In our previous discussion on galaxies, we briefly described how we came to understand galaxies as unique oases of stars amidst the vast cosmic desert.
Now, we will embark on a journey to discover the origin and composition of galaxies and their diversity as well as a further understanding of our own galaxy — the “Milky Way.”
Continue reading The galaxies: a partially solved mystery – part 2
Today’s post comes from Charleston Lake’s Discovery staff.
Those who love frogs will not be disappointed at Charleston Lake Provincial Park. Larger frogs, like Bullfrogs, Green Frogs, and Leopard Frogs, are easily seen or heard around ponds and shorelines, wetlands and meadows.
But it’s a shame that another common park frog goes largely unrecognized and underappreciated.
Welcome to the Ontario Parks “Eyes on the Skies” series. This space (see what we did there?) will cover a wide range of astronomy topics with a focus on what can be seen from the pristine skies found in our provincial parks.
While spring “technically” begins in March, most of us living in cold climates tend to celebrate May as the true start to the season.
Here are our astronomical highlights for May, 2024:
In last month’s constellation post, we discussed the Bears and a Dragon.
In this month’s edition, we will talk about constellations that are ideal for warm weather observation.
Continue reading Featured constellations: Boötes the Herdsman, Virgo the Maiden and Libra the Scales
With the arrival of spring comes the familiar call of our provincial bird.
The sights and sounds of these iconic birds capture the hearts of all Ontarians.
Learn more about the Common Loon.
Throughout 2021, we’re sharing a free downloadable graphic for you to use as wallpaper for your favourite devices. We’ve specially sized these images for your computers, tablets, smartphones and Facebook covers.
Our parks have been keeping an eye out for feathered friends to show you what they’re up to this time of year.
Are you ready for the quack-tastic duck finds they made?
Today’s post comes from Katherine Muzyliwsky, a Natural Heritage Education Student at Neys Provincial Park.
Before Neys became a provincial park, it was known as Neys Camp 100. Instead of happy campers on vacation, the park held German prisoners of war during World War II.
After operating as a prisoner of war camp from 1941-1946, the buildings were dismantled in 1953. Since then, artifacts have showed up from discoveries in the park and from generous donations.
Salamanders are iconic and influential members of northern forest communities. As one of the most abundant vertebrates in eastern North American forests, salamanders are considered “keystone species” because of their disproportionate roles as predators and prey in regulating food webs, nutrient cycling, and contributing to ecosystem resilience-resistance.
In addition to fulfilling key ecological functions, amphibians are our modern-day “canaries in the coal mine,” serving as a measure of environmental health.
Continue reading The Spotted Salamander, harbinger of spring
After a typical Canadian winter, we look forward to the spring season and the changes that go with it: fresh flora fragrance, natural forest lushness and the flowing water tranquility.
Spring also ushers in a new landscape of interesting objects visible in the night skies: the galaxies.
Continue reading The galaxies: a partially solved mystery – part 1
We’re all familiar with the White Trillium — also referred to as Wake Robin or Large-leaved Trillium — as Ontario’s provincial flower.
But have you seen a Red Trillium?
You can find these jewel-toned beauties in the understory of rich deciduous or mixed forests.
Throughout 2021, we’re sharing a free downloadable graphic for you to use as wallpaper for your favourite devices. We’ve specially sized these images for your computers, tablets, smartphones and Facebook covers.
