These brief reflections represent but a few of my memories of the beautiful birds of Vancouver Island. Over the past [...]
Island NatureExploring nature on Vancouver Island, British Columbia
Victoria Natural History Society – September Field Trips
Joining a local natural history club is an excellent way to learn more about nature and meet like-minded people. The Victoria Natural History Society (VNHS) has a number of interesting walks and presentations for both members and non-members throughout the year. Field trips are ranked according to difficulty:
- Level 1 – easy walking, mostly level paths
- Level 2 – paths can be narrow with uneven terrain
- Level 3 – steeper grades or obstacles in paths requiring agility
- Level 4 – very steep, insecure footing or longer hikes requiring good physical condition
September 2010 Field Trips
The following are walks and presentations hosted by the Victoria Natural History Society during the month of September, 2010. To learn more about the VNHS please visit their website at http://www.vicnhs.bc.ca/.
Saturday Morning Birding
September 4, 11, 18; October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Call the Rare Bird Alert (250-704-2555) or check the VNHS website Rare Bird Alert on the Thursday or Friday before to find out this week’s location. Starting at 8:00 a.m., rain or shine. For more details, call Rick at 250-885-2454. Novice and experienced birders all welcome.
Saturday morning bird walks with the Victoria Natural History Society may provide a chance to "get to know the gulls."
Tuesday, September 14
Wolverines: A Story of Ecological Myths and Economic Realities
Wolverines have a tough reputation as a dauntless and tenacious icon of untamed wilderness. But as untamed wilderness declines, what does this mean for wolverines? Wolverines used to range across Alberta’s Rockies, Prairies, and boreal forests, but they have declined significantly in the last century. With extensive oil and gas development, the remaining suitable habitats for wolverines may be dwindling as well. Wolverine ecology in Alberta was a blank space on the map before we started a five-year study of these elusive and rare predators. We used camera trapping and non-invasive genetic research to examine wolverines in a protected mountain forest landscape, and in an adjacent foothills forest landscape with extensive forest harvesting and energy development. We found that the myth of wolverines’ resilience is built on unsteady ground: economic development has clashed with this icon of wilderness. The outcome for all western Canadian wolverines from Ontario to BC may be uncertain, but dispelling the myths and embracing a true understanding of wolverines and their ecological requirements can help conserve this species across their range. Join wildlife ecologist Dr. Jason Fisher as he takes us on a remarkable scientific and photographic journey to reveal hidden insights into this largely unknown animal. We meet at 7:30 p.m. in Room 159 of the Fraser Building. Admission is free and everyone is welcome. Bring a friend and a coffee mug.
Saturday, September 18
Don’t Panic, Grow Organic
As part of the District of Saanich Pesticide-Free Gardening Series, Carolyn Herriot demonstrates through her own garden the fact that you can have a beautiful healthy landscape without using products that are harmful to nature or wildlife. Come and discover some simple natural techniques to keep your garden in balance, allowing Mother Nature to take over, while you enjoy the garden. 11:00 a.m. at the Pearkes Recreation Centre, Ross Room.
Saturday, September 18
Life After Pesticides: Beautiful Yards and Healthy Gardens
Dr. Linda Gilkeson will give an illustrated talk on how to have lovely yards, food gardens, and lawns, without resorting to pesticides. She will change how you think about dealing with weeds, insects, and other pests with her emphasis on prevention and low-cost, simple methods. She shows why it is essential to correctly identify pests, how to know when to treat and the right way to use organic treatments. Part of the District of Saanich Pesticide-Free Gardening Series: 1:30 p.m. at the Pearkes Recreation Centre, Ross Room.
Learn how to make your garden more insect friendly!
Read about more field trips offered by the Victoria Natural History Society
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Birds of Vancouver Island
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Victoria Natural History Society – September Field Trips
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