Posts Tagged ‘Friends of MacGregor Park’
CELEBRATING 20 YEARS.
When May of 2017 rolls around we will have been presenting the Huron Fringe Birding festival for 20 years.
From our simple beginning – a one day Festival of 3 0r 4 events – to now with over 80 events over 8 days – we like to think we’ve grown into one of Canada’s Premier Birding and Nature Festivals for good reason. We feature not only birding, but botany, photography, nature hikes, workshops, evening presentations, a Family Weekend Package and more.
In preparation for our 20th Festival we’ve made arrangements with some original and former leaders – like Martin & Kathy Parker, Doug Martin, Will Waterton, and Mark Wiercinski, to bring back their expertise to a new audience. As well as adding new presenters and leaders like Steve Burrows, Erin Mallon, Sciensational Snakes, Walter Muma and Birding By Boat, to name just a few. It will be a brand new and exciting program designed to refresh old acquaintances and develop new ones.
Plus, Ethan Melag will be our keynote presenter at our Social and Banquet Presentation…and that’s always entertaining.
So, take note of these dates and come share in the celebration of 20 years of the Huron Fringe Birding Festival.
ON-LINE REGISTRATION BEGINS FEBRUARY 1, 2017
And if you want to keep up-to-date on birds and birding until HFBF returns, log on to http://www.bobandannemarie.wordpress.com. Bob and Anne Marie will keep you informed with words and pictures of their birding adventures and the Bruce Birding Club. Well worth following.
Registration inquiries: birdfest@rogers.com or 519-389-6231
Follow us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HuronFringeBirdingFestival.
twitter: @HuronBirdfest
REGISTER TODAY, BECAUSE THERE’S ONLY A FEW DAYS LEFT UNTIL OPENING
YES! I’M LOOKING AT YOU. HAVE YOU REGISTERED?
FRIDAY. MAY 27. 5:30 AM. THE COFFEE IS ON. THE DONUTS ARE WAITING. THE FIRST HIKE KICKS OFF AT 6:00 AM. EARLY? YES. BUT THAT’S WHEN THE BIRDS START SINGING AND THE FIRST HIKES AND EVENTS GET INTO HIGH GEAR. QUESTION IS…WILL YOU BE PART OF IT ALL?
THERE IS STILL TIME TO REGISTER: (www.huronfringebirdingfestival.ca)
THERE ARE EVENTS OPEN ON BOTH WEEKENDS. HERE’S THE LIST OF WHAT IS LEFT. AND IF YOU’RE NOT AN EARLY BIRD…WE DO HAVE HALF DAY AND EVENING EVENTS.
FRIDAY MAY 27
All Day
A3 8:00 am NORTH OF THE SAUGEEN – Joy Albrecht – Explore the backroads north of the Saugeen River. You will travel through the Chippewas of Saugeen Ojibway territory and inland habitats at the base of the Bruce Peninsula. 5 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
Morning
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. 7 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
Afternoon
A6 (NEW) 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. 6 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
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. 10 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
A8 1:30 pm SHRUB & TREE ID IN MacGREGOR – Jim Coles – Using leaf and twig keys, we will identify the conifers and hardwoods in the vicinity of the Visitor Centre and learn about the role of site (soil characteristics) in determining species composition. 5 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
SATURDAY MAY 28
All Day
A12 7:00 am INVERHURON BIRDING & BOTANY – Dr. Scott Taylor – Inverhuron Provincial Park may be small, but the diversity of habitat and its shoreline location make it an excellent place to look for songbirds and unique plants. Join us for this exploration of the forest and shoreline habitats. 5 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
A13 (NEW) 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 waystations. 16 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
Morning
A14 6:00 am BIRDING BY EAR – Michael Carlson – Do you have difficulty remembering bird songs and calls no matter how often you hear them? Michael is a natural at mnemonics. This field workshop will give you tips and tools you can use to sort out bird songs. 10 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
A15 6:00 am SEX & THE SINGLE WARBLER – Mark Wiercinski – In spring, love is in the air. Let Mark explain the unseen action in the trees. It’s always fun when Mark tackles this topic. ONE OPENING LEFT
A18 7:30 am PAISLEY BIRDING – Joy Albrecht – Join Joy birding the back roads from MacGregor to Paisley, with a stop at the Old Mill, Schmidt Lake and some roadside birding in the swamp on the way back to the Park. 4 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
11:00 am EAGLE OPTICS
During the lunch break Eagle Optics will have binoculars and telescopes on display and for sale.
Afternoon
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. 13 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
SUNDAY MAY 29
All Day
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. 8 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
A27 7:30 am BIRDING SOUTH BRUCE PENINSULA – Todd Pepper – The southern Bruce Peninsula boasts a number of landform features found both within the Huron Fringe and along the Niagara Escarpment providing a variety of bird habitat. Participants will benefit from Todd’s knowledge of birdsong and breeding bird behaviour. 4 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
A28 6:00 am WRESTLING WITH WARBLERS – Mark Wiercinski – Warblers are very annoying. They move around a lot and hide behind the most inconvenient leaves and branches. Mark’s humour and tips about habitat and song will definitely keep you interested. 4 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
A30 7:00 am eBIRDING THE PARK – Mike Burrell 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. 10 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
Afternoon
A33 1:30 pm DRAGONFLIES & DAMSELFLIES – John Reaume – Damselflies and dragonflies are members of the order Odonata meaning “toothed ones” which reference their awesome mouth parts. We will attempt to capture some of them in butterfly nets for closer examination. 5 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
A34 (NEW) 1:30 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. 14 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
A35 1:30 pm SONGBIRDS & SALAMANDERS ON THE FARM – Art Wiebe & Janice McKean – All living things need water to survive. Let Art and Janice introduce you to their backyard pond as they explain “natural habitat” and what it means to migrating birds, and the little critters who call it home. They will also talk about conservation programs that have assisted them in enriching these habitats. 2 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
Evening
A36 (NEW) 7:15 pm SPIDERS OF EASTERN NORTH AMERICA – John Reaume – Spiders have a bad reputation but in reality they are fascinating creatures. John will talk about their unique anatomy and interesting behaviours. Webs are not just for catching prey! Learn how to observe them. Understanding spiders will make you appreciate them more – it’s true! 8 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
MONDAY MAY 30
All Day
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. 10 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
Morning
A40 7:30 am BIRDING IN AN AMPHITHEATRE – Joy Albrecht – The elevated steps of the Saugeen amphitheatre provide viewpoints over the river and riparian habitat. Here you will get a bird’s-eye view. 6 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
Afternoon
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. 5 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
Evening
A43 (NEW) 7:15 pm WHAT’S THE FLAP ALL ABOUT? – Paloma Plant – The Fatal Light Awareness Program is sustained by a terrific group of volunteers. FLAP was the first organization in the world to raise concerns about bird collisions. They have instigated many changes to building design and lighting in urban areas. 20 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
THURSDAY JUNE 2
Morning
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. 12 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
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. 9 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
Afternoon
B6 (NEW) 1:30 pm WHAT’S YOUR QUESTION? – Bring your photographic questions to Fran Sanagan. 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. 14 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
Evening
B7 (NEW) 7:15 pm TICK TALK: LYME DISEASE IN ONTARIO – Dr. Andrew Peregrine – Lyme disease is an infection that primarily occurs in wildlife. However, infections also occur in people. This talk will review current information on the importance of identifying Lyme disease in wildlife and people across Ontario. Practices to prevent infection in people and pets will also be discussed. 17 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
FRIDAY JUNE 3
All Day
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. 9 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
B10 7:30 am A GEOLOGICAL JOURNEY – Bob Gray – Join Bob in exploring spectacular caves, deep gorges and a scenic broad glacial re-entrant valley along the Niagara Escarpment in eastern Grey County. 3 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
Morning
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. 8 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
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. 8 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
Afternoon
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. 15 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
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. 6 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
Evening
B17 (NEW) 7:15 pm SPARROWS – Sarah Rupert – Do little brown jobs have your head spinning? Join Sarah for a light-hearted presentation on sparrow identification. She’ll break the sparrows down into small groups, give you tips and tricks to figure out one of the more challenging groups of birds and show you some imposters that are often confused for sparrows. 3 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
SATURDAY JUNE 4
All Day
B18 6:30 am BIRDING THE BEYOND – Mark Peck – Mark will travel backroads 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. ONLY 1 OPENING LEFT
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. 11 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
B20 (NEW) 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. 16 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
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. 7 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
B22 7:00 am ROAD BIRDING FOR GRASSLAND SPECIES – Brett Woodman – Tour the local countryside looking for elusive nesting grassland birds of Saugeen Shores. 13 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
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. 5 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
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. 12 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
Afternoon
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. 7 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
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. 9 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
B28 1:30 pm BLUEBIRD LANDLORDS – Dennis & Gwen Lewington – Bluebirds are cavity nesters and natural cavities are not very abundant. Dennis and Gwen will take you on their “Bluebird Trail” which they have been maintaining and monitoring for over 32 years. 3 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
B29 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. 13 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
Evening
B30 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm BRUCE COUNTY CHICKEN DINNER – (MacGregor Point Provincial Park, additional charge of $17. Dinner combined with B31 as a single event $23. Pre-registration required) 16 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
9:00 pm to 10:00 pm ATTRACTING MOTHS – Andalyne Tofflemire
B32 9:15 pm STARRY STARRY NIGHT – John Hlynialuk – John will introduce you to the wonders of the night sky, and tell you about dark sky events for 2016. Weather permitting, members of the Bluewater Astronomical Society will have their telescopes available for viewing the evening sky. 2 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
SUNDAY JUNE 5
All Day
B33 6:00 am DEBATING THE ISSUES, & MORE, WITH MARK – Mark Wiercinski This walking / driving tour travels between Bayview Escarpment and Bognor Marsh. Along the way, Mark will highlight issues affecting bird populations in Ontario. You will find out what this has to do with sex, which of course it does! 8 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
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. 14 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
7:00 am to 8:30 am MOTH ID – Andalyne Tofflemire
B35 7:00 am BIRDING THE PERIMETER OF THE PARK – Justin Peter – Driving the varied habitats along the edge of the park provides a mix of warblers, flycatchers and other possibilities. An opportunity to view wetlands and the shoreline will also enhance this outing. 3 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
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. 11 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
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. 10 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
Afternoon
B38 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. 15 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
B39 1:30 pm WITCHES & WILDFLOWERS – Heather Starrs – Legends and superstitions are attached to many common, and not so common, plants found at MacGregor Point. Heather’s walk will introduce you to stories about plants. 12 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
Evening
B40 8:00 pm SUNSET WALK – Doug Pedwell – Join Doug for a leisurely stroll along the shore of Lake Huron to discover the sights, sounds and scents of an early June evening in MacGregor Point Provincial Park. 8 OPENINGS AVAILABLE
FAMILY WEEKEND STILL HAS PLENTY OF OPENINGS
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
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)
www.huronfringebirdingfestival.ca - for online registration
Registration inquiries: birdfest@rogers.com or 519-389-6231
Follow us on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/HuronFringeBirdingFestival.
twitter: @HuronBirdfest
MIKE PICKUP – NORAH TOTH AWARD WINNER
It comes as no surprise that Mick Pickup is set to receive this year’s Norah Toth Award. After all, the Norah Toth Award recognizes people who have contributed to the Huron Fringe Birding Festival in ways that makes a difference. Through his writings, his serving the Festival, the Friends of MacGregor, the Bruce Birding Club, the OFO and the inspiration for the Bird Blind – to name just a few – Mike’s contributions make him an obvious choice.
“It’s an honour to be able to get the award and the recognition from your peers and associates,” said Mike. “I feel very humble.” Which is perfectly in character for this gentle man that birders know and respect.
Mike was just 9 years old when birds first began to interest him. His father would take him for walks pointing out birds on the moors in Lancashire. He came to Canada via England and Ireland when he was thirteen. He spent many days hiking and exploring the Bruce Trail near his Georgetown home. Then came the cottage in Sauble Beach, and the eventual move to Port Elgin. It was here that he met his mentor, Martin Parker, a naturalist and ‘big birder’. Martin rekindled Mike’s interest in birding. And the rest is local history.
Mike volunteered for Bird Studies Canada doing Nocturnal Owl Surveys, Breeding Bird Surveys, and Forest Monitoring Surveys; as well he has worked on both the first and second Atlas of the Breeding Birds of Ontario projects and in 2009 received the OFO’s Award of Distinction. Mike loves to share his knowledge with others. After he retired he carried this a step further writing books to give people ideas of where to go and what to expect in certain birding areas. He’s published three helpful books to date and is currently working on a fourth.
When he isn’t out in the field or writing you’ll find him with his other love…Mike, the model train enthusiast, has a layout in his basement that occupies most of his winter hours.
When asked what it takes to be a successful birder, Mike’s advice is simple…”get a good pair of binoculars, a field guide, get outdoors and enjoy yourself.” That’s something Mike has been doing for over 50 years.
The Huron Fringe Birding Festival honours and celebrates Mike Pickup’s Outstanding Volunteer Contributions with this year’s North Toth Award, Saturday, May 23 at their annual Banquet and Presentation.
Huron Fringe Birding Festival Event Registration: 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.
MARCH 1 HFBF UPDATE
Registration is open at: www.friendsofmacgregor.org
HFBF SCHEDULE OF EVENTS – FIRST WEEKEND
FRIDAY MAY 22
All Day
SOLD OUT – A1 – 6:00 AM – BIRDING THE 45TH PARALLEL – Michael Carlson
Bruce Road 9 is known as the 45th Parallel Road. Michael will explore the Bruce Peninsula from the Lake Huron to the Georgian Bay coast; concentrating on birding opportunities found near this latitude. (easy, car-pool, bring lunch – limit 20)
A2 – 6:30 AM – LOVING LAGOONS IN LOWER BRUCE – Judith King
Explore the Ripley and Kincardine lagoons, and then continue up the shore of Lake Huron. The emphasis will be on warblers, with as many as 20 species possible at the lagoons. Pockets of migrating warblers may be found along the shore. (easy, car-pool, bring lunch – limit 20)
A3 – 6:30 AM – BIRDING INVERHURON & SURROUNDING AREA – Marshall Byle
During this birding adventure we will stop at various habitats along the shoreline to Inverhuron Provincial Park including the Tiverton lagoons. In the park explore the ancient dunes, riverbanks and varied forest types. (easy, car-pool, bring lunch – limit 20)
Morning
A4 – 7:00 AM – BIRDING MacGREGOR’S BOUNDARY – Mike Burrell
Join Mike for a morning of birding some of the hotspots around the edge of MacGregor Point. We will rack up a surprising list without going too far. Several warbler species, Indigo Bunting, Rose-breasted Grosbeak as well as a few grassland species are all possibilities. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
A5 – 7:30 AM – BIRDS OF WOODLAND, WETLAND & FOREST EDGE: TOWER TRAIL – Justin Peter
Diverse habitat along the Tower Trail makes it a mecca for an eclectic mix of warblers, flycatchers, and thrushes. Justin will help us find these birds using his fine-tuned hearing skills, and will share tips for the interpretation of bird behaviour. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
Afternoon
SOLD OUT – A6 – 1:30 AM – BIRDING OLD SHORE ROAD TRAIL SOUTH – Mike Burrell
Join Mike for a leisurely walk in search of songbirds, waterbirds and probably a few reptiles and amphibians. There will be a special stop on the new boardwalk at Watersnake pond. (easy – limit 20)
A7 – 1:30 PM – NATURE RAMBLE – TOWER TRAIL – Terry Crabe
Ramble along the Tower Trail to the Ducks Unlimited wetland. This event is geared for a wide level of birders who simply want to enjoy the MacGregor Point landscape. There is always an abundance of species to discover along this trail. (easy – limit 20)
SOLD OUT – A8 – 1:30 PM – PHOTOGRAPHING THE MacGREGOR POINT SHORELINE – Kerry Jarvis
This photography workshop will explore various areas of the park shoreline. Join Kerry as he shares photographic tips and techniques used to capture the beauty of MacGregor Point. Open to all skill levels. Tripods are recommended. (easy, car-pool, bring compact and/or digital SLR – limit 12)
Evening
SOLD OUT – A9 – 7:15 PM – TIPS & TECHNIQUES ON WATERFOWL IDENTIFICATION – Fred Jazvac
Headaches caused by difficult waterfowl identification can’t be solved with aspirin. Fred will present tips and techniques that can be used to deal with the complications that waterfowl present to the birder. (indoors – limit 60)
SATURDAY MAY 23
All Day
A10 – 6:00 AM – CAPE CROKER – FROM BLUFFS TO SHORES – Joy Albrecht
Explore the seldom-birded Cape Croker peninsula with its abandoned fields, Georgian Bay shoreline and wetlands. As a special added treat we will visit the bird rich woodlands of Malcolm Bluff Shores Nature Reserve. (moderate, car-pool, bring lunch – limit 20)
A11 – 6:30 AM – HURON SHORE TO MALCOLM BLUFFS – Mike Burrell
We’ll cover all the birding bases – stops for shorebirds, ducks, grassland and forest birds. You’ll be amazed at the incredible diversity. We may even find a Cerulean Warbler on territory. (easy, car-pool, bring lunch – limit 20)
A12 – 6:30 AM – BIRDING SOUTH BRUCE PENINSULA – Todd Pepper
The southern Bruce Peninsula boasts a number of landform features found both within the Huron Fringe and along the Niagara Escarpment. Wetlands and lakes, hardwood forests, fields and hedgerows all provide varied habitats for you to discover. Participants will benefit from Todd’s knowledge of birdsong and breeding bird behaviour. (easy, car-pool, bring lunch – limit 20)
Morning
6:00 AM to Noon – BIRD BANDING – Brendan Toews
SOLD OUT – A13 – 6:00 AM -BIRDING BY EAR – Michael Carlson
Do you have difficulty remembering songs/calls and which birds make them, no matter how often you have heard them? Michael is a natural at mnemonics. This field workshop will give you tools that you can use to solve the mysteries of birdsong. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
SOLD OUT – A14 – 6:00 AM – SEX & THE SINGLE WARBLER – Mark Wiercinski
In nature, spring is all about sex and Mark is the right one to make sure you know what it’s all about. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
SOLD OUT – A15 – 7:00 AM – BIRDING MacGREGOR’S BOUNDARY – Justin Peter
Join Justin as he explores old fields, edge habitat and abandoned orchards. As we travel around the edges of MacGregor Point, we will employ the soundscape (birdsong) to help us find birds most effectively. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
A16 – 8:00 AM – BIRDING THE EDGE – Terry Crabe
Bird the Lake Huron shoreline on a leisurely walk along the Old Shore Road Trail. We will walk through a variety of habitats that should enable us to view a variety of birds. (easy – limit 20)
11:00 AM – EAGLE OPTICS – During the lunch break Eagle Optics will have binoculars and telescopes on display and for sale.
Afternoon
A17 – 1:30 PM – Keeping the Birds & the Bees on the Farm – Art Wiebe & Janice McKean
You will see both wetland and grassland birds on the farm that Art and Janice manage. They will point out farming practices that enhance wildlife habitat as you walk the trails around their ponds and pastures. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
SOLD OUT – A18 – 1:30 PM – A LOT TO NATURALIZE: HOW TO ATTRACT CRITTERS TO YOUR YARD – Kerry Jarvis
Interested in turning your yard into a natural wildlife paradise? Not sure what are the best plants, shrubs and trees to attract critters? Join Kerry as he showcases his recently converted property, “Casita de Mariposa”. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
SOLD OUT – A19 – 1:30 PM – WOULDN’T IT BE PLOVERLY – Stewart Nutt
Join Stew to visit endangered Piping Plover at their nesting grounds located nearby. You will observe courtship (Plovers) as well as other behaviours and learn about the perils these birds face, and how local involvement has helped this species recover. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
A20 – 1:30 PM – Being a Bluebird Landlord – Dennis & Gwen Lewington
Bluebirds are cavity nesters and natural cavities are not very abundant. Dennis and Gwen will take you on their “Bluebird Trail” which they have been maintaining and monitoring for over 32 years. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
Evening
A21- 4:30 PM – SOCIAL – 5:30 PM – BANQUET & PRESENTATION – LESSONS FROM LOONS: WHAT OUR WILDERNESS SYMBOL IS TELLING US – Doug Tozer
The Common Loon is a popular indicator of the state of the environment. This presentation will overview revolutionary discoveries of how loons survive and reproduce and whether human activities are negatively influencing the loon’s unique way of life. (St. Paul’s Anglican Church Hall, Southampton, Chicken Buffet, Harrigan’s Catering) (Early Bird price – $35 extra per person. After April 15 or for banquet/presentation only – $45 extra per person) Casual, bar available, pre-registration required, silent auction. Contact registrar by May 1 with dietary restrictions. (limit 90)
SUNDAY MAY 24
All Day
A22 – 6:00 AM – A BIG DAY ON THE BRUCE – Michael Carlson
Are you a ‘lister’? Do you ‘tick’? From warblers just after dawn to Whip-poor-will at dusk, you will keep tallying up your numbers. Your day’s list could be over 100 species. Michael found a Kirkland’s Warbler in 2014 and plans to revisit that spot. (moderate, car-pool, bring lunch – limit 20)
A23- 6:30 AM – FLOWERPOT ISLAND – A REMOTE GEORGIAN BAY HABITAT – Don Wilkes
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 a worthy … no amazing …substitute! (difficult, car-pool, jet boat, bring backpack & lunch – $40 extra per person – limit 22)
A24 – 8:00 AM – INVERHURON – BIRDING & BOTANY HIKE – Scott Taylor
Inverhuron Provincial Park may be small, but the diversity of habitat and its shoreline location make it an excellent place to look for migrating songbirds and unique plants. Join us for a day-long exploration of the forest and shoreline habitats. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
Morning
6:00 AM to Noon – BIRD BANDING – Brendan Toews
SOLD OUT – A25 – 6:00 AM – WRESTLING WITH WARBLERS – Mark Wiercinski
Warblers are very annoying to identify! They move around a lot and hide behind the most inconvenient leaves and branches. Mark’s humour and tips about habitat and sounds will definitely keep you interested. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
A26 – 7:00 AM – AROUND THE EDGE OF MacGREGOR – Ken Burrell
Birding enthusiast and expert Ken will lead us around the periphery of MacGregor Point. We will look for Indigo Bunting, Rose-breasted Grosbeak and many other bird species. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
A27 – 7:30 AM – BIRDING THE J/I LINE – Todd Pepper
Grasslands are in decline and grassland bird species are in jeopardy. Bruce County provides a community pasture where Upland Sandpiper, Bobolink, Grasshopper and Clay-coloured sparrows can still be found. Todd’s experience and hearing skills make him an excellent choice to take you on this driving tour. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
A28 – 8:00 AM – UP WITH THE BIRDS – Doug Martin
This hike has been a tradition since before the beginning of the Huron Fringe Birding Festival –a morning walk along the Tower Trail to the Viewing Tower. Past experience on this hike has resulted in a species list that will rival many other events. Can we do it again? (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
Afternoon
SOLD OUT – A29 – 1:30 PM – WOULDN’T IT BE PLOVERLY – Stewart Nutt
Join Stew to visit endangered Piping Plover at their nesting grounds located nearby. You will observe courtship (Plovers) as well as other behaviours and learn about the perils these birds face. You will find out how local involvement has helped this species recover. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
A30 – 1:30 PM – TREE IDENTIFICATION USING LEAVES & NEEDLES – Jim Coles
We will identify the conifers and the hardwoods in the vicinity of the Visitor Centre by leaf and needle characteristics. The use of botanical keys will help differentiate between species. (easy – limit 20)
A31 – 1:30 PM – O’KEEFE GRANGE – A HERITAGE APPLE FARM – Bill & Lyn O’Keefe
We will visit O’Keefe Grange, a heritage apple and pear farm. Bill and Lyn O’Keefe have spent many years collecting and growing these fruit trees. These citizen scientists will share their knowledge and passion as you browse their farm store and taste apple cider donuts. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
A32 – 1:30 PM – DOWN & DIRTY – WILDFLOWER 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 – limit 15)
A33 – 1:30 PM – NATURE SKETCHING & JOURNALING – Sarah Rupert
Nature journaling documents your adventures and helps you to hone your observation skills. Everyone can keep a nature journal, even if you think you can’t draw. Sarah will show you some easy tricks to start sketching and really observing nature in the field. (easy, bring pencil & notebook – limit 20)
Evening
SOLD OUT – A34 – 7:15 PM – WARBLERS – Sarah Rupert
Warbler identification in the field is often obscured by brief and obstructed views. Sarah will talk about the identification features that are often missed and how we can enhance our observations. (indoors –limit 60)
MONDAY MAY 25
All Day
A35 – 6:00 AM – HOTSPOTS OF THE LOWER BRUCE – Alfred Raab
Habitats will be varied on this outing. We will visit Sauble Beach for a chance to see Piping Plovers; inland lakes including Boat, Isaac and Sky lakes; grasslands around Ferndale and Black Creek Provincial Park. Alfred is a favourite leader for local birding outings. (easy, car-pool, bring lunch – limit 20)
A36 – 6:30 AM – CABOT HEAD – A BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT – Rod Steinacher
This driving tour will take us to the Bruce Peninsula Bird Observatory (BPBO), the Bruce Alvar Nature Reserve, and a nearby Nature Conservancy property. Rod is a retired science teacher and President of the BPBO. He is always eager to share his expertise. (easy, car-pool, bring lunch – limit 20)
A37 – 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 Bruce Beckons”. You will spend the day exploring Fox’s Bruce to see what still exists after 63 years. (easy, car-pool, bring lunch – limit 20)
Morning
A38 – 6:00 AM – BRANT TRACT, PAISLEY & BLIND LINE – Judith King
Explore the Brant Tract with its mixed woods and stream by travelling along an old road to the bottom of the valley. Paisley will showcase bird feeders and several species of swallows. The Blind Line parallels the Saugeen River and passes through fields and mixed forest. (easy, car-pool, bring water – limit 20)
A39 – 7:00 AM – BIRDING MacGREGOR – Scott Taylor
A late spring walk around the Ducks Unlimited wetland is sure to turn up migrants. Join Scott to hear about the importance of wetlands for migrating birds. You will also identify some of these spring beauties. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
Afternoon
A40 – 1:30 PM – FUN FROG FROLIC: OBSERVING FROGS AT MacGREGOR POINT – Kerry Jarvis
Searching for frogs in the park can be a lot of fun! Join Kerry as he looks and listens for several species of frogs, and of course the American Toad. If you have them, bring close-up binoculars and camera. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
A41 – 1:30 PM – BIRDING & EBIRD ENTRY – Mike Burrell
Grab your binoculars AND your notebooks. We’ll go for a short walk to find some birds around the Visitor Centre. Then Mike will introduce you to eBird. You’ll find out how easy it is to contribute your everyday bird observations to this massive citizen science project. (easy – limit 20)
A42 – 1:30 PM – BOTANY ON THE FRINGE – Laura Cook
The Huron Fringe is made up of wave-cut terraces, gravel bars and sand dunes found adjacent to the Lake Huron shoreline. Within MacGregor Point, this habitat contains unique shoreline plants including Dwarf Lake Iris. Laura will introduce you to these plants and more. (easy – limit 20)
Evening
A43 – 7:15 PM – ONTARIO’S TRUE NORTH – Mike Burrell
Over the past several years Mike has had the chance to visit Ontario’s little known north coast at sites on James and Hudson bays. Come on this visual journey about these amazing landscapes. You will learnabout the plants, animals and habitats that are found there. (indoors – limit 60)
SECOND WEEKEND – THURSDAY MAY 28
All Day
SOLD OUT – B1 – 6:30 AM – BACK ROADS OF SAUGEEN TOWNSHIP – James Turland
The back roads offer relaxed touring and good birding. We will visit the Saugeen River, Lake Huron shoreline and numerous trails around the township. (moderate, car-pool, bring lunch – limit 20)
B2 – 7:30 AM – GEOLOGY OF THE NORTHERN BRUCE PENINSULA – Bob Gray
Join Bob in exploring the unique geology of the Bruce Peninsula and Ontario’s Niagara Escarpment. (easy, car-pool, bring lunch – limit 20)
B3 – 9:00 AM – BUTTERFLY WORKSHOP – Audrey Armstrong
This workshop will teach you how to nurture butterfly populations by learning about their lifecycle, threats to the monarch population and how to create monarch friendly habitat including growing your own butterfly garden. There will be a slide show in the morning. The afternoon will be outdoors looking for monarchs, eggs and larvae. (easy, car-pool, bring lunch – limit 20)
Morning
B4 – 7:30 AM – BIRDING THE SAUGEEN AMPHITHEATRE – Joy Albrecht
The beautiful amphitheatre gardens high above the Saugeen River will be the setting for this hike. Stone stairways and walkways provide access to locations where we can overlook the river and riparian habitat. We will be observing spring migrants, nesting species, shorebirds and raptors. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
B5 – 8:30 AM – BEGINNING BIRDING FOR ADULTS – Doug Pedwell
This event is designed for those who wish to know about the world’s number one hobby – Birding. Topics include binoculars, field guides and identification marks of birds. There will be a short indoor session and a bird hike. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
Afternoon
B6- 1:30 PM – BOTANY OF THE FRINGE – Barbara Palmer
The Huron Fringe is a physiographic unit between the former glacial Lake Algonquin shoreline and the present day Lake Huron shoreline. Former cobble beach ridges, swales and ancient miniature dunes each provide their own combination of plants. Barbara will help you identify them. (easy – limit 12)
B7 – 1:30 PM – WOULDN’T IT BE PLOVERLY – Stewart Nutt
Join Stew to visit endangered Piping Plover at their nesting grounds located nearby. You will observe their courtship as well as other behaviours and learn about the perils these birds face. You will find out how local involvement has helped this species recover. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
Evening
B8 – 7:15 PM – THE WONDERS OF BIRD MIGRATION – Dave Brewer
Dave gets lost in Toronto but Bobolinks navigate to Argentina. Are they smarter than Dave? Dave’s talk about bird migration will emphasize their navigation. He will look at historical interpretations and recent techniques including satellite tracking and geolocators. (indoors – limit 60)
SOLD OUT – B9 – 7:45 PM – SUNSET PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP – Willy Waterton
Most people go inside after the sun sets. This is when some of the most stunning light occurs. This workshop will give you tips on taking images of the setting sun and twilight using cameras from smart phones to DSLRs. If you have a tripod bring it along. (easy, bring camera or smart phone – limit 10)
FRIDAY MAY 29
All Day
SOLD OUT – B10 – 6:30 AM – MALCOLM BLUFFS & CAPE CROKER – Alfred Raab
Bird in a variety of habitats within the Malcolm Bluffs Nature Reserve and Cape Croker Peninsula. The cliffs above the shoreline provide spectacular vistas. (moderate, car-pool, bring lunch – limit 20)
SOLD OUT – B11 – 7:00 AM – PASTURES, STREAMS & WOODLOTS – James Turland
Pasturelands in Bruce County are home to a number of grassland species, some of which are species at risk. This driving tour will take you through varied habitat. The result will be an extensive birding list for the day. James is a favourite festival leader. (easy, car-pool, bring lunch – limit 20)
B12 – 8:30 AM – LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY – Kerry Jarvis
Grey and Bruce counties beckon all photographers to capture their raw beauty. Kerry will help you learn techniques which will enhance your landscape photography skills as you discover some of the majestic vistas in Grey Bruce. Tripods recommended. (easy, car-pool, bring lunch, compact or digital SLR – limit 20)
Morning
SOLD OUT – B13 – 7:30 AM – TOWER TRAIL – Joy Albrecht
Join Joy as she leads you along the Tower Trail, a favourite spot for local birders. You will see bird species that will nest in the boreal forest and you will spend some time on an observation tower and bird blind. (easy – limit 20)
Afternoon
B14 -1:30 PM – ROADSIDE BOTANY RAMBLE – Larry Lamb
Explore various roadside habitats in the vicinity of the Visitor Centre. Learn to use identification keys and Newcomb’s Wildflower Guide (bring yours along!) (easy, car-pool – limit 12)
SOLD OUT – B15 – 1:30 PM – DRAGONS & DAMSELS – John Reaume
We will search for the ultimate insect predators – damselflies and dragonflies. The biology of these “toothed ones” and their proper handling techniques will be discussed. Should the weather not cooperate we will have an indoor presentation / slide show. Bring binoculars and butterfly nets if you have them. (easy – limit 12)
B16 – 1:30 PM – PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP: LANDSCAPES & NATURE WALK – Fran Sanagan
Fran will facilitate this hands-on workshop. Participants will learn how careful observations of the environment around them will improve their photos of nature and landscapes. Bring tripod if you have one. (easy, bring camera – limit 15)
Evening
B17 – 7:15 PM – BIRDING BY EAR – John Reaume
This presentation will review tips used to study and identify birdsong. Using a technique popularized by the Peterson Field Guide’s Birding by Ear series, we will learn many of the common songs heard in the spring chorus. (indoors – limit 60)
SATURDAY MAY 30
All Day
B18 – 6:30 AM – WINGED PURSUITS – HUNTING BIRDS, BUTTERFLIES, DRAGONFLIES & DAMSELFLIES – 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 insects as the day warms up; although all of these creatures will be discussed as they are found! (easy, car-pool, bring lunch – limit 20)
SOLD OUT – B19 – 7:00 AM – BIRDING THE INLAND LAKES – Mike Cadman
Several inland lakes located between Lake Huron and Georgian Bay serve as a bird migration route for safe passage between these two large bodies of water. Mike is a songbird biologist and will share his knowledge of songbirds and their habitats. (easy, car-pool, bring lunch – limit 20)
B20 – 8:00 AM – WALKING FOR THE FERN OF IT – Brett Woodman
Brett will introduce you to natural areas along the escarpment where hunting for ferns will also lead you to a variety of interesting habitats. His birding and wildflower identification skills will help to enhance this all day field trip. (difficult, car-pool, bring lunch – limit 20)
Morning
6:00 am to noon – BIRD BANDING – Dave Brewer
SOLD OUT – B21 – 6:30 AM – GRASSLAND BIRDS OF THE J/I LINE – SPECIES AT RISK – Mark Peck
Pastureland along the J/I Line makes it possible to find Upland Sandpiper, Bobolink, Meadowlark, Grasshopper and Clay-coloured Sparrow. Join Mark to have great looks at these and other grassland specialties. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
B22 – 8:00 PM – BIRDING THE OLD SHORE ROAD TRAIL – Bill Crins
The Lake Huron shoreline as well as fen and edge habitats are featured during this walk north from the Visitor Centre. Bill is an active birder and naturalist. We always benefit from his experience as an interpretive naturalist. (easy – limit 20)
B23 – 9:00 AM – SCOPING IT OUT – Andalynne & Richard Tofflemire
It’s more than just identifying what you see. We will focus on how birds and bugs interact with each other. But don’t expect to cover a lot of distance because there’s soo… much to see right at your feet and above your head! (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
Afternoon
B24 – 1:30 PM – PUZZLED BY SEDGES? – Bill Crins
“Sedges have edges, rushes are round and grasses are hollow right up from the ground.” Bill will provide you with tips about how to identify sedges and open your eyes to a whole new world on the forest floor. (easy, car-pool – limit 12)
B25 – 1:30 PM – ROADSIDE BOTANY RAMBLE – Larry Lamb
Explore various roadside habitats in the vicinity of the Visitor Centre. Learn to use identification keys and Newcomb’s Wildflower Guide (bring yours along!) (easy, car-pool – limit 12)
B26 – 1:30 PM – O’KEEFE GRANGE – A HERITAGE APPLE FARM – Bill & Lyn O’Keefe
Bill and Lyn O’Keefe have spent many years collecting and growing over two hundred varieties of apple and pear trees. These citizen scientists will share their knowledge and passion. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
B27 – 1:30 PM – PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP: LOOKING AT MacGREGOR CLOSE UP – Fran Sanagan
Fran will be facilitating this hands-on workshop where participants will learn how to look at nature close up, through a macro setting or lens. Bring a tripod if you have one. (easy, car-pool, bring camera – limit 20)
Evening
B28 – 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM – BRUCE COUNTY BEEF DINNER – Harrigan’s Catering, Southampton
MacGregor Point Provincial Park – Additional charge of $17. Dinner combined with B29 as a single event, $23. (Pre-registration required – limit 60)
B29 – 7:15 PM – ONTARIO NEST RECORD SCHEME & PROJECT NESTWATCH – Mark Peck
Join Mark as he discusses the metamorphosis of the Ontario Nest Records Scheme into Project NestWatch and learn how as a citizen scientist you can both learn and have fun providing valuable information to conservation initiatives. (indoors – limit 60)
SOLD OUT – B30 – 9:15 PM – AN EVENING OF ASTRONOMY – WHAT’S UP IN THE NIGHT SKY FOR 2015 – John Hlynialuk
During an indoor astronomy talk, John will look at sky events for 2015. Outdoors, weather permitting; members of the Bluewater Astronomical Society will make available their telescopes for viewing the night sky. (indoors/outdoors – limit 30)
SUNDAY MAY 31
All Day
B31 – 6:30 AM – DEBATING THE ISSUES – BIRDING BAYVIEW TO BOGNOR – Mark Wiercinski
Invasive species, forest fragmentation, hedgerow removal and wetland modifications are all happening at unparalleled speeds in southern Ontario. On this walking / driving tour Mark will talk about issues that are affecting the bird populations in Ontario. (difficult, car-pool, bring lunch – limit 20)
B32 – 8:00 AM – BIRDS & BEACHES: HOW DO OUR BEACHES LOOK FROM THE SKY? – Karen Alexander
During this shoreline tour of varied coastal areas, Karen will describe how different types of beach stewardship can influence the health and quality of coastal ecosystems. (easy, car-pool, bring lunch -limit 20)
Morning
6:00 am to noon – BIRD BANDING – Dave Brewer
B33 – 7:00 AM – BEYOND ID – FOREST BIRD MONITORING – Mike Cadman
You will visit several active monitoring stations along the Lake Ridge Trail where Mike will demonstrate the field protocol for conducting the Forest Bird Survey. Mike likes to go “beyond ID” by providing tidbits about signs of breeding birds. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
SOLD OUT – B34 – 8:00 AM – BEYOND ID – NEST FINDING – 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 improving their observation skills and learning about the behaviour of breeding birds. (easy, car-pool – limit 20)
Afternoon
B35 – 1:30 PM – BIRDS OF PREY – Wild Ontario
Enthusiastic, knowledgeable staff and volunteers are supported by non-releasable birds of prey during a program that is loaded with fantastic facts, a healthy dose of humour, an inspiring message and lots of “WOW” moments. (outdoors)
B36 – 1:30 PM – BEYOND ID – SHRUBS & TREES – Bob Gray
Bob will help you use identifying features, including bark characteristics and leaf shape, to identify trees and shrubs found in a variety of habitats within the park. (easy, car-pool – limit 12)
Evening
B37 – 8:00 PM – SUNSET WALK – Doug Pedwell
Join Doug for a leisurely stroll along the shore of Lake Huron to discover the sights, sounds and smells of a late May evening in MacGregor Point Provincial Park. (easy – limit 20)
FAMILY WEEKEND
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 MAY 30
Morning
6:00 am to noon – BIRD BANDING – Dave Brewer
FAM1 – 9:00 AM – BIRDING 101 FOR FAMILIES – Doug Pedwell
Birding is a family-friendly hobby. Doug will talk about the equipment needed; how to recognize family friendly field guides and, of course, how to identify birds. (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 – Andalynne & Richard Tofflemire
Time to go on an outdoor adventure! With Bino Boy’s binocular vision and Elytra Girl’s power of magnifying, we’ll be out to discover all that can be found in an exciting, entertaining way!
AND
CHICKADEE NEST BOXES – Kerry Jarvis
Build a chickadee nest box. No carpentry skills are required. Participants will assemble their own boxes. Imagine the thrill of seeing a Black-capped Chickadee choose your nest box to raise its family! (Chickadee nest box kit – $10 extra per child)
Evening
FAM3 – 7:15 PM – DOWN WITH DR. ENTO – CAMPFIRE PROGRAM – Matt Cunliffe
Fascinated by the insect world? You can learn more about these incredible creepy crawlers from world renowned Dr. Ento…Mologist, through songs, games and trivia… 6 legs, 3 body parts, 1 campfire
SUNDAY MAY 31
FAM4 – 9:00 AM – MORNING EXPLORATIONS (Children will be divided into two groups. Each child will attend both morning programs.) (limit 40)
POND EXPLORATION – Andalynne & Richard Tofflemire
Join Richard and Andalynne 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.
AND
BIRDING 102 FOR FAMILIES – Doug Pedwell
This hike will take place at the Duck’s Unlimited wetland where we will use the bird blind and the tower to see what is in the wetlands. (car required)
FAM5 – 1:30 PM – BIRDS OF PREY – Wild Ontario
Enthusiastic, knowledgeable staff and volunteers are supported by non-releasable birds of prey during a program that is loaded with fantastic facts, a healthy dose of humour, an inspiring message and lots of “WOW” moments. (outdoors)
The complete schedule is also available at: http://www.friendsofmaccgredor.org.
Huron Fringe Birding Festival Registration: 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.
SHOOTING ALL DAY WITH DOUG
Since retiring from teaching Doug has indulged his lifelong passions of nature study, photography and travel. He can often be found wandering the back roads of Grey and Bruce Counties, camera in hand, searching for that perfect shot of flora, fauna, birds and landforms. You will definitely feel that a day with Doug in the field is informative, rewarding and a whole lot of fun. A member of the Bruce Birding Club, the Saugeen Shores Camera Club and a past president of The Friends of MacGregor. Doug Pedwell has also participated in the Huron Fringe Birding Festival as a event leader and committee member for quite a few years now. Doug will be leading three events at HFBF. Here is his description of what he expects to accomplish on Nature and Landscape Photography in South Bruce Peninsula (B10).
For this all day photo shoot we will heading into South Bruce Peninsula. Car-pooling will be necessary as parking is extremely limited in some places. This event is geared towards those with SLR type cameras. Tripods will be necessary as some of the locations may be low light conditions due to the amount forest canopy cover.
Loesel’s Twayblade
We hope to photograph several orchids such as Hooker’s Orchid, Moccasin flower, Loesel’s Twayblade and European Twayblade. Telephoto lenses are the best way to photograph them.
Hooker’s Orchid
Mocassin Flower
Some of the routes to a couple of our photographic targets are difficult and do not follow trails but for the most part we will be on trails or boardwalks.
One of the topics we will cover is landscape photography and shooting of panoramas.
To be on the safe side bring a pair of rubber boots. We may not need them but after this winter’s spring thaw, we might. Bring your lunch, water and snacks.
We will be going rain or shine so if you have waterproof covers for your camera equipment bring it. Some of the most interesting shots occur when it is raining or shortly after the rain.
(Follow our Blog for more of Doug’s comments on his other events.)
REGISTER NOW FOR ALL OF DOUGS EVENTS:
http://www.friendsofmacgregor.org
A37 – 1:30 pm – BOTANY & BIRDING IN SOUTH BRUCE PENINSULA – Monday, May 26. (Moderate, car-pool, bring lunch, snacks and water) This all day event returns by 8:45 pm.
B4 – 7:30 am – DOWN & DIRTY – WILDFLOWER PHOTOGRAPHY – Thursday, May 29.
B10 – 6:45 am – NATURE & LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY IN SOUTH BRUCE PENINSULA – Thursday, May 30. (Difficult, car-pool, bring lunch. Bring DSLR camera & accessories.)
HURON FRINGE BIRDING FESTIVAL – ONE OF THE TOP 100 FESTIVALS IN ONTARIO
MAY 23 to MAY 26 & MAY 29 to JUNE 1, MacGREGOR POINT PROVINCIAL PARK, PORT ELGIN
http://www.facebook.com/HuronFringeBirdingFestival
HURON FRINGE BIRDING FESTIVAL EVENTS ARE FILLING UP FAST!
Below is a complete list of the Huron Fringe Birding Festival events that still have openings as of this posting. Have a look. Then register your choice on our website: friendsofmacgregor.org. Sign up today.
It won’t be long now.
FRIDAY MAY 23
11 OPENINGS – A2 – 8:00 am – ROCK STARS OF THE CITY – Peter Middleton. Fifty species of fern are found in Grey/Bruce and many of them can be seen in and around Owen Sound. With Peter as your guide, you will be certain to meet a good number of these “rock stars”.
7 OPENINGS – A4 – 6:30 am – BIRDING MacGREGOR’S SOUTHERN BOUNDARY – James Turland. This road trip explores the forest, wetlands and abandoned farms along the park’s southern boundary. A walk to Ducks Unlimited pond includes visits to the viewing tower and bird blind.
10 OPENINGS – A5 – 7:00 am – BIRDING MacGREGOR – Marilyn Ohler. Learn more about birding and MacGregor Point Provincial Park by joining festival veteran, Marilyn Ohler, on a morning walk in the park.
ONLY 2 OPENINGS – A7 – 1:30 pm – TREE IDENTIFICATION USING LEAVES & NEEDLES – Jim Coles. We will identify conifers and hardwoods in the vicinity of the Visitor Centre by leaf and needle characteristics. The use of botanical keys will differentiate between species.
6 OPENINGS – A8 – 1:30 pm – THE GEOLOGY & GEOMORPHOLOGY OF THE HURON FRINGE – Norbert Woerns. This driving and walking field trip will include stops at the Algonquin and Nipissing bluffs and a walk along the Detroit River Group outcrops to Gunn Point at Inverhuron Park.
24 OPENINGS – A9 – 1:30 pm – GETTING INTIMATE WITH NATURE: RE-DISCOVER NATURE THROUGH VIDEOS – Kerry Jarvis. Living in a “YouTube” generation creates exciting opportunities for naturalists to capture and preserve their experiences through video. In this new workshop, Kerry will share nature video vignettes that he has created from outings and from his gardens. (Indoors)
SATURDAY MAY 24
6 OPENINGS – A11 – 6:30 am – SOUTH SHORELINE TOUR – Marshall Byle. Marshall will follow the Lake Huron shoreline and include stops at varied habitats between MacGregor Point and Inverhuron. Species may include Common Moorhen and Orchard Orioles.
ONLY 4 OPENINGS – A12 – 7:00 am – SAUGEEN HIGH – Joy Albrecht. The Amphitheatre gardens, high above the Saugeen River, will be the setting for this hike. We will be observing spring migrants, nesting species, shore birds, and raptors.
16 OPENINGS – A13 – 8:30 am – UNIQUE HABITATS ALONG THE LAKE HURON SHORELINE – Judith Jones. Judith is an expert on dune ecology and many local species at risk. Your morning will be spent learning about the plants along the sand dunes at Inverhuron; in the afternoon you will check out the near-shoreline and forest habitats at MacGregor Point.
11 OPENINGS – A16 – 7:00 am – BIRDING THE TOWER TRAIL – Richard Tofflemire. Campground areas, dune habitat and the Lake Huron shoreline will be featured on this morning hike.
9 OPENINGS – A17 -7:30 AM- THE TALE OF THE PIPING PLOVER – Stewart Nutt. Piping Plover behaviours including: courtship, feeding, life history, territorial displays and fierce protection will be observed and/or explained during your time with these birds. Become a ‘Plover Lover’.
ONLY 2 OPENINGS – A18 – 1:30 pm – BIKING MacGREGOR – Doug Martin. Follow Doug along a variety of the extensive biking trails in the park, with a bit of park history, natural history and birding thrown in! (Moderate, hybrid or mountain bike)
12 OPENINGS – A20 -1:30 pm – MAKE YOUR SIGHTINGS COUNT – Mike Burrell. The Citizen Science project eBird is a comprehensive online bird database that is revolutionizing how birders go about their business. Contributing is simple. Other Citizen Science projects will also be discussed.
14 OPENINGS – A22 – 1:30 PM – TIPS & TECHNIQUES ON SUCCESSFULLY PHOTOGRAPHING TREES – Kerry Jarvis. Trees are often seen as a backdrop to a scene. Join Kerry in this new photography workshop hike, as he explores and inspires photographers to look at trees differently. (Moderate) Intermediate to experienced DSLR camera users. (Bring Tripod & zoom/close-up lenses.)
36 OPENINGS – A23 – 4:30 pm – SOCIAL. 5:30 pm – BANQUET & PRESENTATION – BIRDS & SOME OF THEIR MYSTERIES – David Lamble. David is no ordinary bird lover. He will talk about bird intelligence – bird vision and his passion, bird banding, and how they all contribute to our understanding of birds. (St. Joseph’s Parish Hall, Port Elgin, Chicken Buffet, Harrigan’s Catering) (Early bird price – $35 extra per person; after April 15 or for banquet/presentation only – $45 extra per person) Casual. Bar available. Pre-registration required. Silent auction. Contact registrar by May 1 with dietary restrictions.
SUNDAY MAY 25
ONLY 3 OPENINGS – A25 – 7:00 am – HIDDEN TREASURES OF THE HURON COAST – Peter Middleton. This outing will explore Lake Huron coastlines, both present and past, north of Sauble Falls. You will visit Ontario Nature’s oldest reserve, Petrel Point, and their newest, Sauble Dunes. (Moderate, car-pool, bring lunch, sturdy footwear)
ONLY 4 OPENINGS– A28 – 8:00 am – UP WITH THE BIRDS – Doug Martin. Continue the tradition that pre-dates the birding festival with this morning walk along the Tower Trail to the Ducks Unlimited pond and the viewing tower.
8 OPENINGS – A29 – 8:30 am – THE LONGEST, SHORTEST WALK YOU WILL EVER TAKE – Richard & Andalyne Tofflemire. It’s more than just identifying what you see. We will focus on how birds and bugs interact with each other. But don’t expect to cover a lot of distance because there’s so much to see right at your feet and above your head!
ONLY 5 OPENINGS – A30 – 1:30 pm – NATURE RAMBLE – MacGREGOR POINT SOUTH – Norah Toth. Norah will take you to one of her favourite areas in MacGregor Point. Wildflowers and birds seen along the route will be highlighted.
ONLY 5 OPENINGS – A31 – 1:30 pm – NATURE RAMBLE – OLD SHORE ROAD TRAIL – John Reaume. A leisurely walk along the Old Shore Road Trail near the Visitor Centre. Plants, flowers, dragonflies, birds – let’s see what we find.
9 OPENINGS – A33 – 1:30 pm – FUN, FROG FROLIC AT MacGREGOR POINT – Kerry Jarvis. Join Kerry on this fun frog frolic to listen to, locate and observe several species of frog and the American Toad at MacGregor Point. (If you have them, bring camera and close-up binoculars.)
12 OPENINGS – A34 – 7:15 pm – THE PLIGHT OF THE BUMBLEBEE – Sheila Colla. Come learn about the status of Canadian bumblebees and what you can do to help wild populations of these important native pollinators. Tools for identification to species level and a new Citizen Science project will also be discussed. (Indoors)
MONDAY MAY 26
16 OPENINGS – A37 – 1:30 pm – BOTANY & BIRDING IN SOUTH BRUCE PENINSULA – Doug Pedwell. We will be observing a variety of ecosystems including forest, escarpment, rocky shorelines, marshes, lakes, sandy shorelines, and pasturelands. (Bring lunch, snacks and water. This all day event returns by 8:45 pm.)
12 OPENINGS – A38 – 6:30 am – BIRDING THE PERIPHERY OF THE PARK – Mike Burrell. Grab your binoculars AND notebooks! While we are out enjoying the birds we will also be contributing to one of the biggest Citizen Science projects ever – eBird. After the hike we’ll have a quick demo of how simple it is to really make your observations count.
9 OPENINGS – A39 – 7:00 am – BIRDING THE TOWER TRAIL – James Turland. Walk the Tower Trail from the park road to the Ducks Unlimited pond. Habitat is a mixture of wetlands and hardwood forests.
16 OPENINGS – A40 – 1:30 pm – NATURE RAMBLE – OLD SHORE ROAD TRAIL – Laura Cook. Laura will take you along one of her favourite trails in MacGregor Point. Wildflowers, insects and birds seen along the route will be highlighted.
26 OPENINGS – A42 – 7:15 pm – IMPORTANT BIRD AREAS – Mike Burrell. Come hear about some of Ontario’s most important sites for bird conservation and how your help can make a difference on a global scale.
31 OPENINGS – A43 – 9:00 pm – AN EVENING OF ASTRONOMY – THE NIGHT SKY – John Hlynialuk & Bluewater Astronomical Society. John will take you on a tour through the deep reaches of the universe. Program will feature astronomical highlights of 2014 as well as Saturn, Mars and more distant objects like nebula, clusters and galaxies. Outdoor viewing through telescopes is weather permitting. (Indoors/outdoors)
THURSDAY MAY 29
ONLY 4 OPENINGS – B2 – 7:00 am – BIRDING THE HURON FRINGE NORTH – James Turland. Huron Fringe refers to the sand and gravel lowlands adjacent to Lake Huron. This driving tour explores the fringe between MacGregor Point and Sauble Falls to the north. (Bring lunch)
11 OPENINGS – B3 – 7:30 am – TIPS & TECHNIQUES ON PHOTOGRAPHING WATERFALLS – Kerry Jarvis. Participants will get an opportunity to capture several local waterfalls by experimenting with a variety of photographic techniques. (Bring lunch – Intermediate to experienced DSLR camera users. Bring tripod & zoom/close-up lenses.)
13 OPENINGS – B4 – 7:30 am – DOWN & DIRTY – WILDFLOWER PHOTOGRAPHY – Doug Pedwell. Participants will take their cameras and equipment to photograph wildflowers at a variety of locations in the park.
10 OPENINGS – B5 – 1:30 pm – BOTANY OF THE “FRINGE” – Barbara Palmer. Many unique shoreline plants, including Dwarf Lake Iris, are found in MacGregor Point. Barbara will help you learn to identify them.
7 OPENINGS – B6 – 1:30 pm – TREE & SHRUB IDENTIFICATION – Bob Gray. Take a leisurely walk in the interior of the park to identify trees and shrubs and to see how species associate with different site types.
20 OPENINGS – B7 -7:15 pm – ONTARIO’S BIRD SURVEYS – WHAT ARE THEY TELLING US? – Mike Cadman. Citizen scientists provide a wealth of data on the size and trends of Ontario’s bird populations. This presentation will outline surveys, methods and findings. Special attention will be given to the decline of aerial insectivores (swallows, swifts, nightjars). (Indoors)
FRIDAY MAY 30
12 OPENINGS – B8 – 6:00 am – CABOT HEAD/DYER’S BAY – A BIRDING AREA OF IMPORTANCE – Rod Steinacher. Visit some of the Peninsula’s best-known birding spots, such as Dyer’s Bay, the sparrow fields near Larkwhistle and Crane Lake. You will have the opportunity to observe migration monitoring and bird banding at the Cabot Head Research Station. (Bring lunch)
6 OPENINGS – B10 – 6:45 am – NATURE & LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY IN SOUTH BRUCE PENINSULA – Doug Pedwell. We will photograph some of the unique plants and rugged landscapes that the Niagara Escarpment has created. (Difficult, car-pool, bring lunch. Bring DSLR camera & accessories.)
14 OPENINGS – B11 – 6:00 am – IS IT A BIRD OR YOUR MNEMONIC? – Michael Carlson. A field workshop on how to listen to and identify bird vocalization. Michael will use the Tower Trail where you will listen for orioles, woodpeckers, warblers, flycatchers and waterfowl. (Car-pool, for experienced birders only)
9 OPENINGS – B12 – 7:00 am – BIRDING THE MacGREGOR BOUNDARY – Mike Cadman. Join Mike as he visits some hot spots including the Day Use beach, the Park Office, the old cottage entry road and along the Townline.
17 OPENINGS – B13 – 1:30 pm – WILDFLOWERS: HISTORICAL FACTS & FICTION – Heather Starrs. Legends and superstitions are attached to many common, and not so common, plants found at MacGregor Point. Heather’s walk will introduce you to some plants’ stories. (Easy) (Limit 20)
ONLY 5 OPENINGS – B14 – 1:30 pm – ROADSIDE BOTANY RAMBLE – Larry Lamb. Explore various roadside habitats in the vicinity of the Visitor Centre. Learn to use identification keys and Newcomb’s Wildflower Guide (Bring yours along!).
12 OPENINGS – B16 – 7:15 pm – A FLING WITH SHOREBIRDS: BILLS, BREASTS & A LITTLE TAIL – Mark Peck. For many birders, shorebirds can be notoriously difficult to identify. Join in the fun as we look at the important characteristics that help simplify common Ontario shorebirds. (Indoors)
SATURDAY MAY 31
8 OPENINGS – B17 – 6:00 am – BIG DAY ON THE BRUCE – Michael Carlson. Are you ready for a full day of birding? If so, you won’t want to miss this morning to night birding marathon on the Bruce Peninsula. (Easy, car-pool; bring lunch, snacks and a walking dinner.)
11 OPENINGS – B18 – 7:30 am – SECRETS OF THE GEORGIAN BAY FORMATION – Bob Gray. This daylong excursion will explore several hidden features of the Niagara Escarpment. Bob will share theories about how these features were formed. (Difficult, car-pool, bring lunch.)
15 OPENINGS – B19 – 7:00 am – ROAD BIRDING FOR GRASSLAND BIRDS – Brett Woodman. Tour the local countryside looking for the elusive nesting grassland birds of Saugeen Shores.
6 OPENINGS – B20 – 7:30 am – BIRDING BY NEST – Mark Peck. Learn how to locate, identify and record nesting information for the Ontario Nest Records Scheme.
ONLY 3 OPENINGS – B21 – 8:00 am – BIRDING MacGREGOR – OLD FIELDS & TRAILS – James Turland. A morning walk through varied habitats along the Deer Run and Rotary Way trails in the northeast corner of the Park. These are infrequently birded areas.
7 OPENINGS – B22 – 9:00 am – DYNAMIC DIGITAL CAMERA TIPS – Jennifer O’Reilly. Great for beginner or intermediate photographers. Step by step instruction on how to take award-winning compositions using features on your camera! (Suitable for point-and-shoot or DSLR cameras.)
11 OPENINGS – B23 – 1:30 pm – THE TALE OF THE PIPING PLOVER – Stewart Nutt. Piping Plover behaviours including: courtship, feeding, life history, territorial displays and fierce protection will be observed and/or explained during your time with these birds. Become a ‘Plover Lover’.
ONLY 4 OPENINGS – B24 – 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.
6 OPENINGS – B25 – 1:30 pm – PLANT & WILDFLOWER RAMBLE – Larry Lamb. Walk the trails and campground loops from the Day Use area to Pitcher Plant Marl. Learn to use identification keys and Newcomb’s Wildflower Guide (bring yours along!).
7 OPENINGS – B27 – 1:30 pm – ADVANCED DIGITAL CAMERA TECHNIQUES – Jennifer O’Reilly. This workshop takes you out into the ‘field’ for hands on photography. Learn pro techniques guaranteed to put the ‘wow’ factor into your photographs. (Point-and-shoot or DSLR cameras.)
33 OPENINGS – B28 -5:00 pm to 6:30 pm – BRUCE COUNTY BEEF DINNER – Harrigan’s Catering, Southampton. In MacGregor Point Provincial Park, additional charge of $17. Dinner combined with B29 as a single event $23. Pre-registration required.)
17 OPENINGS – B29 – 7:15 pm – THE STRAIT OF GIBRALTAR: A BIRD MIGRATION HOTSPOT – Justin Peter. Each autumn, millions of birds that breed in Europe will go to Africa to spend the winter. In this illustrated talk, Justin will shed some light on the mysteries of bird migration across the Strait of Gibraltar and on his experiences there. (Indoors)
SUNDAY JUNE 1
7 OPENINGS – B30 – 6:00 am – MALCOLM BLUFFS & CAPE CROKER – Alfred Raab. Bird in a variety of habitats within the Cape Croker Peninsula and Malcolm Bluffs Nature Reserve. The cliffs above Colpoy’s Bay shoreline provide spectacular vistas
17 OPENINGS – B32 -6:30 AM – BIRDING THE TOWER TRAIL – Justin Peter. Hike the Tower Trail and check the Ducks Unlimited pond from both the viewing tower and bird blind. Habitat is a mix of wetlands and hardwood forests.
18 OPENINGS – B33 – 7:00 am – BIRDING THE PERIPHERY – James Turland. Woodland, lakeshore, wetlands and abandoned fields are some of the habitats involved. (Easy, car-pool)
ONLY 4 OPENINGS – B34 – 8:00 am – SEARCHING FOR STRAGGLERS – MacGREGOR’S LATE MIGRANTS – Michael Carlson. Join Michael as he searches select spots in MacGregor for breeding birds as well as late spring migrants, such as Yellow-bellied Flycatcher and Gray-cheeked Thrush.
8 OPENINGS – B35 – 1:30 pm – EXPLORING KINGHURST FOREST – Tanya Pulfert & Catherine Jimenea. Kinghurst Forest is a special place and Catherine and Tanya are keen to take you for a walk through this Ontario Nature property. On this general nature walk you will be a Citizen Scientist and report your reptile and amphibian sightings.
12 OPENINGS – B36 – 1:30 pm – FUN, FROG FROLIC AT MacGREGOR POINT – Kerry Jarvis. Join Kerry on this fun frog frolic to listen to, locate and observe several species of frog and the American Toad at MacGregor Point. (If you have them, bring camera and close-up binoculars.)
15 OPENINGS – B37 – 7:15 pm – SUNSET WALK – John Cummings. The Lake Huron shoreline offers some of the most spectacular sunsets in the world. What a wonderful way to enjoy a sunset with friends.
REGISTER NOW. friendsofmacgregor.org
15 EVENTS ARE FULL AND THE REST ARE FILLING UP FAST
Email: birdfest@rogers.com
https://www.facebook.com/HuronFringeBirdingFestival.
MAY 23 to MAY 26 – MAY 29 tor JUNE 1 -2014
One of Ontario’s Top 100 Festivals
MacGREGOR POINT PROVINCIAL PARK – PORT ELGIN, ONTARIO
KERRY JARVIS ~ THE NATURE GUY
Kerry Jarvis retired after 28 years at Seneca College where he was Program Co-ordinator for Event Marketing Management. During his tenure at Seneca he taught Marketing, Photography, Videography and Event Management. A naturalist, educator, photographer, author, presenter, gardener and traveller, Kerry’s varied interests and background prove he loves everything in nature and he’ll go out of his way to experience it, record it and as you will see during this year’s HFBF…share it.
This year he has ‘something for everyone’ as his versatility is on display in 4 different events each with a different discipline. So if you’re interested in shooting videos, tree photography, identifying frogs, or mastering the art of waterfall photography, sign up for any of the following:
A9 – GETTING INTIMATE WITH NATURE: RE-DISCOVER NATURE THROUGH VIDEOS: May 23 – 1:30 PM
Homemade videos are all over the Internet. Some good. Some bad. Living in a “YouTube” generation creates opportunities for everyone to reach for their smart phone or digital camera to capture and share their experiences through video. But a lot a people aren’t sure what to do with them, how to post them, add music, effects and generally make their YouTube moment more interesting. And given the length of our attention span these days, some of these amateur ‘video bites’ are quickly passed over. In this, his new ‘show and tell’ type workshop, Kerry will show you some of the basics and point you in the direction of available resources to help you shoot and package a more watchable video.
As an example, Kerry will share nature video vignettes that he has created like this one dealing with cecropia moths he shot in his own garden: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ytLkOnzIAEE
Kerry wants you to think about more than just taking pictures by showing you how to shoot vignettes around your home, your garden, even when hiking in the park.
A22 – TIPS & TECHNIQUES ON SUCCESSFULLY PHOTOGRAPHING TREES: May 24 – 1:30 PM
Kerry believes that ‘trees are pretty good models.’ They stay in one place and give you plenty of time to contemplate angles. Alone or in a stand, trees are more than just a backdrop to a scene; there is texture to their bark, shape to their leaves and patterns in their veins, they give us berries, buds, flowers and a unique way they capture light through all of our four seasons. Join Kerry in this new photography workshop hike, as he explores and inspires you to look at trees for the myriad of photographic possibilities they present. And timing couldn’t be better as the Park and surrounding forest should be budding and flowering, ready for you and your camera. (Intermediate to experienced DSLR camera users. Tripod & zoom/close-up lenses.)
A33 – FUN, FROG FROLIC AT MacGREGOR POINT: May 25 – 1:30 PM
Who knows what a casual frog hike through the Park can turn up. Wood Frogs, Eastern Grey Treefrogs, Leopard Frogs, Green Frogs, American Toads and Spring Peepers are all lurking in MacGregor somewhere, using their natural camouflage to stay hidden. Some are tiny creatures, but under Kerry’s guidance you’ll learn to how ID their specific calls and visually locate them. If you bring your camera and close-up binoculars you just might be able to see them.
(REPEAT) FUN, FROG FROLIC – JUNE 1 – B36 – 1:30 PM
B3 – TIPS & TECHNIQUES ON PHOTOGRAPHING WATERFALLS: 7:30 AM – May 29
Given the winter we’ve had so far and the piles of snow that refuse to leave, the spring melt should work to your advantage…if your interest is in photographing waterfalls. Join Kerry as he takes you on a tour of several local waterfalls and gives you tips and pointers on how to get dramatic results by experimenting with a variety of photographic techniques; from the crowd pleasing “cotton candy effect” to “freezing water” as it cascades over the rock face. Unleash your photographic creativity with the beauty of these magnificent and very different waterfalls on this full day outing.
(Intermediate to experienced DSLR camera users. Bring tripod & zoom/close-up lenses.)
REGISTER NOW FOR ANY OR ALL OF THE ABOVE EVENTS WITH KERRY JARVIS
http://www.friendsofmacgregor.org
Email: birdfest@rogers.com
HURON FRINGE BIRDING FESTIVAL – MAY 23 to MAY 26 & MAY 29 to JUNE 1
MCGREGOR POINT PROVINCIAL PARK, PORT ELGIN, ONTARIO
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SPEND SOME QUALITY TIME WITH ‘THE BIRD LISTENER’
Michael Carlson – looking and listening.
Michael Carlson is an internationally recognized field ornithologist and a popular HFBF leader. The Huron Fringe Birding Festival welcomes him back in three special events that are sure to showcase his scouting talents and patience and, as always, enhance your birding experience.
If you want to learn how to listen to and identify bird vocalization then IS IT A BIRD OR YOUR MNEMONIC ? (B11) on Friday May 30, beginning at 6:00 am should be on your list. Its a field workshop on the Tower Trail where Michael will have you listening for orioles, woodpeckers, warblers, flycatchers and waterfowland more, all under his expert guidance.
The highlight of the festival happens on Saturday May 21 starting at 6:00 am…its the infamous BIG DAY ON THE BRUCE (B17). If you’re serious about birding, you won’t want to miss this full day of birding; a true morning to night birding marathon on the Bruce Peninsula. Bring you lunch, snacks and a walking dinner…you’ll be out and about for a while.
Finally, on Sunday June 1 at 8:00 am, Michael will take you SEARCHING FOR STRAGGLERS – MacGREGOR’S LATE MIGRANTS (B34). He’ll be guiding you to select spots in MacGregor for breeding birds as well as late spring migrants, such as Yellow-bellied Flycatcher and Gray-cheeked Thrush. Its the last day of the Festival and a great way to see who flew in at the last minute.
THERE ARE STILL OPENINGS ON ALL OF MICHAEL’S EVENTS SO REGISTER ON-LINE – NOW – http://www.friendsofmacgregor.org
Email: birdfest@rogers.com
Michael Carlson has over 45 years of experience in the field identification of birds. He is an expert at identifying birds by sound and has led workshops in birding by ear at the the Huron Fringe Birding Festival for many years. Michael was a member of the elite Canadain team KOWA, which won the E.S. Stearns Award in 1989/1992 and the coveted Urner Stone Cup in 1992 at the New Jersey World Series of Birding. From 2002 to 2005 he conducted bird density surveys on the Bruce Peninsula for the Atlas of the Breeding Birds of Ontario (2007). Formerly from Rochester, New York, Michael spent his formative years birding the Lake Ontario shoreline. In the early 1980s he was biologist-in-charge of studies examining the utlization of urban microhabitat by avian migrants and the collision of nocturnal avain with tall buildings in Rochester, New York, and Detroit, Michigan. Michael organized the Letchworth-Silver Lake, New York Christmas Bird Count for 30 years. He also developed bird identification and nature appreciation programs, including training for Christian youth camps in Michigan. Professionally, Michael is an environmental consultant providing regulatory compliance and wildlife management services to industry. In addition to frequenting the Brue Peninsula, Michael regularly birds Point Pele in Leamington, Ontario, the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas and southeastern Arizona. He has also birded in England, Isreal and Costa Rica. Participants of his tours and field trips have praised his bird finding abvilities and his identifcation skills,
(Bio courtesy Bruce Bird Tours website)
Michael and company from the 2013 HFBF Archives
HURON FRINGE BIRDING FESTIVAL
MAY 23 to MAY 26 – MAY 29 to JUNE 1
MCGREGOR POINT PROVINCIAL PARK
PORT ELGIN, ONTARIO
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A GOOD TIME WAS HAD BY ALL
THE FOLLOWING IS A PREVIEW OF THE ARTICLE THAT WILL APPEAR IN THE JUNE 4 ISSUE OF THE SHORELINE BEACON SERVING SAUGEEN SHORES, PAISLEY, TARA AND TIVERTON
THE HURON FRINGE BANQUET AND PRESENTATION
A unique award, a silent auction, special presentations by Bradley Fauteux and Peter Middleton, recognition of sponsors and volunteers plus a generous gift from Bruce Power, highlighted the Huron Fringe Birding Festival Banquet on May 25. Over time The Festival itself has grown substantially and is recognized as one of North America’s premier Birding Festivals.
The banquet paid tribute to original and present volunteers, leaders, sponsors and participants who have helped make the Festival what it is today. A sub-committee of The Friends of MacGregor Point Provincial Park, the Festival is now known for new and innovated programs and events featuring first-class leaders.
Organized and operated totally by a volunteer committee, the Festival’s events showcase MacGregor Point Park and the Bruce Peninsula. All revenues go towards new initiatives by the Friends of MacGregor.
Bradley Fauteux, Managing Director, Ontario Parks
In his opening address, Bradley Fauteux, Managing Director of Ontario Parks, said, “…in environmentalism and conservation, I don’t think there is a higher calling than being part of a ‘Friends’ group. Nothing happens in Park infrastructure without volunteers…the ability and desire to volunteer is one of the most important things people can do. Ontario Parks is grateful for your time and support.”
The introduction of the new Norah Toth Award underlined Mr. Fauteux’s comments. This award carries Norah’s name because she represents the values that underlie its origin. Norah is an originator of the Festival as well as a leading and driving force in its successes.
North Toth presents the new award named after her to its first recipient Mary Rapati.
This Award will be presented annually to the individual who has made a significant difference to the Huron Fringe Birding Festival or other local nature activities. The first and obvious recipient is Mary Rapati who for years has made unselfish service to and involvement in the Festival and the Friends of MacGregor a model for volunteerism.
Plaques were also presented to long-time volunteers Doug Martin, Joan Crowe, Mark Wiercinski and again, Norah Toth, for their help in driving the Festival forward.
Bruce Power present a big cheque to Norah and Jim
Bruce Power acknowledged their important, long-term relationship with the Festival and Friends of MacGregor with a generous contribution of $4700.00. Their involvement and donation go a long way in the development of Festival programs and keeping registrations costs low.
Peter Middleton ended the evening with his entertaining answer to the question “Why Do Gulls Perch On White Rocks?”
Peter presented insights gleaned from a long career in Ecotourism that began in the early 60’s. In a striking, visual and often humorous presentation he showed how, “one ventures into the field with a sense of anticipation and discovery. No two days are alike and the wonders of a living planet unfold in remarkable and unpredictable fashion.”
120 people attended yet another successful Huron Fringe Birding Festival Banquet. The Festival ends June 2nd. Planning for the 2014 Festival begins shortly thereafter.
John Cummings was our usual masterful Master of Ceremonies
Norah Toth and Mark Wiercinski with his award for contributions to HFBF
Doug Martin – founding president of The Friends of MacGregor Point Park and his award.
Joan Crowe and her award
Doug Pedwell gives Norah Toth an award of her very own
Photos (except that of Peter Middleton) courtesy of Steward Nutt and Doug Pedwell
