Charwell Point & Gull Pond: Sunday Footpath Committee Walk – July 13th

📝 📸 Dale Smith

On this hot and humid day, a thoughtful suggestion by Greg led us on an enjoyable walk to Charwell Point and Gull Pond, where we encountered a family of Trumpeter Swans. Although a pair has been present for the past two or three years, this is the first time successful breeding has been observed.

Fourteen additional species of birds were also seen or heard including several March Wrens and a small flock of Kildeer.

Near the lake, marsh hedge nettle (Stachys hispida) was in bloom. This native flowering plant of Eastern North America is in the mint family.

Inland, the dry-loving plant, narrowleaf vervain (Verbena simplex), was spotted. It is found in open, dry habitats and tolerates disturbance; therefore, it is often seen along roadsides.

Had we brought our cats along, they would have liked this plant – catnip (Nepeta cataria). Found in many parts of the world, it is widely naturalized in North America and is another member of the mint family. Not only is it attractive to cats, but it can also be used as a natural insect repellent and in herbal teas due to its sedative and relaxant properties.

All in all, it was another enjoyable walk along the South Shore, which again illustrated the incredible biodiversity that is present.

📸 Lesa Berec

📸 Geoff Craig

📸 Lesa Berec

📸 Lesa Berec

📸 Geoff Craig