We know a lot of our visitors are interested in exploring our parks, and maybe taking a piece of it home with them. We’ve noticed an increase in popularity of foraging, but remember: foraging for any plant or fungal species is prohibited in provincial parks.
The sun is shining, birds are chirping, and splashes of beautiful colour are beginning to pop up in parks. Spring wildflowers bloom for only a short amount of time, and we’ve got our sights set on spotting as many as we can! Here are five beautiful ephemerals you may find on your spring adventures:
Today’s post comes from former Discovery Leader David Bree at Presqu’ile Provincial Park. With the onset of winter, we often think of nature going into a slumber, but while she slows down, there is still lots going on outside. Winter provides a better opportunity to learn what the animals of our fields and forests are up … Continue reading How to be a winter wildlife detective
Today’s post comes from Isabella Schives, senior park clerk at Rushing River Provincial Park. Now that the seasons have changed and snow blankets the ground, the natural beauty of this vibrant and popular summertime park takes on an incredible transformation. Icicles begin hanging from trees and buildings, fresh snow crunches underneath your feet, and the brisk, … Continue reading Winter adventures at Rushing River Provincial Park
Today’s post comes from Rick Stronks, the (now retired) chief naturalist at Algonquin Provincial Park. As winter weather rolls in, Black Bears are bedding down for hibernation. Here are some interesting facts about these seasonal deep sleepers:
The crisp air and morning frost that September brings get many Ontarians excited for the arrival of fall colours. And who can blame us? We would argue that Ontario is the most breathtaking place to enjoy autumn in all its stunning glory. If you’re planning a trip to take in the colours of the season, … Continue reading Planning to visit us during fall colours? Start here.
Today’s post comes from Sheila Wiebe, a marketing and development specialist at Bronte Creek Provincial Park. Provincial parks are all about protection. We protect significant natural ecosystems and habitats while offering many outstanding and sustainable recreational opportunities for the people of Ontario. This isn’t always an easy task. Invasive species have challenged our ecosystem management, … Continue reading Why do we leave dead trees in the forest?
Ecological integrity can be a tricky concept to nail down. But in the simplest terms, it means keeping nature — and all of its component parts — whole. Planning to visits our parks this fall? Here are the top five ways to keep ecological integrity in mind during your visit:
Today’s blog was written by Jessica Stillman, school outreach coordinator at Bronte Creek Provincial Park. When you visit a provincial park, you will likely interact with staff from several departments. From the gate staff who greet you to the maintenance crew that keep facilities clean, the park operates smoothly because everyone has a role to play … Continue reading F.B.I.: the not-so-Secret Service of Ontario Parks
From yeast fungi (responsible for leavening bread) to mold (we’ve all forgotten about food for just a little too long), the world of fungi is a large and fascinating one. But the role fungi play in our natural environment is perhaps one of the most important roles of all. Have you ever wondered how old … Continue reading Fascinating fall fungi at Frontenac
