ANNE CATHRAE – YOUR 2016 NORAH TOTH AWARD WINNER

When Anne Cathrae was asked about her first reaction to being named the 2016 Norah Toth Award winner her answer was indicative of her selfless attitude.

“I didn’t think I qualified,” she said. “I went back to the criteria and I think the only criteria that gets me into this is my volunteering…something insignificant like that.”

But when you look at the fact that Anne has volunteered at 17 of 19 festivals beginning in 1999, her contribution to HFBF over time is hardly ‘insignificant’. In fact those who’ve known and worked with Anne over the years see things differently.

As far as John Cummings is concerned, “What a truly deserving candidate! Never has anyone done so much for so many, and been observed by so few while doing it!”

“She’s there at the crack of dawn and stays until the last gun is fired,” says Liz Addison. “She recognizes just about everyone so if someone is missing from a group or shows up late, she directs them to where their group went.”

And Norah Toth describes Anne as, “The face of the festival for those who are returning and new. She is always at the on-site registration tent.” That’s her domain, her office, her resource for every HFBF activity happening on any given day, from the crack of dawn to the end of the day’s schedule. If ever the Huron Fringe Birding Festival had a familiar face it would be Anne’s. Her ability to work with, and organize, the various wide range of personalities within the Festival volunteers without losing her cool never ceases to amaze. As far as Anne is concerned though, “its long hours but not hard work.”

Anne would be the first to tell you that she considers herself ‘a non-practicing birder.’ But, as such, she appreciates and values nature and has been active with the Owen Sound Field Naturalists, Grey Sauble Conservation Foundation and a financial supporter of the Cabot Head Bird Observatory and other related groups.

The way Anne sees it is simple, “I guess I’ve been working for nature now for quite a while.”

True Anne. And that’s the prime reason why you are the 2016 HFBF Norah Toth Award Winner.

http://www.huronfringebirdingfestival.ca

HOW TO BUILD A BUTTERFLY BOMB!

This is a weapon that could change the world. It’s small, inexpensive and easy to conceal. Now if anyone at CSIS, the RCMP, CIA or NRA is monitoring this blog…relax, because discharging it in public wouldn’t harm any living creature. What it would do though, is save millions of lives…Monarch Butterfly lives.

The Monarch is in trouble throughout North America. Illegal logging, use of pesticides and herbicides, habitat loss and the misunderstanding of its only host plant, Milkweed, have led to its present state.

The solution is the milkweed seed bomb: a golf-ball-size grenade of dirt, clay and seeds that might just help salvage one of the most magnificent—and recently, most endangered wildlife migrations on Earth.

Each year, millions of monarchs embark on a trek that spans the length of an entire continent, from Mexico to Canada—a distance of 2,400 miles. On the way north, the monarch population cycles through four generations. Going south, a single “supergeneration” makes the long trip.

Guerrilla gardeners have been launching milkweed seed bombs into vacant or dilapidated urban lots for years. And HFBF is taking up the cause with Audrey Armstrong leading the way. As well as learning how to nurture monarch butterfly populations by growing your own easy to maintain monarch way station garden, she’ll have you making seed balls, looking for monarchs, eggs and larvae along the Lake Huron shore and visiting local way stations.

Butterfly Bombs are easy. Make a tiny mud pie out of dirt, clay, and milkweed seed—making sure to use seeds that are native to your area and haven’t been treated with any kind of pesticide. Then just play a little game of patty-cake to shape the pies into projectiles, let them dry for a bit in the sun, and lob the mud globs onto any patch of land that makes sense (just make sure your respect private property). The Monarchs will thank you. Really.

A13 – MONARCH FRIENDLY HABITAT – Saturday, May 28– 9:00 am

An active presenter with the Monarch Teacher Network, Audrey Armstrong leads workshops about the monarch butterfly, habitat development and Voices From the Land (engaging children and adults with art through nature, language and drama) throughout Canada and the USA. She taught with the Bluewater District School Board for 25 years and now embraces the opportunity to travel, hike, ski, bike, canoe and explore this wonderful world. Audrey will teach you how to nurture monarch butterfly populations by growing your own easy to maintain monarch way station garden. Following a slide show in the morning, the afternoon will be outdoors, making seed balls, looking for monarchs, eggs and larvae along the Lake Huron shore and visiting local way stations.

Registration available online now!

http://www.huronfringebirdingfestival.ca

Registration inquiries: birdfest@rogers.com

or 519-389-6231

Follow us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HuronFringeBirdingFestival.

twitter: @HuronBirdfest

 

Bring a pencil and notebook.

B27 Sarah Rupert – Field Sketching and/or Journaling – Saturday June 4 at 1:30 PM

“One the best things we can do to learn more about nature is to really take the time to observe what we are seeing in the field. This is where a nature journal becomes and invaluable tool. By taking the time to make careful observations and record these observations, we begin to really understand what we are seeing, rather than just checking a name off a list. Sketching what we see can take our observations to an entirely new level! Everyone can learn to sketch in the field – the quality of the final product is not important – it’s the process of observing and recording that really matters. Nature journaling documents your adventures and helps you hone your observation skills. Everyone can keep a nature journal, even if you think you can’t draw. Join me and I will show you some easy tricks to start sketching and really observing nature in the field. We’ll take some time to talk about different types of journals, from field notebooks to sketch books, from digital notes to art journals. Then we’ll head out into the field and have some fun with the some easy sketching exercises – you’ll be surprised what you’ll be able to capture by the end of the session.”

Sarah has been birding her entire life. She hasn’t missed a spring at Point Pelee since her first visit at two and half months old. At three, she received her first pair of binoculars, and she credits her Dad, a well known birder, as being her birding mentor, and in honouring his memory and legacy, she has been and continues to be a birding mentor to many others – introducing them to birding, or helping those established to hone their skills.

Sarah has spent many years exploring the wonder of birds and nature, which she loves to share with others through interpretive programs, writing and mixed media art. She eagerly awaits the arrival of spring and birders to Pelee each spring.

B27 Sarah Rupert – Field Sketching and/or Journaling – Saturday June 4 at 1:30 PM

Registration online

http://www.huronfringebirdingfestival.ca

Registration inquiries: birdfest@rogers.com or 519-389-6231

Follow us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HuronFringeBirdingFestival.

twitter: @HuronBirdfest

 

EVERYTHING YOU EVER WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY…

…BUT DIDN’T KNOW WHO TO ASK…

Well, the Huron Fringe Birding Festival can help you get the answers. That’s because we have four nature photography events and workshops tailored to any experience level. Each one covers an aspect of nature photography with techniques and tips that will have you taking the pictures of birds, wildflowers, sunsets and waterscapes you’ve always wanted in your portfolio. Each event gives you an “ask and learn experience” with photographers who know the ins and outs of taking great shots. And that’s what they’re there for.

Check out our shooters and their events and REGISTER NOW www.huronfringebirdingfestival.ca – before they’re full.

FRIDAY MAY 27 – A6 1:30 pm LET THERE BE LIGHT – Fran Sanagan

Learn how lighting influences your photographs. In this workshop, you will learn a variety of natural lighting techniques, and how to get the most out of outdoor flash photography. There will be an opportunity to share your photos and discuss the results.

Fran Sanagan

THURSDAY JUNE 2 – B6 – 1:30 pm – WHAT’S YOUR QUESTION – Fran Sanagan

Bring your photographic questions to Fran. With his many years of experience, he will offer insights into how to get the photos you’re after. From raw images to photo editing, Fran can help you improve your technique with his tips of the trade.

SATURDAY MAY 28 – A19 (NEW) 1:30 pm ETHICS OF BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY – Terry Crabe

The Tower Trail provides many opportunities to view birds but what are the challenges for the casual or professional photographer who wants to get the best shot. A birder and photographer, Terry will share the principles he follows.

MONDAY MAY 30 – A42 1:30 pm DOWN & DIRTY PHOTOGRAPHY – Doug Pedwell

Participants will explore through photography the wildflowers growing along the Old Shore Road Trail. All types of cameras welcome. Be prepared to get down and dirty.

FRIDAY JUNE 3  – B16 1:30 pm SAUGEEN SHORES: WATERSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY

Kerry Jarvis

Saugeen Shores is a treasure chest for photographers. Learn photographic waterscape techniques to enhance your photography skills and discover some of the majestic vistas in Saugeen Shores.

Registration is available online now!

http://www.huronfringebirdingfestival.ca

Registration inquiries: birdfest@rogers.com or 519-389-6231

Follow us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HuronFringeBirdingFestival.

twitter: @HuronBirdfest

FLOWERPOT – NATURE’S SPECIAL ISLAND

A view from the Jet Boat

If you’ve ever wanted to explore FLOWERPOT ISLAND, this is the perfect opportunity. On Sunday, May 29, an exhilarating open-air jet boat will take you from Tobermory to the showcase island of Fathom Five National Marine Park. Flowerpot Island is famous for shoreline flowerpots, perched caves, rare orchids and birdwatching. If you’ve ever wanted to experience FLOWERPOT ISLAND with someone who knows this marvelous natural wonder inside out, Doug Pedwell is your man for this not-to-be-missed exclusive HFBC excursion.

Flowerpot Island is a magical place. Designated in 1930, it is considered to be one of Canada’s most remarkable islands. Its unique natural features include 2 large rock flowerpots, caves, cliffs, ferns and orchids.

You’ll be boarding a Jet Boat at the Blue Heron Dock and heading out to visit the island by first crossing 5 kms of crystal-clear waters from Tobermory. It’s an exciting ride and the tour boat gives you a great water-view of your destination.

On the island the tour will follow a loop trail to the flowerpots, the caves, the light station and a variety of habitats. During migration birds pile up on the island as they cross the narrows to Manitoulin Island, so there are good bird watching possibilities.

Calypso’ Fairy Slipper. (Calypso bulbosa)

An added bonus are the Calypso Orchids, for which the island is famous. There is the possibility that they may be up given our late spring.

If the wind is too high and Georgian Bay to rough for the jet boat to operate safely, we will stay on the mainland for a Tip of the Bruce Tour will be an equally worthy substitute equally rich with birds, world-class scenery and fun nature to explore.

Doug Pedwell is your guide to this remote Georgian Bay Habitat. Since retiring from teaching, Doug has been able to indulge his lifelong passions of nature study, photography and travel.  He can often be found wandering the back roads of Bruce and Grey counties in search of flora, fauna and landforms to photograph. A member of the Bruce Birding Club, the Saugeen Shores Camera Club and a past-president of the Friends of MacGregor Point Park.

A25 6:00 AM – SUNDAY MAY 29 -A GUIDED TOUR OF FLOWERPOT ISLAND

(difficult, car-pool, jet boat, bring backpack & lunch – $45 extra per person)

A Tour that’s not to be missed.

SO BOOK NOW ON-LINE AT:

http://www.huronfringebirdingfestival.ca

Registration inquiries: birdfest@rogers.com or 519-389-6231

Follow us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HuronFringeBirdingFestival.

twitter: @HuronBirdfest

 

 

 

 

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

TOP PICKS FROM THE HFBF COMMITTEE

 

We’re known as one of Canada’s Premier Nature and Birding Festivals for good reason…variety. Sure we’re all about birds but we take great care to cover every aspect of nature and how you choose to experience it as a child, a first time birder, an artist, a photographer, a field naturalist, a stargazer, a botanist or whatever. Below are some of our HFBF committee member’s top choices to satisfy your version of your favourite nature activity. Have a look. There truly is ‘something for everyone.’

FRIDAY MAY 27                                                           

A5 7:30 am BIRDING THE EDGE OF MacGREGOR – Terry Crabe – The MacGregor landscape offers a variety of habitats that provide the right niches for a good number of different species. Travelling by car to these areas, we will seek them out on short walks into each habitat.

A7 1:30 pm ARE YOU A PLOVER LOVER? – Stew Nutt – If you’re not already, you will be after spending time on the beach with these charismatic, endangered birds.

SATURDAY MAY 28

(NEW FOR 2016) A13 9:00 am MONARCH FRIENDLY HABITAT – Audrey Armstrong – Learn how to nurture monarch butterfly populations by growing your own easy to maintain monarch waystation garden. Following a slide show in the morning, the afternoon will be outdoors, making seed balls, looking for monarchs, eggs and larvae along the Lake Huron shore and visiting local way stations.

SUNDAY MAY 29

A25 6:00 am FLOWERPOT ISLAND – Doug Pedwell – An exhilarating open-air jet boat will take you from Tobermory to the showcase island of Fathom Five National Marine Park. Flowerpot Island is famous for shoreline flowerpots, perched caves, rare orchids and birdwatching. If Lake Huron is too rough, a Tip of the Bruce tour will be an equally worthy substitute! (difficult, car-pool, jet boat, bring backpack & lunch) ($45 extra per person)

A30 7:00 am eBIRDING THE PARK – Mike Burrell – Mike will take you birding, then introduce you to eBird, the amazing online repository of bird sightings, abundance, distribution and seasonal occurrence. You’ll find out how easy it is for you to become a citizen scientist and contribute your sightings to this awesome database.

(NEW FOR 2016) A341:30 pm SAUGEEN SHORES BUTTERFLY TRAIL – Kerry Jarvis – Want to know the best plants, trees and shrubs to attract wildlife? Join Kerry as he showcases various gardens throughout Saugeen Shores. Learn about the “magic plants” that are magnets for birds, butterflies, caterpillars and mammals.

MONDAY MAY 30

A38 8:00 am THE BRUCE RE-BECKONS – Willy Waterton – Join Willy in a quest to rediscover Sherwood Fox’s Bruce Peninsula, based on his landmark 1952 book The “The Bruce Beckons”. You will spend the day exploring Fox’s Bruce to see what still exists after 63 years.

A42 1:30 pm DOWN & DIRTY PHOTOGRAPHY – Doug Pedwell – Participants will explore through photography the wildflowers growing along the Old Shore Road Trail. All types of cameras welcome. Be prepared to get down and dirty. (easy, car-pool, bring camera)

THURSDAY JUNE 2

B3 6:30 am BIRDING KINCARDINE & AREA – James Turland – Hike the trails of Kincardine’s premier birding hotspot, locally known as “Pelee North”. You will see a variety of warblers, ducks and other migrants.

B4 8:30 am THE BIG SIT – Margaret Anderton – Join Margaret to see what can be seen from the comfort of a sitting position overlooking a pond, a field, forest and feeders.

(NEW FOR 2016) B6 1:30 pm WHAT’S YOUR QUESTION? – Fran Sanagan – Bring your photographic questions to Fran. With his many years of experience, he will offer insights into how to get the photos you’re after. From raw images to photo editing, Fran can help you improve your technique with his tips of the trade.

FRIDAY JUNE 3

B9 6:30 am BIRDING SOUTH BRUCE – Marshall Byle – This is car birding at its best. We will follow a scenic route in Southern Bruce County, stopping to bird various habitats.

B11 6:30 am BIRDING THE 4 CORNERS OF MacGREGOR – James Turland – Visit wetlands, shorelines, forests and fields along the margins of MacGregor Park. You will enjoy James’ relaxed style and his ability to locate the birds.

B12 7:00 am BIRDING THE TOWER TRAIL – Ellen Smout – Join Ellen as she leads us along the Tower Trail, a favourite spot for local birders. We will see species that will nest in the boreal forest. We will scope the wetland from the observation tower and dyke.

B14 1:30 pm WOULDN’T IT BE PLOVERLY – Stewart Nutt – Join Stew to visit endangered Piping Plovers at one of their few nesting sites in Ontario. You may observe courtship (Plovers) as well as other behaviours and learn about the many perils these birds face. You will find out how local involvement is helping this species recover.

B16 1:30 pm SAUGEEN SHORES: WATERSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY – Kerry Jarvis – Saugeen Shores is a treasure chest for photographers. Learn photographic waterscape techniques to enhance your photography skills and discover some of the majestic vistas in Saugeen Shores. ( bring camera/accessories)

SATURDAY JUNE 4

B18 6:30 am BIRDING THE BEYOND – Mark Peck – Mark will travel the back roads and byways beyond the Park boundaries searching for various habitats and their niche birds. Knowing Mark, an expert on “nidiology”, you’ll find a nest or two also.

B19 7:00 am BIRDING THE HURON FRINGE – James Turland – A visit to Inverhuron Provincial Park and the Lake Huron shoreline will provide dune grassland as well as edge and shoreline habitats.

(NEW FOR 2016) B20 8:00 am BEACHES & BIRDS – Karen Alexander – During this shoreline tour of varied coastal areas north of Sauble Beach, Karen will describe how different types of beach stewardship can influence the health and quality of coastal ecosystems.

6:00 am to noon BIRD BANDING – weather permitting

B21 6:30 am BIRDING THE TOWER TRAIL – Justin Peter – Diverse habitat along the Tower Trail makes it a mecca for an eclectic mix of warblers, flycatchers, thrushes and more. Justin will help us find these birds by sight (and sound!) and will share tips about bird behaviour.

B22 7:00 am ROAD BIRDING FOR GRASSLAND SPECIES – Brett Woodman – Tour the local countryside looking for elusive nesting grassland birds of Saugeen Shores.

B23 7:30 am BIRDING HIDDEN SPOTS OF MacGREGOR – Ellen Smout – Travel some of the lesser known areas in the park looking for hidden gems.

B24 8:00 am BEGINNING BIRDING FOR ADULTS – Doug Pedwell – This event is for those who wish to learn about the world’s number one hobby – birding. Topics include binoculars, field guides and apps, identification marks of birds and eBird.

B26 1:30 pm WILDFLOWER DIVERSITY WITHIN THE FRINGE – Brett Woodman – Here’s your chance to learn about and appreciate some of MacGregor Point’s varied wildflowers. Brett will show you some of his favourite plants.

B27 1:30 pm FIELD SKETCHING &/or JOURNALING – Sarah Rupert – Field sketching helps you hone your identification skills. Everyone can do it. Sarah will show you how sketching can help you document your observations in the field. (bring pencil & notebook)

(NEW FOR 2016) B31 7:15 pm STORIES FROM THE SUBCONTINENT: A NATURALIST’S RAMBLES IN INDIA – Justin Peter – Justin has visited India several times and will share some of his experiences and observations during this illustrated talk. Visit some of India’s signature sites, see the countryside and people, and of course, some of its amazing wild things and places!

9:00 pm to 10:00 pm ATTRACTING MOTHS – Andalyne Tofflemire

SUNDAY JUNE 5

B34 6:30 am WINGED PURSUITS – Nathan Miller – Join Nathan as he pursues the winged jewels of MacGregor Point Provincial Park and Bruce County. We will focus on finding birds during the morning and winged insects as the day warms up. All creatures found will be discussed.

6:00 am to noon BIRD BANDING – weather permitting

7:00 am to 8:30 am MOTH ID – Andalyne Tofflemire

B36 7:30 am BIRDING & BOTANIZING – Dr. Bill Crins – The Lake Huron shoreline, fen and edge habitats are featured during this walk from the Visitor Centre. We always benefit from Bill’s broad experience as an interpretive naturalist.

B37 8:00 am NEST QUEST – Mark Peck – On a leisurely walk in the park, you will take your love of birding to the next level. Find out how citizen scientists provide valuable conservation information while expanding their observation skills and learning about the nests of breeding birds.

Registration and payment online http://www.huronfringebirdingfestival.ca

FAMILY WEEKEND

“Children have a natural affinity towards nature. Dirt, water, plants, birds and small animals attract and hold children’s attention for hours, days, even a lifetime.” Robin Moore & Herb Wong – A Joseph Nanni photograph

One parent/guardian must accompany children from the same family. This person is allowed to participate in the event free of charge. See the website for parent/guardian registration details.

SATURDAY JUNE 4

Morning

6:00 am to noon BIRD BANDING – weather permitting

FAM1 9 am PLUGGING KIDS INTO BIRDING – Richard Tofflemire – Birding with kids can start right in your own backyard or in a provincial park! It is a family friendly activity. Learn about the equipment needed, field guides and apps and the easiest ways to identify birds. Bring binoculars if you have them, we will have some for you to use if you don’t. (limit 40)

Afternoon

FAM2 1:30 pm AFTERNOON ADVENTURES – (Children will be divided into two groups. Each child will attend both afternoon programs.) (limit 40)

BINO BOY & ELYTRA GIRL – Andalyne & Richard Tofflemire – Everyone already has the superpowers they need to explore nature! Come out for a dynamic exploration of the forest and learn how much fun discovering nature can be.

and

MONARCH MADNESS – Audrey Armstrong – Not only are monarchs beautiful, but their life cycle and migration is amazing! In this hands-on interactive workshop, children will learn about monarchs and create really cool crafts. To help foster habitat for this Species at Risk, you will make “seed bombs” to take home.

Evening

FAM3 7:15 pm ANIMAL DEFENCES – CAMPFIRE PROGRAM – Park Staff – Join    Park Naturalists for an evening of deception, camouflage and chemical warfare as they investigate the defensive nature of MacGregor’s wild inhabitants. (outdoors)

9:00 pm to 10 pm ATTRACTING MOTHS BESIDE VISITOR CENTRE – Andalyne Tofflemire

SUNDAY JUNE 5

Morning

6:00 am to noon BIRD BANDING – weather permitting

7:00 am to 8:30 am MOTH ID – Andalyne Tofflemire

FAM4 9:00 am MORNING EXPLORATIONS – (Children will be divided into two groups. Each child will attend both morning programs.) (limit 40)

BUILDING FOR THE BIRDS – Kerry Jarvis – Get in the birding spirit. Build your own structure for a nest or wildlife feeder. No carpentry skills are required; just bring your enthusiasm! (kit – $10 extra per child. All tools provided.)

and

POND EXPLORATION – Andalyne & Richard Tofflemire – Join Richard and Andalyne for an informal, hands-on look at the fascinating critters that make the pond their home. Dip nets, basins and hand lenses will help us look at the often unseen animals that live in pond water.

Afternoon

FAM5 1:30 pm SPEED, STRENGTH & STEALTH: ONTARIO’S RAPTORS – Wild Ontario – Ontario is home to some of the most amazing hunting birds on the planet! Come get nose-to-beak with these stunning predators, and learn about the incredible skills and abilities that help them do what they do. (outdoors)

Registration and payment online

http://www.huronfringebirdingfestival.ca

A Liz Addison photograph.

Registration inquiries: birdfest@rogers.com or 519-389-6231

Follow us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HuronFringeBirdingFestival.

twitter: @HuronBirdfest

 

BIRDING WITH JAMES

Mention the name ‘James Turland’ to local birders and you’ll be greeted by a smile of recognition. He’s well known and well respected because he knows where the birds are. And if you asked James Turland when and where he likes to bird, he just might say ‘always and everywhere’. His philosophy is simple, “There are birds in all landscapes one just has to look”. This birder from Kincardine has some specific thoughts on birding:

The average person seems to think the best places for birds are remote and pristine, and they can be, but often these places are costly to get to. More realistically birders look for their feathered friends close to home. A birders yard is often an oasis of plants and feeders specially placed to lure birds closer. Birding doesn’t get better than finding a rarity right in your own backyard. Birders have a knack for looking at landscapes and seeing the beauty in the birds. A landfill site is not just a pile of garbage but also a mecca for gulls and other scavenging birds. Sewage lagoons are sanctuaries for shorebirds and waterfowl. Some urban parks are bird magnets and havens. I believe with a little urban planning these places could be enriched and turned into truly scenic wildlife habitats. For now we just have to keep up wind and dream a little.

When visiting Bruce County farmland I try to imagine a pristine prairie. Hidden within this idyllic sea of grass are specialized creatures waiting to be discovered. Because of a lack of perches some grassland birds have evolved to sing while flying and also incorporate aerial displays. Even if blindfolded the babblings of Bobolinks conjure images of fields and meadows. The amazing ‘woo woos’ of the Snipe as it dips and dives way above its chosen territory is not easily forgot. Yet other songs are cleverly devised to misrepresentation. The Grasshopper Sparrows high-pitched trill could easily be mistaken for a Six Legged Hopper. Birds don’t get much more secretive than the Henslow’s Sparrow. It’s weak chip is usually only heard from the tall grass at night. An Upland Sandpipers presence signifies short grass and that probably means grazers are nearby. Other grassland signature birds we hope to see are Eastern Meadow Lark, Clay-Coloured Sparrow, Northern Harrier and Sedge Wrens.  

Most recently as pasture decreases and the land is subjected to more intensive farming practices the grasslands and all its inhabitants are in jeopardy. There are solutions and we all can play a part.

HERE’S A SUMMARY OF JAMES TURLAND’S BIRDING HIKES THAT ARE STILL OPEN. DON’T MISS OUT. REGISTER NOW AT:

http://www.huronfringebirdingfestival.ca

A4 6:30 am KINCARDINE LAGOONS – Hike the trails of this premier birding hotspot, locally known as “Pelee North”. If you missed seeing birds at Pelee, chances are you’ll find them here.

A16 6:30 am BIRDING THE 4 CORNERS OF MacGREGOR – Visit wetlands, shorelines, forests and fields along the margins of MacGregor Park. You will enjoy James’ relaxed style and his ability to locate the birds.

B3 6:30 am BIRDING KINCARDINE & AREA – Hike the trails of Kincardine’s premier birding hotspot, locally known as “Pelee North”. You will see a variety of warblers, ducks and other migrants.

B11 6:30 am BIRDING THE 4 CORNERS OF MacGREGOR – Visit wetlands, shorelines, forests and fields along the margins of MacGregor Park. You will enjoy James’ relaxed style and his ability to locate the birds.

B19 7:00 am BIRDING THE HURON FRINGE – A visit to Inverhuron Provincial Park and the Lake Huron shoreline will provide dune grassland as well as edge and shoreline habitats.

 

Huron Fringe Birding Festival Registration

www.huronfringebirdingfestival.ca

Registration inquiries: birdfest@rogers.com or 519-389-6231

Follow us on Facebook

http://www.facebook.com/HuronFringeBirdingFestival.

twitter: @HuronBirdfest

Email: birdfest@rogers.com.

 

 

TICK TALK

“Is the risk of Lyme disease increasing in Ontario?”

The long holiday weekend marks the beginning of camping season across Ontario. But it also signals the start of tick season says Dr. Andrew Peregrine, of the Ontario Veterinary College. Ticks carry Lyme disease and that’s a concern.* Lyme disease is an infection that primarily occurs in wildlife. However, infections also occur in people.

On Thursday. June 2, at 7:15 PM Dr. Peregrine will review current information on the importance of Lyme disease in wildlife and people across Ontario. Practices to prevent infection in people and pets will also be discussed.

Deer ticks carry Lyme disease and are more common in southern Ontario than in the north and northwest.

Peregrine said even just travelling in hot spots in southern Ontario can “dramatically” increase your risk for Lyme disease and bringing ticks home. Many hikers and campers still get quite concerned when they find a tick on their body – or on a pet. Dr. Peregrine recommends speaking with a vet about vaccinations before taking a dog for a walk or hike where ticks may be found.

Dr. Peregrine says the other way to protect yourself and your pet from ticks is to do a thorough tick check after being outside.

Suggested ways to protect yourself from ticks:

• Avoid places with long grasses.
• If you are hiking or walking, stay in the centre of the trail.
• Wear light coloured clothing to make it easier to find the ticks.
• Wear clothing that covers as much skin as possible.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts that fit tightly around your wrists and long pants tucked into your socks.
• Use an insect repellant with DEET.
• Check yourself, your children and your pets for ticks after being outdoors. Check before you go into your house. Check head to toe. Check underneath your clothes, next to your skin.
• Have a hot shower after checking for ticks.
• Wash your clothes with hot water and use the hottest setting on your dryer to kill any ticks that you may have missed.

Andrew S. Peregrine, BVMS, PhD, DVM, DipEVPC, DipACVM

Andrew Peregrine graduated in 1984 from the University of Glasgow Veterinary School, Scotland. Subsequently, he received a PhD from the same University for work on a parasitic disease of cattle in Africa. From 1987 to 1997, Andrew worked at the International Laboratory for Research on Animal Diseases, Kenya, where he continued this research. Since 1997 he has worked as an Associate Professor in the Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, where he teaches clinical parasitology to DVM students. Over the last 10 years he has developed a particular interest in parasitic infections of animals that also infect people. As a result, he is currently carrying out research in this area in both wildlife and domestic animal species. He is also conducting work to improve control of parasitic infections in sheep.

*With files from CBC News, Thunder Bay interview.

 Register now for TICK TALK (B7) on Thursday. June 2, at 7:15 PM  www.friendsofmacgregor.org

Registration inquiries: birdfest@rogers.com or 519-389-6231

Follow us on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/HuronFringeBirdingFestival.

twitter: @HuronBirdfest

Email: birdfest@rogers.com.