Nature Miramichi:

1. NATURE MIRAMICHI VISIT TO MIRAMICHI MARSH TUESDSY JUNE 4, 2024

Sixteen members and guests enjoyed a “bug-free” 2 hours exploring Miramichi Marsh.
The conditions were very good, moderate temperature, moderate breeze and clear skies. A perfect spring evening. Photo attached.
There were lots to see in terms of plants, birds and mammals. Perhaps a highlight was the chance to see a Pied-billed Grebe constructing a floating nest mid-pond. It had another grebe floating nearby watching. Perhaps a male was trying to impress a female with his building skills. Three or four Eastern Kingbirds were making themselves available as they perched in the open looking for passing insects to grab. There is a newly constructed nest in the same dead tree used last year by this species, the branch hanging out over water which is a favourite security technique that is used by Kingbirds. It will be interesting to watch the nestlings being fed in a couple of weeks. Some people were able to catch a glimpse of a Wilson’s Snipe in flight as well as a glimpse of a Sora in amongst some reeds. The aerobatic Tree Swallows were having a good evening it seemed, flying over the ponds catching heir insect prey. A pair of Gadwall ducks were also enjoying the evening. This species has become more common in the Miramichi area over the past few years. Spotted Sandpipers were very active too. A total of 24 bird species was identified, evenings not really being the ideal time for birding. A beaver was seen going about its business as well of course several muskrats. Miramichi Marsh ponds are in good shape, the water level in both main ponds is back to normal, partly due to the “contraption” at the east end that prevents beavers from plugging the leveling culvert.

2. METEPENAGIAG NATURE TRAIL VISIT SATURDAY JUNE 1, 2024

Deana made a Flickr account to share photos of the wildflower walk at Metepenagiag on June 1.

Metepenagiag wildflower walk June 1 2024 | Flickr

She can’t believe she didn’t take a photo of the striking Green False Hellebore also known as Indian Poke (Veratrum viride) so found one from Peter’s photos from last year, attached.