and email.

    Register for this outing at events@mfnc.ca  no later than Thursday April 28th.

    Please include:     

    • The full names of all in your household who will be attending;
    • Your preferred start time;
    • A statement that you have read and answered “No” to all questions on the attached COVID questionnaire.

    If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

    Macnamara Field Naturalists’ Club Pre-trip COVID-19 Questionnaire

    Dear potential field trip participant,

    We know that field trips have been an appreciated feature of your Macnamara Field Naturalists’ Club membership and while we have had to scale down our numbers to keep participants and leaders safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, we are glad to have been able to keep them running for some of that time.  We have one change while the risk of spreading COVID-19 continues: Field trip participants will be required to read and attest that they have answered no to all questions on this pre- trip questionnaire.

    PRE-TRIP QUESTIONNAIRE:

    1. Do you have any of the following symptoms: fever/feverish, new or existing cough, difficulty breathing, new loss or decrease in sense of taste or smell, runny nose, sneezing (non-allergy related), hoarse voice, nasal congestion, chills, headache, unexplained fatigue or malaise, difficulty swallowing, nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, pink eye?     YES  /   NO
    1. Have you traveled internationally or had close contact with anyone who has travelled outside Canada within the last 14 days?      YES  /   NO
    1. Have you been tested positive for COVID or have you had close contact with anyone with respiratory illness or a confirmed or probable COVID-19 case in the last 14 days without wearing the required or recommended PPE (e.g. goggles, gloves, mask and gown)?       YES  / NO

     

    The Field Trip Coordinator will advise you by email if you have forgotten to include the statement but cannot hold your place in the registration queue until your statement has been received.

    Prior to or on the day of the field trip:  Please review this questionnaire.  If you answer “YES” to any questions in the questionnaire above, do not attend this field trip and please contact the Field Trip Coordinator at mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com as soon as possible to deregister you so that someone on the waiting list may take your place.  You do not have to report any of the answers to the questionnaire; Just request to be removed from the list.

    During the two weeks after attending a field trip:  If you experience any of the symptoms in question #1 or you test positive for COVID-19, please notify the Field Trip Coordinator at mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com so that other participants may be informed of their potential exposure. Your confidentiality will be respected.

    THANK YOU – YOUR COOPERATION WILL HELP KEEP US ALL SAFE

  • Wed
    06
    Apr
    2022
    7:00 pmZoom Meeting

    Cassandra Robillard spends much of her time with a hand lens getting up close and personal with nature. Tiny bryophytes (mosses, liverworts and hornwarts) are among her favourites and at our club's April 6 meeting  she’ll show us how they're the fascinating pioneers of land plants.

    Join us as we hear about their life history and ecological importance, and get to meet a few locally common species.

    Read more details here.

  • Sun
    27
    Mar
    2022
    7:00 PM - ?Arnprior & Packenham

    Please read the attached announcement completely and carefully before registering.  As this outing has been very popular in the past and involves driving from location to location, we need to limit the number of vehicles while hopefully accommodating as many members as possible.  Unlike other outings, priority will be given to maximize this and secondarily to order of registration.

    In registering, you agree that you have read the Macnamara Field Naturalists Pre-field trip Questionnaire and have answered “NO” to all questions. You further understand that you are required to maintain a physical distance of six feet (6’) /two metres with anyone outside your household or wear a mask when that is not practical.”

    For your registration to be complete, you must indicate one or more of the following:

    Driving own vehicle – I have at least one passenger & can accommodate ____more people.

    Name of passenger(s):____________________________________________________

    Driving own vehicle – I have at least one passenger & cannot accommodate anyone else.

    Name of passenger(s):____________________________________________________

    Driving own vehicle – I am alone & can accommodate ____more people.

    Driving own vehicle – I am alone and cannot accommodate anyone else.

    Driving own vehicle but willing to carpool with others.

    Have no vehicle – would like to carpool with others.

    Date:  Sunday 27 March

    Time: 7:00 PM – probably late

    Meeting Location: We will meet in the Metro store parking lot.  Park opposite the store but close to the road.

    Carpooling:  You must let me know when you register if you will be carpooling with anyone (and if so, with whom), if you are willing to carpool with someone or if you would take someone in your vehicle.

    I have put a multiple-choice selection for this in the email.  Please copy and paste (or highlight) the relevant choice(s) as mentioned in the email in your registration email.  Preference will be given to those with two or more people in their vehicle or those willing to carpool.  I will need to know the number of vehicles expected as it may not be safe to stop at some points along the route with an unlimited number of vehicles and the number will therefore be capped. (I will assume members of the same household will travel in one vehicle.)

    Please no dogs for any MFNC outing.

    Leader: Michael Runtz

    Michael will lead the group to several locations along rural roadways in the Arnprior/Pakenham area where we can expect to find owls.  Target species are:  Barred Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl and Eastern Screech Owl.  Along the way, the group will learn about the ecology and behaviour of these beautiful and fascinating birds.  Dress very warmly (warm comfortable boots are especially important as are ice grips depending on conditions) as we will be standing outside for periods of time.  Bring a flashlight/headlamp and binoculars if you have them.

    The duration of the event will depend on the time it takes the group to find our target species.  This may make it a bit of a late evening.  Please respect that quiet is sometimes essential when getting out of vehicles (please close doors softly and keep any talking to a low whisper).  Also respect that there is other traffic on the roadways where we stop.  Please consider these things when deciding whether this is an appropriate event for your children both for their benefit and that of the other participants.

    A note about Covid:  While COVID restrictions have eased, you are still asked to maintain physical distancing.  Please bring and wear a mask where physical distancing is not possible.  Please do not come if you are ill or have come in contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid 19 or have been told to isolate.  Notification of cancellation as soon as possible would be appreciated and is especially important if you have agreed to and been designated as a carpool driver.  Also please ensure that you notify us via mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com  if you later find that you have come into contact with Covid 19.

    While registration priority will include order of registration to those who have included the COVID statement in their registration email, maximizing participation through carpooling will also be considered. Confirmation emails will be sent. You may register yourself and anyone in your own household only but I must have the required information about your carpool plans at the time of registration.

     

    Register for this outing at events@mfnc.ca  Please include the full names of all in your household who will be attending no later than Tuesday March 22nd.

     

    If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.  I know this is a bit of a complicated one.

     

    Macnamara Field Naturalists’ Club Pre-trip COVID-19 Questionnaire

     

    Dear potential field trip participant,

    We know that field trips have been an appreciated feature of your Macnamara Field Naturalists’ Club membership and while we have had to scale down our numbers to keep participants and leaders safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, we are glad to have been able to keep them running for some of that time.  We will resume our trips with one change while the risk of spreading COVID-19 continues: Field trip participants will be required to complete a pre- trip questionnaire.

     

    PRE-TRIP QUESTIONNAIRE:

    1. Do you have any of the following symptoms: fever/feverish, new or existing cough, difficulty breathing, new loss or decrease in sense of taste or smell, runny nose, sneezing (non-allergy related), hoarse voice, nasal congestion, chills, headache, unexplained fatigue or malaise, difficulty swallowing, nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, pink eye?

    YES                      NO

    1. Have you traveled internationally or had close contact with anyone who has travelled outside Canada within the last 14 days?

    YES                      NO

    1. Have you had close contact with anyone with respiratory illness or a confirmed or probable COVID-19 case in the last 14 days without wearing the required or recommended PPE (e.g. goggles, gloves, mask and gown)?

    YES                      NO

     

    The Field Trip Coordinator will advise you by email if you have forgotten to include the statement but cannot hold your place in the registration queue until your statement has been received.

    Prior to or on the day of the field trip:  Please review this questionnaire.  If you answer “YES” to any questions in the questionnaire above, do not attend this field trip and please contact the Field Trip Coordinator at mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com as soon as possible to deregister you so that someone on the waiting list may take your place.  You do not have to report any of the answers to the questionnaire; Just request to be removed from the list.

    During the two weeks after attending a field trip:  If you experience any of the symptoms in question #1 or you test positive for COVID-19, please notify the Field Trip Coordinator at mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com so that other participants may be informed of their potential exposure. Your confidentiality will be respected.

     

    THANK YOU – YOUR COOPERATION WILL HELP KEEP US ALL SAFE

  • Sat
    19
    Feb
    2022
    1:00 - 3:00 pmFitzroy Provincial Park

    Meeting Location: At the far north end of Kedey Street in Fitzroy Harbour.   Please note that there is no vehicle entry to the Park (and no entrance fee!) at this time of the year.  We will be walking into the park from the street.  Parking is available.

    please no dogs for any MFNC outing.

    (Please note that there is one outhouse at about the halfway on the walk.)

    Leader: Karen Kruger

    Karen, a former MFNC Board member has led outings to Fitzroy in previous years but unlike those times, due to COVID, if you want to hot chocolate or a snack, we can do this while socially distancing outside along the way.

    This is about a two-hour walk.  It is a mostly flat walk of about 5 kilometres round trip through forest and mixed habitat.  There is only one small steep hill which I am assured should not prove difficult for anyoneThis is a family friendly outing (1.5 out of 5 difficulty rating) and there is no real focus other than to get out in the fresh air and enjoy the winter surroundings.

    Walking conditions at this time of year can be extremely variable.  Anything from snowshoes to big cleats to little cleats to just boots may be recommended.  We will keep an eye on the conditions and let the participants know near the end of the week what they might expect.  Please bring water to drink or a thermos of hot chocolate and a small snack, and of course, dress for the weather.  Binoculars are useful but not essential, a camera is always a nice idea if you have one and perhaps some seeds to hand feed the Chickadees along the way.

    A note about Covid:  Participant numbers will be restricted to those allowed by local Health bylaws so register early and only if you truly know you can come.  You may register yourself and anyone in your own household only.

    We will be maintaining physical distancing requirements.  Please bring and wear a mask in case physical distancing is not possiblePlease see the new COVID pre-field trip questionnaire on the next page. Yes, you should answer on behalf of all those who are registering from your household.  Participation will be on a first come first registered basis to those who have included the COVID statement in their registration email. Confirmation emails will be sent.

    Please do not come if you are ill or have come in contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid 19.  Notification of cancellation as soon as possible would be appreciated.  Also please ensure that you notify us (via mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com ) if you later find that you have come into contact with Covid 19.

    Register for this outing at events@mfnc.ca (please include your full name) no later than Thursday February 17th.

     

    If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

     

     

    Macnamara Field Naturalists’ Club Pre-trip COVID-19 Questionnaire

    Dear potential field trip participant,

    We know that field trips have been an appreciated feature of your Macnamara Field Naturalists’ Club membership and while we have had to scale down our numbers to keep participants and leaders safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, we are glad to have been able to keep them running for some of that time.  We will resume our trips with one change while the risk of spreading COVID-19 continues: Field trip participants will be required to complete a pre- trip questionnaire.

    PRE-TRIP QUESTIONNAIRE:

    1. Do you have any of the following symptoms: fever/feverish, new or existing cough, difficulty breathing, new loss or decrease in sense of taste or smell, runny nose, sneezing (non-allergy related), hoarse voice, nasal congestion, chills, headache, unexplained fatigue or malaise, difficulty swallowing, nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, pink eye?

    YES        NO

    1. Have you traveled internationally or had close contact with anyone who has travelled outside Canada within the last 14 days?

    YES        NO

    1. Have you had close contact with anyone with respiratory illness or a confirmed or probable COVID-19 case in the last 14 days without wearing the required or recommended PPE (e.g. goggles, gloves, mask and gown)?
    To register, please read, copy and paste the following paragraph in an email to the Field Trip Coordinator at mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com.

    “I have read the Macnamara Field Naturalists Pre-field trip Questionnaire and have answered “NO” to all questions.  I further understand that I am required to wear a mask for the duration of the outing and to maintain a physical distance of six feet (6’) /two metres with anyone outside my household.”

    YES        NO

     

    The Field Trip Coordinator will advise you by email if you have forgotten to include the statement but cannot hold your place in the registration queue until your statement has been received.

    Prior to or on the day of the field trip:  Please review this questionnaire.  If you answer “YES” to any questions in the questionnaire above, do not attend this field trip and please contact the Field Trip Coordinator at mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com as soon as possible to deregister you so that someone on the waiting list may take your place.  You do not have to report any of the answers to the questionnaire; Just request to be removed from the list.

    During the two weeks after attending a field trip:  If you experience any of the symptoms in question #1 or you test positive for COVID-19, please notify the Field Trip Coordinator at mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com so that other participants may be informed of their potential exposure. Your confidentiality will be respected.

    THANK YOU – YOUR COOPERATION WILL HELP KEEP US ALL SAFE

  • Wed
    02
    Feb
    2022
    7:00 pmZoom Meeting

    Our president’s Great Naturalist Quiz lives on! As you likely guessed, due to Covid-19 and our virtual format we will not break into teams this year, so you will be your own team. The 2022 quiz will engage your brain cells to identify photos of a variety of natural history subjects, plus solve some nature trivia questions and as usual, a few riddles. Points will be awarded not only for correct answers but also for imaginative ones! You can write down your answers and when the clock stops ticking enjoy the entertaining discussion of the solutions.

    A prize—one of Michael’s newest books: Wildflowers of Algonquin Provincial Park—will be awarded to the person with the most points!

    wildflowers of Algonquin Park

  • Wed
    05
    Jan
    2022
    7:00 pm

    Once again, you are invited to showcase a prized nature or natural history possession or experience.

    You don’t need to have nature photos to share. You might prefer to read a poem you’ve written or talk about a new trail you’ve explored or an interesting nature book you’ve read the past year.

    Please email any visuals (photo or PPT) of the item or topic you wish to showcase to John Lawrence at johndrlawrence8@gmail.com by Monday, January 3.

    Try to package your “show and tell” into five minutes and keep your photos to less than five. Please identify the email as Show and Tell.

    We’re also repeating an option we introduced for our 2021 Member’s Night, challenging members to submit a single photo reflecting some aspect of nature taken this year “at home,” (within your yard/property). Include when it was taken (i.e. any date in 2021) and a sentence or two or three about your subject.

    Email your content to John by January 3, 2022Please identify the email as Nature at Home.

    We’ll still be recording your special sightings as well so send the details in advance to John Lawrence at as well as any questions you may have. Please identify the email as Sightings. Photos aren’t required but are helpful if you have one. As in our regular meetings, Michael will offer his comments.

  • Thu
    09
    Dec
    2021
    8:30 to noonArnprior Area Birding Hotspots

    No rain date 

    Meeting Location:  Arnprior Metro store parking lot (away from store closer to Daniel St.)

    Guide:  Michael Runtz

    Michael, besides being our club President and a professor in the department of Biology at Carleton University, will be participating in the upcoming Christmas Bird Count in the Arnprior.  He is hopeful that this outing will help familiarize club members with local birding hotspots in the Arnprior area and encourage participation in the count.  Sites visited will be the Madawaska Headpond and the Ottawa River in several locations for waterbirds, and local fields for hawks and owls.

    (Level of difficulty 2 out of 5)

    Most of the sites will be very short walks (if any at all) away from the comfort of your car.  Please make sure however that you are warmly dressed (hands and feet can get especially cold).  A thermos of something warm to drink (non-alcoholic of course) is a good idea.  At this time of year with snow and changing temperatures, slippery spots are possible so please ensure stable outdoor footwear and a walking stick if you need for balance.

    Please bring a pair of binoculars (let me know if you need a pair – the club has a few to lend for the outing), a spotting scope and a camera if you have them.

     A note about Covid:  You may register yourself and anyone in your own household only.  Participation will be on a first come first registered basis but as this is a car blitz in fairly open environments, I expect to be able to accommodate a larger group size than on previous outings. Confirmation emails will be sent out in any case so that you know that I have received your registration.

    We will be maintaining physical distancing requirements.  Please bring a non-medical mask to be worn when physical distancing is not possible. Please do not come if you are ill or have come in contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid 19.  Notification of cancellation as soon as possible would be appreciated.

    Register at events@mfnc.ca (please include your full name)

    no later than Wednesday 8 December at 5pm.

     

    If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.  Hope you can join us.

  • Wed
    01
    Dec
    2021
    7:00 pmZoom Meeting

    Who you gonna call? If it’s about Ontario trees, Owen Clarkin!

    Who can forget those four words from the popular Ghostbusters theme in the 1980s!

    They came to mind as I followed up on a query the club received last month about the “Royal” Oak at the Galilee Retreat Centre in Arnprior. The writer asked if Arnprior’s “Royal” Oak was an English Oak, as the name Royal Oak sometimes applied to English Oaks, which were among the earliest trees to be introduced from Europe to North America.

    Who could I call upon to provide the answer? Naturalist Owen Clarkin, of course our go-to expert on trees and shrubs in Ontario and the speaker for our December 1 club meeting!

    Clarkin is the Vice-President and Chair of the Ottawa Field Naturalists' Club's Conservation Committee. With a PhD in Physical Chemistry, he works in the healthcare industry during the week and spends his weekends with trees his wording!

    All trees are worth knowing, he says.

    Supporting that belief, he describes how he takes and posts "numerous photos of trees and shrubs sporadically to the citizen science database iNaturalist, where his philosophy is to upload what he noted on a particular hike, with a goal to be comprehensive regarding trees/shrub species encountered on a trip, plus any other life forms that caught his interest." Most recently, that equates to large chunks of close to a hundred entries each day! At the time of writing, Clarkin had 37,043 observations of 2,024 species.

    His strong interest in and focus on trees and other aspects of nature developed in his childhood but his research interest in trees and shrubs developed more seriously as gaps in conventional wisdom regarding trees in Ontario became apparent.

    His primary interests are documenting uncommon trees and shrubs where they occur in the wild and thinking about associated habitat requirements and conservation implications, observations especially relevant in our changing environment. National Resources Canada projects the rate of climate change in Canada will be 10 to 100 times faster than the ability of trees to migrate, resulting in impacts on forest health and productivity.

    Join club members on December 1 for an informative and timely topic. And with our 2022 Great Naturalist Quiz on the horizon, you might pick up some identification clues. No guarantee!

    Back to the query! The tree in question turned out to be a Bur Oak. The sapling “Royal” Oak, a heritage tree recognized under Tree Ontario’s Heritage Tree Program, was planted in 1860 by the 19-year-old Prince of Wales, eldest son of Queen Victoria, who later became Edward VII, on his tour to New York and Canada. Sadly, arborists recently determined that the tree represented a significant risk to those using the Galilee Centre property and building. and began cutting down the 161-year old oak on November 25.

    Arnprior has another tree with a "claim-to-fame": in May of 2015, the National Capital Commission declared the Gilles Grove pine the tallest tree in Ontario. Measuring 47 metres (147 feet) high and more than 100 centimetres in breadth, this magnificent giant stands taller than a 13-story building.

    Karen Runtz

     

  • Wed
    03
    Nov
    2021
    7:00 pmZoom Meeting

    Herpetological Mysteries of Eastern Ontario

    Let’s start with what we know. In Ontario, 75 per cent of reptiles and 35 per cent of amphibians are listed as nationally and provincially at risk, details you’ll find in the Ontario Reptile and Amphibian Atlas (ORAA), a citizen-science project that tracks distributions and spatial trends of reptiles and amphibians across the province over time.

    Most of Ontario's reptile and amphibian diversity occurs in southern Ontario, where road density is among the highest in Canada (Ontario Nature 2012); sadly, mortality from vehicle strikes is a very real threat for many of the above. And when it comes to snakes, that slaughter is often deliberate. One factor why: nearly one-third of adults globally are said to have Ophidiophobia—a fear of snakes (FEAROF.net).

    Involved in ORAA from 2009 to 2019, Jakob Mueller, President of the Ottawa Field Naturalists, finds such negative actions disturbing. Herpetology—the scientific study of reptiles and amphibians—is one of his special interests. Looking him up on iNaturalist you’ll find he has participated in four projects: Canadian Amphibians & Reptiles on Roads, Reptiles & Amphibians of Ottawa and Eastern Ontario, Wildlife on roads in Ontario and Global roadkill observations and made some 1,413 observations of 602 species alive or dead.

    As well, as of October 24, he had identified some 21,728 entries submitted by a range of contributors.
    Snakes are clearly his favourite. Pantherophis*, his identity on iNaturalist, is a clue!

    Red-bellied snake

    *a genus of nonvenomous colubrid snakes endemic to central and eastern regions of North America and consisting of North American ratsnakes, foxsnakes and cornsnakes. Wikipedia.

    “Despite inspiring some undeserved negative reactions in some people, snakes are fascinating creatures, quite important locally and quite interesting,” Mueller notes.

    “Most people are familiar with the omnipresent garter snake, but are unaware that eight species have been recorded inside the Ottawa district, with a ninth nearby,” he adds.

    Got your interest? Zoom in on November 3 for his presentation to our club on the reptiles and amphibians in the Herpetological Mysteries of Eastern Ontario.

  • Tue
    02
    Nov
    2021
    1:30 - 3:30 pmTerry Fox at Kanata Ave. (see parking and directions information)

    Meeting Location:  Park at Insmill Park - see map. Google Map link:  https://goo.gl/maps/M6ncwcAvkiM4JVqB9

    Walk south to Terry Fox Drive and then west to Kanata Avenue, a total of 300 meters. Cross at the lights. Meet near the conservation area sign at Kanata Avenue no later than 1:30pm.

    (Please note that there are no washroom facilities)

    Guide:  Janet Mason, Friends of the Carp River

    Janet is Chair of the Friends of the Carp River Inc. a non-profit action-based group dedicated to improving the quality of life in and along the Carp River and its watershed for the mutual benefit of its human and wildlife communities.  They do this by encouraging new shoreline management practices, thereby helping to restore the “ribbon of life” along the river’s length.  Janet is a former board member of Macnamara Field Naturalists’ Club and remains a valued member of the club.

    Outing participants will learn about the riparian restoration of Ottawa's own Carp River, the only river whose watershed lies entirely within the city's boundaries.  We will visit the Carp River Conservation Area in Kanata, a 2-kilometer section with restored meanders, wetlands, and ponds.  The restoration is an excellent example of how natural areas can co-exist in commercial/suburban settings, providing habitat, recreation, and ecosystem services for adjacent and downstream communities.  Participants will hear about plans for the Carp River Living Classroom, which will animate the river and its wetlands for education and discovery.

    For more information about the Carp River Conservation Area, please see:  https://friendsofthecarpriver.com/?page_id=1464.

    (Level of difficulty 1 out of 5)

    Walking is on paved pathways with vistas over ponds and the river where we will look for migrating birds. Solid, comfortable closed toe footwear and ability to walk for the duration of the hike is advised.  Binoculars and a camera are always a good idea if you have them. General reminder: Many locations we visit are in areas where picking flora of any kind is either not advisable or outright banned.  Please do not pick anything while on group outings as it could reflect poorly on the club as a whole. Our trip leaders can make an educated and judicious choice about sampling.

     A note about Covid:  Participant numbers will be limited to ensure that all benefit from Janet’s information.  You may register yourself and anyone in your own household only.  Participation will be on a first come first registered basis.  Confirmation emails will be sent.

    We will be maintaining physical distancing requirements.  Please bring a non-medical mask to be worn when physical distancing is not possible. Please do not come if you are ill or have come in contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid 19.  Notification of cancellation as soon as possible would be appreciated.

    Register at events@mfnc.ca (please include your full name) no later than Sunday October 31st.

    If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

  • Sat
    23
    Oct
    2021
    10:00 am - 12:00 pmMacnamara Trail Head (McNab Street, Arnprior)

    Members Only Outing - Mosses on the Macnamara Trail with Jennifer Doubt

    REGISTRATION CLOSED - WAIT LIST ONLY

    Saturday 23 October (NO RAIN DATE)

    10:00 AM – approximately 12:00 PM (noon)

    Meeting Location: Macnamara Trail Head (McNab St., Arnprior).

    (please note that there are no bathroom facilities)

    From Highway 417 exit at County Road 29 (exit 180) and head north to Madawaska Boulevard. Turn left onto Madawaska Boulevard and continue for 1km to MacNab Street. Turn right on McNab Street (just after Rona) and look for the Macnamara Trail parking lot on the right after the entrance to the Nylene Canada plant.

    Leaders:  Jennifer Doubt

    Jennifer Doubt, originally from Deep River, Ontario, has collected and documented mosses and liverworts for over 25 years.  Along with the other fun, dedicated staff, students and volunteers that make up the Canadian Museum of Nature Botany team, she cares for a busy, growing archive of over one million preserved plants and lichens, and shares the collection far and wide for research and education.

    Jennifer’s plan is to walk along the trail and see what we find!  She is hopeful that we will have a chance to see some different moss and liverwort growth forms, including some capsules. She will discuss iNaturalist and how to maximize the chances that mosses can be identified from photos, as well as the limitations of field- and photo-identification for plants with microscopic features.

    Solid, comfortable closed toe footwear and ability to walk for the duration of the hike is required. (While on your own you may be accustomed to wearing sandals on hikes, as a courtesy to the group, please do not risk a foot injury when on a group outing.) Please bring water to drink, sunscreen, bug spray and/or bug jacket and dress for the weather with long pants tucked into your socks (poison ivy and ticks are still present).  We will be travelling very slowly, so when dressing for the weather, an extra layer might be handy.

    A hand lens (10 – 20x) or other strong magnifier and a camera are always a good idea if you have them.  Jennifer will have a few extra hand lenses to share with those who don’t for their individual use during the walk. Please also note that many locations we visit are in areas where picking flora of any kind is either not advisable or outright banned.  Please do not pick anything while on group outings as it could reflect poorly on the club as a whole. Our trip leaders can make an educated and judicious choice about sampling.

    A note about Covid:  Participant numbers will be restricted to 8 participants due to the nature of the outing (close viewing of the mosses).  You may register yourself and anyone in your own household only.  Participation will be on a first come first registered basis.   Confirmation emails will be sent.

    We will be maintaining physical distancing requirements.  Please bring a non-medical mask to be worn when physical distancing is not possible. Please do not come if you are ill or have come in contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid 19.  Notification of cancellation as soon as possible would be appreciated.

    Register at events@mfnc.ca (please include your full name) no later than Thursday October 21st.

    If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

  • Fri
    22
    Oct
    2021
    10:30 am - 12:30 pmPinhey's Point (meet in parking lot)

    Members Only Outing - Geological Processes of the Ottawa River Valley with Jean Dougherty

    A few spaces now open

    Friday October 22; 

    10:30 AM – approximately 12:30 PM 

    Meeting Location: Pinhey’s Point Parking lot- 270 Pinhey Point Rd, Dunrobin, ON K0A 1T0

    Admission to Pinhey’s Point is by donation.  Please consider contributing while we are there.

    (please note that the washroom facilities are currently closed)

    Leader:  Jean Dougherty

    Jean is a retired geologist who spent her career with the Geological Survey of Canada.  In the latter years of her career, she was the manager responsible for all of the rock, mineral and fossil collects of the GSC.  She came to that role by being the curator of the National Type Collection of Invertebrate and Plant Fossils.  She was active in promoting a better understanding of geology to the general public.  She is currently the chair of the Canadian Association for the Club of Rome when not spending time with her grandchildren.  She and her husband live in Ottawa.

    Jean will be discussing the geological processes and the impact of geology on history and development of human occupation from the wonderful vista of the Ottawa River Valley at Pinhey’s Point.  She will use samples and the site’s buildings to explain the geology of the region.

     (1 out of 5 difficulty rating). 

    Please wear suitable footwear. While on your own you may be accustomed to wearing sandals on hikes, as a courtesy to the group, please do not risk a foot injury when on a group outing.) Please bring water to drink, and dress for the weather with long pants tucked into your socks (poison ivy and ticks).  Binoculars and a camera is always a good idea if you have one.

    Please also note that many locations we visit are in areas where picking flora of any kind is either not advisable or outright banned.  Please do not pick anything while on group outings as it could reflect poorly on the club as a whole.

    A note about Covid:  Participant numbers will be restricted to allow for a safe outing so register early and only if you truly know you can come.  You may register yourself and anyone in your own household only.  Participation will be on a first come first registered basis.   Confirmation emails will be sent.

    We will be maintaining physical distancing requirements.  Wearing of a non-medical mask is encouraged.   Please do not come if you are ill or have come in contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid 19.  Notification of cancellation as soon as possible would be appreciated.

    Register at events@mfnc.ca (please include your full name) no later than Tuesday October 19th.

    If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

  • Sat
    09
    Oct
    2021
    9:00 AM - noon (approx.) High Lonesome Nature Reserve

    Saturday October 9th; NO RAIN DATE

    9:00 AM – approximately 12:00 PM (noon)

    Meeting Location: At the entrance to High Lonesome Nature Reserve in Mississippi Mills on Carbine Road (off Barr Side Road).   There is no entrance fee to the High Lonesome Reserve non-for-profit but it would be lovely if people would consider a donation on their way in.  Please note that they have a public access policy which you should read before accepting to go.  It is found at https://mmlt.ca/public-access-policy/  and while they allow dogs, please no dogs for any MFNC outing.

    (please note that there are no bathroom facilities)

    Leaders:  Jonathan Mack

    Jonathan is an amateur mycologist who has been interested in the identification of mushrooms for a bit more than 11 years now.  He is currently a student at Carleton University doing his Master thesis focusing on microfungi.  While microfungi are his main research area, he is quite capable of identifying many of the more typical mushrooms as well. He is also interested in most other organisms, with a preference for birds and insects (specifically moths).  Jonathan has provided his link for his iNaturalist account for anyone interested. https://www.inaturalist.org/people/jonathan_mack

    This is about a two-hour walk.  The terrain is very hilly and there are some spots which are difficult to navigate if you have bad knees/hips etc.  This is not a place for those with difficulty on rigorous trails especially if it has been rainy.  (3.5 out of 5 difficulty rating). 

    Please wear suitable footwear. While on your own you may be accustomed to wearing sandals on hikes, as a courtesy to the group, please do not risk a foot injury when on a group outing.) Please bring water to drink, and dress for the weather with long pants tucked into your socks (poison ivy and ticks).  Binoculars, a small mirror for looking under the fungi, a hand lens (small personal magnifying glass), and a camera is always a good idea if you have one.

    Please also note that many locations we visit are in areas where picking flora of any kind is either not advisable or outright banned.  Please do not pick anything while on group outings as it could reflect poorly on the club as a whole.

    A note about Covid:  Participant numbers will be restricted to allow for a safe outing so register early and only if you truly know you can come.  You may register yourself and anyone in your own household only.  Participation will be on a first come first registered basis.   Confirmation emails will be sent.

    We will be maintaining physical distancing requirements.  Wearing of a non-medical mask is encouraged.   Please do not come if you are ill or have come in contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid 19.  Notification of cancellation as soon as possible would be appreciated.

    Register at events@mfnc.ca (please include your full name) no later than Thursday October 7th.  If you registered for last weekend, please let me know ASAP if you will attend.

    If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

  • Wed
    08
    Sep
    2021
    7:00 pmZoom Meeting

    Our September 2021 speaker’s subject matter —"the bird of mammals"/ "the squirrel that would be a bird" — is one you won’t want to miss.

    Sasha Newar tags herself as “flying squirrel girl” on Twitter. Stated more formally, she is a Ph.D candidate at Trent University where she is studying the intersection of mammalian ecology and bioacoustics. On September 8, Newar will shine a light on flying squirrels, the only nocturnal squirrels, that commonly use high-frequency acoustic signals that are so high pitched they are not audible to the human ear.

    Ontario is home to two species of these gliding rodents: the northern and southern flying squirrel. You may have never seen one, or maybe you've been lucky enough to catch a glimpse of one on a bird feeder after dark, but flying squirrels are actually common throughout the old-growth forests of much of North America, notes Newar. She will discuss her personal work on the ultrasonic communication of both species and how bat recorders can be used to study these elusive gliders.

    Their nocturnal nature makes them elusive to the average naturalist, not to mention they can glide up to 9 m/s to escape their predators, she adds. That converts to 20 miles per hour!

    One of our two species inhabits deciduous forests where they can find seeds and nuts, while the other prefers coniferous forests and feeds primarily on fungi. Can you identify which is which?

    Southern flying squirrels are displacing northern flyers at an alarming rate, Newar reports, a concern for the forests they inhabit.

    Southern Flying Squirrel © Michael Runtz

  • Fri
    09
    Jul
    2021
    Sat
    10
    Jul
    2021
    8:30 PM to 1:00 AM5289 Steen Lane (at end of MacHardy which is off Galetta)

    Members Only Outing – Mothing with Owen

    Date:  Friday July 9 or Saturday July 10 (please include your preferred date in your registration email)

    Time:  8:30 PM to. 1:00 AM (you are of course able to leave anytime)

    Location:  5289 Steen Lane (at the end of MacHardy Road – which is off Galetta)

    Weather dependant (looking for above 18o C and relatively no wind)

    Trip Rating:  3/5 for dark condition

    Register at mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com no later than Thursday July 8th.

    Ample parking is available.

    Leaders:  Owen Ridgen.

    Owen may be new to some of you but has done point counts for the club previously and led a dragonfly outing last year.  Prior to the Covid shut down much of his time was spent on his studies at U of T where he is a student.  He has been a naturalist his entire life, inspired from an early age by his father and grandfather, David and Eric Ridgen (founding member). Following in their footsteps, he began with birds.  According to his mother he knew the names of at least eight species of owl before his first birthday!  As time has gone on, he has entered into other fields of study, including those of freshwater fishes and mussels, butterflies, moths, herps and dragonflies and damselflies.  He has explored the Arnprior and Ottawa area for many years and has been mothing for years as well.  He is very happy to share his knowledge on the subject with others, and hopefully learn just as much himself.

    Owen will be hanging sheets which will be lit up to attract the moths.   Please bring a flashlight or headlamp to ensure you can see where you are walking. Solid, comfortable closed toe footwear is always recommended, a camp chair may be useful. Please bring water to drink, and bug spray with long pants tucked into your socks (poison ivy, mosquitoes and ticks are about everywhere these days) and a camera are always a good idea if you have one.

    A note about Covid:  Participant numbers will be restricted so register early and only if you truly know you can come.  You may register yourself and anyone in your own household only.

    Please note, registration is not complete without doing one of the following:

    When registering for a field trip, please read, copy and paste the following paragraph in an email to the Field Trip Coordinator at mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com.

    “I have read the Macnamara Field Naturalists Pre-field trip Questionnaire and have answered “NO” to all

    questions.  I further understand that I am required to wear a mask for the duration of the outing and to

    maintain a physical distance of six feet (6’) /two metres with anyone outside my household. “

    OR

    Please complete the survey found at COVID-19 customer screening (ontario.ca)

    and email the result to mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com

    Participation will be on a first come first registered basisWe will be maintaining physical distancing requirements and requiring that non-medical masks be worn.   Please do not come if you are ill, have come into contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid 19 or have been outside the province in the last 14 days.  For your safety and that of other participants, it is also recommended that you come only if you have had at least your first Covid 19 vaccination.  Once registered, if for any reason you cannot attend, notification of cancellation as soon as possible would be appreciated.

    If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

  • Sat
    03
    Jul
    2021
    10:00 - 13:00Morris Island Conservation Area (Fitzroy Harbour)

    Saturday July 3; Rain Date Sunday July 4             10:00 AM to. 1:00 PM (approx. 3hrs)

    Trip Rating:  1/5 or 2//5 (for forest trails)

    Register at mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com no later than Wednesday June 30th.

    Location: We will meet at the parking lot at Morris Island Conservation Area ($3 Fee to park).  Please note that the parking lot fills early.  My suggestion is that you either arrive early and do a little exploring on your own (as I will be doing) or at least early enough to find a spot and get to our meeting point for the 10:00 AM start time.

    Leaders:  Participant - involved with Gillian Mastromatteo available for consultation.

    Gillian (pronounce with a hard G), has led OFNC outings in the past and has contributed to their Trail and Landscape publication.  She studies Odes mostly for personal pleasure and likes contributing to our knowledge via citizen science projects such as iNaturalist.  She has a broad range of knowledge including birds, butterflies, mammals and herpivores.

    Club members on this outing are encouraged to fully participate in finding and identifying the dragonflies and damselflies (Bring a butterfly net and field guide if you have them).  The route will run along an old railroad line for a good portion of the way and therefore will be in full sun exposure for much of the outing.   Depending on conditions, Gillian may continue into more rugged terrain where other varieties of Odonata may be seen.  Solid, comfortable closed toe footwear and ability to walk and stand for the duration of the hike is required.  It can get hot so please bring water to drink, wear a hat, sunscreen, bug spray and long pants tucked into your socks (poison ivy and ticks).  Binoculars, a hand lens (small personal magnifying glass) and a camera are always a good idea if you have them.

    A note about Covid:  Participant numbers will be restricted so register early and only if you truly know you can come.  You may register yourself and anyone in your own household only.

    Please note, registration is not complete without doing one of the following:

    When registering for a field trip, please read, copy and paste the following paragraph in an email to the Field Trip Coordinator at mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com.

    “I have read the Macnamara Field Naturalists Pre-field trip Questionnaire and have answered “NO” to all questions.  I further understand that I am required to wear a mask for the duration of the outing and to maintain a physical distance of six feet (6’) /two metres with anyone outside my household. “

    OR

    Please complete the survey found at COVID-19 customer screening (ontario.ca)

    and email the result to mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com

    Participation will be on a first come first registered basisWe will be maintaining physical distancing requirements and requiring that non-medical masks be worn.   Please do not come if you are ill, have come into contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid 19 or have been outside the province in the last 14 days.  For your safety and that of other participants, it is also recommended that you come only if you have had at least your first Covid 19 vaccination.  Once registered, if for any reason you cannot attend, notification of cancellation as soon as possible would be appreciated.

    If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

  • Tue
    06
    Apr
    2021
    7:30 pmZoom Meeting (TBD)

    Our Presenter:

    Michael Allan is a Wildlife Research Technician with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry and has worked as a wildlife research technician/biologist for over 30 years. He has two college diplomas: an Environmental Resource Field Technician diploma from Loyalist College in Belleville and a Fish and Wildlife Technician diploma from Fleming College in Lindsay. He also completed an Honours BSc degree in biology/environmental science and an MSc in Environmental and Life Sciences from Trent University.

    The Presentation:

    Mike will present on the history of elk in North America - species and range and on the restoration of elk in Ontario. He will provide an update on the Bancroft-North Hastings (BNH) elk herd and present some of the research findings on the herd. Mike will discuss past, current and future survey methods employed and will provide the current status of elk in release areas.

    Biography:

    Michael Allan is a Wildlife Research Technician with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. He has worked as a wildlife research technician/biologist for over 30 years.  He completed his Master of Science on elk calving site selection and fidelity on the Bancroft North Hastings elk herd and has been involved with research on this herd since 2000.  He has also been working on canine research and management and assisted in organizing a cooperative international plan to relocate wolves successfully from Michipicoten Island, Ontario to Isle Royale in Michigan, USA.  He has conducted wildlife research on many species of animals including big game - elk, moose, deer, caribou, black bears, polar bears and wolves - and has considerable expertise in methods associated in controlling rabies in raccoon populations. Mike is currently working on developing a suitable method for aerial inventory survey of elk in the Bancroft North Hastings herd.

    He possesses two college diplomas, an Environmental Resource Field Technician diploma from Loyalist College in Belleville and a Fish and Wildlife Technician diploma from Fleming College in Lindsay.  He completed his Honour’s undergrad degree in biology/environmental science and his Master of Science degree in Environmental and Life Sciences from Trent University.

  • Tue
    02
    Mar
    2021
    7:30 pmZoom Meeting
    This  presentation includes original photographs by the speaker of all the types of bears found in Canada, in their natural habitat. The familiar Black Bear, its very special mutant form, the Kermode or Spirit Bear of Princess Royal and Gribbell Islands in coastal British Columbia, the big coastal Grizzlies from the Great Bear Rainforest, the rare but becoming more common, Barren Ground Grizzly and the majestic but threatened Polar Bear. Some current issues with these rich national treasures will be discussed.

    [read more…]

  • Tue
    02
    Feb
    2021
    7:30 pmZoom Meeting

    Wildflowers of Algonquin Park
    Our president’s Great Naturalist Quiz lives on! As you likely guessed, due to Covid-19 and our virtual format we will not break into teams this year, so you will be your own team. The 2021 quiz will engage your brain cells to identify photos of a variety of natural history subjects, plus solve some nature trivia questions and as usual, a few riddles. Points will be awarded not only for correct answers but also for imaginative ones!  You can write down your answers and when the clock stops ticking enjoy the entertaining discussion of the solutions.

    A prize—one of Michael’s newest books: Wildflowers of Algonquin Provincial Park—will be awarded to the person with the most points!

  • Tue
    05
    Jan
    2021
    7:00 pmZoom Meeting

    Be sure to check your email for our  latest January 2021 Bulletin sent on January 1 with all the details for our January 5 Members' Night Zoom meeting . Who will collect bragging rights for their findings and photos? From the submissions we've received to date, there's lots to appreciate.  And what better way to start 2021.

  • Tue
    01
    Dec
    2020
    7:30 pmZoom Meeting - Details to follow

    Our Presenter:

    Jean-Pierre (J-P) Thonney is a retired aquatic biologist with over 30 years’ experience in 16 countries.  His main areas of study include fisheries management, environmental assessment/mitigation, and aquatic ecosystem capacity evaluation. He obtained his BSc Honours in Aquatic Ecology at Memorial University in Newfoundland and MSc in Sustainable Fisheries at Stirling University, Scotland

    The Presentation:

    White Lake has experienced a range of anthropogenic based changes to its aquatic community structure since its initial creation through impoundment in the mid-1800s. In order to gain a better understanding of these implications of these effects we will be taking an underwater tour to observe changes to the lake’s aquatic flora and fauna over time. This visual exploration will focus on recent impacts from shoreline development, invasive species introductions, and other changes associated with an ever increasing human footprint around the lake.

    Biography:

    Jean-Pierre (J-P) Thonney is a retired aquatic biologist with over 30 years’ experience in 16 countries working on behalf of international government agencies and NGOs in the field of freshwater and marine biodiversity. His main areas of study include fisheries management, environmental assessment/mitigation, and aquatic ecosystem capacity evaluation. He obtained his BSc Honours in Aquatic Ecology at Memorial University in Newfoundland and MSc in Sustainable Fisheries at Stirling University, Scotland

  • Sat
    07
    Nov
    2020
    10:00 am - 12:00 pmGillies Grove - trailhead on Ottawa Street

    Saturday 7 November;

    10:00 AM – approximately 12:00 PM (noon)

    Meeting Location: At the Gillies Grove trailhead, dead end of Ottawa Street in Arnprior. Map with directions will be sent to registered participants.

    (please note that there are no bathroom facilities)

    Leaders:  Roger Bird and David Major

    Roger Bird is a retired journalist, and a hiker and birder. In a varied career he was once editor of the World Federation of Science Journalists website and a professor in the School of Journalism at Carleton University.

    David Major was born in 1939 Halifax and grew up on the boundary of Halifax where across the street was a cow field and behind, was a virtually endless forest of trees, copses, meadows and brooks where the days were endless.   David graduated from Dalhousie in Commerce and has also had a varied career in a wide variety of for profit, government, non-profit and consulting roles. When not drawn to some trail, he also likes choral singing, currently with Kanata and Arnprior Community Choirs.

    This is a two-hour walk geared to beginners or those who may have difficulty on rigorous trails.  Roger and David will identify common trees.  Leaves (mostly on the ground), bark, structure and what the tree is "doing" will be identifiers.  For more advanced naturalists, please note there will be another outing for you with Erik Pohanka to learn how to ID leafless trees later in November or early December.

    Anticipate mud and wear suitable footwear. Please bring water to drink, and dress for the weather (warmly as it is getting cold these days) with long pants tucked into your socks (poison ivy and ticks).  Binoculars are useful but not essential, a hand lens (small personal magnifying glass) and a camera are always a good idea if you have them.  Please also note that many locations we visit are in areas where picking flora of any kind is either not advisable or outright banned.  Please do not pick anything while on group outings as it could reflect poorly on the club as a whole.

    A note about Covid:  Participant numbers will be restricted to those allowed by local Health bylaws so register early and only if you truly know you can come.  You may register yourself and anyone in your own household only.  Participation will be on a first come first registered basis.   Confirmation emails will be sent.

    We will be maintaining physical distancing requirements.  Please bring a non-medical mask as this will be mandatory for all participants. Please do not come if you are ill or have come in contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid 19.  Notification of cancellation as soon as possible would be appreciated.  Also please ensure that you notify us (via mfncfieldtrips@gmail.com ) if you later find that you have come into contact with Covid 19.  The Covid app can also be downloaded via: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19/covid-alert.html

    Register for this outing at events@mfnc.ca (please include your full name) no later than Wednesday November 4th.

    If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

  • Tue
    03
    Nov
    2020
    7:30 pmZoom Meeting (TBD)

    Our Presenter:

    Alberto Suarez-Esteban is a biologist by training and a passionate naturalist. He has studied a variety of topics and taxa (plants, birds, mammals), always with a focus on conservation and sustainability.

    The Presentation:

    Ecosystems are very much like a car's engine: they have multiple components (species, for example) that are structured in a particular way and provide functions. When we humans build roads, we do not only affect certain species, but also the structure and the functions of the ecosystem. All these changes combined can lead to a much different landscape. Join Alberto Suarez-Esteban on a trip to southern Spain to unravel the unexpected consequences of roads in a Mediterranean ecosystem.

    Biography:

    Alberto Suarez-Esteban is a biologist by training and a passionate naturalist. He loves teaching "Ecosystem and Environmental Change" at Carleton University, and he is developing an organic market garden called Nature's Apprentice Farm in Pakenham. Alberto completed his PhD in Spain and moved to the Yukon shortly after, where he worked as a researcher and instructor for 4 years. He has studied a variety of topics and taxa (plants, birds, mammals), always with a focus on conservation and sustainability. To learn more about Alberto, please visit https://sites.google.com/view/albertosuarezesteban

  • Tue
    06
    Oct
    2020
    7:30 pmZoom Meeting

    Our Presenter:

    Art Goldsmith, a long-standing member of the MFNC, worked at Parks Canada and Environment Canada for many years. As part of the Biodiversity Convention Team, he assisted in the establishment of the UN Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity. His boyhood interest in nature developed into an understanding of and lifetime commitment to ecology and conservation.

    The Presentation:

    The comparative diversity tour will begin on the east and west coasts of Canada, Alaska, and Yukon, where species are adapted to the varying ecosystems, including many birds which we sometimes see migrating. Species similar to those in our area, and some species we never see are also featured. On our travels, we'll see how diversity tends to skyrocket as we go south and into nearshore marine ecosystems. Speciation is of great interest to ecologists and there are some great courses at Carleton and Queen's if you wish to go deeper into the topic.

    European species also show so many similarities, and differences. The similarities point to our continents being joined at some point. We will venture to Spain, where some astonishing efforts are being made to conserve biodiversity. Photos of key and noteworthy species will be presented.

    The last part of the presentation will take us from the more biodiverse American south back home along the Atlantic coast and inland to our Great Lakes/St. Lawrence Region where the Eastern Flyway for migrating birds is featured. We will also enjoy seeing ecological changes as one goes from South to North. Just for fun, and because it is something I only know about because of Michael, Bergmann's rule will be explored.

    Biography:

    Art Goldsmith is a long standing member of the MFNC and worked at Parks Canada and Environment Canada for many years, particularly with the Biodiversity Convention Team where he assisted in the establishment of the UN Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity. This is very boring as Art said!

    Art’s boyhood interest in nature developed into an understanding of ecology and conservation. His career in Parks and Environment Canada occasionally interfered with his studies of wilderness. However, Art is now dedicated to his own conservation and ecological studies and his exploits can now be followed at: artnatureculture.blogspot.com.

     

  • Sat
    03
    Oct
    2020
    9:00 AM - noon (approx.) Macnamara Trail Head (McNab Street, Arnprior)

    Members Only Fungi Outing to Mac Trail with Jonathan Mack and Lynn Ovenden

    Saturday October 3rd ; Rain Date (only if rainfall is heavy) Sunday October 4th

    9:00 AM – approximately 12:00 PM (noon)

    Meeting Location: Macnamara Trail Head (McNab St., Arnprior).

    (please note that there are no bathroom facilities)

    From Highway 417 exit at County Road 29 (exit 180) and head north to Madawaska Boulevard. Turn left onto Madawaska Boulevard and continue for 1km to MacNab Street. Turn right on McNab Street (just after Rona) and look for the Macnamara Trail parking lot on the right after the entrance to the Nylene Canada plant.

    Leaders:  Jonathan Mack and Lynn Ovenden

    Jonathan is an amateur mycologist who has been interested in the identification of mushrooms for a bit more than 10 years now.  He is currently a student at Carleton University doing his Master thesis focusing on microfungi.  While microfungi are his main research area, he is quite capable of identifying many of the more typical mushrooms as well. He is also interested in most other organisms, with a preference for birds and insects (specifically moths).  Jonathan has provided his link for his iNaturalist account for anyone interested. https://www.inaturalist.org/people/jonathan_mack

    Lynn is a biologist who suddenly decided, late in life about 10 years ago, to learn about mushrooms. She bought a field guide, attended Richard Aaron's Fabulous Fall Fungi course at Queens University Biological Station, started making notes and spore prints of mushrooms she found, and joined a mushroom club. Then she bought more books and attended weekend forays (with lectures!) of other amateur groups. She'll eat a few species but mostly it's the thrill of trying to identify them and sharing photos on iNaturalist.

    The level of difficulty for this outing is a 2 out of 5 and will run even if there is light rain (some fungi become fabulously colourful in those conditions).  While other things of interest won’t be ignored, it is hoped that rain during the week will produce an ample crop of fungi to keep us busy.

    Solid, comfortable closed toe footwear (While on your own you may be accustomed to wearing sandals on hikes, as a courtesy to the group, please do not risk a foot injury when on a group outing.) and ability to walk for the duration of the hike is required.  You could bring a portable camp stool for this one as we will be stopping frequently. Please bring water to drink, sunscreen, bug spray and/or bug jacket and dress for the weather with long pants tucked into your socks (poison ivy and ticks).  Binoculars, a small mirror for looking under the fungi, a hand lens (small personal magnifying glass), and a camera is always a good idea if you have one.

    A note about Covid:  Participant numbers will be restricted to allow for a safe outing so register early and only if you truly know you can come.  You may register yourself and anyone in your own household only.  Participation will be on a first come first registered basis.  Confirmation emails will be sent.

    We will be maintaining physical distancing requirements.  Please bring a non-medical mask as this will be required. Please do not come if you are ill or have come in contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid 19.  Notification of cancellation as soon as possible would be appreciated.

    Register at events@mfnc.ca (please include your full name) no later than Wednesday September 30th.

    If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

  • Sat
    26
    Sep
    2020
    10:00 am - 12:00 pmMacnamara Trail Head (McNab Street, Arnprior)

    Saturday 26 September; Rain Date Sunday 27 September

    10:00 AM – approximately 12:00 PM (noon)

    Meeting Location: Macnamara Trail Head (McNab St., Arnprior).

    (please note that there are no bathroom facilities)

    From Highway 417 exit at County Road 29 (exit 180) and head north to Madawaska Boulevard. Turn left onto Madawaska Boulevard and continue for 1 km to McNab Street. Turn right on McNab Street (just after RONA) and look for the Macnamara Trail parking lot on the right after the entrance to the Nylene Canada plant.

    Leaders:  Art Goldsmith and Dr. Owen Clarkin

    Dr. Owen Clarkin (a woody plant expert) and Art Goldsmith (who claims to know a thing or two – and he does) will lead the group around the Mac Trail with a specific focus on woody plants (trees) and shrubs.  While this is a major mushroom year, they will only look at 2 or 3 interesting ones and will also show people the Walking Fern, and one or two other ferns of interest.

    Birds are preparing for migrations, and many species have stopped here after arriving from the North.  We will NOT focus on birds, but Art will point out any species, and help ID one or two only.  In late September, birds can easily require a full day on the Mac Trail!

    Solid, comfortable closed-toe footwear and ability to walk for the duration of the hike is required. (While on your own you may be accustomed to wearing sandals on hikes, as a courtesy to the group, please do not risk a foot injury when on a group outing.) Please bring water to drink, sunscreen, bug spray and/or bug jacket and dress for the weather with long pants tucked into your socks (poison ivy and ticks).  Binoculars, a hand lens (small personal magnifying glass) and a camera are always a good idea if you have them.  Please also note that many locations we visit are in areas where picking flora of any kind is either not advisable or outright banned.  Please do not pick anything while on group outings as it could reflect poorly on the club as a whole.

    A note about Covid:  Participant numbers will be restricted to those allowed by local Health bylaws so register early and only if you truly know you can come.  You may register yourself and anyone in your own household only.  Participation will be on a first come first registered basis.   Confirmation emails will be sent.

    We will be maintaining physical distancing requirements.  Please bring a non-medical mask in the event the group decides by consensus that this is necessary. Please do not come if you are ill or have come in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. Register at events@mfnc.ca (please include your full name) no later than Wednesday September 23rd.

    If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

  • Sun
    30
    Aug
    2020
    9:00 AM - approx. 1:00 PMShaw Woods Education Centre - 2065 Bulger Rd, North Algona, Wilberforce Twp.

    Members Only Outing to Shaw Woods

    Saturday 29 August;  Rain Date Sunday 30 August

    9:00 AM – approximately 1:00 pm (approx. 4hrs)

    Meeting Location: Shaw Woods Education Centre - 2065 Bulger Rd, North Algona, Wilberforce Twp.

    (Hwy 17 West to Cobden. Turn left at Main St. (which becomes Eganville Rd/Cty Rd 8) continue for 12.3 km to a stop sign.  Turn right onto Bulger Rd and watch for the parking lot.)

    (Please note that there are no bathroom facilities open at Shaw Woods at this time)

    West Side (approx. 1.6 km – 2/5 level of difficulty – mostly wide walking trail)

    https://www.shawwoods.ca/download.php?dl=YToyOntzOjI6ImlkIjtzOjI6IjEzIjtzOjM6ImtleSI7aToxO30=

    East Side (Johnny’s Trail 1.4 km – 4/5 level of difficulty – very hilly, narrow trail, slippery in places)

    https://www.shawwoods.ca/download.php?dl=YToyOntzOjI6ImlkIjtzOjI6IjE0IjtzOjM6ImtleSI7aToxO30=

    Leader:  Jakob Mueller

    Jakob Mueller has been passionate about nature and conservation from a young age, beginning when he was a junior member of the Kingston Field Naturalists. He is interested in everything, but is particularly fascinated by reptiles, amphibians, and plants. Unless you have a lot of time, don't ask him to talk about the open-canopy habitats of Eastern North America and their respective ecology.  Jakob is currently one of the Vice Presidents of the Ottawa Field-Naturalists' Club, where he also leads events and does other committee work.

    Jakob will begin by leading the group around the Old Growth Forest Trail (West Side) discussing the trees (hemlock, beech, maple, yew – a native shrub), plants (bloodroot, wild ginger), birds, herps, insects and other things of interest.  This is a heavily treed trail (with some as old as 200 years) and while on a slight uphill at the beginning is very walkable.  Those wishing to do only the East Side should let me know at the time of registration.   We expect this portion to take anywhere from one to one and a half hours to complete the loop.

    After a quick break, the remainder of us will continue across the dam to Johnny’s Lookout Trail on the West Side. The trail follows Shaw’s Pond, the Dore Scarp and the Snake River.  Be prepared for a bit of a climb and if our recent rains continue, the narrow hiking trail could be slippery.  It is not the easiest of hikes but the view from the lookout will be well worth it for those able to manage it.

    Solid, comfortable closed toe footwear and ability to walk for the duration of the hike is required.  Walking poles might be a good idea for this side.  Please bring water to drink, wear a hat, sunscreen, bug spray and long pants tucked into your socks (poison ivy and ticks).  Binoculars, a hand lens (small personal magnifying glass) and a camera are always a good idea if you have them.

    A note about Covid:  Participant numbers will be restricted to those allowed by local Health bylaws so register early and only if you truly know you can come.  You may register yourself and anyone in your own household only.  Participation will be on a first come first registered basis.   Confirmation emails will be sent.

    We will be maintaining physical distancing requirements.  Please bring a non-medical mask in the event the group decides by consensus that this is necessary. Please do not come if you are ill or have come in contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid 19.  Notification of cancellation as soon as possible would be appreciated.

    Register at events@mfnc.ca (please include your full name) no later than Wednesday August 26th.

    If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

  • Sat
    15
    Aug
    2020
    10:00 - 13:00Blakeney Rapids(Starting point at 10:00 am)

    Saturday 15 August 2020 (Rain date Sunday 16 August)

    10:00 AM to 1:00 pm (approx. 3hrs)

    Description:  During this outing, we will be visiting three locations (Blakeney Rapids, Machardy Road and Robert Simpson Park).  This will cover lake, river and swamp habitat where a variety of both common and hopefully some more rare species of dragonflies and damselflies will be seen.   This is not an outing with rigorous hiking requirements, but I always recommend bringing water, wearing a hat, sunscreen, solid footwear, and long pants tucked into socks. Binoculars, a camera and a field guide are always a good idea if you have them.

    Location: We will meet in Arnprior at Robert Simpson Park (45.444205, -76.351881) and continue to the other two locations from there.  Please make sure your vehicle is well maintained and has sufficient fuel for the trip.

    Leader:  Owen Ridgen

    Owen may be new to some of you but has done point counts for the club previously.  Prior to the Covid shut down much of his time was spent on his studies at U of T where he is a 3rd year student.  He has been a naturalist his entire life, inspired from an early age by his father and grandfather, David and Eric Ridgen (founding member). Following in their footsteps, he began with birds.  According to his mother he knew the names of at least eight species of owl before his first birthday!  As time has gone on, he has entered into other fields of study, including those of freshwater fishes and mussels, butterflies, moths, herps and of course dragonflies and damselflies.  He has explored the Arnprior and Ottawa area for many years and has encountered a huge diversity of dragonflies and damselflies (odonata) there.  He is very happy to share his knowledge on the subject with others, and hopefully learn just as much himself.

    A note about Covid:  Participant numbers will be restricted to those allowed by local Health bylaws so register early and only if you truly know you can come.  You may register yourself and anyone in your own household only.  Unfortunately, there can be no carpooling arrangements made by MFNC.  Participation will be on a first come first registered basis and confirmation emails will be sent.

    We will be maintaining physical distancing requirements during the outing.  Please do not come if you are ill or have come in contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid 19.  Notification of cancellation as soon as possible would be appreciated in case of a wait list.

    Please register at events@mfnc.ca no later than Wednesday August 12th.

    If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

  • Sat
    01
    Aug
    2020
    08:00 - 11:00Morris Island Conservation Area (Fitzroy Harbour)

    Saturday 1 August;  Rain Date Sunday August 2

    8:00 AM to. 11:00 AM (approx. 3hrs)

    Location: We will meet at the parking lot at Morris Island Conservation Area ($3 Fee to park).

    Leaders:  Derek Dunnett and Erik Pohanka

    Derek and Erik will lead the group around the Island discussing the trees, plants, birds, herps, insects and other things of interest that the group runs across.  The route will run along an old railroad line for a good portion of the way and therefore will be in full sun exposure that portion.   At the end of the rail line, there is the option to continue into more rugged terrain where a variety of more birds may be seen.  Those not wishing to continue at that point may return along the rail line.  Solid, comfortable closed footwear and ability to walk and stand for the duration of the hike is required.  It can get hot so please bring water to drink, wear a hat, sunscreen and long pants tucked into your socks (poison ivy and ticks).  Binoculars, a hand lens (small personal magnifying glass) and a camera are a good idea if you have them.

    A note about Covid:  Participant numbers will be restricted to those allowed by local health bylaws so register early and only if you truly know you can come.  You may register yourself and anyone in your own household only.  Participation will be on a first come first registered basis.   Confirmation emails will be sent.

    We will be maintaining physical distancing requirements.  Please bring a non-medical mask in the event the group decides by consensus that this is necessary. Please do not come if you are ill or have come in contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid 19.  Notification of cancellation as soon as possible would be appreciated.

    Register at events@mfnc.ca no later than Wednesday July 29th.

  • Sat
    18
    Jul
    2020
    8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. approx 3 hoursBurnt Lands (park on March Road near Carroll Side Road

    MEMBERS-ONLY Outing to Burnt Lands Provincial Park
    Saturday, July 18, 2020
    8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. (approx. 3 hours)
    Rain date: Sunday, July 19 
    Location: We will meet at Burnt Lands (park on March Road near Carroll Side Road).
    Leader: Derek Dunnett

    Derek will lead the group around the park discussing the topography, fossils, trees, plants, birds, herps, insects and other things of interest that the group runs across. The terrain is generally flat, mostly rocky with some wet grassy areas and is open with no shade. There are really no rocks or tree stumps to use as benches. Solid, comfortable closed toe footwear and ability to walk and stand for the duration of the hike is required. It can get hot so please bring water to drink, wear a hat, sunscreen and long pants tucked into your socks (poison ivy and ticks). Binoculars and a camera are always a good idea if you have them.

    A note about COVID-19: Participant numbers will be restricted to those allowed by local Health bylaws so register early and only if you truly know you can come. You may only register yourself and anyone in your own household. Participation will be on a first-come first-registered basis. Confirmation emails will be sent.

    Derek will likely be using a microphone to facilitate communication due to our physical distancing requirements. You will be required to bring a non-medical mask in the event we have technical issues with this. Please do not come if you are ill or have come in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.

    Register at events@mfnc.ca no later than Wednesday, July 15. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to ask. If you have registered but find you have to cancel, please let us know as soon as possible.

  • Tue
    02
    Jun
    2020
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Presntation by Wouter Bleeker, Geological Survey of Canada - Details to follow

  • Tue
    05
    May
    2020
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Jason Dombroskie has had a lifelong interest in nature and started seriously collecting moths at the age of 12 for over ten years in his childhood backyard in Round Lake Centre. He obtained a BSc. Hon. in Biological Sciences from the University of Guelph and his PhD was on aspects of archipine [Tortricidae] evolution at the University of Alberta.  Since 2012 he has worked as the manager for the Cornell University Insect Collection and the coordinator for the Insect Diagnostic Lab in Ithaca, NY.

    The Presentation:

    This intimate journey into the hidden lives of moths and their caterpillars will look at some of the amazing species in your backyard.  Some of these moths take medicine to fight parasites, bubble poison from their necks, produce perfume that can be smelled from kilometers away, or jam bat echolocation.  We will also examine caterpillars with gills, stinky tentacles, and horns that squirt acid, as well as ones that throw their feces, and others that live inside regurgitated owl pellets.  Additionally, we will explore how individual species have and continue to shape entire ecosystems across Renfrew County.

    Biography:

    Jason Dombroskie has had a lifelong interest in nature and started seriously collecting moths at the age of 12.  Over ten years of collecting moths in his childhood backyard in Round Lake Centre, he collected over 1000 species of moths.  From 1996 to 2005 he worked as a naturalist in Algonquin Provincial Park where he delivered popular educational programs as well as document the moth diversity culminating in nearly 1000 confirmed species.  He obtained a BSc. Hon. in Biological Sciences from the University of Guelph and his PhD was on aspects of archipine [Tortricidae] evolution at the University of Alberta.  Since 2012 he has worked as the manager for the Cornell University Insect Collection and the coordinator for the Insect Diagnostic Lab in Ithaca, NY.  Jason has published 20 scientific papers in entomology including a matrix-based key to the Lepidoptera of Canada.  Current research in his lab focuses on systematics of the tribe Archipini (Tortricidae) in the New World, but some of his students work or have worked on other Tortricidae, Argyresthiidae, Mimallonidae, Geometridae, and Tridactylidae.

  • Tue
    07
    Apr
    2020
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Michael Allan is a Wildlife Research Technician with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry and has worked as a wildlife research technician/biologist for over 30 years. He has two college diplomas: an Environmental Resource Field Technician diploma from Loyalist College in Belleville and a Fish and Wildlife Technician diploma from Fleming College in Lindsay. He also completed an Honours BSc degree in biology/environmental science and an MSc in Environmental and Life Sciences from Trent University.

    The Presentation:

    Mike will present on the history of elk in North America - species and range and on the restoration of elk in Ontario. He will provide an update on the Bancroft-North Hastings (BNH) elk herd and present some of the research findings on the herd. Mike will discuss past, current and future survey methods employed and will provide the current status of elk in release areas.

    Biography:

    Michael Allan is a Wildlife Research Technician with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. He has worked as a wildlife research technician/biologist for over 30 years.  He completed his Master of Science on elk calving site selection and fidelity on the Bancroft North Hastings elk herd and has been involved with research on this herd since 2000.  He has also been working on canine research and management and assisted in organizing a cooperative international plan to relocate wolves successfully from Michipicoten Island, Ontario to Isle Royale in Michigan, USA.  He has conducted wildlife research on many species of animals including big game - elk, moose, deer, caribou, black bears, polar bears and wolves - and has considerable expertise in methods associated in controlling rabies in raccoon populations. Mike is currently working on developing a suitable method for aerial inventory survey of elk in the Bancroft North Hastings herd.

    He possesses two college diplomas, an Environmental Resource Field Technician diploma from Loyalist College in Belleville and a Fish and Wildlife Technician diploma from Fleming College in Lindsay.  He completed his Honour’s undergrad degree in biology/environmental science and his Master of Science degree in Environmental and Life Sciences from Trent University.

  • Sat
    28
    Mar
    2020
    7:00 pmArnprior/Pakenham Area

    Leader: The Intrepid Michael Runtz

    Due to the current requirements for social distancing made necessary by the outbreak of the Corvid-19 virus pandemic, we regret to inform you that the Owl Prowl has been indefinitely postponed. Carpooling and close proximity of participants is a required part of this outing for a number of practical reasons including the enjoyment for and safety of participants.
    Should conditions change to allow us to proceed with the event at a future date we will be back in contact with people who have registered.
    On Behalf of Michael Runtz and the MFNC Board, please accept our regrets and best wishes to you and your families.
    Stay safe. Enjoy the outdoors. We hope to see you all back once it is safe to be together again.

  • Tue
    03
    Mar
    2020
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Jeremy Inglis works for the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry is the Provincial Coordinator of Human-Wildlife Interactions. Jeremy has worked extensively with Black Bears for over 30 years both in a human-bear conflicts role as well as a research capacity studying adult male Black Bears in Algonquin Park. He played a key role in the development of the Bear Wise program here in Ontario. His passion is bears!

    The Presentation:

    We’ll explore a year in the life of a black bear; when it hibernates, when it is seasonally active, where it travels, its breeding cycles and cubs, its occasional trouble with humans and, perhaps most importantly, the feast or famine cycle that drives almost everything bears do.

    Biography:

    Jeremy Inglis works for the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry is the Provincial Coordinator of Human-Wildlife Interactions which is also responsible for the Bear Wise program. Jeremy has worked extensively with Black Bears for over 30 years both in a human-bear conflicts role as well as a research capacity studying adult male Black Bears in Algonquin Park. He played a key role in the development of the Bear Wise program in 2004 as a member of the Bear Handling Team developing various policies, response protocols and training standards. He was also lucky enough to assist a number of times in the Southern Hudson Bay Polar Bear study conducted in the early 2000’s by Martyn Obbard (an emeritus research scientist and the former resident bear biologist with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources). Needless to say Jeremy is passionate about bears!

  • Sun
    16
    Feb
    2020
    8:00 amAlgonquin Park

    Leaders:  Jeff and Angela Skevington

    Meet:  In the parking lot of the Metro store on Daniel Street in Arnprior at 8:00. Park close to the street, away from the store. We will arrange carpooling from there. Sign the participation form.

    Details:

    1. The group will reconvene around 9:00 at the Irving Gas Station near the corner of Paul Martin Drive (Hwy 41) and Hwy 17 at Pembroke (just N of intersection). Maximum 15 minute stop for restrooms. We will leave at 9:15 at the latest in a convoy. If you live west of Arnprior and want to meet here, that is fine. Please indicate this when you register.
    2. We will drive about 15km NW to Doran Road (first Petawawa intersection). Turn left (there is sometimes a sign for Achray here). Then immediately turn right on Barron Canyon Road/Sand Lake Road. Follow this to the park gate. If you do not have a park pass, please stop and pay admission at the gate. Those with a pass, please continue past the gate.
    3. I will recollect the convoy at Squirrel Rapids. This is the first bridge over a river after passing the park gate (not very far). We will have a quick look around here and then move on once the group is together again. We will stop and bird at a few spots along the road including the area around the McManus Lake turnoff.
    4. We will stop for a hike at the Barron Canyon Trail. Please do not go on the trail ahead of the leaders as you may disturb tracks or wildlife before the group arrives. Bring your lunch on the trail, as we will eat along the canyon edge. Snowshoes may be useful here but are not likely critical. Everything beyond this point will be done on the spur of the moment. We may continue further up towards Lake Travers depending on the time and road conditions. Again, snowshoes may prove to be useful if you have them. 
    5. We will be heading out of the park by sundown (5:30pm at the latest). Bring enough to munch on until 6:30pm. Some of the group may choose to stop for dinner on the way home (location will be decided later but will either be the Irving Gas Station or the family restaurant in Cobden). 

    BACKUP PLAN

    If we get to the Sand Lake Road and it is impassible before the canyon, I will collect the group and move to plan B. This is always a possibility in the winter. However, I do not anticipate a problem as there is logging happening this winter beyond our destination and the road will be open for the trucks. Plan B may involve some snowshoeing from the road or a wholesale change of plans.

    This event is very kid-friendly so bring them along!

    Register at events@mfnc.ca  

     

  • Tue
    04
    Feb
    2020
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    A highlight annual event.  Combine learning, laughter and camaraderie. NO experience is necessary!

    If you are good at riddles, then this is the place to be! But, be prepared to meet your match. Michael's riddles are challenging, evocative and ever so finely crafted.

    This is an awesome and exhilarating way to learn about local natural history. Michael’s contagious enthusiasm, his keen insight into the intricacies of nature, and the countless anecdotes of his experiences as a naturalist always make for a very entertaining evening.

    Participants will be divided into teams that will compete to answer riddles and identify items from nature. Is there a young, dynamic, capable team ready to conquer all? Or perhaps, 2 out of 3?

  • Tue
    07
    Jan
    2020
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    We are looking forward to learning all about your prized nature or natural history possessions or experiences!

    Please sign in at the door with the item or topic you wish to showcase.

    If you are showing photos, there should not be more than five and they should be on a USB key. You may also bring prints to put for table display.

    Donations welcome from non-presenters (a Loonie or Toonie, please).

    See you there!

  • Tue
    03
    Dec
    2019
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    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 APPLYThe “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.

  • Sat
    09
    Nov
    2019
    11:00 amPakenham

    Leaders:  Art Goldsmith, along with other members of MFNC

    Meet:  At 867 Carbine Rd. Directions and more information are available at mmlt.ca

    High Lonesome is a 200 acre property in the Pakenham Hills.  It was donated to the Mississippi Madawaska Land Trust by the late Barry Spicer, who was a member of MFNC. There we will find a network of trails through forests and meadows with streams and ponds. It lies within  the Pakenham Mountain Significant Wetland Complex and is a rich habitat for wildlife with at least 7 species at risk.  Art Goldsmith, a long-time member of MFNC is presently on the board of directors for High Lonesome and he will lead us along the trails.  There are 8km of trails but we will probably not cover the whole area, depending on the weather and the wishes of the group.  Expect to be out for at least 2h so come with water and a snack.  Wear comfortable shoes and bring binoculars, hand lens, field guides, if you have them.  Kids are very welcome!  Please register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Tue
    05
    Nov
    2019
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Alberto Suarez-Esteban is a biologist by training and a passionate naturalist. He has studied a variety of topics and taxa (plants, birds, mammals), always with a focus on conservation and sustainability.

    The Presentation:

    Human-wildlife conflicts are one of the biggest challenges for the conservation of large carnivores worldwide. The Yukon Territory is no exception, as it combines sizeable populations of large carnivores and an increasing human population that loves the outdoors. Despite great efforts from different organizations, human-wildlife conflicts are on the rise, and more and more animals, particularly bears, are destroyed every year as a result. This project tries to understand how people and carnivores use the Whitehorse trail network with the ultimate goal of reducing human-wildlife conflicts and improving carnivore conservation. Along the way, we learned fascinating things about many wildlife species and their interactions with each other, with people, and with the environment.

    Biography:

    Alberto Suarez-Esteban is a biologist by training and a passionate naturalist. He loves teaching "Ecosystem and Environmental Change" at Carleton University, and he is developing an organic market garden called Nature's Apprentice Farm in Pakenham. Alberto completed his PhD in Spain and moved to the Yukon shortly after, where he worked as a researcher and instructor for 4 years. He has studied a variety of topics and taxa (plants, birds, mammals), always with a focus on conservation and sustainability. To learn more about Alberto, please visit https://sites.google.com/view/albertosuarezesteban

    Related article: Keeping the peace

     

  • Sat
    02
    Nov
    2019
    9:30 amArnprior

    Meet:  at the Macnamara trail, directions are on this website.

    We need your help to tidy up the trail. The work will probably go on for a few hours but any amount of time that you could help would be most welcome. Bring clippers or loppers or garden shears, if you have them, to trim the plants which are encroaching on the trail. Bring gloves and wear sturdy shoes. Register at events@mfnc.ca and I will update the information if necessary.

  • Sat
    05
    Oct
    2019
    1:00 pmArnprior

    Leader:  Suzanne Monnon

    Meet:  at the Macnamara Trail, directions on this website

    Have you ever wanted to learn the basics about mushrooms? If your answer is "yes" then this outing is for you. We will go into the forest to search for and identify many different types of fungi.

    Our leader has been an avid amateur mycologist for many years. She will share her knowledge in a way that beginners will understand, so no previous knowledge is necessary.

    Wear weather-appropriate clothing. Bring a small knife, loupe lens if you have one, water and a snack. And bring the kids! Register at events@mfnc.ca

    The event will go on, rain or shine.

  • Tue
    01
    Oct
    2019
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Dr. Frank F. Mallory, Professor, Department of Biology, Laurentian University who has done research in the Arctic Tundra, the Boreal Forest, the Eastern Deciduous Forest and the Tropical Forests of Mexico ecosystems.

    The Presentation:

    In Canada, most of his recent work has dealt with woodland caribou and the forest industry in Ontario, Manitoba and Labrador and the re-introduction of elk into central Ontario. In all regards, he has specialized in understanding the relationships between habitat change and its impact on predator/prey systems and the sustainability of ungulate populations.

    Biography:

    Dr. Frank F. Mallory, Professor and Past Chair, Department of Biology, Laurentian University did his B.Sc. (Hons.) and M.Sc. at Laurentian University and his Ph.D. at the University of Guelph. He has done research in a number of different ecosystems including, the Arctic Tundra, The Boreal Forest, the Eastern Deciduous Forest and the Tropical Forests of Mexico.

  • Sat
    21
    Sep
    2019
    1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

    Leader: Brian Roadhouse

    Meet:  at the trailhead on March Rd., opposite Huntmar Dr.

    In an agreement with the City of Ottawa, The Friends of the Carp Hills developed and maintain this trail.  One of their goals is to allow people to enjoy the Carp hills near the village of Carp while diverting people from walking on private lands.

    A leisurely walk of the complete circuit  takes about 2 and 1/2 hours.  The hike will be an introduction to the trail, a discussion of its geology, related plant life, and the role of beavers in creating wetlands. Be prepared for the sun and biting insects. Bring water and wear sturdy shoes.

    More information about the trail can be found at carphills.com
    Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Tue
    03
    Sep
    2019
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    George White is the President and the mycologist at RIFDS (Residential and Industrial Fungal Detection Service) Inc. and has specialized in mould inspections and detection in the indoor environment for 30 years.

    The Presentation:

    Mr. White’s presentation will focus on what mould is, how it behaves, how to know if you have it, the symptoms associated with mould exposure, the appropriate actions needed to mitigate mould and ways to prevent mould from occurring indoors.

    Biography:

    George White is a mycologist and President at RIFDS (Residential and Industrial Fungal Detection Service) Inc. and has specialized in mould inspections and detection in the indoor environment for 30 years. He began his scientific career in Agriculture Canada working with microfungi eventually becoming the quarantine mycologist at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. With a wide exposure to a large range of fungi and expertise in mould identification and detection and in risk assessment and management, Mr. White has applied this expertise to the built environment. He has provided consulting services to many clients including governments, engineering firms, medical practitioners and insurance companies.

  • Sat
    24
    Aug
    2019
    9:00 am - noonStoney Swamp

    Leaders: Derek Dunnett and Sophie Roy

    Meet: NCC Greenbelt parking lot P8 (on Moodie, South of Hunt Club)

    We will search for frogs, salamanders and snakes, as well as birds and whatever else we can find. This is a kid friendly event. Bring binoculars and hand lens if you have them, or just your cell phone for pics or for iNaturalist. There are washrooms near the parking area. The hike is less than 4 km but wear comfortable shoes and clothing for protection against the sun and biting insects. The trip will be cancelled if it is a cold ( < 13 C) or rainy day. Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Mon
    12
    Aug
    2019
    1:00 pm - 3:00 pmArnprior

    Leader: Lis Allison

    Meet: At 1:00 pm at the trailhead on McNab St., Arnprior

    Would you like to know more about the ferns along the Macnamara Trail? There are approximately 40 species of ferns native to the Ottawa Valley and the Trail has almost half of them, including the best patch of Walking Fern in the Valley.  Join Lis Allison for a brief (15 minute) talk about ferns, followed by a guided walk to see some of them. This trip will run rain or shine, unless severe weather is forecast. Please register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Sat
    27
    Jul
    2019
    8:00 am - noonBurnt Lands Provincial Park

    Leader: Derek Dunnett

    Meet: March Rd. at Upper Dwyer Hill Rd., on the SW corner where there is a parking lot.  We will carpool a short distance from there.

    We will wander through the alvar at Burnt Lands Provincial Park, where we should see many differ species of sparrow. Grasshopper, Chipping, Clay-colored, Field, White-throated, Vesper, Savannah, Song and Swamp Sparrows are all typically found here at this time of year. Many other birds make this unique environment their home.  We will walk approximately 2 km on easy trails. Please bring appropriate footwear. The alvar is exposed so bring sun and insect protection and water.  Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Sun
    07
    Jul
    2019
    8:30 amWhite Lake

    We have moved this event from Saturday, July 6 to Sunday, July 7.

    Leader: Michael Runtz

    Meet: 8:30 am in the parking lot of the Metro Store, 375 Daniel Street, Arnprior. Park close to the road. We will carpool from there.

    This is a unique wetland which holds multiple species of our native orchids, carnivorous plants and unusual insects too, like the Bogbean Buckmoth. Wet feet are guaranteed in the fen so old running shoes make perfect footwear on a hot day. Hip-waders or tall rubber boots would work too. It is a good idea to cover up with light clothing for protection against the sun and the biting insects. Bring a hand lens and binoculars if you have them. Expect to be out until early afternoon and bring lots of water and a lunch. There will be an ice cream stop along the way to our picnic area. Note: This trip is for members only and there will be a limited number of registrations accepted due to the sensitive nature of the fen habitat. Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Thu
    06
    Jun
    2019
    6:00 pmWest Carleton Secondary School, 3088 Dunrobin Road

    Leader: Art Goldsmith

    Meet: at the front door of West Carleton Secondary School. We will walk back to the Bill Mason Centre from there. There is ample parking in the school parking lot.

    The trail at the BMC meanders over boardwalks through a wetland then passes through forest and fields, providing different habitats for a variety of birds. Target species in the wetland will be Swamp Sparrow, Wilson’s Snipe, American Bittern, Virginia Rail and Sora. In the forest and fields we should see a variety of songbirds and woodpeckers. There will be mosquitoes and possibly ticks so cover up and bring repellent. The terrain is flat but wear comfortable shoes because we will walk for a kilometre or more.  Please register at events@mfnc.ca

     

  • Tue
    04
    Jun
    2019
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Cory Harris is an Associate Professor of Biology at the University of Ottawa where he studies the ethnobotany, pharmacology and chemical ecology of plants with an emphasis on native Canadian species used for food and medicine.

    The Presentation:

    Wild plants have provided food and medicine to the peoples of North America, from pre-colonial times to the present day. In this talk, Dr. Harris will introduce concepts in ethnobotany - the study of how people interact with plants - to offer a new perspective on some of the well and lesser known plants of Ontario. Drawing on research in the field and the lab, I will discuss what's good for your health, what's good for your belly, and what's best left alone.

    Biography:

    Cory Harris is an Associate Professor of Biology at the University of Ottawa. His research integrates laboratory, field and community-based approaches to study the ethnobotany, pharmacology and chemical ecology of plants with an emphasis on native Canadian species used for food and medicine. Working with Indigenous communities, patients and practitioners, as well as private sector partners, his team applies a “benchtop to community practice” approach to support the safe and effective use of natural products and alternative medicines.

  • Tue
    14
    May
    2019
    11:00 - 1:00Kinburn

    Leader:  Mary Marsh

    Host:  Karen Runtz

    Meet:  at 10:45 at the Kinburn Community Centre, 3045 Kinburn Side Rd.  Park near the road.  We will carpool a short distance from there to Karen's house.

    We will have a short walk along about 1km of trails where we will look for, and learn to identify, the beautiful flowers of spring which bloom before the trees shade the forest floor.  The walking is easy but wear sturdy shoes since the ground is uneven. Dress appropriately for the sun or rain and biting insects. Bring a lunch, binoculars , camera and field guides if you have them.

  • Sat
    11
    May
    2019
    all dayBrighton, ON

    Leader:  Doug McRae

    This will be an all-day outing in the park where we will watch for spring migrants. There should be a good variety of warblers by this time of year, along with ducks and many other species of interest. We will begin early in the morning so it is advisable to stay in the area overnight Friday. There are accommodations nearby and camping is available in the park. The group will be limited to 25 members so please register early at events@mfnc.ca and questions may be sent to this same address.  More information will be provided to registrants.

  • Tue
    07
    May
    2019
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Brian Carson is an enthusiastic plant hunter and obsessed gardener who enjoys astonishing fellow gardeners with his floral treasures. In the Ottawa region he lectures frequently, leads field trips and conducts workshops.

    The Presentation:

    Not all treasures are silver and gold. In recent years, more and more floral gems are being found here in the Ottawa Valley: elusive double Trilliums, incredible colored Trillium variants, revered double hepaticas, gargantuan bloodroots and many more marvelous beauties. The presentation, a virtual tour of the valley, will cover the discovery of these treasures. Journey with Brian for a while as he unveils some of the floral gems found hiding in plain sight - perhaps, in a forest near you.

    Biography:

    Brian Carson’s has had a varied career that includes farming, market gardening, underwater salvaging, masonry contracting, geophysics and mine supervision. As an enthusiastic plant hunter and obsessed gardener he enjoys astonishing fellow gardeners with his floral treasures. In the Ottawa region Brian lectures frequently, leads field trips and conducts workshops. Last year he received the prestigious Award of Merit from the Ontario Horticultural Association for his work with Trilliums.

    Brian is past president of the Manotick Horticultural Society and the Barrhaven Garden Club and vice president for the Ottawa Valley Rock Garden Society. He is a member of the Royal Horticultural Society, the North American Rock Garden Society, the Scottish Rock Garden Society, the Ottawa Cactus and Succulent Group and the Macnamara Field Naturalists’ Club.

    In recent years, he has had incredible luck as an amateur plant explorer discovering a colony of new terrestrial orchids for North America, many marvellous mutations of our native wildflowers, and right here in the Ottawa Valley, an ever increasing treasure trove of the elusive double Trilliums.

    Brian’s current passions of plant hunting and photography have brought international recognition to the Ottawa Valley for its double Trilliums.

    See also: A virtual tour of rare Ottawa Valley trillium and other marvellous mutations

  • Sun
    05
    May
    2019
    2:00 pmCantley, Quebec

    Leader:  Dr. David Sharpe, GSC Geologist.  David spoke to our club last year on glaciation.

    Meet:  Park on Chemin St-Andrew, just south of the quarry on the west side of highway 307, Cantley.   The event will go on rain or shine.

    The Cantley quarry is remarkable--beautiful and a very important geological site in our area, adding a great deal of information to the study of glaciation.  Below is the abstract from a paper written about the site (Sharpe, D.R. and Le duc, G., 2018 ) for a CANQUA/AMQUA conference in Ottawa.

    Several erosional forms on bedrock at Cantley, Quebec, differ from well-known glacial abrasion forms. The forms consist of obstacle marks, hollows, depressions, and channels, which are defined by sharp rims, smooth inner surfaces, divergent flow features, and remnant ridges. These forms are found on lee, lateral, and overhung rock surfaces. This assemblage of features is best explained by differential erosion produced by separation eddies along lines of flow reattachment. Rapid, sediment-laden, turbulent, subglacial melt-water flows likely produced the forms by corrasion and cavitation erosion. 

    Ice-abrasion forms, such as striations, and plucked forms such as gouges and crescentic fractures are also present at the Cantley site. Pitted forms, polishing, and carbonate precipitate are also present. The occurrence of abrasion, pitting, polishing, and lee-side carbonate precipitate with meltwater forms suggests that the meltwater flows were subglacial. Decoupling of abrading ice from its bed temporarily suspended glacial abrasion, whereas reattachment of ice to the bed may have led to the rounding of sharp edges and the production of striations superposed on the glaciofluvial forms. 

    The association of forms produced both by glaciofluvial erosion and ice abrasion suggests that the glacier was alternately lifted from, and reattached to, the bed during periodic subglacial floods. These floods may have affected the dynamics of the ice sheet, and depositional sequences related to high-energy meltwater outbursts were probably deposited in adjacent basins.

    Registration is limited and more information will be provided to registrants.  Please register at events@mfnc.ca

     

  • Sun
    28
    Apr
    2019
    1:00 pm-3:00 pmKinburn area

    Leaders: Jeff and Angela Skevington

    Host: Linda Sewell

    Meet: 6078 Carp Rd., north of the Kinburn Side Rd. Continue down the laneway and park near the house.

    Because of unsuitable weather in the forecast for Saturday, this event has been moved to Sunday.

    We will wander around Linda's property and search for a variety of frogs and other amphibians and reptiles as they are finally becoming active in the warmer weather! Learn how to locate and observe these animals (and whatever else we may find!). Wear your highest rubber boots, if you have some; dress warmly; bring a net if you have one.  Binoculars would come in handy too. Bring the kids. This will be a very "kid-friendly" event.  Register at events@mfnc.ca.

  • Tue
    16
    Apr
    2019
    7:00 pmArnprior/Pakenham area

    One more time, due to very unfavourable weather conditions in the forecast for April 14, the Owl Prowl originally scheduled for March 31 has been postponed to April 16. Everyone registered for this event will automatically be registered for Tuesday, April 16.  If you are NOT able to come on April 16, please let Maureen know at events@mfnc.ca as soon as possible as there is a waiting list.

    Leader: Michael Runtz

    Meet: in the Metro store parking lot, 375 Daniel St., Arnprior. Park opposite the store but close to the road. We will carpool from there.

    Michael will lead us to several locations where we can expect to find owls. Target species are: Barred Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl and Eastern Screech-Owl. Along the way we will learn about the ecology and behaviour of these beautiful and fascinating birds. Dress very warmly; we will be standing outside for periods of time. Bring a flashlight and binoculars if you have them. The duration of this event will depend 0n the length of time it takes to find our target species.  The number of registrants will be limited and members will have priority so register early for this very popular outing at events@mfnc.ca  

  • Tue
    02
    Apr
    2019
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Heather Kharouba is an Assistant Professor of Biology at the University of Ottawa where she studies global change ecology.

    The Presentation:

    Dr. Kharouba’s work and the work of her colleagues has demonstrated that there have been widespread shifts in the timing of species interactions over recent decades due to climate change. However, it remains difficult to understand the consequences of those shifts for communities and ecosystems. Dr. Kharouba will give an overview of what these consequences may be and why it is difficult to predict the prevalence and magnitude of these consequences. She will also discuss how her lab is thinking about some of these issues for species of local interest like the monarch butterfly and the invasive species - the dog-strangling vine (Vincetoxicum rossicum).

    Biography:

    Heather Kharouba is an Assistant Professor of Biology at the University of Ottawa where she studies global change ecology. She earned a BSc and MSc at Ottawa U. and a PhD at the University of British Columbia. She also completed a Postdoctoral Fellowship at University of California at Davis. Dr. Kharouba’s current research focuses on how and why species are responding to climate change and what those responses mean for ecological communities, with a particular focus on plant-insect interactions. To learn more about the research at her lab, visit: kharoubalab.weebly.com.

    Related article: 

    Falling out of synch: plants, animals and climate change  KRuntz

  • Tue
    05
    Mar
    2019
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Dr. John Percival spent his career at the Geological Survey of Canada (GSC) studying the Canadian Shield in remote parts of northern Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, and Nunavut. He is published in over 300 journal articles, reports, maps, book chapters and books. John continues his research as an emeritus scientist at the GSC.

    The Presentation:

    Objects from outer space! Meteorites have fascinated scientists since their recognition in 1803.

    Although there is an almost continuous rain of interplanetary dust, regular meteorite showers and occasional fireballs entering the atmosphere, only rarely do objects large enough to excavate craters strike the Earth.

    The effect can be catastrophic when they do. About 66 million years ago, a 10-15 km diameter meteorite travelling at 10 km/second struck the Yucatan Peninsula in present day Mexico, vaporizing rocks within a 150-km wide, 20-km deep crater. Rock vapour enveloped the globe, resulting in the extinction of about half of Earth’s species, including the dinosaurs. This crater, called the Chicxulub Crater, is now covered with sediments and seawater.

    But the Chicxulub event was not the worst mass extinction: that occurred 250 million years ago when about 90% of species disappeared.

    The distinction for the largest visible impact crater belongs to the 2.02 billion-year-old, 300-km diameter Vredefort structure of South Africa. A still larger impact crater (Mars-sized) is thought to be responsible for striking the primitive Earth, ejecting material that became the Moon about 4.53 billion years ago.

    The talk will present an illustrated tour of impact events, including notable Canadian craters: the closest one (450-million-year-old Brent crater in eastern Algonquin Park); the most obvious one (1.4 million-year-old Pingualuit crater of northern Ungava); and the richest one (1.85 billion-year-old Sudbury structure).

    Biography:

    Dr. John Percival who received a B.Sc. in geology from Concordia University and Masters and Doctorate degrees in geology from Queen’s University, spent his career at the Geological Survey of Canada (GSC) studying the Canadian Shield in remote parts of northern Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, and Nunavut. He is published in over 300 journal articles, reports, maps, book chapters and books.

    He also served as an adjunct professor (U. Ottawa), on the editorial boards of three international journals, and took a leadership role in Lithoprobe, Canada’s national geoscience program from 1982 to 2002. The Lithoprobe project built a trans-continental 3-D geologic knowledge framework.

    John delivered speaking tours at universities across Canada in 1990 and 2001 as Distinguished Lecturer of the Geological Association of Canada, and in 2017 was awarded the Gold Medal of the Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada.

    John continues his research as an emeritus scientist at the GSC.

  • Sat
    23
    Feb
    2019
    8am - 10pmAmherst Island

    Leaders:  Angela and Jeff Skevington

    Meet:  We will leave promptly at 8 am from the parking lot at the corner of March Rd (49) and Upper Dwyer Hill (3) (45.2673910,-76.1266138). From there we will drive to Millhaven where we catch the 10:30 am ferry to Amherst Island. Jeff and Angela will lead the group down but they expect participants to make their own way home after leaving the island.

    Bring: Lunch, warm clothes (including extra socks), snowshoes (optional), binoculars and scope if you have one, $9 per car for the ferry, money for dinner.

    Come and join us as we search for owls and other birds of prey on Amherst Island.  We will drive to Owl Woods where we will hike a snow drifted road for about 2 km (Some people may want snowshoes for this part.) then into and around the woods for about 2 km hoping to find Nothern Saw-whet and Barred Owls roosting in the trees. We will walk the 2 km back along the same road we came in on.  This makes for about 6 km of heavy walking in total. Once back to the cars, we will drive around the island looking for Snowy Owls and Short-eared Owls along with other raptors, stopping to scope species that we find.
    We will leave the island on either the 5 or 6 pm ferry, depending on the birds. There will be a quick stop for fast food for dinner in Kingston. Everyone should be home before 10 pm if we take the 6 pm ferry, maybe even 9 pm if dinner is fast.
    Contact Angela (angela_skevington@yahoo.ca; 613-832-1970) to register. Please indicate the number of adults and children.
  • Sun
    17
    Feb
    2019
    1pm - 4pmFitzroy Provincial Park

    Host: Karen Krueger

    Meet:  227 Kedey Street, Fitzroy Harbour.  Park on the street or at the end of the street.

    Join us for this nature walk on trails through Fitzroy Park where Karen will show us some of her favourite spots. We should find lots of tracks and signs of animals as they go about their winter activities. We will look for Bald Eagles and other birds, visit a waterfall and a beaver pond.  Bring binoculars if you have them.  The trails have deep snow so snowshoes are required.  After the outing we are invited back to Karen's for snacks and hot drinks. Karen has cats and a dog, all of which are friendly, but please keep this in mind if you have allergies. This is a kid-friendly event. Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Tue
    05
    Feb
    2019
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    A highlight annual event.  Combine learning, laughter and camaraderie. NO experience is necessary!

    If you are good at riddles, then this is the place to be! But, be prepared to meet your match. Michael's riddles are challenging, evocative and ever so finely crafted.

    This is an awesome and exhilarating way to learn about local natural history. Michael’s contagious enthusiasm, his keen insight into the intricacies of nature, and the countless anecdotes of his experiences as a naturalist always make for a very entertaining evening.

    Participants will be divided into teams that will compete to answer riddles and identify items from nature. Is there a young, dynamic, capable team ready to conquer all? Or perhaps, 2 out of 3?

  • Sat
    02
    Feb
    2019
    1-3:30pmDunrobin/Carp
    CANCELLED
    Due to poor conditions for animal track and bird observations and for safety reasons (parking along TD Parkway).
    We'll look to reschedule in March.
    Meet:  Dunrobin Community Association parking lot, 1145 Thomas Dolan Parkway (near the Dunrobin Road intersection). We will carpool from there, about 4 km up the road.
    MFNC will join the Friends of the Carp Hills (FCH) in a species count of the animals that make the Carp Barrens their home in the winter.  Field naturalists with good animal track or bird identification skills are needed.  FCH is documenting the impact of human use on the flora and fauna of the Carp Barrens (at Thomas Dolan Parkway), particularly around unauthorized trails.  Having an understanding of what animals inhabit the Barrens in winter will help with this four-season ecological study.  We will walk one of the trail loops and record all tracks seen and all animals/birds seen or heard.  Observations will be uploaded to iNaturalist.
    Snowshoes are a requirement in the deep snow on this site. The terrain is rocky and uneven.  If the conditions are poor for observations, we will reschedule the event, aiming for Sunday, 3 February, at the same time and place. Please check our web site mfnc.ca before heading out, any changes will be posted there.
    Participants are asked to register ahead of time at events@mfnc.ca.  The number of participants will be limited to 15.
  • Sun
    27
    Jan
    2019
    7:00 pmOxford Mills

    Leader: Fred Scheuler

    Meet: 7 pm at the Brigadoon Pub, Oxford Mills. Directions are on their website.

    A study of the Oxford Mills mudpuppies (large aquatic salamanders, Necturus maculosuswas begun in 1998 and continues every winter. We are invited to participate in this very kid-friendly activity. The location has unusually large numbers of mudpuppies and we hope to see lots of them in the shallow water as they come upstream to feed below the dam. First we will be given an introduction to the ecology of these fascinating animals, then we will proceed to the creek nearby to search for them. Wear warm, high, waterproof footwear as we will be standing in the water for about 1h. Bring a strong flashlight if you have one and walking poles might be useful too. The Brigadoon pub is open for a snack and a hot drink after, or participants may wish to have dinner there before the event. Register at events@mfnc.ca.

  • Tue
    08
    Jan
    2019
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    We are looking forward to learning all about your prized nature or natural history possessions or experiences!

    Please sign in at the door with the item or topic you wish to showcase.

    If you are showing photos, there should not be more than five and they should be on a USB key. You may also bring prints to put for table display.

    Donations welcome from non-presenters (a Loonie or Toonie, please).

    See you there!

  • Wed
    26
    Dec
    2018

    The annual Pakenham-Arnprior Christmas Bird Count is being held on — you guessed it — Boxing Day!  The count is a full-day event with a potluck dinner/compilation afterwards. Participants should have some experience in identifying birds; individuals are assigned an area to cover and paired so no one goes alone.

    As reported at our last meeting, Evening Grosbeaks have started to show up after years of absence at local feeders and hopefully their numbers will return to at least double digits on our 2018 count.

    If you want to keep track of your feeder birds or participate in the count, please contact Michael Runtz at mruntz@start.ca or at 613- 387-2503.

  • Tue
    04
    Dec
    2018
    7:00 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    IMPORTANT NOTE:  As the December meeting is also our AGM we are starting the evening at 7 p.m.

    Dr. Danielle Fraser is a research scientist in palaeobiology at the Canadian Museum of Nature and Adjunct Research Professor at Carleton University in Biology and Earth Sciences.

    The Presentation:

    Conservation biologists seek to understand the natural responses of undisturbed ecosystems to human activity. They want to develop policies to conserve these ecosystems.

    However, these biologists work with ecosystems that have been disturbed by humans for decades or more.

    Fortunately, the fossil record documents the responses of natural ecosystems to many types of disturbances, both biotic and abiotic. Fossils enable us:

    a) to develop ecological baselines,

    b) to develop a clear picture of ecosystems that were undisturbed by humans,

    c) to understand the long-term outcomes of disturbance, and

    d) to make predictions around ongoing global change.

    Dr. Fraser will review the ways in which palaeontology can contribute to conservation science and use relevant examples from her research. She will argue that the impacts of anthropogenic disturbance will reach far beyond our lifetimes and that the fossil record is the only source of relevant long term data.

    Biography:

    Danielle Fraser is a research scientist in palaeobiology at the Canadian Museum of Nature and Adjunct Research Professor at Carleton University in Biology and Earth Sciences. She received her BSc and MSc degrees from the University of Calgary and her PhD from Carleton University in 2015. Danielle completed her postdoctoral studies at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History before taking up her position at the museum.

  • Tue
    04
    Dec
    2018
    7:00 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    December brings the shortest day but longest night of the year to our part of the world. It is also the timing of our club's Annual General Meeting, when members of our executive present their annual reports and plans for 2019.

    We will also be voting on candidates to 1) replace one existing Board member who is stepping down and 2) add one additional Board member. Nominations may be accepted prior to the meeting from any member in good standing. P.S. It’s a good time to ensure your membership is up to date.

    Nominations must be submitted in writing to Janet Mason at masonjl@xplornet.com and signed by the consenting nominee. Note that email addresses for all Board members are always listed in the right-hand column of this newsletter.

    We'll be posting all executive reports at this link on our website prior to the meeting. Check them out as they become available.

    NOTE: to avoid cutting into our sightings and speaker time, we are starting the AGM at 7 p.m.

    Topping the evening will be a presentation by Danielle Fraser, who will show us how Conservation Paleontology leverages the past to understand our future.

  • Sun
    18
    Nov
    2018
    1pm - 4pmArnprior
    Leader: Sophie Roy
    Meet:  in the parking lot of the Metro store, 375 Daniel Street, Arnprior.  Park away from the store, close to Daniel Street.
    From the parking lot we will carpool and then drive to several locations where we will search for local birds wintering in the Arnprior area.  Target birds will be winter finches, Snowy Owls and other raptors.  This may change as reports become available. Dress for the weather and remember that you will be standing still for periods of time.  Bring your binoculars and a scope if you have one.  Please register at  events@mfnc.ca
  • Tue
    06
    Nov
    2018
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Carl Savignac is a forest bird biologist and director of Dendroica Environnement et Faune, an ecological consultant firm based in Chelsea, Québec. He obtained a M.Sc. from the Department of Biological Sciences at Laval University in 1996.

    The Presentation:

    Little is known about its ecology of the Evening Grosbeak even though it once was one of the most common and best known birds at our feeders. Citizen–based science investigations such as the Christmas Bird Count now suggest that this colourful bird has declined by 77% throughout North America since the early 1970s. For this reason, the species is now designated as a Special Concern in Canada. Being the author of the COSEWIC (Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada) status report for this species, Mr. Savignac will review the natural history of the Evening Grosbeak and summarize threats and limiting factors that are known to be responsible for its decline.

    Biography:

    Carl Savignac is a forest bird biologist and director of Dendroica Environnement et Faune, an ecological consultant firm based in Chelsea, Québec. He obtained a M.Sc. from the Department of Biological Sciences at Laval University in 1996. There, he studied the ecology of the Pilieated Woodpecker in the Laurentian mountain range. Since then, he has surveyed birds all across Canada and has coordinated several stewardship projects with private landowners in southern Québec to protect species at risk. As well, he has written numerous reports and scientific papers on birds and species at risk including status reports on boreal, temperate and grassland birds for the COSEWIC (Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada), including a status report on the Evening Grosbeak.

  • Sun
    28
    Oct
    2018
    9am-12amMacnamara Trail

    Due to the weather today, this event is postponed until the conditions are better for shrub and brush removal.

    Meet:  at the trailhead on McNab St.

    Join other members of MFNC for our annual trail maintenance.  Stay for the whole morning or for an hour or two if you are able to help. Bring loppers or pruners if your have them.  Wear sturdy shoes and gloves.  Please register at events@mfnc.ca and you will be given more information.

  • Fri
    19
    Oct
    2018
    6:00 pmInnis Point Bird Observatory
    The Young Macs are invited to join us as we go to enjoy some creatures of the night at Innis Point Bird Observatory. We will be hoping to mist net some Northern Saw-whet Owls as they pass through on their migration. If we are successful, we will be able to take some measurements and band them as well to help scientists further study their migration. Please sign up early as spaces will be limited. Contact Angela at angela_skevington@yahoo.ca to sign up by stating the number of people in your group. At that time we will send directions and more information.
  • Sat
    13
    Oct
    2018
    9:30 am to 4:00 pmOttawa/Gatineau

    Leader: Dr. Wouter Bleeker

    Meet: Outside of Starbucks in Kanata Centrum, beside Chapters.  We will carpool from there.

    Wouter Bleeker is a senior research scientist with the Geological Survey of Canada, in Ottawa. In addition to his geological research, which takes him pretty much across Canada and the world, he is also a birdwatcher and (closet) botanist. He has done extensive research on the Ottawa-Bonnechere Graben (A graben is a valley with a distinct escarpment on each side caused by the downward displacement of a block of land.) and currently is trying to nail down the time of the last significant movement on all of the geological faults that define the graben. On the field trip, time and weather permitting, we will make a geological cross-section of the area, introducing aspects of the local geology and helping you understand the bedrock we live on.  We’ll get close-up looks at different sedimentary rocks, geological faults, fossils and more. Bring along your hand lens, binoculars, lunch and curiosity.  The trip is limited to the first 25 members who register.  Register at events@mfnc.ca

     

     

     

  • Tue
    02
    Oct
    2018
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Jeff Skevington is a lifelong naturalist and has been looking at insects and birds since he was about 7 years old. He is a Research Scientist and the Head of Diptera (flies) at Agriculture Canada’s Canadian National Collection of Insects in Ottawa.

    The Presentation:

    Madagascar is an ancient island that is considered by many biologists to be old enough and divergent enough to be considered a separate continent. The endemic diversity is enormous with over 83% of the plant species, 84% of terrestrial vertebrates and 86% of invertebrate species found nowhere else! You may have seen Attenborough’s videos on Madagascar and assumed that you could never go there as it is too remote and expensive. Jeff always assumed that too until a friend went and hired a local guide to do all of the organization for a trip. Jeff followed his friend’s lead last year and had a marvellous time exploring this spectacular island for ~CAD$3500 per person. Less than 10% of the native forest remains on the island so it is critical that we do what we can to encourage it to be preserved. Visiting and hiring local guides is one way to help.

    Our focus was on birds but this talk will include information on many aspects of natural history as well as logistics relevant to anyone interested in visiting. Come on out and learn a bit more about Madagascar and if you have been, come on out to revisit some of the exciting things you have seen and share some of your memories with the rest of the group.

    If you have any questions or photos about Madagascar or about flower flies (the focus of Jeff’s work), feel free to bring them to share with Jeff and other club member and guests.

    Biography:

    Jeff Skevington is a lifelong naturalist and has been looking at insects and birds since he was about 7 years old. He is a Research Scientist and the Head of Diptera (flies) at Agriculture Canada’s Canadian National Collection of Insects in Ottawa. His focus there is on the taxonomy and phylogenetics of flower flies (Syrphidae) and big-headed flies (Pipunculidae). He has published over 100 scientific papers on these animals and trained a number of students through Carleton University, Trent University and University of Guelph where he serves as an Adjunct or Associate Professor. One of Jeff’s current projects, a ‘Field Guide to the Flower Flies (Hover Flies) of Northeastern North America’, is expected to be published by Princeton University Press in March 2019.

  • Sat
    15
    Sep
    2018
    8:00 am - noon3086 Dunrobin Road

    Meet: in the parking lot of West Carleton Secondary School.  We will carpool from there.

    Leaders:  Members of the Club

    Join members of the club who have experience birding in the Ottawa area as we look for migrating warblers and other species on their way south.  We should also find a number of resident species as well.  No experience is necessary.  Come along if you are just beginning to have an interest in birding and find out what it's all about. If you do not own binoculars mention that when you register; there will be a few available for loan. Wear comfortable shoes. (There will be some walking on easy trails.)  Bring water and a snack.  Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Tue
    04
    Sep
    2018
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Gary Boyle, known as “The Backyard Astronomer”, is a freelance astronomy educator who has taught astronomy courses at Algonquin College and other institutions for fifteen years. He is Past-President of the Ottawa Centre at the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada.

    The Presentation:

    Early civilizations looked at the sky for guidance and superstition. To them, the beautiful points of light were also a place of entertainment. Today's technology and study has opened new chapters in the understanding of the cosmos and how things work. This presentation will demonstrate how life began from the cosmos billions of years ago and the meaning behind the saying "we are all make of star stuff".

    Biography:

    Gary Boyle, the Backyard Astronomer

    Gary Boyle, the Backyard Astronomer

    Known as “The Backyard Astronomer”, Gary Boyle has had a passion for the night sky from the early age of eight. He is a freelance astronomy educator and has taught astronomy courses for the beginner at Algonquin College for fifteen years as well as other facilities in and around Ottawa. As past president of the Ottawa Centre of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, he continues to write monthly columns for the Society, the Northeastern Ontario Tourism website and for Metroland Media. Gary has been interviewed on a regular basis on more than fifty radio stations across Canada along with live television in Ottawa. In 2017 the International Astronomical Union honoured him with the naming of Asteroid (22406) Garyboyle.

    Follow him on Twitter: @astroeducator or his website: www.wondersofastronomy.com

  • Mon
    13
    Aug
    2018
    11am - 2pmBurnt Lands Provincial Park

    Leader: Dr. Troy McMullin

    Meet: March Rd. at Upper Dwyer Hill Rd., on the SW corner where there is a parking lot.  We will carpool a short distance from there.

    Many of you will remember Troy as a recent speaker on lichens at one of our monthly meetings. On our rare lichen tour he will lead us through the alvar at Burnt Lands Provincial Park, where we will see many uncommon lichens that are alvar specialists, including a large population of the rare Thyrea confusa. We will walk approximately 2 km on easy trails. Please bring appropriate footwear. The alvar is exposed so bring sun protection and water. Bring a lunch, a hand lens if you have one (There will be a few extra to share.) and bring rain and bug gear. Register at events@mfnc.ca

     

  • Thu
    28
    Jun
    2018
    8:30 amWhite Lake

    Leader: Michael Runtz

    Meet: 8:30 am in the parking lot of the Metro Store, 375 Daniel Street, Arnprior. Park close to the road. We will carpool from there.

    This is a unique wetland which holds multiple species of our native orchids, carnivorous plants and unusual insects too, like the Bogbean Buckmoth. Wet feet are guaranteed in the fen so old running shoes make perfect footwear on a hot day. Hip-waders or tall rubber boots would work too. It is a good idea to cover up with light clothing for protection against the sun and the biting insects. Bring a hand lens and binoculars if you have them. Expect to be out until early afternoon and bring lots of water and a lunch. There will be an ice cream stop along the way to our picnic area. Note: This trip is for members only and there will be a limited number of registrations accepted due to the sensitive nature of the fen habitat. Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Fri
    08
    Jun
    2018
    6:00 pmArnprior

    Leader:  Art Goldsmith

    Meet:  At the trailhead on McNab Street

    We will take a leisurely walk along the trail through various habitats, looking for birds of the forest and the marsh.  If time allows we will also visit the shore of the Ottawa River nearby.  Dress for biting insects, wear comfortable shoes and bring your binoculars.  Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Tue
    05
    Jun
    2018
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Gabriel Blouin-Demers is a Full Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Ottawa. His main research efforts aim at explaining variation in density of animals across space and the evolutionary maintenance of polymorphism.  He works mostly on reptiles, but has published on all vertebrate classes and on insects.

    The Presentation:

    What is a reptile? What are the turtles, snakes, and lizards of Ontario? What is their conservation status? What are the main threats facing reptile populations? How can we help conserve reptile populations? These are the main questions Dr. Blouin-Demers will try to answer during his presentation.

    Biography:

    Gabriel Blouin-Demers obtained his B.Sc. from McGill University in 1996 and his Ph.D. from Carleton University in 2001. After a brief postdoctoral fellowship at The Ohio State University, he was hired at the University of Ottawa in 2002 where he currently is a Full Professor in the Department of Biology. His main research efforts aim at explaining variation in density of animals across space and the evolutionary maintenance of polymorphism, but he is also interested in conservation. He works mostly on reptiles, but he has published on all vertebrate classes and on insects. More information is available on his lab website: http://mysite.science.uottawa.ca/gblouin/labo.html.

  • Sun
    03
    Jun
    2018
    10am-1pmBurnstown

    Leader: Owen Clarkin
    Hosts: Anne and Ross Helmsley

    Meet: at the house, 1048 Dickson Road, Burnstown, off highway 508 near Burnstown Beach

    Members of the club are invited to join Owen, who is a specialist on native trees, on a walk through the Helmsley property in Burnstown, which consists of 60 acres of woods and 8 of open fields. The trails there are very basic so wear sturdy shoes. Bring a lunch for the trail and dress for biting insects. Bring binoculars if you have them since this is a very good time to look for birds as well.  Register at events@mfnc.ca

     

  • Sat
    05
    May
    2018
    1-3pmKinburn

    Leader:  Mary Marsh

    Host:  Linda Sewell

    We will have a leisurely walk through the beautiful trails of Linda's property. Here we should find a great variety of the ephemeral flowers of spring, before they disappear in early summer when the tree leaves shade the forest floor. Bring a hand lens and wildflower guide if you have them. Binoculars would also come in handy since there should be time to listen and look for birds. Be prepared for biting insects with appropriate clothing.  The walking is fairly easy but wear sturdy shoes. The property is at 6078 Carp Rd., between the Kinburn Side Rd. and Galetta Side Rd.  Follow the lane way to the house and you will find parking there.  Register at events@mfnc.ca

     

  • Tue
    01
    May
    2018
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Alex Sutton, a Ph.D. candidate with the Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph, has always been interested in wildlife. He has focused his attention on studying population dynamics of bird populations by conducting research across North and Central America.

    The Presentation:

    Gray jays are an enigmatic bird of the Canadian boreal forest that is well adapted to not only survive, but thrive in harsh winter conditions. Since 1964, gray jays have been studied in Algonquin Provincial Park and this research has provided insight into their life history, behaviour and more recently about how their populations respond to climate change. This presentation will provide an overview of what we have learned from over 50 years of research studying gray jays living on the edge.

    Biography:

    Alex has always been interested in wildlife and the outdoors, but became especially interested in birds after beginning his B.Sc. in Zoology at the University of Guelph. This interest developed into a focus on studying population dynamics of wild populations by working on many research projects across North and Central America. He is currently a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Guelph interested in understanding climatic and demographic drivers of population dynamics of Gray Jays in Algonquin Provincial Park.

  • Sat
    21
    Apr
    2018
    7-9pmKinburn

    Leader:  Angela Skevington

    Host: Linda Sewell

    Because of the continuing cold weather, the date of this event has been moved ahead from Friday to Saturday to improve our chances of seeing these animals.

    Inviting all kids to come and welcome the sounds of spring as we search for Spring Peepers, Chorus Frogs, Wood Frogs, Spotted Salamanders, various bugs and other creatures which seem to come alive as the ponds finally melt. We will visit ponds at Linda Sewell's property on the Carp Road. Wear your highest rubber boots, if you have some, dress warmly, bring a flashlight or headlamp and a net if you have one. Bring along your parents or grandparents. Specific directions for parking will be given to all registrants.  Register with Angela at angela_skevington@yahoo.ca

     

  • Thu
    19
    Apr
    2018
    10am-12pmGatineau

    Leaders:  Dr. Troy McMullin and Dr. Lynn Gillespie

    Meet: 1740 Pink Road, Gatineau

    Troy and Lynn, both research scientists at the museum, have been presenters at our club.  They will take us on a tour of the collections at the Natural Heritage Campus of the Canadian Museum of Nature. Parking is free. Everyone must check in with security and if arriving early tell the guards you are there on the MFNC outing and give the names of the trip leaders above. Register at events@mfnc.ca  See below for some background information about the facility:

    https://nature.ca/en/about-us/history-buildings/our-research-facility

     

  • Tue
    03
    Apr
    2018
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    David Sharpe is a research scientist at the Geological Survey of Canada in Ottawa, specializing in the glacial geology of Canada. He has worked in many areas of the country including the Oak Ridges Moraine in southern Ontario and the Ottawa region.

    The Presentation:

    We will review the origin and nature of glaciation in Canada, including insights into a number areas in which we have details of glacial landforms and sediments. Then, we will review the application of this knowledge to mineral exploration, groundwater investigations and other applications to land use and construction.  We will also introduce an exciting new idea that, in addition to the glaciers, much of the glaciated Canadian landscape has been modified by very large glacial floods that discharged from under the continental ice sheets. Finally, the highlights of glaciation in the Ottawa valley will be reviewed.

    Biography:

    David Sharpe is a research scientist at the Geological Survey of Canada in Ottawa, specializing in the glacial geology of Canada as applied to mineral exploration and hydrogeology.  He has worked in many areas of the country including Arctic Canada, the barren lands, prairies and most parts of Ontario, including the Oak Ridges Moraine and the Ottawa region.  He has degrees in geology from the universities of Toronto, Colorado and Ottawa. He has been an adjunct professor at the universities of Waterloo and Ottawa, where he has also taught courses in glacial geology.

  • Sun
    25
    Mar
    2018
    7:00 pmArnprior/Pakenham area

    Leader: Michael Runtz

    Meet: in the Metro store parking lot, 375 Daniel St., Arnprior. Park opposite the store but close to the road. We will carpool from there.

    Michael will lead us to several locations where we can expect to find owls. Target species are: Barred Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl and Eastern Screech-Owl. Along the way we will learn about the ecology and behaviour of these beautiful and fascinating birds. Dress very warmly; we will be standing outside for periods of time. Bring a flashlight and binoculars if you have them. The duration of this event will depend 0n the length of time it takes to find our target species.  Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Tue
    06
    Mar
    2018
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Jordan Mallon is a Research Scientist in Palaeobiology at the Canadian Museum of Nature

    The Presentation:

    This talk will present recent advances in dinosaur ecology (where they lived, what they ate, when they were active, etc.), with a focus on the new technologies and fossil finds that have combined to inform our understanding.

    Biography:

    Jordan Mallon is a Research Scientist in Palaeobiology at the Canadian Museum of Nature, and an Adjunct Research Professor at Carleton University. He received a B.Sc. from Carleton University and a Ph.D. from the University of Calgary.

    His primary research interests focus on the palaeoecology of herbivorous dinosaurs, and the evolution of horned dinosaurs, particularly those factors that influenced dinosaur diversity leading up to the end-Cretaceous mass extinction (about 65 million years ago).

    By carefully examining feeding posture, skull and beak shape, jaw function and tooth wear, he has shown that diverse plant-eating dinosaurs living in Alberta 75 million years ago were able to coexist as a result of their varied dietary specializations.

    His varied fieldwork is primarily stationed in Alberta and Montana, with new activities planned in China for 2018.

  • Sat
    17
    Feb
    2018
    1pm - 4pmFitzroy Harbour

    Host: Karen Krueger

    Meet: 227 Kedey Street, Fitzroy Harbour. Park on the street or at the end of the street. There is a dead end not far from the house.

    Join us for a nature outing on snowshoes through the trails of Fitzroy Provincial Park where Karen will show us some of her favourite spots. We should see many winter birds and find tracks and other signs of animals going about their daily activities. We’ll walk along the banks of the Carp River to a spot where bald eagles are sometimes spotted and we will pass a beaver pond.  After the outing, join us for a social gathering back at Karen’s home. Karen has friendly cats and a friendly dog. Please keep this in mind if you have allergies. Bring snowshoes.  Hot drinks and snacks will be provided. This is very suitable for kids! Register at events@mfnc.ca

    As of Friday afternoon the trails are hard packed, icy in places but navigable.  Boots with ice grippers would probably work well too.

  • Tue
    06
    Feb
    2018
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    A highlight annual event.  Combine learning, laughter and camaraderie. NO experience is necessary! Puns welcome.  If you are good at riddles, then this is the place to be! But, be prepared to meet your match. Michael's riddles are challenging, evocative and ever so finely crafted.

    Come and find out. This is an awesome and exhilarating way to learn about local natural history. Michael’s contagious enthusiasm, his keen insight into the intricacies of nature, and the countless anecdotes of his experiences as a naturalist always make for a very entertaining evening.

    Participants will be divided into teams that will compete to answer riddles and identify items from nature. Is there a young, dynamic, capable team ready to conquer all? Or perhaps, 2 out of 3?

  • Sat
    13
    Jan
    2018
    12pm-2pmWoodlawn/Dunrobin

    Leader: David Spence

    Enjoy the beauty of winter. Come out for a leisurely, interpretive walk through the extensive trails of the Spence’s property on the Carp Ridge, Stonecrest Road. Warm boots should be fine; the trails are groomed. We will look for signs of animals in winter: tracks in the snow, markings on trees, scat and other indications of their presence. The many bird feeders on the property should provide activity so bring your binoculars. In the old forest with mixed vegetation there will be ample to interest the botanists among us as well. Dress really warmly since we will be having frequent stops along the way. Directions and parking instructions will be provided to registrants. This will be a kid-friendly event so bring them along. Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Tue
    02
    Jan
    2018
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    We are looking forward to learning all about your prized nature or natural history possessions or experiences! Please sign in at the door with the item or topic you wish to showcase. If you are showing photos, there should not be more than five and they should be on a USB key. You may also bring prints to put on a table. Donations welcome from non-presenters (a Loonie or Toonie, please). See you there!

  • Tue
    05
    Dec
    2017
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Michael Runtz, an Arnprior native, is one of Canada’s best-known naturalists, nature photographers, and natural history authors. He is with the Department of Biology at Carleton University where he teaches an ever popular course in Natural History.

    The Presentation:

    Beavers are greatly misunderstood animals.  Their ability to cut down trees and flood land puts them in a less than favourable light in many peoples’ eyes but these attributes endow beavers with the power to create entire ecosystems. This highly visual presentation will explore the fascinating life of beavers and the important roles they play in the lives of other animals as diverse as dragonflies and moose.

    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. A dynamic communicator, 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, who also hosted an international television series Wild by Nature, is in great demand as a speaker for groups as diverse as outdoor educators, professional biologists, schoolchildren, and naturalists’ clubs both in Canada and abroad.

    Eleven books on a diverse array of natural history subjects bear the stamp of Michael’s passion, knowledge and stunning photography. These include: Moose Country, The Explorer’s Guide to Algonquin Park, Beauty and the Beasts: The Hidden World of Wildflowers, The Howls of August: Encounters with Algonquin Wolves, Natural History, and, his most recent, Dam Builders: the natural history of beavers and their ponds. Michael’s award-winning photographs (three first place finishes in national photo contests), and natural history columns have graced the pages of numerous Canadian and American magazines and newspapers - nearly 2,000 nature columns with topics ranging from near-microscopic Snow Fleas to towering Moose bear his name.

    Michael is also well 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, three University Teaching Achievement Awards (the first to receive that many) and a Lifetime Achievement Award from Carleton University, and The Distinguished Public Education Award from the Canadian Council of University Biology Chairs.

  • Sun
    12
    Nov
    2017
    12:30 pmArnprior

    Meet:  at the Macnamara trail, directions are on this website.

    We need your help to tidy up the trail. The work will probably go on for a few hours but any amount of time that you could help would be most welcome. Bring clippers or loppers or garden shears to trim the plants which are encroaching on the trail. Register at events@mfnc.ca and I will update the information if necessary.

  • Tue
    07
    Nov
    2017
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Lynn Gillespie is a Research Scientist in Botany at the Canadian Museum of Nature and an Adjunct Professor of Biology at the University of Ottawa.  Her research focuses on the systematics and evolution of flowering plants, especially grasses, spurges and Arctic plants.  Lynn completed her BSc at Carleton University and her PhD at the University of California, Davis.

    The Presentation:

    Flowering plants have evolved to become the most diverse and abundant group of plants.   Dr. Gillespie will give an overview of the diversity and evolution of flowering plants and explore why they have become so successful.  She will also discuss how new ways of studying plants are changing our understanding of their evolution and hence their classification. Examples will include some from our local flora and others from her lab’s research on grasses and spurges.

    Biography:

    Lynn Gillespie is a Research Scientist in Botany at the Canadian Museum of Nature and an Adjunct Professor of Biology at the University of Ottawa.  Her research focuses on the systematics and evolution of flowering plants, especially grasses, spurges and Arctic plants.  Lynn completed her BSc at Carleton University and her PhD at the University of California, Davis. She has conducted fieldwork around the world, including South America, southeast Asia, Madagascar, Australia, and the Canadian Arctic.

  • Wed
    01
    Nov
    2017
    2:30 pmArnprior

    Leader: Michael Runtz

    Meet:  in the parking lot of the Metro Store, 375 Daniel Street, Arnprior. Park close to the road. We will carpool from there.

    We will look for raptors, geese and ducks at the head pond of the Madawaska River and  then explore various other areas around Arnprior in search of local and migrant birds. Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Sun
    15
    Oct
    2017
    9:30 amDunrobin/Carp

    Leader:  Dave Forsyth with Beth and John McEwen

    Meet:  1308 Vance's Side Rd. (corner of Woodkilton) to organize and carpool to our first stop

    This will be a half-day geotraverse of the Carp Ridge.  We will travel by car and make 7 stops at points of significant geological interest along the ridge.  Wear comfortable shoes, although the walking should not be difficult.  Registrants will receive a PDF package with more information about the  geology of the areas we will be visiting.  Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Sat
    07
    Oct
    2017
    10:30 amArnprior

    Leader:  Suzanne Monnon

    Meet:  at the Macnamara Trail, directions on this website

    Have you ever wanted to learn the basics about mushrooms? If your answer is "yes" then this outing is for you. We will go into the forest to search for and identify many different types of fungi.

    Our leader has been an avid amateur mycologist for many years. She will share her knowledge in a way that beginners will understand, so no previous knowledge is necessary.

    Wear weather-appropriate clothing. Bring a small knife, loupe lens if you have one, water and a snack. Expect to be on the trail for 2-3h.  This outing is especially " kid-friendly" and very appropriate for the Young Macs.  Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Tue
    03
    Oct
    2017
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Steven Cooke is a Professor of Biology and Environmental Science and the Canada Research Chair in Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology at Carleton University. His specialty is ecology and conservation physiology of fish, and he is best known for researching physiological responses in fish in regard to natural and human impacts. Dr. Cooke attained a Bachelor of Environmental Studies and a Master's in Biology at the University of Waterloo, and a PhD in Biology at the University of Illinois.

    The Presentation:

    Fish live in dynamic environments and respond accordingly by moving at various spatial and temporal scales.  For centuries these movements have been the basis of folk lore but only in the last few decades have we had the tools necessary to study fish across ocean basins, between the Laurentian Great Lakes, and up/down thousand kilometer river systems.  In this presentation, Dr. Cooke will describe the biotelemetry toolbox which has provided a window on the elusive and cryptic underwater world.

    Biography:

    Steven Cooke is a Professor of Biology and Environmental Science and the Canada Research Chair in Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology at Carleton University.  He attained a Bachelor of Environmental Studies and a Master's in Biology at the University of Waterloo, and a PhD in Biology at the University of Illinois.

    Dr. Cooke studies the ecology, behaviour, and physiology of wild fish in an effort to understand fundamental biological phenomena and to inform conservation and resource management.  Research in the Cooke Lab spans marine and freshwater systems and occurs locally (e.g., the Ottawa River, Kenauk Nature Reserve, the Rideau Canal), across Canada (from the Fraser River in BC to the marine waters of PEI), and the globe (e.g., active research projects in Norway, Denmark, India, Australia, The Bahamas, and more).  See www.fecpl.ca for more details on the Cooke Lab.

  • Sat
    09
    Sep
    2017
    9 am - 4 pmOttawa

    Leader: Sophie Cardinal
    Location: Salons A and B of the K.W. Neatby Building, Central Experimental
    Farm, 960 Carling Avenue

    Description: Bug Day is coordinated by the Entomological Society of Ontario in
    partnership with OFNC and AAFC. Visitors are invited to learn all about the
    fascinating world of insects, from expert entomologists on hand. Activities will
    include: a live insect zoo, guided insect nature walks, seminars on insects,
    cockroach races, kid’s insect crafts, ask a bug expert, building insect
    collections, cooking with insects and more. This event will happen rain or shine
    in conjunction with the Central Experimental Farm Research Open House.

  • Tue
    05
    Sep
    2017
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Troy McMullinDr. Troy McMullin is a research scientist specializing in lichenology at the Canadian Museum of Nature. He focuses on the application of lichen taxonomy and systematics to a broad range of research areas. Troy received bachelor degrees in biology at Trent University, has a Bachelor of Education degree in biology and outdoor education from Queen’s University, and a Ph.D. in botany from the University of Guelph. Troy has published extensively in academic journals and public media.

    The Presentation:

    Join Troy to explore the often overlooked, but beautiful and fascinating world of lichens. Learn about their roles in different ecosystems and how they are used in medicine, science, and space.  He will also cover rare lichens occurring in south-eastern Ontario, including the only species in the region that is federally (COSEWIC – Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada) listed as endangered, Pale-Bellied Frost Lichen (Physconia subpallida), which is known from the Arnprior area. You will gain a new appreciation for the small things in life!

    Biography:

    Dr. Troy McMullin is a research scientist specializing in lichenology at the Canadian Museum of Nature. He focuses on the application of lichen taxonomy and systematics to a broad range of research areas, including: biomonitoring, conservation, DNA barcoding, ethnobotany, restoration, sustainable forest management, woodland caribou habitat management, and more.

    Troy received bachelor degrees in biology at Trent University, has a Bachelor of Education degree in biology and outdoor education from Queen’s University, and a Ph.D. in botany from the University of Guelph.

    Troy has published extensively in academic journals and public media. His latest co-authored book was recently released by the New York Botanical Garden Press, Common Lichens of Northeastern North America: A Field Guide.

  • Sun
    27
    Aug
    2017
    1:00 pmCarp Road

    Leader:  Lis Allison

    Meet:  6114 Carp Rd., between Galetta Side Rd. and Kinburn Side Rd.

    The area around Ottawa is particularly rich in native fern species. We have over 40 different species here.  Ferns have a public relations problem; they all tend to look alike to those who haven't studied them, but, when you examine them more closely, you begin to appreciate the wonderful diversity and complexity of ferns.

    On August 27, you are invited to an Afternoon of Ferns at Lis Allison's home on the Carp Road. Lis will talk about the classification and identification of ferns, with particular attention to our local ferns. She will explain   where to look for them in the wild and how to grow them. After that she will take you around her extensive garden, where you will see many of the Ottawa Valley ferns.  Often they are used in garden situations and, early fall being an excellent time to plant ferns, some small ferns will be available for sale. Register at events@mfnc.ca

     

  • Sat
    05
    Aug
    2017
    10am - 1pmMorris Island

    Leader: Christian Renault

    Note: the location is changed due to updated information as to the numbers of odonates in various areas.

    Meet: Morris Island Conservation Area, 156 Morris Island Drive, (off the Galetta Side Rd.)

    We will explore areas along the Ottawa River and other habitats which should provide excellent opportunities to find many different species of dragonflies and damselflies at this time of year. Sturdy footwear is recommended but most locations are relatively flat and easy to walk. Bring a lunch, water and good protection for the sun and biting insects. Other items which will be useful: a bug net, field guide, binoculars. Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Sat
    15
    Jul
    2017
    11 am - 2 pmMississippi Mills

    Please note this event is cancelled and may be rescheduled at a later date.

    Leader: Shelby Gibson

    Meet: at the Mill of Kintail Conservation Area, in the parking lot, 1 Almonte Street, Mississippi Mills.

    Note, there is a $6 fee for each car.

    There are over 730 species of bees found in Canada. Shelby will introduce us to some of our native bees with a short talk and she will provide specimens for us to observe. We will follow that with time in the field to search for bumblebees and count them. The habitat has open field areas as well as trails, so we should have a good mix of things to look at.  Counts will be added to a Citizen Science project, “The Great Canadian Bumblebee Count", which runs July/August. Wear sturdy shoes and dress for the sun and biting insects. Bring water and a snack, also binoculars, camera and butterfly/bug net if you have them. This outing is very “kid-friendly”! Register at events@mfnc.ca

     

     

     

  • Sat
    08
    Jul
    2017
    8:30 am - 4:30 pmAlmonte

    Leaders: Jeff Skevington and Peter Hall

    Meet:  in the parking lot at the intersection of Dwyer Hill Road and March Road (NE of Almonte).
    Call Jeff Skevington Friday evening at 613-720-2862 if in doubt about the weather or for specific questions regarding this event. The rain date will be July 9.  Similar to Christmas Bird Counts, this event is an all-day survey of in a 24 km diameter circle. The count area is centred on Manion Corners (SW of Ottawa) and includes several important butterfly areas such as the Long Swamp and the Burnt Lands alvar. No experience is necessary - we will put teams together on site and match up people so that everyone has a chance to learn from the experts. If you have binoculars and a butterfly net, please bring them along. Butterflies may be captured for identification and release. Rubber boots are recommended, as some of the sites have a lot of poison ivy.  It is an all-day event so bring your lunch.
    We plan to meet at 6:00 pm after the count for a compilation and potluck dinner at the Allisons’ home at 561 Wolf Grove Road, about 2.6 km west of Almonte. Please bring along some food to share plus your own drinks. We hope that everyone can make it to the compilation, as it will be a lot of fun; however, if you can’t, we will get your data in the afternoon before you leave. OFNC has generously offered to pay the count fees for participants to support publication of the data. Registration is not required for this event. This event is especially "kid friendly".

  • Wed
    28
    Jun
    2017
    8:30 amWhite Lake

    Leader: Michael Runtz

    Meet: 8:30 am in the parking lot of the Metro Store, 375 Daniel Street, Arnprior. Park close to the road. We will carpool from there.

    This is a unique wetland which holds multiple species of our native orchids, carnivorous plants and unusual insects too, like the Bogbean Buckmoth. Wet feet are guaranteed in the fen so old running shoes make perfect footwear on a hot day. Hip-waders or tall rubber boots would work too. It is a good idea to cover up with light clothing for protection against the sun and the biting insects. Bring a hand lens and binoculars if you have them. Expect to be out until early afternoon and bring lots of water and a lunch. There will be an ice cream stop along the way to our picnic area. Note: There will be a limited number of registrations accepted for this trip due to the sensitive nature of the fen habitat. Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Tue
    27
    Jun
    2017
    2:30 pm-4:30 pmArnprior

    Leader:  Michael Runtz

    Meet:  At the trailhead on McNab St. Directions are on our website.

    Michael, who was one of the original founders of the trail and who knows the natural history of the trail intimately, will lead us on a discovery walk through the area where we will be building the extension.  This is a wonderful opportunity to see the trail if you have never walked it before and a great chance to see the extension plans if you are a regular on the trail. Wear comfortable shoes (Rubber boots would be best for those wanting to explore the wetter areas.) and be prepared for biting insects.  Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Mon
    12
    Jun
    2017
    6:15 pmWest Carleton Secondary School, 3088 Dunrobin Road

    Due to the weather forecast, this event is moved to June 12.

    Leader: Art Goldsmith

    Meet: at the front door of West Carleton Secondary School. We will walk back to the Bill Mason Centre from there.

    Target species in the wetland will be Wilson’s Snipe, American Bittern, Virginia Rail and Sora. In the forest and fields we should see a variety of songbirds and woodpeckers. There will be mosquitoes so cover up and bring repellent. Register at events@mfnc.ca

     

  • Tue
    06
    Jun
    2017
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Patty McLaughlin has been involved with the Wild Bird Care Centre since she was 16. After completing 2 university degrees in biology, she now works at the centre looking after wounded birds brought in by the public, and running their educational program.

    The Presentation:

    The Ottawa Valley Wild Bird Care Centre is the only place in the Ottawa Valley Area dedicated to the care, treatment, and release of sick, injured, and orphaned wild birds. It is a registered charitable organization and through public donations is able to care for over 3000 wild birds annually. The Centre welcomes visitors to come and learn about its history and daily operations, and hear stories about the most common and the most unusual patients! The presentation will provide a firsthand experience of what it is like to care for over 120 different species of wild birds each year though pictures, video and facts. Ms. McLaughlin will share tricks used to keep the birds comfortable in captivity based on their typical personalities, interesting facts, and miraculous recoveries. She will be accompanied by her sidekick, Indigo, an American kestrel, who cannot be released back into the wild because of his injuries.

    Biography:

    Patty McLaughlin first became involved with the Wild Bird Care Centre at the age of 16 as a volunteer.  She continued to work as a summer student for 5 years as she completed her B.Sc. in Zoology at Laurentian University. She finished her M.Sc. at Carleton University before returning to the Bird Centre where she has been caring for the birds as well as developing and running their educational program for the last 6 years. In 2013, Patty received The Elizabeth Le Geyt Award in recognition of her outstanding contribution to public awareness and care for wild birds. Patty’s passion to educate others about birds and the natural world lead her to create a Young Naturalist program for the Mississippi Valley Field Naturalists. Now in its 5th year, this successful program continues to fill to its maximum capacity with nature loving 5 – 11 year olds.

  • Sat
    20
    May
    2017
    7a.m.-1p.m.Riddell Dr.

    This will be a great outing as Celia Bodnar will show us the full workings of a bird banding operation. We will have the opportunity to learn about the important research and monitoring activities occurring at Innis Point and to observe bird banding when migration is near its peak. This will include taking birds out of mist nets (if the weather cooperates), and learning how to band the birds as well as record all of the data for each bird. The Innis Point Bird Observatory was founded in 1982 and is a non-profit organization dedicated to the study of birds and natural history. The site is on the Ottawa River and is wet and rocky in places. Dress for the weather and wear boots. Bring drinks and snacks.

    How to get there: From the lights in Dunrobin Village, turn northeast at the lights onto Thomas A. Dolan Pkwy and then take the second right to turn onto 6th Line. Drive down 6th Line about 7 km to where it swings sharp left and becomes Riddell Dr. Don’t turn, just drive straight onto the driveway that ends in a locked Department of Defence gate. Pull in here and wait at the gate. Someone will meet us at the gate at 7:00 am so please arrive a few minutes before that to be sure not to be locked out. If you are late, we cannot come back to let you in. (If you are coming from Ottawa, turn onto the Dunrobin Rd. from March Rd. and Riddell Dr. will be the first right turn.) For more information contact Angela Skevington 613-832-1970  This event is weather-sensitive.  Please check the website the night before; any changes would be posted there.

  • Sun
    14
    May
    2017
    12:00p.m.-3:00p.m.Arnprior

    Leader:  Owen Clarkin

    Meet:  at the Trailhead on McNab St.

    As a follow-up to Owen's presentation at our May 2 club meeting, we will explore the Macnamara trail from a botanical perspective.   His special interest is native trees of Eastern Ontario so we will focus on these but there will also be many other plants and animals to observe as we wander around this diverse area.  Wildflowers should be abundant and there will certainly be birds.  Don't forget your binoculars.  Sturdy footwear is recommended.  Register at  events@mfnc.ca

     

  • Sat
    13
    May
    2017
    all dayBrighton, ON

    Leader:  Doug Mcrae

    This will be an all-day outing in the park where we will watch for spring migrants. There should be a good variety of warblers by this time of year, along with ducks and many other species of interest. We will begin early in the morning so it is advisable to stay in the area overnight Friday. There are accommodations nearby and camping is available in the park. The group will be limited to 25 members so please register early at events@mfnc.ca and questions may be sent to this same address.  More information will be provided to registrants.

  • Tue
    02
    May
    2017
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Gilles Grove, Arnprior

    Gillies Grove

    Our Presenter:

    Owen Clarkin grew up near Russell Ontario, and has been studying the trees of Eastern Ontario as a dedicated amateur from an early age. He has a formal background in the natural sciences and is Chair of the Conservation Committee of the Ottawa Field Naturalists’ Club.

    The Presentation:

    We live in a rapidly-changing natural environment.  Among life-forms, trees often give an impression of dynamic stability due to their potential for relatively long lives, and static appearance once mature.  However, observations on the ground indicate that the treed landscape of eastern Ontario and wider North America is changing rapidly. This is due to many factors including higher mortality of and indifference to indigenous species, changes in habitat, and the unprecedented large-scale introduction of alien trees and pests.  Mr. Clarkin will discuss the history of trees in our region, present-day observations, and trends to consider as we look to the future.

    Biography:

    Owen Clarkin grew up near Russell Ontario, and has been studying the trees of Eastern Ontario as a dedicated amateur since the age of 4. After finishing a conventional education in the natural sciences, he has been more seriously exploring topics in tree ecology from an Eastern Ontario perspective, together with a core group of colleagues. He is Chair of the Conservation Committee of the Ottawa Field Naturalists’ Club.

  • Sat
    08
    Apr
    2017
    6:30 pmMunster area (meet at Park&Ride, details below)
    One of the great sights of early spring is the mating display of the American Woodcock. These shorebirds are common but require a special effort to see well.
    We will be driving 45 minutes to the Munster area to look for these birds as we know this area well. Meet at  6:30pm at the Park and Ride on County Road 29 just north of highway 417.
    Bring binoculars and a flashlight and have kids wear snowpants or rain pants as we will be laying on the ground at times. It will be a bit of a late night for kids as these birds are only active at dusk and after dark but it should be a lot of fun and well worth the loss of a few winks. If we are lucky we may also hear or even see an owl as the area is great for a variety of wildlife.
    Adults without kids also welcome!
     
    If you have any questions, please email angela_skevington@yahoo.ca or call at (613) 832-1970.
  • Tue
    04
    Apr
    2017
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Jessica Forrest is an Assistant Professor of Biology at the University of Ottawa. Her research focuses on the ecology and evolution of plant-pollinator interactions and the population biology of wild bees.

    The Presentation:

    Of the approximately 4000 species of bees native to North America, none produces marketable honey—but all have fascinating, and usually solitary, private lives. In this presentation, Dr. Forrest will give an overview of the natural history of bees, with a focus on the Canadian fauna. She will also summarize some of her lab’s recent findings on the factors affecting wild bee populations—including flowers, parasites, and temperatures—and discuss ways to support local pollinator communities.

    Biography:

    Jessica Forrest is an Assistant Professor of Biology at the University of Ottawa, where she teaches upper-level ecology courses, including an alpine ecology field course and courses on plant-animal interactions. Her research focuses on the ecology and evolution of plant-pollinator interactions and the population biology of wild bees. Jessica completed her PhD in 2011 at the University of Toronto and has conducted field work in Colorado, California, and Ontario. To learn more about her lab’s research, visit https://forrestlab.wordpress.com/.

  • Sun
    02
    Apr
    2017
    7:00 pmArnprior/Pakenham area

    Leader: Michael Runtz

    Meet: in the Metro store parking lot, 375 Daniel St., Arnprior. Park opposite the store but close to the road. We will carpool from there.

    Michael will lead us to several locations where we can expect to find owls. Target species are: Barred Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl and Eastern Screech-Owl. Along the way we will learn about the ecology and behaviour of these beautiful and fascinating birds. Dress very warmly; we will be standing outside for periods of time. This trip is now full.

  • Tue
    07
    Mar
    2017
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin St., Arnprior, ON

    A highlight annual event.  Combine learning, laughter and camaraderie. NO experience is necessary! Puns welcome.  If you are good at riddles, then this is the place to be! But, be prepared to meet your match. Michael's riddles are challenging, evocative and ever so finely crafted.

    Come and find out. This is an awesome and exhilarating way to learn about local natural history. Michael’s contagious enthusiasm, his keen insight into the intricacies of nature, and the countless anecdotes of his experiences as a naturalist always make for a very entertaining evening.

    Participants will be divided into teams that will compete to answer riddles and identify items from nature. Is there a young, dynamic, capable team ready to conquer all? Or perhaps, 2 out of 3?

  • Fri
    10
    Feb
    2017
    7:30 pmOxford Mills

    with Fred Scheuler and Aleta Karstad

    Due to high water levels and low numbers of mudpuppies coming to the dam this week, we have postponed the event to February 10 when we are much more likely to have good numbers of them.
    A study of the Oxford Mills mudpuppies was begun in 1998 and continues every Friday night over the winter. We are invited to go and participate in this kid-friendly activity. The location has unusually large numbers of mudpuppies and we hope to see lots of them in the shallow water as they come upstream to feed. Wear warm, high, water-proof footwear as we will be standing in the water for about 1h. Bring a flashlight if you have one. The Brigadoon pub is nearby for a snack and a hot drink after, or participants may wish to have dinner there before the event. Register at events@mfnc.ca. Registrants will receive more details later.

     

  • Tue
    07
    Feb
    2017
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    A highlight annual event.  Combine learning, laughter and camaraderie. NO experience is necessary! Puns welcome.  If you are good at riddles, then this is the place to be! But, be prepared to meet your match. Michael's riddles are challenging, evocative and ever so finely crafted.

    Come and find out. This is an awesome and exhilarating way to learn about local natural history. Michael’s contagious enthusiasm, his keen insight into the intricacies of nature, and the countless anecdotes of his experiences as a naturalist always make for a very entertaining evening.

    Participants will be divided into teams that will compete to answer riddles and identify items from nature. Is there a young, dynamic, capable team ready to conquer all? Or perhaps, 2 out of 3?

  • Sat
    14
    Jan
    2017
    11am-2pmMarch Road

    Leader: Jakob Mueller

    Meet:  at the trailhead, which is on the March Road at Huntmar. There is a small lot which will accommodate some cars and parking on the road is the other option.

    Come and discover this new trail on the Carp Ridge in Carp and enjoy a general nature walk. Bring your binoculars, snowshoes, water and a snack. Register at events@mfnc.ca

    Note: On Friday afternoon, January 13, the trails are hard packed but not icy.  Either snowshoes or sturdy boots would be fine.

  • Tue
    03
    Jan
    2017
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin St., Arnprior, ON

    We are looking forward to learning all about your prized nature or natural history possessions or experiences! Please sign in at the door with the item or topic you wish to showcase. If you are showing photos, there should not be more than five and they should be on a USB key. You may also bring prints to put on a table. Donations welcome from non-presenters (a Loonie or Toonie, please). See you there!

  • Wed
    28
    Dec
    2016
    1:00 pmMacnamara Trail

    Meet at the Macnamara Trailhead on McNab Street at 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. (weather permitting) for a walk to count the birds. We'll be learning about some of our feathery winter residents and recording how many we see and hear to report to the group.

    Interested adults also welcome!

    Please register ahead by email with Telsing Andrews at  telsing_andrews@hotmail.com.

     

  • Mon
    26
    Dec
    2016

    103rd Annual Pakenham-Arnprior Christmas Bird Count

    December 26:  103rd Annual Pakenham-Arnprior Christmas Bird Count. We are looking for participants with at least minimal experience in identifying birds. Participants are assigned an area to cover and are paired so no one goes alone. It is a full day event with a pot-luck dinner/compilation afterwards. If you wish to take part, please contact Michael Runtz at mruntz@start.ca or at 613-387-2503.

  • Tue
    06
    Dec
    2016
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Bill Montevecchi is a University Research Professor in the Psychology, Biology and Ocean Sciences Departments at Memorial University of Newfoundland.  His interdisciplinary research lab focuses on the behavioral ecology of birds and their responses to environmental change.

    The Presentation:

    Funk Island, a small granite outcrop 50 km off the northeast Newfoundland coast, is home to a large colony of Northern Gannets and the world’s largest colony of Common Murres. The island’s remoteness and treacherous access for humans and other terrestrial predators, has allowed these cliff-nesting seabirds to lay their eggs at ground zero.

    Just over a couple of centuries ago, Funk Island held the largest breeding aggregation of the last flightless bird of the northern hemisphere – the Great Auk or “Penguin” as it was called then. The grassy meadow on the otherwise bald rock has grown upon the composed remains of the many thousands of auks that were discarded by crews that plucked their down for stuffing in mattresses and quilts.

    Yet during historical times and well before, another people – the Beothuk also visited Funk Island for different purposes.  This talk will explore the co-occurrences of the extinct flightless bird and the extinct indigenous people who have captured my imagination since I first set foot on Funk Island 40 years ago and have been returning every year since.

    Biography:

    Bill Montevecchi is a University Research Professor in the Psychology, Biology and Ocean Sciences Departments at Memorial University of Newfoundland.  His interdisciplinary research lab focuses on the behavioral ecology of birds and their responses to environmental change.  He has more than 350 publications, including Newfoundland Birds: Exploitation, Study, Conservation (1987, Harvard University) written with the late Les Tuck.  His permanent community exhibition Funk Island Seabirds and the Extinct Great Auk on Fogo Island provides a basis for conservation, educational and artistic activity.

    In May 2016, the Canadian Partners in Research bestowed him with their Natural Science Ambassador Award.  In 2011, Nature NL presented him with the Tuck – Walters Award, and in 2008 Ocean Net acknowledged his efforts with a Local Hero Award.  He is a Science Advisor for Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council [NSERC], the US National Science Foundation, Bird Studies Canada, Nelson Canada, the Wilderness and Ecological Reserves and the Species Status Committees of Newfoundland and Labrador, and is Chair of the Sandy Pond Alliance to Protect Canadian Waters.  He has served as a Director of Nature Canada and the Nature Conservancy [Atlantic]. beothukgreat-auk

  • Sun
    27
    Nov
    2016
    12:00 pmArnprior/Pakenham area

    Leader: Jon Ruddy

    Meet: at the Metro parking lot, Daniel St., Arnprior. Park opposite the store but close to the road. We will carpool from there.

    We will travel by car from downtown Arnprior to nearby areas where we might expect to see birds of prey. Red-tailed Hawks, Rough-legged Hawks, Snowy Owls, Short-eared Owls, Northern Shrikes, Bald Eagles and American Kestrels are all possibilities. We may even find a Golden Eagle. Of course, we will watch for any interesting birds along our route. Dress really warmly as we will be standing outside for periods of time. Some of us plan to stop at PJ's in Arnprior for dinner after the outing. Please indicate when you register if you wish to stay for dinner.  Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Tue
    01
    Nov
    2016
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin Street, Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Allan Donaldson is a retired professor from the Department of Geology, Carleton University in Ottawa. His specialty is sedimentology, with an emphasis on rock strata of Precambrian age.

    The Presentation: 

    Stromatolites are distinctive layered structures formed by biofilms of cyanobacteria. They provide an impressive record of the only life that existed throughout the first 90% of our planet's 4.6 billion-year-old history. When more complex life forms evolved at the end of the Precambrian, predation on cyanobacterial precursors was a predictable consequence, resulting in a paucity of stromatolites thereafter. In much of the Ottawa Valley, however, stromatolites are remarkably abundant in Ordovician strata, and some occur in the underlying Cambrian strata. An environmental condition unsuitable for biofilm browsers such as gastropods is the likely reason. Absence of gastropod fossils within the stromatolite-bearing strata, along with associated evidence of evaporitic conditions, suggest that hypersalinity is the likely explanation for abundant stromatolites throughout the Ottawa Valley. Hamelin Pool in Shark Bay, Australia, provides a present-day example of such an environment.

    Biography:

    Allan Donaldson (BSc Queen's 1956, PhD Johns Hopkins 1960) spent a decade working for the Geological Survey of Canada, followed by 35 years as a professor at Carleton University. His teaching and research specialty is sedimentology, with an emphasis on studies of strata of Precambrian age. In retirement Allan continues to contribute to geological outreach projects in Eastern Ontario.

  • Sun
    23
    Oct
    2016
    9:00 amArnprior

    Meet:  at the Macnamara trail kiosk

    Please come and help with this important activity if you can spare a few hours or even less.  We usually work until noon but any time you can offer would be appreciated. Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes.  Bring work gloves, pruners and loppers, if your have them.  Contact Steve Duffield at s.duffield@xplornet.com for more information and to confirm your participation.

  • Sat
    15
    Oct
    2016
    10:00 amAntrim/Pakenham area

    Leader:  Dave Forsyth

    Meet:  at 10:00 a.m. in the parking lot of the Anglican Church, Antrim, at the corner of the Kinburn Side Rd. and old highway 17

    We will car pool from there and travel to 3 or 4 local sites to examine fossils from the Ordovician Period, about 450 million years ago. These fossils range from corals to cephalopods. For those who wish to continue on, we will stop for lunch in Pakenham and explore two more sites in the afternoon. Wear sturdy shoes and comfortable clothing.  Register at events@mfnc.ca

    Kid-friendly!

  • Tue
    04
    Oct
    2016
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin St., Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Jim des Rivières is a photographer and fine art printer who created a website (moths.ca) to share images of moths collected in and around the Ottawa Valley.
    The Presentation:
    For several years he has been photographing local moths and butterflies, but mainly moths. Working with dried specimens, he captures high resolution digital images directly with a desktop flatbed scanner, from which he makes large prints using an inkjet printer. The large prints allow the viewer to see the creature close up without need of a magnifying glass. This reveals a marvellous world of intricate shapes, structures, and colours that surprise and delight viewers of all ages. In this presentation he will run through the stages involved in producing these works of art on paper, and showcase some of his favourite local moths.
    Biography:
    Jim des Rivières is a photographer and fine art printer. He is best known for his exhibit of 45 large format moth images ( http://moths.ca/exhibit/ ) which were first shown at Ottawa’s Canadian Museum of Nature in 2010 and are currently touring nature museums in cities across Canada and the U.S., including New York City, Edmonton, and Saint John.

  • Sun
    02
    Oct
    2016
    1:00 pmArnprior

    Leader:  Suzanne Monnon

    Meet:  at the Macnamara Trail, directions on this website

    Have you ever wanted to learn the basics about mushrooms? If your answer is "yes" then this outing is for you. We will go into the forest to search for and identify many different types of fungi.

    Our leader has been an avid amateur mycologist for many years. She will share her knowledge in a way that beginners will understand, so no previous knowledge is necessary.

    Wear weather-appropriate clothing. Bring a small knife, loupe lens if you have one, water and a snack.Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Sat
    24
    Sep
    2016
    10 a.m. to noon3348 Hunt Line Road, Kinburn

    Snakes and Bees

    Sleepy bumblebees and sunning garter snakes, come and learn about what these (and more) backyard residents are doing as the growing year winds down and how they overwinter. An interactive walk for young field naturalists.

    Register at youngmacs@mfnc.ca

  • Sun
    11
    Sep
    2016
    1:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.Metcalfe Geoheritage Park (MGP) in Almonte

    Leader: Allan Donaldson, Ottawa-Gatineau Geoheritage Project

    Meet: At 1:30 p.m. in the parking lot adjacent to Metcalfe Geoheritage Park (MGP) in Almonte .

    The outdoor display of 22 rock specimens in Metcalfe Geoheritage Park offers an introduction to the principal rock types that underlie Eastern Ontario. Originally established more than a decade ago, the display has been recently upgraded by moving it to an open area and adding a walkway loop, with an explanatory entrance way panel. Additional specimens will be on hand to show features typical of the Canadian Shield, the overlying local Paleozoic strata and the unconsolidated glacially deposited overburden.

    The tour of MGP in Almonte will be finished by 3 p.m., but for those interested, additional stops will be made on the return trip to view bedrock exposures in Almonte and Pakenham.

    This trip depends on the weather. Please visit the Macnamara Field Naturalists’ Club website (mfnc.ca) for notice of cancellation. This field trip will be limited to the first 20 members who register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Tue
    06
    Sep
    2016
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin St., Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Dr.  Grégory Bulté is a biology instructor at Carleton University where he teaches lecture-based and field courses about animal biology, ecology, and evolutionary biology.

    The Presentation:

    The reproductive behaviours of aquatic turtles are poorly understood due to the difficulties of studying these animals under natural conditions. Since 2003, I have been studying the ecology and behaviour of the northern map turtle in Lake Opinicon. Using a wide range of field techniques, my collaborators and I have uncovered many aspects of the reproductive biology of this fascinating creature. I will share with you the most exciting highlights of this on-going work as well as some tantalizing unanswered questions.

    Biography:

    Grégory Bulté is a biology instructor at Carleton University where he teaches lecture-based and field courses in the areas of animal biology, ecology, and evolutionary biology. He is particularly interested in the behaviour, conservation, and natural history of amphibians and reptiles and has been spearheading a long-term ecological study on the northern map turtle in Lake Opinicon.

    Grégory first completed a college degree in biological techniques which ignited his interest for wildlife research. He then completed an undergraduate degree in biology at l’Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières followed by a PhD in biology at the University of Ottawa, and a post-doctoral fellowship at Carleton University.

     

    Photo by Michael Runtz

    Basking allows northern map turtles to elevate their body temperature and absorb energy. Photo by Michael Runtz

  • Sat
    13
    Aug
    2016
    8:30 p.m. - midnightArnprior

    Due to a forecast of unfavourable weather this outing is cancelled, hopefully to be rescheduled for next summer.

    Leader: Diane Lepage

    Meet:  At 8:30 p.m. at the trailhead on McNab St., Arnprior. Directions available on this website.

    Come to the trail to discover and identify many of our local moths and find out what they are doing in the nighttime. Black lights will be set up and then we will wait in the dark as various moths are attracted to the white sheet that has been put up on the trail. Bring a flashlight, bug repellent, study footwear and a field guide if you have one.
    This trip depends on the weather. In the case of rain or temperatures below 16 degrees C, the outing will be cancelled. It will be limited to the first 20 members who register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Sat
    16
    Jul
    2016
    10 a.m. to noonConstance Bay

     

    This field trip has been cancelled.

  • Sun
    03
    Jul
    2016
    8:30 amDwyer Hill Rd.

    Members of MFNC are invited to join in this event.

    Saturday, 2 July, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
    (rain date Sunday 3 July)
    *Especially kid friendly*

    Leaders: Jeff Skevington and Peter Hall
    Meet: in the parking lot at the intersection of Dwyer Hill Road and March Road (NE of Almonte).

    Similar to Christmas Bird Counts, this event is an all-day survey of in a 24 km diameter circle. There is a $4 charge to participants to support the publication of the results. The count area is centred on Manion Corners (SW of Ottawa) and includes several important butterfly areas such as the Long Swamp and the Burnt Lands alvar. No experience is necessary - we will put teams together on site and match up people so that everyone has a chance to learn from the experts. If you have binoculars and a butterfly net, please bring them along. Butterflies may be captured for identification and release. Rubber boots are recommended, as some of the sites have a lot of poison ivy. It is an all-day event so bring your lunch.

    Call Jeff Skevington Friday evening at 613-720-2862 if in doubt about the weather or for specific questions regarding this event. Use OFNC Facebook or Twitter to arrange car pooling. We plan to meet at 6 p.m. after the count for a compilation and pot luck dinner (location to be announced). Please bring along some food to share plus your own drinks. We hope that everyone can make it to the compilation, as it will be a lot of fun; however, if you can't, we will get your data in the afternoon before you leave.

  • Sun
    03
    Jul
    2016
    12:30 pmArnprior

    Leader: Lis Allison

    Meet: At 12:30pm at the trailhead on McNab St., Arnprior

    Would you like to know more about the ferns along the Macnamara Trail? There are approximately 40 species of ferns native to the Ottawa Valley and the Trail has almost half of them, including the best patch of Walking Fern in the Valley.  Join Lis Allison for a brief (15 minute) talk about ferns, followed by a guided walk to see some of them. This trip will run rain or shine, unless severe weather is forecast. Please register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Sun
    26
    Jun
    2016
    8:30 amMetro Parking Lot, 375 Daniel Street, Arnprior

    Leader: Michael Runtz

    Meet: 8:30 am in the parking lot of the Metro Store, 375 Daniel Street, Arnprior. Park close to the road. We will carpool from there.

    This is a unique wetland which holds many of our native orchids and unusual insects too. Wet feet are guaranteed in the fen so old running shoes make perfect footwear on a hot day. Rubber boots would work too. It is a good idea to cover up with light clothing for protection against the sun and the biting insects. Bring a hand lens and binoculars if you have them. Expect to be out until early afternoon and bring lots of water and a lunch. There will be an ice cream stop along the way to our picnic area. Note: There will be a limited number of registrations accepted for this trip due to the sensitive nature of the fen habitat. Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Tue
    07
    Jun
    2016
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin St., Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Katie Clow, DVM, is a PhD Candidate at the University of Guelph examining the ecology of Lyme disease in Ontario, and a graduate from the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) at the University of Guelph.

    The Presentation:

    Dr. Clow will explore the key ecological factors associated with the blacklegged tick and Lyme disease in Ontario. Emphasis will be placed on the role of habitat, climate and wildlife for the establishment and spread of this emerging disease. Some of the common myths and misconceptions of Lyme disease will be discussed. Participants will be provided with practical knowledge on how to protect themselves from blacklegged ticks, while still enjoying the great outdoors.

    Biography:

    Dr. Katie Clow graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) at the University of Guelph in 2011. During veterinary school, she completed internships at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Following graduation, she practiced small animal medicine in Renfrew, ON. In the fall of 2013, Katie began her PhD thesis examining the ecology of Lyme disease in Ontario in order to better understand and predict the distribution and spread of the disease. She has a keen interest in veterinary public health, and hopes to continue her career in academia, with a strong focus on vector-borne disease research, teaching and international development.

  • Wed
    01
    Jun
    2016
    6:30 pmWest Carleton Secondary School, 3088 Dunrobin Road

    Leader:  Art Goldsmith

    Meet:  at the front door of West Carleton Secondary School at 6:15 pm.  We will walk back to the Bill Mason Centre from there.

    Target species in the wetland will be Wilson’s Snipe, American Bittern, Virginia Rail and Sora. In the forest and fields we should see a variety of songbirds and woodpeckers. There will be mosquitoes so cover up and bring repellent. Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Sun
    22
    May
    2016
    10:00 amMacnamara Trail

    Calling all Young Naturalists, the forest of late spring looks very different than the forest of midsummer. With the leaves not quite unfurled on the deciduous trees, wildflowers burst from the ground and set bloom fast while sun still floods the forest floor.

    Join us to see the ephemeral spring flowers and to observe other signs of late spring at the Macnamara trail. We'll be taking notes, and doing some drawings to compare with a later walk at the same location.

    In the meantime, if you want to learn about a neat interaction between ants and flowers, check out the elaisome.

    Please register by email at youngmacs@mfnc.ca

    NOTE: THIS EVENT HAS NOW BEEN CANCELLED.

  • Sat
    14
    May
    2016
    8:00am-12:00pmDunrobin area

    Directions: From the Dunrobin Road turn onto Riddell Drive.  Drive down Riddell about 5km to where it swings sharp left and becomes the 6thLine. There is a flashing amber light here and a driveway on the right leading to the locked DND gates.  Pull in here and wait at the gate. Someone will meet us at the gate at 8:00 so please arrive a few minutes before that to check in with Maureen.

    The Innis Point Bird Observatory was founded in 1982 and is a non-profit organization dedicated to the study of birds and natural history. We will have the opportunity to learn about the important research and monitoring activities occurring there and to observe bird banding at this busy time of the year when migration is at a peak. The site is on the Ottawa River and is wet and rocky in places. Dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear. The trip will be limited to the first 24 members who register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Tue
    03
    May
    2016
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin St., Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Naomi Cappuccino is an associate professor at Carleton University where she teaches a variety of courses in the general areas of ecology and evolution.

    The Presentation:

    Dog- strangling vine is one of the most invasive alien plants in Ontario. Naomi Cappuccino will share the results of research conducted in collaboration with her students and colleagues to understand what characteristics give this plant such an advantage over native vegetation and make it so difficult to eradicate. The potential for biological control of the vine using herbivores brought in from its native range in Ukraine will also be discussed.

    Biography:

    Naomi Cappuccino is an associate professor at Carleton University where she teaches a variety of courses in the general areas of ecology and evolution.  Naomi obtained a BA in Biology from Brown University and a PhD in ecology and evolutionary biology from Cornell University. Her interests include the ecology of invasive alien plants and insects and how best to control these pest species. Together with colleagues at the Central Experimental Farm, she has been involved with the recent releases of biological control agents that attack dog-strangling vine, the lily leaf beetle and the leek moth.

  • Sun
    17
    Apr
    2016
    7pm-9pmWoodlawn/Dunrobin

    Meet: On Stonecrest Rd, at the corner of MacLaren Side Rd.  Park on the side of the road.

    Join members of the club to welcome the sounds of spring as we search for Spring Peepers, Chorus Frogs, Wood Frogs, Spotted Salamanders, various bugs and other creatures which seem to come alive as the ponds finally melt. We will visit ponds in two different places in the Woodlawn-Dunrobin area. Wear your highest rubber boots, if you have some, dress warmly, bring a flashlight and a net if you have one. Bring the kids.  This will be a very “kid-friendly” event and will tie in well with the Young Macs’ outing on Saturday! Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Sat
    16
    Apr
    2016
    1:00 pmKinburn area

    Salamander Conservationist  Matt Ellerbeck (A.K.A the Salamander Man) will be joining the Young Macs and interested adults for an insightful talk on nature's tailed amphibians...the salamanders!

    The presentation will feature live species both local and exotic!

    Matt Ellerbeck is licensed with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, and is also a Partner of the Amphibian Survival Alliance (ASA), which is the world's largest partnership for amphibian conservation.

    Directions to the location will follow upon registration. Register by email to youngmacs@mfnc.ca

  • Sun
    10
    Apr
    2016
    7:00 pmArnprior/Pakenham

    Leader:  Michael Runtz

    Meet:  in the Metro store parking lot, 375 Daniel St., Arnprior.  Park opposite the store but close to the road.  We will carpool from there.

    Michael will lead us to several locations where we can expect to find owls. Target species are:  Barred Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl and Eastern Screech-Owl. Along the way we will learn about the ecology and behaviour of these beautiful and fascinating birds.  Dress very warmly; we will be standing outside for periods of time.  Register at events@mfnc.ca  NOTE: EVERYONE WHO HAD REGISTERED FOR THE ORIGINAL DATE IS ASKED TO RE-REGISTER FOR THE April 10 OUTING.

  • Tue
    05
    Apr
    2016
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin St., Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Colin Jones is a lifelong naturalist and is the Provincial Arthropod Zoologist at the Natural Heritage Information Centre, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry in Peterborough, Ontario.

    The Presentation:

    Dragonflies and damselflies are beautiful and truly fascinating creatures! From the Ebony Jewelwing to the Stygian Shadowdragon, these insects are not only an important part of our ecosystem, they are also exciting to watch. Colin Jones will be presenting a talk, complete with photographs, on the Dragonflies and Damselflies of Ontario during which he will highlight their fascinating life cycle, their conservation, the habitats they are found in and how you can learn more about them yourselves by getting out there and watching them first-hand.

    Biography:

    Colin Jones – Colin is a lifelong naturalist and is the Provincial Arthropod Zoologist at the Natural Heritage Information Centre, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry in Peterborough where he deals primarily with rare species. Like many naturalists, Colin first developed a keen interest in birds and birding but this interest gradually grew into other areas. Over the past 25 years, he has been very interested in the study of Odonata (dragonflies and damselflies). He is coordinator of the Ontario Odonata Atlas project and is the co-author of “A Field Guide to the Dragonflies and Damselflies of Algonquin Provincial Park and Surrounding Area”, now in its 2nd edition.

  • Sat
    19
    Mar
    2016
    1:00 p.m.- 2:30 p.m. Kinburn

    Saturday, March 19: Wildlife in a Sugarbush

    Young Macs and adults will meet at a family sugarbush to see how it operates, and to look for signs of wildlife including snapped maple branches from squirrels hoping for treats, insects attracted to the sap buckets, footprints in the snow (depending on the level) or even other critters appearing from the leaf litter. All going well, we'll also be boiling and have some of the sweet stuff available for sampling.

    Register by email to youngmacs@mfnc.ca

    Directions will be provided upon registration.

  • Tue
    01
    Mar
    2016
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin St., Arnprior, ON

    Our Presenter:

    Dr.  Grégory Bulté is a biology instructor at Carleton University where he teaches lecture-based and field courses about animal biology, ecology, and evolutionary biology.

    The Presentation:

    The reproductive behaviours of aquatic turtles are poorly understood due to the difficulties of studying these animals under natural conditions. Since 2003, I have been studying the ecology and behaviour of the northern map turtle in lake Opinicon. Using a wide range of field techniques, my collaborators and myself have uncovered many aspects of the reproductive biology of this fascinating creature. I will share with you the most exciting highlights of this on-going work as well as some tantilizing unanswered questions.

    Biography:

    Grégory Bulté is a biology instructor at Carleton University where he teaches lecture-based and field courses in the areas of animal biology, ecology, and evolutionary biology. He is particularly interested in the behaviour, conservation, and natural history of amphibians and reptiles and has been spearheading a long-term ecological study on the northern map turtle in lake Opinicon. Grégory first completed a college degree in biological techniques which ignited his interest for wildlife research. He then completed an undergraduate degree in biology at l’Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières followed by a PhD in biology at the university of Ottawa, and a post-doctoral fellowship at Carleton University.

  • Sun
    28
    Feb
    2016
    1:00 - 4:00Fitzroy Provincial Park

    Due to an unfavourable weather forecast for Feb. 28, this event is cancelled. New date to be determined.

    Host: Karen Krueger

    Meet:  227 Kedey Street, Fitzroy Harbour.  Park on the street or at the end of the street.

    Karen will show us some of her favourite spots in the park where we should find lots of tracks and signs of animals as they go about their winter activities. We will look for Bald Eagles and other birds, visit a waterfall and a beaver pond.

    After the outing we are invited back to Karen's for snacks and hot drinks. Karen has cats and a dog, all of which are friendly, but please keep this in mind if you have allergies. Bring your snowshoes and the kids for this activity. Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Tue
    02
    Feb
    2016
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin St., Arnprior, ON

    A highlight annual event.  Combine learning, laughter and camaraderie. NO experience is necessary! Puns welcome.  If you are good at riddles, Michael's are the BEST-challenging, evocative and ever so finely crafted.

    With Art away sweating in the wilds of Florida, will Gord win AGAIN?  Is there a young, dynamic, capable team ready to conquer all? Much more fun than watching the usual hockey game.

    Who will win the coveted Seton Cup (we don't have one yet, but if you want to bring one and have it engraved, you are welcome)?

    Come and find out. This is an awesome and exhilarating way to learn about local natural history. Michael’s contagious enthusiasm, his keen insight into the intricacies of nature, and the countless anecdotes of his experiences as a naturalist always make for a very entertaining evening. Participants will be divided into teams that will compete to answer riddles and identify items from nature.

     

  • Sun
    24
    Jan
    2016
    1:30 - 4:30Carp

    Sunday, January 24, 1:30pm - 4:30pm: Exploring Nature on Snowshoes in the Carp Hills

    Leaders: Jeff Skevington and Gord Vogg
    Host: Janet Mason

    Meet: at the W. Erskine Johnston Arena in Carp beside the charitable donation bin and carpool from there for a 15 minute drive to the property.

    On this field trip you are invited to explore a 297 acre private property in the heart of the Carp Hills, the only expression of Canadian Shield within City of Ottawa boundaries.  Beaver ponds and lodges, gneissic outcrops, Provincially Significant Wetlands, and rugged pine/oak uplands are showcased.  We will look for signs of animals and learn how they survive through the winter. Bring your binoculars since we expect to see several species of birds, perhaps a ruffed grouse or raptor among them. We will also learn to recognize shrubs and trees in their winter garb. It is a great opportunity to explore this beautiful landscape, which becomes more accessible on snowshoes. This will be a fairly strenuous excursion but kids old enough to handle the activity are encouraged to join us. We are all invited back to Janet’s for hot drinks after the outing.  Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Sat
    16
    Jan
    2016
    1:00 - 5:00Arnprior

    Postponed to January 16 due to unfavourable weather in the forecast.

    Leader: Jon Ruddy

    Meet: at the Metro parking lot, Daniel St., Arnprior. Park opposite the store but close to the road. We will carpool from there.

    We will travel by car from downtown Arnprior to nearby areas where we might expect to see birds of prey. Red-tailed Hawks, Rough-legged Hawks, Snowy Owls, Northern Shrikes, and Bald Eagles are all possibilities. And we can always hope for the rare and unexpected - even a Golden Eagle or a Gyrfalcon! Dress warmly as we will be standing outside for periods of time. Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Tue
    05
    Jan
    2016
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club, 15 Galvin St., Arnprior, ON

    We are looking forward to learning all about your prized nature or natural history possessions or experiences! Please sign in at the door with the item or topic you wish to showcase. If you are showing photos, there should not be more than five and they should be on a USB key. You may also bring prints to put on a table. Donations welcome from non-presenters ( a Loonie or Twonie, please).

  • Sat
    26
    Dec
    2015

    If you wish to be included in this all-day event, please contact Michael Runtz at mruntz@start.ca   Binoculars and some birding experience are essential. It will be followed by a pot-luck dinner at the Arnprior Curling Club and a celebration of Michael's 50th year of participation in this count.

  • Tue
    01
    Dec
    2015
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club

    Note: This is our Annual General Meeting.  Club business precedes our regular agenda of sightings and our presentation.

    Our Presenter: Dr. Stacey Robinson is a Research Scientist at Environment Canada’s National Wildlife Research Centre in Ottawa.

    Neonicotinoids and Their Effects on Amphibians

    The Presentation:

    Neonicotinoids are a new class of insecticide used in agriculture and can contaminate surface waters via run-off from fields. In recent years, the use of neonicotinoids has been speculatively linked to the collapses of honey bee colonies. Given that neonicotinoids are now the most widely-used insecticides worldwide, with substantial use in Canada, and persist in the environment, there is potential for widespread contamination of agriculture-associated aquatic ecosystems. My project examined the health impacts of neonicotinoid pesticides on aquatic ecosystems by studying the sub-lethal effects on amphibians, specifically wood frogs and northern leopard frogs.

    Biography:

    Stacey is a Research Scientist at Environment Canada’s National Wildlife Research Centre in Ottawa. Her research program focusses on studying the effects of pesticides and other contaminants on non-target wildlife. Stacey completed her PhD in 2011 at Carleton University where she studied the relationships between contaminants and parasites in double-crested cormorants. Stacey grew up on a hobby farm near Russell, Ontario and her childhood consisted of raising farm animals and camping with her family. She has always been fascinated and appreciative of the natural environment. Her first experiences of field research involved following white-throated sparrows through the forests of Prince George, British Columbia. She was studying the birds’ parasite infections for her undergraduate thesis at Wilfrid Laurier University. Stacey was always encouraged by her parents to follow her passions and she now has her dream job at Environment Canada.

    staceywoodfrog

    One of Stacey's Wood Frogs, spending its first day as an adult.

  • Sat
    07
    Nov
    2015
    9:30 amMacnamara Trail Kiosk

    Leader: Steve Duffield

    Meet: in the parking lot of the Macnamara Trail

    Come for the morning or only part of the morning if you can spare an hour or two. Bring loppers and pruning shears if you have them. Work gloves, sturdy footwear and water are essential. Please register.

  • Tue
    03
    Nov
    2015
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club

    Our Presenter: Dr. Jeff Skevington is a research scientist at the Canadian National Collection of Insects, Arachnids and Nematodes (with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada) and an Adjunct Professor at Carleton and Guelph Universities.

    The Presentation:

     Including over ten percent of all described animal life on the planet it behooves us as naturalists to know a bit about flies. With 160,000 described species and over 10 times that number undescribed, flies occupy every imaginable ecological niche. The ‘bad’ flies are actually very small in number but have shaped human history and development across the planet. Malaria transmitted by flies has kept parts of Africa, the Orient and South America wild and continues to kill enormous numbers of us annually. In Canada, some areas are off limits for ranching as the stock would be killed by biting flies. But even more than the negatives, flies provide enormous economic advantages for us. Pollinator flies are second only to bees in their role in agriculture and some foods like chocolate are entirely reliant on pollinator flies. Decomposition and sewage treatment are dominated by Diptera (the scientific name for flies). I will take you on a walk through this jungle of diversity and along the way will throw out as many fascinating nature nuggets as possible about this amazing group of animals. What is that swelling on your favourite chipmunk’s groin? Why does Hollywood love flies? How many fruit flies can one female and her progeny produce in a year? What fly species provides one of the biggest tourist attractions in New Zealand? How many mosquito species are there in Canada? How long does it take for flies turn a dump truck full of oranges into compost? How about an animal carcass? What flies provide nuptial gifts to their partners (tips you won’t find on Ashley Maddison!)? How can you identify and learn more about species of animals that form such a staggering diversity? Bring any flies or photos of flies you have been curious to learn about and we will try to figure out what they are. I will even bring some pinned fly specimens from the Canadian National Collection for show and tell before and after the presentation.

    Biography:

    Jeff has been a research scientist at the Canadian National Collection of Insects, Arachnids and Nematodes (with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada) since 2003. He is also an adjunct professor at Carleton University and University of Guelph where he has been involved with training and mentoring over 50 of the next generation of biologists and in particular insect systematists. His research specializes on the taxonomy and phylogenetics of flies, in particular flower/hover flies (Syrphidae), big-headed flies (Pipunculidae) and thick-headed flies (Conopidae). Jeff did his training at the University of Guelph with Steve Marshall (MSc) and the University of Queensland with David Yeates (PhD). He has maintained an Australian slant to his research since his time living there. Australia is the true frontier for insect taxonomists as most of the fauna remains to be discovered and described. Jeff has published over 100 research articles, book chapters and books. Many can be downloaded from his website (www.canacoll.org/Diptera/Staff/Skevington/Skevington.htm). Jeff ‘s trajectory as a naturalist started with insects at a very early age, diversified into birds at age 8, and expanded to include all things natural during his undergraduate days as a park naturalist first at Algonquin and then at Pinery. Mentors in the Woodstock and St. Thomas Field-Naturalists’ Clubs had a lot to do with shaping his interests and directions but as with many naturalists, it was his experience in Algonquin that solidified his goals and his work with Steve Marshall that really turned him on to insects.

  • Sun
    18
    Oct
    2015
    12:00 pmMorris Island Conservation Area

    Leader: Dave Forsyth

    Meet: Morris Island Conservation Area, 156 Morris Island Drive

    We will look at marble mineralogy, the glacial legacy (the best pothole specimens anywhere) and metamorphic structures. How has this geology affected glacial processes and the present day forest and aquatic habitats? You may find it helpful to look over the information on our website, beforehand, about the geology of the island. On the homepage, see “More Information”, “Macnamara Trail”, “Geology Field Guides”. Register for this outing at events@mfnc.ca

  • Sat
    17
    Oct
    2015
    10:30 amFitzroy Provincial Park

    Join the Young Macs as they watch the geese and ducks prepare to fly to their winter feeding grounds. We’ll discuss their amazing journeys along with the dynamics of feathers and flight.

    Register with Telsing Andrews at youngmacs@mfnc.ca

    Meet at Karen Kroeger’s: 227 Kedey Street, Fitzroy Harbour. It’s a short walk from there to the waterfront in Fitzroy Provincial Park. Karen’s number is 613-622-1626.

    Be sure to check the Macnamara website before heading out on Saturday in case there are any last-minute changes.

    All ages welcome! And hot chocolate back at Karen’s after the outing!

  • Sat
    17
    Oct
    2015
    10:30 amFitzroy Provincial Park

    Join the Young Macs as they watch the geese and ducks prepare to fly to their winter feeding grounds. We’ll discuss their amazing journeys along with the dynamics of feathers and flight.

    Register with Telsing Andrews at youngmacs@mfnc.ca

    Meet at Karen Kroeger’s: 227 Kedey Street, Fitzroy Harbour. It’s a short walk from there to the waterfront in Fitzroy Provincial Park. Karen’s number is 613-622-1626.

    Be sure to check the Macnamara website before heading out on Saturday in case there are any last-minute changes.

    All ages welcome! And hot chocolate back at Karen’s after the outing!

  • Tue
    06
    Oct
    2015
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club

    Our Presenter: Dr. Myron L Smith is the Chair of the Biology Department at Carleton University.

    The Presentation:

    The Fungi comprise an enigmatic group of organisms that is most closely related to the animal kingdom. Fungi are familiar to most of us as moulds and mushrooms, but we tend to overlook their profound impacts on human affairs as plant and animal pathogens and symbionts, in industrial fermentation processes, as decomposers and as research subjects. In this talk, I will provide a brief overview of the functional and structural diversity of fungi, and highlight some surprising aspects of their biology, genetics and behaviour.

    Biography:

    Dr. Smith served as the Director of the Institute of Biochemistry from 2002-2007 and is a member of the Institute of Environmental Science. Dr. Smith teaches courses in general and molecular genetics, biotechnology, mycology and molecular ecology. His research encompasses genetics, molecular biology, microbiology and general biology and focuses on four main themes: i) deciphering the biochemical and genetic bases of non self recognition-associated cell death, ii) identification and characterization of new antibiotics from ethnobotanical leads and from agroforestry and bioprocessing ‘waste’ for use in health, food and industrial applications, iii) development of methods to identify and enumerate microbial strains for environmental monitoring, and iv) application of genetic markers to life history studies. This research spans questions of basic biological interest and has biotechnology applications in diverse areas that include health, agrifood industry, environmental contaminants, and biofuel developments.

    Dr. Smith obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Botany at the University of Alberta and his PhD at the University of Toronto at Mississauga, specializing in genetics within the Biotechnology Program. Following his Ph.D., Dr. Smith received NSERC and Killam Post-Doctoral Fellowships to carry out genetics research in the Biotechnology Laboratories at the University of British Columbia.

  • Thu
    24
    Sep
    2015
    4:00 pmShirley's Bay Boat Launch

    Leader: Jon Ruddy

    Meet: P1 parking lot at the Shirley’s Bay boat launch at the end of Rifle Rd.

    We will explore the river near the parking lot for waterfowl and raptors then head onto the trails to look for local and migrating birds in the forest. At this time of year we should find a good variety of species. The trails lead to a causeway where migrating shore birds can be found in the shallow water nearby.

    Bring binoculars and drinking water. The trails are relatively flat and easy to walk but sturdy shoes are recommended. Register at events@mfnc.ca

  • Sat
    12
    Sep
    2015
    10:00 am

    Hosts: Katharine and Eric Fletcher

    Meet: 9AM at Liza Badham’s home, (5689 Ferry Rd.) to carpool and take the Quyon Ferry to the Fletcher property, Spiritwood, 4316 chemin Steele, OR meet us there at 10AM if you are coming from another direction.

    Katharine and Eric will introduce us to their 100-acre home farm, Spiritwood, where they have lived since 1989. Katharine is a visual artist, freelance writer & columnist, and author of several books including: Capital Rambles, Capital Walks, and Historical Walks: The Gatineau Park Story. Together, Katharine and Eric have authored: Québec Off The Beaten Path. Eric is a professional photographer, computer specialist and publications/document manager.

    Spiritwood enjoys rich biodiversity: meadows, paddocks for two horses, a pond, wetland and mixed forest — which backs into the southwest “wilderness” sector of Gatineau Park. With plenty of verges, as well as open meadowland and woods, the Fletchers find many species of birds, including Eastern Whip-poor-will, American Bittern, Bobolink, Eastern Bluebird and 3 species of Swallow. Also seen on the property are mink, otter, fisher, deer, black bear, bobcat, green frogs (along with the uncommon blue morph), salamanders and more.

    Katharine and Eric invite us to come, wander their trails, climb the escarpment edge and look out over the Ottawa Valley to the Ottawa River — and beyond. In September, the leaves will be turning so expect beautiful views. Bring a lunch, binoculars, comfortable footwear, and your knowledge and appreciation of nature to share.

  • Sun
    06
    Sep
    2015
    10:30 amMacnamara Trail Kiosk

    Join Telsing Andrews at the Macnamara Trailhead as the Young Macnamara Field Naturalists explore seed dispersal — from those that hitch a ride on your socks to those that explode to new locations.

    Register at youngmacs@mfnc.ca and address any questions about the outing to this address as well.

    Be sure to check the Macnamara website before heading out on Sunday in case there are any last-minute changes.

    All ages welcome!

  • Tue
    01
    Sep
    2015
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club

    Our Presenter: Éric Hébert-Daly, National Executive Director, Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society.

    The Presentation:

    Public conservation in Canada takes a long time from start to finish. And while the processes move along slowly, development and encroachment happen quickly and often outpace our ability to plan. Southern Canada, in particular in our own region, has significant additional pressures, but they all have one thing in common: poor or non-existent planning. Where are the connections between protected areas for wildlife? Where are the buffer zones needed to ensure healthy ecosystems? We are no where near our international commitments to conservation – both in quality and in quantity. How do we get there from here?
    Biography:

    Éric has been CPAWS’ National Executive Director since April 2009. He was previously Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer for one of Canada’s major political parties. Éric is fluently bilingual, a graduate of Concordia University’s School of Community and Public Affairs, and a Certified Lay Worship Leader for the United Church. He has worked with municipal, regional and national groups across Canada and has focussed his attention on social justice, ecological and human rights issues throughout his career. Éric is an avid cyclist and hiker and has travelled extensively throughout Canada, with a particular interest in remote and northern regions from Labrador to Inuvik. He enjoys canoeing, cross-country skiing and camping, as well as his home life shared with his partner on the north edge of Gatineau Park near Ottawa.

  • Sat
    08
    Aug
    2015
    9:00 amOttawa Street entrance to Gillies Grove

    Leader: Steve Duffield

    Meet: 9AM at the Ottawa Street entrance to Gilles Grove, Arnprior

    As a follow-up to the recent presentation to our club by Gary Bell from the Nature Conservancy of Canada, a trip through one of the Conservancy’s properties, Gillies Grove, which he discussed, is in order. We will wander through the trails to see the magnificent old trees of this park, which was spared the fate of the surrounding forest because it was part of the Gillies homestead. One Eastern White Pine on the property was recently named the tallest tree in Ontario. Along the way we will likely see birds, butterflies and dragonflies so bring your binoculars. Water, insect protection and sun protection are essential.

  • Sat
    11
    Jul
    2015
    10:00 amMorris Island Conservation Area

    Leader: Christian Renault

    Meet: 10 AM in the parking lot of the Conservation Area on Morris Island Drive.

    This area with trails along the Ottawa River should provide excellent opportunities to find many different species of dragonflies and damselflies at this time of year. Sturdy footwear is recommended for these trails but the trails are relatively flat and easy to walk. Bring a lunch, sun and insect protection. We expect to be at the site for about 3 hours.

  • Sat
    27
    Jun
    2015
    8:30 amMetro Parking Lot, 375 Daniel Street, Arnprior

    Leader: Michael Runtz

    Meet: 8:30 am in the parking lot of the Metro Store, 375 Daniel Street, Arnprior. Park close to the road. We will carpool from there.

    This is a unique wetland which holds many of our native orchids and unusual insects too. Wet feet are guaranteed in the fen so old running shoes make perfect footwear on a hot day. Rubber boots would work too. It is a good idea to cover up with light clothing for protection against the sun and the biting insects. Bring a hand lens and binoculars if you have them. Expect to be out for most of the day and bring lots of water and a lunch. There will be an ice cream stop along the way to our picnic area. Note: There will be a limited number of registrations accepted for this trip due to the sensitive nature of the fen habitat.

  • Sun
    14
    Jun
    2015
    2:00 pmConstance Bay Community Centre

    Leaders: Owen Clarkin and Art Goldsmith

    Meet: 2pm at the Constance Bay Community Centre

    The Torbolton Sandhills host unique flora and fauna. Bring out the whole family for a walk in the Torbolton Forest and learn more about the natural history of this area.

  • Wed
    03
    Jun
    2015
    6:00 pmWest Carleton Secondary School, 3088 Dunrobin Road

    Target species in the wetland will be Wilson’s Snipe, American Bittern, Virginia Rail and Sora. In the forest and fields we should see a variety of songbirds and woodpeckers. There will be mosquitoes so cover up and bring repellent.

  • Tue
    02
    Jun
    2015
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club

    Gary Bell, Conservation Biologist – Eastern Ontario,  Nature Conservancy of Canada, will update us and present to us about Gillies Grove and the Gervais property, near Westmeath, Ontario, which has been purchased with a generous donations from the Ottawa Field Naturalist Club supplemented by a donation by our Club. Join us to better understand the importance of these NCC properties supported by our Club.

    Did you know the Ottawa River Valley is home to the longest underwater cave system in Canada? Beneath the surface lies a subterranean wonderland seldom seen by the human eye – the Ottawa River Caves. The labyrinth measures over 10 kilometres in length under several islands throughout the Ottawa River, and includes a four kilometre section on the Ontario side of the river known as the Gervais Caves.  The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) purchased the 82-acre Gervais Caves property in January 2015 protecting most of the entrances to the caves on the Ontario side.  The property also protects important karst landforms, sinkholes and a diversity of species, including rare and at risk species.

    Come and hear the latest on the Gillies Grove Nature Reserve, including current stewardship actions, initiatives and partnerships and our recent, record-breaking discovery.

  • Tue
    12
    May
    2015
    1:00 pmTrailhead at Old Second Line and Klondike Road, Kanata

    Join keen members of the club on a hike through the extensive trails of this lovely area. Here we should find a great variety of the ephemeral flowers of spring, before they disappear in early summer when the tree leaves shade the forest floor. Bring a hand lens and wildflower guide if you have them. Binoculars would also come in handy since there should be time to listen and look for birds. Prepare for mosquitoes and bring water and a snack.

  • Sat
    09
    May
    2015

    This will be an all-day outing in the park where we will watch for spring migrants. There should be a good variety of warblers by this time of year. We will begin early in the morning so it is advisable to stay in the area overnight Friday. There are accommodations nearby and camping is available in the park.

    There will be a small fee required to cover the expenses of our group leader, likely about $10 per adult, and there is a fee to enter the park.

  • Tue
    05
    May
    2015
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club

    Dr. Valerie Behan-Pelletier, an Honorary Research Associate (an Emeritus position) with the Research Branch of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, will present: Have you eaten any soil lately? Soil, where oribatid mites live and where our food begins...

    We live on the rooftops of a hidden world. In one handful of rich organic soil lives a greater diversity than in a coral reef – soil is the “poor man’s tropical rainforest”. It is the luxuriant tapestry that ensures life on earth; it is where most of our food begins. Yet, soils are possibly the least understood of the planet’s ecosystems, and the most fragile, and are increasingly among the most degraded ecosystems in many parts of the world.

    Dr. Behan-Pelletier will use oribatid mites, one of the most diverse groups of mites in soil, to show the interactions of animals in this ecosystem. 2015 is the International Year of Soil; she will illustrate how soil is the critical transition between the Earth’s terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, and how a biodiverse soil provides the essential ecosystem services, including carbon and nutrient cycling, decomposition of dead organic matter; biocontrol and development of soil structure to ensure plant growth. Oribatid mites are a key component of this soil biodiversity, and among the most beautiful.

    This talk will illustrate the latest knowledge on the biological complexity of oribatid mites. It will focus on their ecology, their defense mechanisms, and their diversity in the dynamic interplay that is the soil ecosystem. It will show how they and other charismatic microfauna are contributing to our quality of life.

  • Fri
    17
    Apr
    2015
    7:00 pmStonecrest Road, at the corner of MacLaren Side Road

    Leader: Jakob Mueller

    Meet: 7 p.m. on Stonecrest Road, at the corner of MacLaren Side Road. Park on the side of the road.

    Welcome the sounds of spring as we search for Spring Peepers, Chorus Frogs, Wood Frogs, Spotted Salamanders, various bugs and other creatures that seem to come alive as the ponds finally melt. We will visit ponds in two different places in the Woodlawn-Dunrobin area. Wear your highest rubber boots, if you have some, dress warmly and bring a flashlight. Bring the kids; this will be a very “kid-friendly” event!

  • Sun
    29
    Mar
    2015
    7:00 pmMetro Parking Lot, 375 Daniel Street, Arnprior

    Meet at 7 p.m. in the parking lot of the Metro store, 375 Daniel Street South, Arnprior. Park away from the store, close to Daniel Street. From the parking lot we will carpool and then drive to several locations where we will search for owls. Dress very warmly; we will be standing outside the cars for periods of time. Target species will be Barred and Northern Saw-whet Owls, and Eastern Screech-Owls. Along the way, expect to learn more about these fascinating birds from Michael as he discusses their ecology and behaviour.

  • Tue
    03
    Mar
    2015
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club

    Dr. Brent Patterson,  a research scientist with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry and an adjunct professor at Trent University will provide a presentation on: Wolves and Coyotes in Ontario. Brent  joined the MNRF as a research scientist in 2001 and has been an adjunct professor at Trent University since that time as well.  His research involves studying wolves, coyotes, deer and moose in both temperate and boreal regions.  Prior to joining the MNR Brent worked for 3 years as a biologist for the Government of Nunavut in the central Canadian Arctic where he worked with caribou, muskox and wolverine.  Brent has a M.S. in Wildlife and Conservation Biology from Acadia University, and a Ph.D. in biology from the University of Saskatchewan.

  • Sun
    01
    Mar
    2015
    1:00 pm227 Kedey Street, Fitzroy Harbour

    Host: Karen Krueger

    Park at the house, on the street, or at the end of the street. There is a dead end not far from the house. Join us for a nature outing on snowshoes through some of the trails of Fitzroy Provincial Park where we should see many winter birds and find lots of tracks and other signs of mammals going about their daily activities. We’ll walk along the banks of the Carp River to a spot where bald eagles are sometimes spotted and past a beaver pond. We’ll see “shale pillars that stand as testaments to the erosive power of water.” And visit a lovely frozen waterfall surrounded by ancient cedar trees. If we’re lucky, we’ll see the pair of pileated woodpeckers that frequent the park. After the outing, join us for a social gathering back at the home of Karen Krueger. Karen has three friendly cats and a friendly dog. Please keep this in mind if you have allergies. Bring snowshoes and a snack; hot drinks will be provided.

  • Fri
    06
    Feb
    2015

    Leaders: Dr. Fred Schueler and Aleta Karstad

    Meet: 5:30PM at the Brigadoon Restaurant in Oxford Mills (if you wish to have dinner there beforehand) OR meet there at 7:30PM for a brief talk before heading out to see the Mudpuppies nearby. The restaurant has directions on its website.

    After we are introduced to these amazing large salamanders we will go to the water below the dam, where the Mudpuppies venture out after dark to feed on the flat bedrock. This is the best Mudpuppy viewing site in Ontario and there should be plenty of opportunity to examine them up close. Expect to be outside for at least an hour, either near, or preferably in, the shallow water. Dress very warmly and wear your tallest waterproof boots. Bring a strong flashlight if you have one. Register at events@mfnc.ca and please indicate whether or not you will be coming for dinner.

  • Tue
    03
    Feb
    2015
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club

    This is an interesting and entertaining way to learn about local natural history. Michael’s contagious enthusiasm, his keen insight into the intricacies of nature, and the countless anecdotes of his experiences as a naturalist always make for a very entertaining evening. Participants will be divided into teams that will compete to answer riddles and identify specimens.

  • Sat
    24
    Jan
    2015
    10:00 amMetro Parking Lot, 375 Daniel Street, Arnprior

    Leader: Owen Clarkin

    Park close to the road, away from the store. We will carpool from there to the Nature Preserve. We will walk or snowshoe the beautiful trails of High Lonesome in the Pakenham Highlands. Footwear will be dependent on the amount of snowfall we have beforehand, so please check this website before heading out. Our emphasis will be on trees in winter but we will also look for signs of animals and watch for birds. Bring along a hand lens and binoculars if you have them. There is an old barn where we can find shelter for lunch; bring food and water. After lunch we will head back to the trails until about 2pm.

  • Tue
    06
    Jan
    2015
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club

    We are looking forward to learning all about your prized nature or natural history possessions or experiences! Please sign in at the door with the item or topic you wish to showcase. If you are showing photos, there should not be more than five and they should be on a USB key. You may also bring prints to put on a table.

  • Fri
    26
    Dec
    2014

    The annual bird count is being held on Boxing Day. We are looking for participants with at least minimal experience in identifying birds. Participants are assigned an area to cover and are paired so no one goes alone. It is a full day event with a pot-luck dinner/compilation afterwards.

  • Sat
    01
    Nov
    2014
    9:00 amMacnamara Trail Kiosk

    Many thanks to all who participated!

    This will be an all-morning activity but drop by even if you can only spare an hour or two. We will be adding wood chips to the trail so bring a shovel and wheelbarrow if you have them. Loppers and pruning sheers would be useful too.

  • Sat
    18
    Oct
    2014
    12:30 pm

    Leader: Dave Forsyth

    Beneath the mud, clays and Ordovician sediments, all of Arnprior is underlain by Precambrian marble. From the mid 1800s until perhaps 1900, marble from Arnprior quarries was fashioned into monuments, urns, pedestals, columns, tabletops, baptismal fonts, headstones and even blocks for the first Houses of Parliament. This tour will help us appreciate: the marble sites within Arnprior, the people involved in the industry, some off their products and the significance of Arnprior’s “Marble Industry”.

  • Sun
    05
    Oct
    2014
    10:00 amOttawa Street entrance to Gillies Grove

    Leader: Richard Aaron

    Come on a fungal excursion through Gillies Grove. There should be lots of things growing in all sorts of colours, shapes and sizes. We may even see some slime moulds. Bring field guides and a magnifying lens if you have one, plus water and a lunch.

  • Tue
    03
    Jun
    2014
    7:30 pmArnprior Curling Club

    Our presenter is Wildlife/Species at Risk Biologist at Garrison Petawawa.

    The Kirtland’s Warbler is an endangered song bird that was considered to be one the rarest birds in the world.  In Canada there were only 18 documented sightings in breeding habitat up until 2005.  In 2006, it was re-discovered at Garrison Petawawa (formerly CFB Petawawa).  Since then, the Department of National Defence has been surveying, monitoring, and protecting Kirtland’s Warblers.  Birds have been returning and nesting on the Army facility.