Sunday: April 16
Leaders: Nathan Hood, Dana Latour
Trip Description: Meet 8:30 am at the east end of the Hullett Provincial Wildlife Area in Huron County. The parking area is located at the west end of Bridge Road when you turn west off Kinburn Line (County Road 15). See details below. We will search the Hullett marsh for migrating waterfowl and early spring passerines. We will conclude our trip at the Exeter sewage lagoons (Exeter Wastewater Treatment Facility). This is approximately a 30 minute-drive to the south. Boots are recommended for the marsh and a scope is very useful. Bring your own snacks and drinks.
Who Should Come? Field trips are for OFO members; one guest is allowed, if required. New birders and photographers are welcome.
Type of Trip: Migrant waterfowl, passerines, photography.
Location and Directions: Google Maps link:
https://www.google.ca/maps/place/43%C2%B036'56.6%22N+81%C2%B026'11.4%22W/@43.615717,-81.4374991,364m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0xe64f28d85f944bf3!7e2!8m2!3d43.6157168!4d-81.4364942
Coordinates: 43.615722, -81.436500
Public Transportation: None.
Duration: 8:30 a.m. — 1:00 p.m.
Approximate Distance: The drive south from Hullett to Exeter is approximately 33 kilometres. Distances hiked in Hullett and at the Exeter lagoons depend on local conditions.
Terrain: A variety of mostly flat habitats including forest and marsh.
Gradient: Level.
Trail Surfaces: Dirt, gravel, grass.
Accessibility: Wet conditions are possible.
Land Acknowledgement: We acknowledge that the Chippewa, Odawa, Potawatomi, known as the Anishinaabeg and the Lunaapeewak, inhabited these lands at the time of the written treaties, these being: Treaty #2; Treaty #7; Treaty #25; Treaty #29. We also acknowledge the earlier Indigenous people who travelled these lands prior to 1790 in the time of the Wampum treaties. It is through their connection with the spirit of the land, water and air that we recognize their unique culture, traditions and values. Today, we are part of the land that sustains all life, and it is the sacred responsibility of all people to ensure that the environment remains protected.
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 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.
