About the Camp
This year's OFO's Alan Wormington Memorial Camp will take place from Saturday, August 9th to Sunday, August 17th. Campers will stay at the Algonquin Wildlife Research Station situated beside a small private lake surrounded by old growth pines. The station is a hub for wildlife researchers and a perfect base for exploring Algonquin Park.
Activities
During the week, we will explore various habitats throughout the park. The week will include a short canoe trip and camping.
Birding is the primary focus, but all areas of natural history are explored amid the varied forest, meadow and wetland habitats in the park. In August, most birds are on territory or moving around in family groups. Boreal residents like Black-backed Woodpecker, Boreal Chickadee, Canada Jay, Spruce Grouse, and both crossbills are particular targets. With so much field time, you have many chances to encounter Moose, Beavers, Snowshoe Hares, Black Bears and other mammals.
Campers should have a keen interest in birds and natural history. Activities will be adjusted according to the interests of the campers, but campers should expect long days in the field. There is usually a pre-breakfast outing when bird activity is at its peak.
In previous years, campers have done herping, mammal tracking, mushrooming, dragonflying and mothing. Between scheduled activities, campers enjoy plenty of free exploration time and can swim and canoe in the small private lake at the Wildlife Research Station.
Registration, Application Deadlines and Selection
Space is limited to a maximum of 14 campers aged 13-17.
Registration (but not payment) is required to be considered for the camp. We are requesting that campers submit a paragraph or short video describing why they want to attend the camp. Videos or written submissions can be emailed to youngbirders@ofo.ca.
Please note that registration is not a guarantee of acceptance. The number of applicants will likely exceed the number of spaces again this year. While, we invite all interested people to apply, preference will be given to older applicants and those who have birding experience. OFO will review all applications when registration closes on March 23rd and notify campers no later than March 31. Payment is required when acceptance is confirmed.
The cost of the camp is $1,000, which is heavily subsidized by OFO through fundraising and donations. We'd like to thank the Hamilton Naturalists’, North Durham Nature, Ottawa Field Naturalists’, Toronto Ornithological and Woodstock Field Naturalists’ Clubs and the Ontario Eastern Bluebird Society for their past and continued support. This year, costs are higher, and for families who can afford it, we would appreciate a donation to cover the true cost of the camp which is closer to $1,600 per camper. Tax receipts will be issued for donations.
Bursaries and scholarships may be available for qualifying campers who cannot otherwise afford to attend. Please register, and email youngbirders@ofo.ca to discuss financing options.
