By Janice Boussey

Planning a field trip in February comes with challenges. The largest of which is the weather. The club planned a winter walk through Wheatley Provincial Park on February 8, 2025. The weather for the week leading up to this outing came with days of cold rain. Once the temperature dropped it left a frozen landscape behind.

Not to be deterred, a small but dedicated group of club members decided to brave the elements. Warm winter coats, hats, scarves and mittens were adorned. A few group members also sported slip on crampons on their boots, which was a wonderful asset to those that had them. Preparedness is a must when trekking out in unpredictable winter weather.

Photo by Sheila Laurin

Meeting at gate of the park we paused to watch the chickadees that gathered there. This proved to be the park hotspot of activity for the day. A common visitor during the coldest of months it’s always amazing to think how these little birds survive the worst that winter throws at them.

We started off slowly down the frozen wonderland. Everyone did their best penguin walk along the ice covered road. Pausing to look at some interesting tree bark patterns and the odd woodpecker passing by, both downys and flickers, we made the best of the morning. After it proved to be too much of a task to keep going we all turned around and headed back to the gate.

Two Creeks Conservation area was chosen as a back up destination. We were not going to get off that easy, however. This area too experienced the same level of ice covered trails. Out of abundance of caution it was decided not to venture any further into the park.

Reconvening at a local coffee shop for some hot beverages and conversation, it was time to warm up. With full bellies and warmed fingers a few individuals decided to brave the elements for one last chance to see nature at it’s most challenging.

To finish off the day a stop to Wheatley Harbour was our last destination. Large numbers of geese were found sheltering as well as a handful of tundra swans. Unfortunately several white winged scoters were lying dead on the beach. Suspected victims of bird flu, they served as a reminder to be mindful of its growing presence in the area. Amongst the geese were small numbers of ducks who didn’t seem at all to mind the cold winds and icy waters. Everyone then parted ways before the next bout of nasty weather was scheduled to roll in later that day.

A reminder to get out there despite the weather! Winter can be an incredible time to explore your surroundings. A huge thanks to those who were brave enough to take a chance and join us. As always, use your best discretion and most of all be safe out there.