Saturday June 23: Tiny Marsh BioBlitz

From MTM Conservation Association

Join expert naturalists and indigenous teachers and discover the amazing diversity of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, insects, fish and plants that live within this expanse of marsh, forest and field north- west of Elmvale.

A BioBlitz is an intense search for as many species as possible in a given space over a given time period. The search is for variety, not quantity – so each species gets counted only once, no matter how many individuals are seen.

For Tiny Marsh BioBlitzers, the space is the provincial wildlife area’s approximately 900 hectares. Tiny Marsh is recognized as an Important Bird Area, a globally significant habitat for the conservation of bird populations.

The day starts at 6:00 am, when the bird groups head out to find waterfowl, songbirds and raptors at the time of day during which they are most active.

If that’s too early for you, a variety of guided walks leaves the Nature Centre at 10 am, and again at 1 pm. Bring your own packed lunch for the noon -1 pm break. The day concludes at 4:00 pm, after a listening circle. Scroll down for complete schedule of guided walks and the day’s events.

This is a fun day for specialists, amateurs and newcomers to the world of nature. We have found that a 7-year-old is as likely as a seasoned naturalist to spot a rarity. And children delight in the process of discovery and play a role as part of the team.

Arrive prepared with weather appropriate clothing including long pants and closed footwear, PLUS sun protection, sufficient water and insect repellent. Bring snacks (especially those participating in the early morning bird walk). This is a rain or shine event!

Please note there is no potable water available at Tiny Marsh so bring enough water for your day especially if warm temperatures are forecast.

Read more, including day’s schedule and who’s who.