📝 📸 Dale Smith

Exploring nature always brings surprises, and this time, our walk offered an intriguing mix of local wildlife and invasive species. Amid the dog-strangling vine and poison ivy, we stumbled upon some fascinating finds.

The highlight of the walk was undoubtedly the yellow lady’s slipper (Cypripedium parviflorum). This native orchid, with its delicate and intricate structure, thrives in the damp woodlands of North America. Seeing it up close was a treat, a reminder of the hidden gems nature holds for those willing to look.

Another exciting discovery was Seneca snakeroot (Senega officinalis), a species I had never encountered before. Its name honours the Seneca people, who historically used the plant to treat snakebite—a fascinating intersection of botany and Indigenous knowledge.

Though the birds were mostly quiet in the late morning, one made sure we knew he was there: a male Indigo Bunting, flashing his brilliant blue feathers in the sunlight. It's reassuring to know these stunning birds are nesting here in the County, adding vibrance to the local ecosystem.

On the downside, the landscape was dotted with autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata), an invasive shrub introduced from Eastern Asia. Originally planted for erosion control and ornamental purposes, it has since spread aggressively. In Canada, it's classified as a prohibited noxious weed, a stark reminder of how introduced species can disrupt native environments.

Every Discovery Walk brings something new, and we’re already looking forward to uncovering more fascinating flora and fauna on the next adventure. Stay tuned!