Sunday: June 4
Leaders: Jerry Horak, Ellen Horak
Trip Description: Meet 7:00 a.m. at Grass Lake, Shouldice Side Road in the Township of North Dumfries in Waterloo Region. We hope to see nesting Sandhill Cranes, bitterns and grassland species such as Bobolink, Eastern Meadowlark and Sparrows. We will visit Bannister Lake and FWR Dickson Wilderness Area, stop for birding and lunch at the Horak home (bring a packed lunch and drinks), and then hike the Rail Trail along the Grand River in the afternoon. Bald Eagles, woodland nesters and late warblers are all possibilities. Contact cell number is 519-865-6718. Note: Be cautious of ticks on the Horak property and at other locations in this area.
Who Should Come? Field trips are for OFO members; one guest is allowed, if required. New birders and photographers are welcome.
Type of Trip: Nesting birds, late migrants, hiking, photography.
Location and Directions: Shouldice Side Road is accessible off Waterloo Regional Road 75 southwest of Cambridge.
Public Transportation: None.
Duration: 7:00 a.m. — 3:00 p.m.
Approximate Distance: Between two and three kilometres per stop for a total of 10 km for the day.
Terrain: A variety of habitats accessed by flat gravel paths, roads, narrow paths.
Gradient: Mostly level.
Trail Surfaces: Pavement, gravel, grass.
Accessibility: Wet conditions possible.
Washrooms: At the Horak home, and at the Rail Trail.
Land Acknowledgement: The people residing in the Cambridge area acknowledge that we are situated upon the land traditionally used by the Haudenosaunee, Anishinaabe and Neutral People. We also acknowledge the enduring presence and deep traditional knowledge and philosophies of the Indigenous People with whom we share this land today.
What You Need to Know
OFO welcomes all people who are interested in birds and birding and strives to create an inclusive, comfortable and enjoyable experience. OFO trip leaders are volunteers who generously offer their time to share their knowledge and passion for birds with others.
Beginner Birders: Most OFO trips are suitable for beginner birders. Please let the trip leaders know if you are new to birding when you arrive.
Code of Conduct and Code of Birding Ethics: Participants are expected to review OFO’s Code of Conduct and Code of Birding Ethics before the trip.
Transportation: All participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from the field trip. Public transit information, if available, is included in the trip description.
Meeting Time: Please arrive a few minutes before the start time. Please contact the trip leaders (if a cell number is provided) if you are running late or cannot attend.
What to Wear: Wear sturdy footwear and dress appropriately for the weather, season and terrain. Long pants and closed shoes or boots are recommended as protection from the elements, ticks and other biting insects. In bright light, a hat with a large brim will make it easier to see birds.
What to Bring: Please bring your ID and health card, a mask, enough water for the duration of the trip, snacks, a packed lunch for a longer trip and money for park entrance and ferry fees. Depending on the season, sunscreen, insect repellant and a topical insect bite treatment such as Afterbite or Benadryl are recommended.
Optics and Cameras: Please bring your choice of binoculars, optional scope and camera. Please contact the Field Trips Coordinator in advance by email at fieldtrips@ofo.ca if you require loaner binoculars. We will do our best to provide a pair.
Leaving Early: Trip leaders understand that not everyone will be able to stay for the duration of the trip. If you must leave early, please inform the trip leaders.
Rest Stops and Lunch Breaks: Trip leaders will include rest stops and lunch breaks, but if you require additional rest stops, please inform the trip leaders, so they can accommodate your request.
Safety and First Aid: Trip leaders are volunteers. They are not trained in first aid and cannot provide medical help in the case of an accident or administer medication. When driving, please follow the rules of the road. Exercise caution when parking on the side of the road and getting out of your car.
Accessibility: OFO aims to provide accessible birding trips which are welcoming and enjoyable for all. If you have any questions about the trip, or require accommodations, please contact the trip leaders in advance by emailing fieldtrips@ofo.ca. Please allow a few days for a response.
Contact: Please email fieldtrips@ofo.ca if you have any questions or concerns.
