As the chill of winter dissipates and the days grow longer, nature awakens with a symphony of sights and sounds, heralding the arrival of spring. We had 10 people join our first Sights & Sounds Outing.
Our journey began with a stroll down the Rail Trail from Line 14, Oro Medonte. We noted Coltsfoot and the dainty blossoms of Hepatica.
The chorus of Spring Peepers filled the air, their jubilant calls echoing through the forest. These tiny amphibians, with their distinctive peeping, were the harbingers of warmer days to come, their presence a reminder of the interconnectedness of all living beings.
As we ventured further, our senses were heightened by the sight of a majestic Snapping Turtle basking in the sun, its ancient wisdom a testament to the resilience of life. Nearby, a Robin perched on a branch, its crimson breast a vivid contrast against the verdant foliage, while Red-Winged Blackbirds and Grackles darted amongst the reeds, their iridescent feathers shimmering in the sunlight.
The call of a Crow resonated overhead, a symbol of intelligence and adaptability, while the gentle cooing of Mourning Doves provided a soothing backdrop to our exploration. Common Mergansers and Mallards glided gracefully across the shimmering surface. And then, in a moment of pure majesty, a pair of Trumpeter Swans soared overhead, their graceful wings outstretched against the azure sky, a reminder of the boundless beauty of the natural world.
As the day drew to a close, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to witness nature’s renewal firsthand. As we welcome back the warmth of spring, let us not forget to cherish and protect the precious ecosystems that sustain us all.
Species list:
- Coltsfoot
- Hepatica
- Spring Peepers
- Snapping Turtle
- Robin
- Red-Winged Blackbird
- Grackles
- Crow
- Mourning Doves
- Kinglet
- Canada Goose on nest
- Common Mergansers
- Mallard
- Trumpeter Swans
We hope you will join us for the next two outings on April 17 and 24! Join our email list to be notified of the location within Orillia. Check our Facebook and Instagram for more photos and video of our outing.
