Red-eared sliders are one of the most recognizable turtles in the world — and one of the most misunderstood in Ontario. With their bright red “ears” and sunny basking habits, these turtles are often seen lounging on logs in ponds and rivers. But unlike Ontario’s native turtles, red-eared sliders are not supposed to be here …

Turtles are some of the most fascinating — and vulnerable — species found in Ontario. These ancient reptiles have survived for over 200 million years, outliving dinosaurs and adapting to countless environmental changes. Yet today, nearly every species in Ontario faces significant threats, many of them human-caused. It’s time we slow down, take notice, and …

As the grip of winter loosens and the first buds begin to appear, nature lovers and bird enthusiasts across Ontario await one of the most anticipated seasonal returns: the arrival of the ruby-throated hummingbird. These dazzling little birds, weighing less than a nickel and no bigger than your thumb, embark on a truly extraordinary journey …

The return of beavers to the British landscape is one of the most exciting conservation success stories in recent years. Once native to the UK, these industrious rodents were driven to extinction over 400 years ago due to hunting and habitat loss. Now, through licensed reintroduction programs, beavers are making a comeback—and their presence is …

As winter loosens its grip on Ontario, a remarkable natural event begins—spring migration. From March to May, thousands of animals take part in their seasonal journeys, returning to their breeding grounds or waking from hibernation. For wildlife rehabilitators, this is one of the busiest times of the year, as migrating and newly emerging animals often …

As winter blankets the landscape in snow and ice, many wild animals seek shelter, migrate, or hibernate. However, for wildlife that has been orphaned, injured, or too weak to survive the cold, wildlife rehabilitators become their lifeline. These dedicated individuals provide months of specialized care, ensuring animals have a second chance at life. And when …

When road collisions occur, they leave a wake of physical, emotional, and environmental damage. The injuries sustained by humans and wildlife are often severe, requiring specialized rehabilitation efforts to heal and recover. Surprisingly, there are significant parallels between human and wildlife recovery processes that highlight the resilience of life and the opportunities for collaboration between …

Lessons from the Florida Panther: Reducing Wildlife-Vehicle Collisions Across the Globe The Florida panther (“Puma concolor coryi”) is an iconic species that embodies the fragility and resilience of wildlife amidst human expansion. Once on the brink of extinction, the Florida panther’s population has rebounded to around 200 individuals, thanks to decades of conservation efforts. However, …

Collisions with Wildlife Leave Hundreds of Wild Animals  Orphaned Each Year in Muskoka Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary (Aspen Valley) is asking drivers to slow down yet again.  Wildlife is on the move, and people need to remind themselves that the risk of colliding with an animal is all too real. “We get it.  You’ve heard this message …

Early in the morning on January 31, 2024, Nigel spotted a fox lying motionless in a snowbank by the roadside. The fox was wet, dirty, and matted with road sand. Running late, Nigel continued on his way, but the image of the fox lingered in his mind. Later that afternoon, as he drove back, Nigel …