Vancouver Naturalist - Nature Vancouver

Vancouver Naturalist 

Newsletter of Nature Vancouver 

March 2011 Volume 13 Issue 1

Nature 

Vancouver 

Nature Vancouver was founded as the Vancouver Natural History 

Society in 1918 by Professor John Davidson with the following 

objectives: 

• To promote the enjoyment of nature 

• To foster public interest and education in the appreciation and 

study of nature 

• To encourage the wise use and conservation of natural 

resources 

• To work for the complete protection of endangered species 

and ecosystems 

• To promote access to, and maintenance of, natural areas in 

the vicinity of Vancouver. 


ISSN 1491-526X 

Vancouver Naturalist is published four times a year by 

Nature Vancouver 

P.O. Box 3021, Vancouver, BC V6B 3X5 

Reproduction without permission is prohibited. 

Editor: Julian Hudson 604-278-4451 

Submissions 

Please submit all material for publication to 

vnhs_news@hotmail.com 

Deadlines for submissions 

February 20, May 20, August 14 and November 14 

Advertising Rates* 

Full inside page: $150.00 

Half inside page: $90.00 

Quarter inside page: $60.00 

*Pay in full with the first issue, and receive 4 ads for price of 3. 

Cover Photo: Rock Ptarmigan by Gail Ross 

Illustrations by Jenny Hards 

Visit NatureVancouver on the Web 

www.naturevancouver.ca 

Website maintained by 

Kelly Sekhon and Murat Gungoraydinoglu 

info@naturevancouver.ca 

Board of Directors 

2010-2011 

Margaret Coutts 

President; Privacy Policy Administrator; 

Volunteer Co-ordinator; Member of Conservation Section; 

Representative to BC Nature; 

Liaison with Vancouver Naturalist 

margaretcoutts@shaw.ca 604-512-1413 

Cynthia Crampton 

Past President; Field Trips Co-ordinator; 

Lead on updating history of VNHS and Discovery Index 

cynthiacrampton@yahoo.ca 604-738-1405 

Bill Kinkaid 

Vice President; Liaison with Camp Committee 

billkinkaid@gmail.com 604-710-6329 

Dorothy Nelson 

Secretary; Representative to BC Nature 

dnels@shaw.ca 604-224-5668 

Jeremy McCall 

Treasurer; Chair Membership Committee; Liaison with 

Conservation Committee 

jpmccall@telus.net 604-876-7694 

Nellie Bacou 

Director at Large 

nellieba@telus.net 604-221-1620 

David Cook 

Liaison with Botany and Geology Sections; 

Representative on various stakeholder groups 

cookeco2@yahoo.com 604-924-0147 

Jude Grass 

Liaison with and Chair of the Birding Section; Co-ordinator 

of General Evening Programs and Education Workshops 

judegrass@shaw.ca 604-538-8774 

Daphne Nagorsen 

Liaison with Website Committee 

dnagorsen@yahoo.com 778-230-8007 

Viveka Ohman 

Liaison with Marine Biology Section 

ohmanv@hotmail.com 604-531-3401 

Daniel Overmyer 

Chair, Conservation Section 

eodano@shaw.ca 604-732-6719 

Nigel Peck 

Membership outreach 

nigel@npeck.ca 604-255-0121 

2 Vancouver Naturalist March 2011

Society 

News and Information 

From the Board 

by Margaret Coutts, President 

I am writing this article on a mid-February evening after a 

beautiful day - sunny and quite warm. It provides thoughts of 

spring’s arrival and many other fine days to be outdoors. 

Meantime, during the rainy and cool weather, the Board 

members (and other members) have been engaged in various 

projects, for example, updating Nature Vancouver’s 

policies and guidelines in the Reference Binder; writing and 

editing articles for an edition of Nature Vancouver’s history, 

which will cover the last 20 years and include an 

updated Discovery Index; converting the Marine Biology 

Section’s wonderful pamphlet to a booklet; and updating the 

Birding Guide. 

In January, two of our lectures attracted very large numbers of 

people - Birders’ Night and the General Meeting. We would 

like to see this happen more often, and encourage members to 

participate in Nature Vancouver’s various activities. To assist us 

in this goal, please complete the Members’ Survey, which you 

will find in this issue of the Vancouver Naturalist (page 7), and 

let us know what we can do better to increase the enjoyment of 

your Nature Vancouver membership. Add any comments you 

wish if you have additional thoughts to contribute. 

We are in the process of planning two social events - a picnic 

in July at Lighthouse Park, and a creative, inclusive event on 

December 8th at the Unity of Vancouver. Some details of these 

events are included in this issue. 

In This Issue 

Society News and Information 3 

First Annual Christmas Social 4 

General Evening Programs/Section Programs 4-7 

Member Activity Survey 7 

Summer Picnic 8 

Nature Vancouver Field Trips 9-12 

93rd AGM and Volunteer Awards Details 

centrefold 

Photography Workshop 13 

Local Teen Awarded English Photography Prize 13 

Ongoing Nature Walks 14 

Young Naturalists’ Club 15 

Archives 

Nature Vancouver archives are maintained at Vancouver City 

Archives by Mike McNulty. For more information, please 

contact Mike at mj.mcnulty@gmail.com or 778-235-1303. 

Discovery 

Discovery is an annual journal of natural history published by 

Nature Vancouver as a service to its members. Non-members 

may also subscribe. Co-ordinating Editor, Jeremy McCall, 

jpmccall@telus.net or 604-876-7694. Book Review Editor, 

Christine Adkins, adkins@zoology.ubc.ca or 604-731-6377. 

Finance Committee 

Chair: Bob Dyer, bob_dyer@telus.net 604-922-9798. 

Membership Committee 

Chair: Jeremy McCall jpmccall@telus.net 604-876-7694. 

Secretary: Sandra Booth, boothsj@shaw.ca 604-926-6914. 

Nature Tours 

Occasionally, nature tours to areas farther afield are organised 

by Nature Vancouver. Please contact Jude Grass at judegrass@ 

shaw.ca or 604-538-8774 if you have any suggestions. 

Nature Vancouver Photo Competition 

This annual competition is held in March. Members are eligible 

to enter digital photos in five different categories. Photos by 

Young Naturalists are eligible as a separate category. Send 

your photos to Ron Long at rlphoto@shaw.ca or 604-469-1651 

between Jan 1 and Feb 28. 

Nature Vancouver Scholarship 

Every year a scholarship of $500 is awarded to a student 

registered in an institute of higher learning in BC. More details 

available on the website or from the Finance Committee Chair. 

Reference Binder 

Up-to-date information about past and present activities, bylaws, 

procedures and policies of Nature Vancouver is compiled 

in a reference binder. Volunteers can obtain a copy from Daphne 

Nagorsenat at dnagorsen@yahoo.com or 778-230-8007. 

Summer Camp 

Annual Summer Camp is organised by a committee chaired 

by Don Griffiths. For more information please contact Don at 

donansol@interchange.ubc.ca or 604-228-1450. 

Volunteers 

All programs, field trips and other activities of Nature Vancouver 

are made possible by a dedicated group of volunteers. New 

members are always welcome to contribute their time and 

expertise. To find out more about how you can help please 

contact Margaret Coutts at margaretcoutts@shaw.ca or 604-512- 

1413. 

Weekly E-mail Bulletins 

To receive weekly news and updates about programs and field 

trips, please contact Kelly Sekhon at info@naturevancouver.ca. 

Vancouver Naturalist March 2011 3

FIRST ANNUAL 

CHRISTMAS SOCIAL 

Thursday, December 8, 2011 

Nature Vancouver elves are in their workshop and 

planning the First Annual Christmas Social. Our 

aim is to have our members share their knowledge 

and their view of nature through various artistic and 

creative mediums as well as through photographic 

work. However, this is NOT a photo competition 

event; BE CREATIVE! 

It’s never too early to start planning! We have 

almost a year to make this a fun and enjoyable 

evening, and with your input and ideas to help us do 

that, we look forward to making December 8th a 

fun social evening. Participate! Show your creative 

side! Or just show up to enjoy the evening! 

Elf Quest: Your photos printed out and exhibited 

creatively for others to enjoy; Short slide show 

featuring nature photos taken locally or elsewhere; 

Short stories, spoken or written, about an interesting 

nature-related event; Artwork, collages, origami, 

sculpture, stone art, basket weaving; A travel moment, 

an interesting pebble from the beach, a fossil... 

Elf Rules for photos: They should be in focus and, 

show something interesting which can either be selfexplanatory, 

or may need a small written explanation 

or a short oral story about the subject matter. 

Steps to participate in the Elf-stravaganza: 

Start thinking about ways you can contribute and 

participate, then “YULE LOG-on” and send a 

message to head elf Rosemary Taylor at rtaylor99@ 

shaw.ca or call (604) 228 – 9966. Her elf bag is 

waiting to be filled with suggestions, ideas and offers 

to participate. 


Evening Programs 

The General Evening Programs of Nature Vancouver are 

held from January through April and September through 

November on the fourth Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m. 

at the Unity Church, 5840 Oak Street, Vancouver. These 

programs are open to the public and members are encouraged 

to invite their friends. For more information and suggestions for 

future programs please contact the Co-ordinator Jude Grass: 

judegrass@shaw.ca or 604-538-8774. 

Thursday, March 24 

Nature Vancouver Photography Competition 

“Oooo” and “aaaah” at the photos submitted for this year’s 

competition on the big screen, and listen to professional critiquing. 

Awards for the top photos will be presented. See previous years 

winning photos on the website. 

Thursday, April 28 

Nature Vancouver Annual General Meeting 

See centrefold for AGM and Volunteer Award details. 

Nature Vancouver‛s 2011 

Scholarship Award 

Nature Vancouver will award a scholarship of 

$500 to a member of Nature Vancouver or a 

member of the immediate family of a member. 

To qualify for the scholarship, an applicant or 

nominee must be registered at an accredited 

institution of higher learning in British Columbia 

for at least one session in 2011 and must be 

specializing in a discipline which advances the 

objectives of the Society. 

Written applications should include the name of 

the applicant or nominee, membership details, a 

brief description of his or her program of study 

and an explanation of how the program advances 

Nature Vancouver‛s objectives. The deadline for 

submissions will be Monday April 11, 2011. Full 

consideration will be given to new members of 

the Society. 

For more information please contact Bob Dyer, 

Finance Committee Chair, at bob_dyer@telus.net 



Birding Section 

Chair: Jude Grass judegrass@shaw.ca 604-538-8774 

Committee Members: 

Martin McNicholl sterna@shaw.ca 604-294-2072 

Adrian Grant Duff angrantduff@gmail.com 604-263-7957 

Wayne Weber contopus@telus.net 604-597-7201 

Julian Hudson vnhs_news@hotmail.com 604-278-4451 

Birders’ Nights 

Birders’ Nights are held on the first Thursday of each month 

from September to May at 7:30 p.m. in the Parish Hall of 

St. Mary (Kerrisdale) Anglican Church, 2490 West 37th 

Avenue (at Larch Street), Vancouver. The programs start 

with introductions and items of general interest. The main 

presentation begins after a short break for light refreshments. 

These programs are open to the public and members are 

encouraged to invite their friends. For more information and 

suggestions for future programs please contact the Program Coordinator, 

Jude Grass at judegrass@shaw.ca 604-538-8774. 

Thursday May 5, 2011 

Outdoors at Stanley Park 

Introduction to Stanley Park Ecological Society 

Robyn Worcester 

7pm – 9:30pm 

We will meet at the Stanley Park Pavilion at the Stanley Park 

Ecology Society (SPES) offices (across from Malkin Bowl). The 

building is close to lots of parking and the bus stop is right next 

door. SPES has kindly offered to host our program and we will 

be lead by Robyn Worcester on a walk to Beaver Lake, where 

she will talk about the current ecology of the lake and future 

plans. Robyn heads up the Conservation Programs including the 

monitoring of the nesting Great Blue Herons and Bald Eagles, as 

well many different bird and other wildlife surveys in the park. 

We will then return to the pavilion for juice and cookies and a 

short presentation on SPES and their activities and programs 

both in the park and beyond. Please note earlier starting time. 

Vancouver Area Rare Bird Alert 

604-737-3074 

Observations can be reported on the alert line or on the 

Nature Vancouver website (Birding Section pages). 

The Rare Bird Alert is operated by volunteers from the 

Birding Section and is sponsored in part by Wild Birds 

Unlimited. 


Hybrid Sapsuckers: A Nuisance or A Rare Opportunity? 

Sampath S. Seneviratne, PhD. 

Continental-scale warming and cooling events have triggered 

an increase in eastern bird species contacting with their western 

counterparts. Due to geography, British Columbia is placed 

in the centre of this melding. With colleagues at Dr. Darren 

Irwin’s Biogeography Laboratory at UBC, Sampath examines 

hybrid zones of sapsuckers in B.C. resulting from these broader 

biogeographic events to understand more about their taxonomic 

status, and some of the underlying evolutionary reasons 

behind hybridization. Across the only known contact zone of 

Red-breasted and Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers, the variation 

of plumage characters and body size measurements matched 

well with that of genetic characters. Therefore colour and body 

measurements are reliable predictors for the genotype in this 

species pair. As expected, the hybrids had mixture of both 

phenotypic and genetic characters. According to these markers, 

the present centre of this hybrid zone is positioned at about 

50km west of the crest of Rocky Mountains, near the community 

of Mackenzie. Now I am looking at other similar hybrid zones 

of sapsuckers in B.C. especially along the Hwy 20 from Bella 

Coola to Williams Lake area. 

Dr. Seneviratne is with the Biodiversity Research Centre at 

UBC and is currently working on postdoctoral research on the 

biogeography (speciation) of woodpeckers in western North 

America. 



Botany Section 

Chair: David Cook cookeco2@yahoo.com 604-924-0147 

Botany Nights are held from January through April and 

September through November on the third Thursday of each 

month at 7:30 p.m. at the Unity Church, 5840 Oak St., 

Vancouver. These programs are open to the public, and 

members are encouraged to invite their friends. For more 

information and suggestions for future programs please contact 

David Cook. 


YVR: A Gateway Landscape 

Mike Enns 

This powerpoint presentation will discuss the challenges and 

successes of major landscape enhancement works at Vancouver 

International Airport (YVR) over the last 5 years. The talk 

will focus on how sustainable building practices, ecological 

site design, and wildlife management all played a role in the 

transformation of an area on Sea Island, Richmond that covers 

over 3,000 acres . The project was awarded a CSLA National 

Honour Award for Excellence in Landscape Architecture under 

Landscape Management in 2010. 

Mike Enns received his Master’s in Landscape Architecture at 

UBC. He has worked all over B.C. and the Pacific Northwest 

on projects ranging from urban and regional planning, to 

collaborative community parks, to detailed architectural design. 

He is the project manager for the YVR Landscape Master Plan 

and Enhancements. 


A Floral and Scenic Tour 

through Switzerland's Alpine Meadows 

Rosemary and Terry Taylor 

Botany and photography team up while wandering Switzerland's 

alpine meadows in early summer. Discover beautiful gentians, 

carpets of yellow rattle, and follow the goats through the main 

street of Zermatt, leading to iconic views of the Matterhorn. Join 

Rosemary and Terry Taylor on their travels in June and July, 

2010. 

Terry and Rosemary Taylor have given many presentations 

combining their botanical and photographic skills and 

knowledge, and are long-time members of Nature Vancouver. 


Conservation Section 

Chair: Daniel Overmyer eodano@shaw.ca 604-732-6719 

Conservation Section meetings are held on the second 

Wednesday of each month starting at 7:30 p.m., in the 

Society Promoting Environmental Conservation (SPEC) 

Boardroom at 2150 Maple St. (6th and Maple) in Vancouver. 

Most meetings take the form of round-table discussions on 

conservation issues brought to the Section by Nature Vancouver 

members or others for consideration and action. 

The Section relies on members to identify local concerns related 

to conservation and development. The Section also invites 

guest speakers to make presentations to larger audiences on 

conservation issues of special interest. Action arising from 

Section meetings usually takes the form of letters to municipal, 

provincial or federal decision-makers and may be undertaken 

in conjunction with other associated organizations such as 

Nature BC. Other forms of action may be through meetings with 

decision makers, presentations to municipal councils, or use of 

the media. 

The meetings of the Conservation Section are open to all 

members of Nature Vancouver. If you have a conservation 

concern to bring to our attention, or if you would like to assist 

with the Section’s research, letter-writing and other projects, 

please contact Daniel. 


Geology Section 

Chair: David Cook cookeco2@yahoo.com 604-924-0147 

The Nature Vancouver Geology Section conducts field trips 

throughout the Vancouver region during the year. The present 

Geology Section is a relatively recent reintroduction of a Section 

that was strong in former years of Nature Vancouver. 

In most instances the geology field trips also include 

observations on the ecology of the area visited, the purpose 

being to show the relationship between natural ecosystems and 

the substrate upon which they depend. 

The Geology Section also has an ongoing program of compiling 

outlines of self-guiding geology field trips. These can be found 

on the Nature Vancouver website. 

For details of the geology field trips refer to the Field Trips 

section of Vancouver Naturalist and the Nature Vancouver 

website. 



Marine Biology Section 

Chair: Joan Lopez joan.lopez@live.com 604-682-1617 

The Marine Biology Section evening programs are held from 

January through April and September through December, on 

the second Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the Unity 

Church 5840 Oak St. , Vancouver. These programs are open to 

the public, and members are encouraged to invite their friends. 

For more information and suggestions for future programs, 

please contact Joan Lopez. 


Conservation of White Sturgeon in the Lower Fraser River 

Dr. Marvin Rosenau 

The white sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) is the largest 

fish inhabiting B.C.’s rivers. These ancient giants also boast the 

longest-known life span of all Eastern Pacific coastal fishes. 

White sturgeon have played an important role in the human 

history of this region but, currently, the fish are on the losing side 

of the relationship. As a member of the Fraser River Sturgeon 

Conservation Society and in his former job as a B.C. MoE 

biologist, Dr. Marvin Rosenau has been involved in extensive 

studies of the white sturgeon and its habitat. As an instructor of 

BCIT’s Fish, Wildlife and Recreation program, he also involves 

his students in ongoing research projects of this species. Dr. 

Rosenau will share his knowledge of the biology, adaptations, 

habitat and conservation issues of this legendary B.C. fish. 


Harbour Porpoise 

Anna Hall 

The harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) is the most likely 

to be enountered cetacean in coastal B.C. waters, and also, the 

most likely to be overlooked. The smallest and shyest of the 

toothed whales in our area, the harbour porpoise is most certainy 

the shyest. They fall prey to their natural predator, transient type 

Orca (killer whales), and occasionally to fishing nets. Occupying 

coastal niches also exposes these diminutive animals to human 

interference in a variety of forms. Their elusive nature creates 

difficulties in studying harbour porpoises, while increasing the 

importance of understanding as much as possible about them to 

prevent unneccessary stress on their population. Anna Hall has 

been studying wild harbour porpoises in the waters near Victoria 

for almost a decade. During that time she has learned much 

about their biology, life history, abundance, and distribution 

patterns. Anna is about to present her doctoral thesis on this 

subject at UBC this spring. This presentation is the culmination 

of her research work. 


Activity Survey 

We would like to hear what members think about Nature 

Vancouver’s activities and events. Please complete this survey 

by April 30, 2011. 

You can complete the survey online at http://naturevancouver.ca/ 

survey2011 or send your responses to Nature Vancouver Activity 

Survey, PO Box 3021, Vancouver BC, V6B 3X5. 

1. Do you feel Nature Vancouver does a good job 

of meeting your interests in natural history? Why or 

why not? 

2. Are there any areas you would like Nature 

Vancouver to give more attention to? (e.g. ecology, 

mammals, wetlands, insects, geology, conservation, 

photography, etc.) What activities or events would 

you like to see around these areas? 

3. Are there any specific evening program topics 

you would like to see? Do you prefer more general 

interest or more technical presentations? What length 

of presentation do you prefer? 

4. Are there any particular places you would like 

to go to on field trips? What day do you prefer field 

trips (including weekdays)? What type of field trips 

do you prefer (hiking, interpretive walks, car tours, 

bus tours, etc.)? 

5. Are there any other types of activities that 

you would like to see Nature Vancouver offer? (e.g. 

socials, picnics, workshops, etc.) 

6. Should Nature Vancouver be more active in 

protecting and enhancing the natural world in the 

Metro Vancouver area? If so, in what ways do you 

think we should do this? (e.g. seeking out areas that 

need protection, working for better policies, etc.) 

7. Do you have any other thoughts about Nature 

Vancouver activities? 

Optional Information: 

This information will be kept confidential and will not 

be released as part of the survey results. It will only 

be used to help analyze the survey results. 

Name: 

Age: 

How long have you been a member of Nature 

Vancouver? 


NATURE VANCOUVER 

SUMMER PICNIC 

SUNDAY, JULY 10, 2011 

at Lighthouse Park in West Vancouver 

Nature Vancouver is hosting a summer picnic at Lighthouse 

Park, a federally owned park leased to the Municipality of West 

Vancouver. It is approximately 40 minutes from downtown 

Vancouver by public transportation and 20 minutes by car. 

Lighthouse Park marks the point where Burrard Inlet meets 

Howe Sound. It is an example of the transition from the dry 

Coastal Douglas-fir Zone to the wetter Coastal Western Hemlock 

Zone. The park has the largest Douglas-fir trees in Greater 

Vancouver, and has the largest uncut, coastal-elevation trees 

in the Lower Mainland. It has spectacular views of the water, 

Stanley Park and the city to the east, Bowen Island and the Strait 

of Georgia to the west. 

Where to meet: Phyl Munday Hut approximately 10 minutes 

from the parking lot (map at info board at entrance to the park). 

How to get there: The park is serviced by public transportation. 

Visit the following webpage for driving and transit directions; 

http://www.vancouvertrails.com/trails/lighthouse-park/#transit. 

(Transit directions should be verified by contacting Translink. 

Also refer to Nature Vancouver’s book, Parks and Nature Places 

Around Vancouver. There is parking just inside the entrance to 

the park. Access is from Marine Drive via Beacon Lane. 

Time: Trail walks start at 10:00am. Picnic is at noon 12:00pm 

to 2:00pm. Members can mingle at the Hut until 3:00pm. 

Afternoon trail walks start after 2:00pm. 

Elevation: The trails are all fairly easy with only a few having a 

short hill to ascend or descend. Trails can be muddy, and rocky 

areas and roots are slippery due to the damp microclimate. Wear 

appropriate walking shoes. 

The picnic: Takes place at the Phyl Munday Hut between 

12:00pm and 2:00pm. The hut will provide shelter for us from 

any inclement weather and function as an outpost (starting point) 

for our scheduled walks. It has a kitchen but please bring your 

own implements. Nature Vancouver will provide beverages and 

fruit plates. Please bring finger food to share with other members 

and your mug/plate, if you can. Bring your enthusiasm. Come 

for the walks and the picnic, or, just come for the picnic and a 

chance to socialize with fellow nature enthusiasts. Join us! Rain 

or shine! Everyone is Welcome! 

Guided Walks: Several of our members will be leading nature 

walks and talking about the western red cedar and Douglas-fir 

old growth trees, forest ecology, bird life, intertidal/marine life, 

coastal bluff ecology, geology, and the invasive plant removal 

and native plant restoration programme. The walks are scheduled 

to take place before and after the picnic. 

For more info, ideas you would like to share, ways you can help 

out, finger food you can bring, and if you will be attending, 

please contact Nellie at nellieba@telus.net. By contacting us 

we can plan accordingly. Keep checking the Nature Vancouver 

website, as more details will follow. 


Nature Vancouver Field Trips 

Co-ordinator: Cynthia Crampton 

cynthiacrampton@yahoo.ca; 604-738-1405 

General Information 

Field Trips are offered almost every weekend by Nature Vancouver 

and are the most popular activity for members. Non-members are 

welcome to join these trips as a way to review the activities of the 

Society but are asked to limit their participation to three events. 

Our liability insurance coverage only applies to members in good 

standing. Those who participate do so at their own risk. Depending 

on the nature of the field trip, participants will be required to sign a 

Release of Liability form at the start of the trip. PDF copy of this 

form is available on the website at http://www.naturevancouver. 

ca/Main_Field_Trips. It is recommended that members read it 

before the day of the trip to avoid delays when signing it at the 

meeting place. 

Important Information for Participants 

Members planning to join these trips should contact the leader in 

advance to confirm carpool arrangements, especially when ferry 

travel or border crossings are planned. Please do not call after 9 

p.m. An adult must accompany children under 15. On trips to the 

United States, a valid passport or enhanced driver's licence is now 

required for identification and it is advisable to have additional 

medical insurance as the BC Medical plan covers only a small 

portion of any medical costs in the US. For information on travel 

to the United States, see http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel. 

Safety Tips for Participants 

Consider the weather in the trip area (it is often very different 

from where you live) and bring suitable clothing and footwear! 

Depending on destination and season, bring insect repellent, 

sunscreen, a hat, lunch if necessary, more water than you think 

you’ll need, raingear, walking poles and boots with deep-tread 

soles and ankle support. Stay together and stay on the trails. Keep 

behind the coordinator (and ahead of the tail person, if there is one). 

To avoid false alarms, please tell the coordinator if you’re leaving 

the group and sign yourself off on the waiver form. 

Guidelines for Field Trip Leaders 

In order to conduct field trips, leaders do not need to be especially 

knowledgeable about birds, plants or other aspects of nature, since 

that sort of expertise is generally found among the participants. 

However, it is essential that one person coordinate the organization 

of the trip for the safety and well-being of all participants. That 

person is the field trip leader - and that is you. These guidelines 

are important both for your own legal protection and that of 

Nature Vancouver. Please read them carefully. The full text of 

the Guidelines for Field Trip Leaders and the PDF copy of 

Release of Liability form are available on the website at http:// 

www.naturevancouver.ca/Main_Field_Trips. Please return the 

completed forms to Field Trip Co-ordinator, Cynthia Crampton, 

1230 Shorepine Walk, Vancouver, BC, V6H 3T8. 

Public Transit Information 

For public transit information in the Lower Mainland, contact 

TransLink at 604-953-3333 or http://www.translink.ca. For trips 

requiring a ferry journey, please confirm ferry sailing times. 

Contact British Columbia Ferries at 1-888-223-3779 or http:// 

www.bcferries.com/ 

*NEW* Trip Difficulty Rating 

For risk management purposes Nature Vancouver uses a system of 

classifying field trips by rating their level of difficulty and adding 

an estimate of the time to be spent on the trail. The trip leader 

is responsible for deciding on the appropriate classification in 

conjunction with the Field Trip Coordinator. The difficulty rating 

system is as follows: 

A. Easy path or road with minimal elevation change and minimal 

hazards. 

B. Trail with possible rocks, roots or other hazards. Moderate 

gradient, occasional steep but short sections. Up to 100 m elevation 

change. 

C. Moderately steep gradient. 100 m to 500 m elevation change. 

D. Constant steep gradient. 500 m to 1,000 m elevation change. 

E. Any of the above with some scrambling, use of hands or 

bushwacking. Not commonly found on regular day hikes but 

sometimes experienced during Summer Camp field trips. 

The expected duration is then added to the letter category to obtain 

a combined letter/figure rating. Example: A C6 hike will be a C 

hike, as described above, with an estimated time on the trail of 

6 hours. The estimated time spent during a field trip should be 

estimated to the nearest hour, and should not include driving time 

or time spent on ferries and 

Information for Carpooling 

On all trips, passengers should share gas expenses with their driver. 

The suggested cost of carpooling is $10 per car / per hour of driving, 

the total cost to be shared by all passengers excluding the driver. 

• For trips to West Vancouver, Cypress, Howe Sound, Squamish 

and Whistler, car pool at McDonald’s in Park Royal, West 

Vancouver. Take bus #250 or 257 Horseshoe Bay from any stop 

on Georgia Street downtown. From North Vancouver, take #239 

or 255 Park Royal. Get off at the first stop after Taylor Way. Cross 

on the pedestrian crossing directly behind the stop, turn right and 

walk underneath the first overpass to the McDonald’s car park 

where we meet. 

• For trips to North Vancouver, Fraser Valley and Mt. Baker 

area, carpool at Franklin & Penticton in Vancouver. From 

downtown, take bus #10 Hastings or #16 29th Avenue Station. 

Get off at Kamloops Street (the first stop after Nanaimo) and walk 

one block east and one north. From Skytrain, take bus #16 Arbutus 

from 29th Avenue or Renfrew station and get off at Hastings and 

Penticton. From north Burnaby, take bus #135 and from Coquitlam 

or Port Moody, take #160 and get off at Nanaimo. 

• For trips to South Vancouver, Richmond, Delta and the 

Islands, carpool at 49th and Ash in Vancouver. Meet near the 

southeast corner of Tisdall Park on the north side of 49th. Day 

parking is available on the west side of Ash and the north side of 

49th west of Ash (on weekends only). By transit, take Canada Line 

to 49th / Langara Station and walk one block west to Cambie. Or 

take bus # 49 between Dunbar and Metrotown, get off at Cambie 

and walk one block west. 


Nature Vancouver Field Trip Schedule 

Some trips not rated at time of publication. 

Saturday, March 12 

Date has changed since last newsletter. 

Birding: Brunswick Point to Roberts Bank 

Search the fields and tidal marsh for resident and wintering 

birds, early migrants and rarities. Scenes of predation can also 

be observed, as falcons and harriers hunt the shorebird flocks. 

Dress for the weather. Meet at the end of River Rd in Ladner at 

0800. If you will be taking public transit, want to carpool or can 

provide a ride, please contact the trip leader Julian Hudson at 

604-278-4451. Diffuculty: A4-6. 


Barnston Island Birding Walk 

Half-day walk to look for migrant birds and other signs of spring 

on Barnston Island. This is an easy but long walk on paved 

roads so be sure to dress for the weather including comfortable 

footwear. Carpool at Franklin and Penticton at 0800 or meet by 

the ferry landing (free) at the east end of 104th Avenue at 0845. 

Please use the parking lot on the north side of the road and do 

not park on the road. Contact leader Bill Kinkaid at 604-710- 

6329. Difficulty rating: A4. 


Birding at DeBoville Slough/Minnekhada Regional Park 

Osprey, hummingbirds, and swallows should be back on their 

breeding grounds. Spring migrants should also be moving 

through the area. With luck we should catch a glimpse of 

Sandhill Crane, Red Crossbills, Band-tailed Pigeon and Western 

Meadowlark. We average over 40 species on this outing with 

a high of 51 in 2002. Meet at the parking area at Victoria & 

Cedar Drives in Port Coquitlam at 0900. Several vehicles will be 

positioned in the Minnekhada gravel parking lot off Quarrie Rd. 

for the return trip.Contact trip leader Larry Cowan at 604-465- 

1402. 

Sunday, March 27 

Hike in Capilano River Regional Park 

Join us for an easy hike in Capilano River Regional Park. 

Elevation gain: Approx 100m. Duration: Approx 4 hours. Dress 

for changes in the weather, wear sturdy shoes as trails may 

be slippery at this time of the year and bring lunch and water. 

Meet at 10 a.m. near the White Spot in Park Royal Mall, West 

Vancouver. Please contact leader Nellie Bacou at 604–221–1620. 

See map online at http://www.metrovancouver.org/about/maps/ 

Maps/Capilanomap.pdf 

Wednesday, March 30 

Herring Spawn and Birding on Vancouver Island 

Bill Merilees has offered to lead a day trip to Parksville, 

Qualicum and Rathtrevor Beach, on Vancouver Island, to see 

Brant, Herring Spawn (a nature sight not to be missed, if we 

can catch it), and other shorebirds. The annual Parksville Brant 

Wildlife Festival takes place around this time. Bill will hire 

a Budget 12-16 passenger van to take us to our destinations. 

We will catch the 8:30 a.m. ferry from Horseshoe Bay as foot 

10 Vancouver Naturalist March 2011 

passengers, and take the 5 p.m. ferry back to Horseshoe Bay. BC 

seniors travel free on the ferry. Cost for the bus will be $20 per 

person. Contact Cynthia Crampton at 604-738-1405 to arrange 

car pools to Horseshoe Bay. NOTE: This trip is now full but 

Cynthia is compiling a waitlist. 

Sunday, April 3 

Birding - Terra Nova Area in Richmond 

This walk will cover some of the dike path, Terra Nova 

Rural Park and Terra Nova Natural Area. Visit a variety of 

habitats where we may see a wide range of species, including 

summer arrivals, migrants and possible rarities. Beginners are 

encouraged and help with identification will be provided. We 

will be walking on the dike path and paths that may be muddy. 

Dress for the weather. We will meet at 0730 at River Road and 

Lynas Lane, a few blocks west of the No. 2 Rd. bridge. Area is 

accessible by transit. If you need to carpool or can provide a 

ride, please contact the trip leader Julian Hudson at 604-278- 

4451. Diffuculty: A4-6. 

Saturday, April 9 

Spring Flowers and Birds at Horth Hill 

Join John and Marian Coope on their annual botany and 

birding trip to see the spring flowers and birds at Horth Hill, 

within walking distance of the Swartz Bay ferry terminal. 

Carpool at 42nd and Oak at 0745 to walk onto the 0900 ferry 

at Tsawwassen (allowing time to reach the ferry terminal ten 

minutes before sailing time, as required). Join the Coopes on the 

ferry or at the Swartz Bay ferry terminal. Plan on catching the 

return ferry at 1700; arriving back at Tsawwassen at 1845. Bring 

lunch, drinks and suitable clothing for a day in the open. Contact 

Marian Coope for details at 604-224-6192. 

Saturday 16 April 

Spring Birding and Botany Hike to Galiano Island 

This is a moderate loop hike of about 18km, climbing from 

sea level to 100m, back to near sea level and then again to the 

high point of Mount Galiano at 300m. Bring lunch and water 

and dress for the elements, including sturdy footwear with 

good tread. Carpool at 0715 at 49th and Ash (one block west 

of Langara Station on the Canada Line) or meet on the 0835 

Gulf Islands ferry from Tsawwassen ferry terminal. Walk-on 

passengers must be at the terminal ten minutes before sailing 

time. We’ll catch the return ferry from Sturdies Bay at 1740, 

arriving back at Tsawwassen at 1835. Please note: ferry times 

are subject to change so make sure you confirm with the 

leader or at www.bcferries.com. Contact leader Bill Kinkaid at 

billkinkaid@gmail.com or 604-710-6329. Difficulty rating: C7. 

For information and a map of trails on Galiano, see http://www. 

galiander.ca/galianotrails/index.html. 

Sunday, April 17 

Birding Trip to Iona Regional Park 

Join John Chandler for an afternoon birding trip to Iona Regional 

Park in Richmond. We will be looking for returning shorebirds 

and other migrants. The high tide is at 6:30 so we’ll work our 

way through the outer ponds before exploring the inner ponds. If

Nature Vancouver Field Trip Schedule 

you are interested, you can walk the South Jetty before or after 

the field trip. Dress for chilly and/or wet weather. Meet John in 

the parking lot by the washrooms at 5:00. Contact John at 604- 

274-4117. 

Saturday, April 23 

Birding at DeBoville Slough/Minnekhada Regional Park 

We added three species to our list in 2010 bringing our total 

to 101. The trip highlight was a nesting pair of Great Horned 

Owls. The target species for this walk are Townsend’s Solitaire, 

Sandhill Crane and Green Heron. What will we add to our total 

in 2011? Meet the leader, Larry Cowan, at the parking area at 

Victoria & Cedar Drives in Port Coquitlam at 08:45. Several 

vehicles will be positioned in the Minnekhada gravel parking 

lot off Quarrie Rd. for the return trip. Contact Larry at 604-465- 

1402. 

Sunday 24 April 

Natural History Walk in Port Moody 

Join Terry and Rosemary Taylor on an easy natural history and 

historical walk on the Port Moody Shoreline Trail from Rocky 

Point to Old Orchard Park. Come for the whole walk or turn 

back when you like. Bring lunch and dress for the weather. 

Meet at Franklin & Penticton at 0930 or at the Rocky Point Park 

parking lot by the washroom building at 1000 (when we were 

there recently the washrooms weren’t open so be forewarned). 

Bring lunch. Contact leaders Rosemary and Terry at rtaylor99@ 

shaw.ca or 604-228-9966. Difficulty rating: A4. 

Sunday 1 May 

Spring Birds and Flowers on Burnaby Mountain 

This will be a moderate hike of approximately 8-12 km 

depending on the route we take, possibly with some steep up 

and down sections and damp conditions. Pack lunch and water 

and dress for the weather, including good hiking boots. Carpool 

at Franklin and Penticton at 0800 or meet at the parking lot 

at the Mountain Air Bike Skills Facility on the south side of 

Barnet Highway at Takeda Drive (across from the entrance to 

Barnet Marine Park) at 0830. Contact leader Bill Kinkaid at 

billkinkaid@gmail.com or 604-710-6329. Difficulty rating: B6. 

Saturday, May 7 

Birding in Central Park, Burnaby 

The walk will be on good park trails but expect some soggy or 

muddy areas. Meet at the parking lot south of the tennis courts 

on Patterson at Maywood at 0800. Contact leader Bill Kinkaid at 

604-710-6329. Difficulty rating: A4. 

Sunday, May 8 

Othello Tunnels, Coquihalla Canyon Botany Hike 

The trail begins just past Hope, first along the old Kettle Valley 

Railway following the Coquihalla River then up and down the 

Hope-Nicola Valley trail. This easy, approx. 14 km hike is in 

search of spring wildflowers. There is one steep ascent about 

240m (800’) along forest paths to our lunch spot. On this section 

we expect to see trilliums, calypso orchids, chocolate lilies, 

fairy-bells, and of course, many other spring beauties throughout 

the trip. After lunch we plan to descend to the village of Othello 

and walk through the famous tunnels in the awe-inspiring 

Coquihalla Canyon. Please wear sturdy shoes and bring raingear, 

lunch and water. Meet for carpooling at the parking lot on the 

corner of Franklin and Pentincton at 0800. Please contact leader 

a week before the trip and leave a contact phone number, as this 

trip may be affected by closures in the canyon and tunnel area. 

Participants wishing to join the group in Hope should inform 

the trip leader to obtain directions to our meeting place. Contact 

leader Eva Nagy at 604-929-4286 or email evnagy@shaw.ca 

Saturday, May 21 

Birding at Colony Farm Regional Park 

Our target species will be Colony Farm’s feature bird the Lazuli 

Bunting. Other species expected include Western Kingbird, 

Band-tailed Pigeon & American Bittern. Meet your leader, 

Larry Cowan, in the parking area at the east-end of Colony Farm 

Rd. at 08:30. Contact Larry at 604-465-1402. 

Sunday 22 May 

May Mystery Hike 

The location is to be determined closer to the date but will 

probably be a moderate low to mid elevation hike on the North 

Shore or the Sea to Sky corridor. Details to follow on the website 

and by email. Contact leader Bill Kinkaid at billkinkaid@gmail. 

com or 604-710-6329. 

Saturday 4 June 

Spring birding walk through Central Park in Burnaby 

The walk will be on good park trails but expect some soggy or 

muddy areas. Meet at the parking lot south of the tennis courts 

on Patterson at Maywood at 0800. Contact leader Bill Kinkaid 

at billkinkaid@gmail.com or 604-710-6329. Difficulty rating: 

A4. 

Saturday, June 4 

Burnaby Mountain Hike 

Look for spring birds and flowers on an exploration of the trails 

around Burnaby Mountain. This will be a moderate hike of 

approximately 8-12 km depending on the route we take, possibly 

with some steep up and down sections and damp conditions. 

Pack lunch and water and dress for the weather, including good 

hiking boots. Carpool at Franklin and Penticton at 0800 or meet 

at the parking lot at the Mountain Air Bike Skills Facility on the 

south side of Barnet Highway at Takeda Drive (across from the 

entrance to Barnet Marine Park) at 0830. Contact Bill Kinkaid at 

604-710-6329. Difficulty rating: B6. 

Saturday, June 25 

Birding field trip to the Pitt Polder in Pitt Meadows 

Our initial walk will take us from Grant Narrows south, approx. 

3 km, along the Pitt River Dyke. The highlight from our 2009 

outing was an American Redstart which we missed in 2010 but 

it was relocated there, three days after our outing. Highlights 

in 2010 were Gray Catbird, Eastern Kingbird, Band-tailed 

Pigeon & Bullock’s Oriole. In June, in the Polder, expect the 

continued next page 



Field Trip Schedule 

unexpected. Past rarities at this time of year have been Veery, 

Yellow-breasted Chat, Black-throated Sparrow and Baltimore 

Oriole. Meet the leader at 08:15 in the Grant Narrows’ parking 

lot. Contact Larry Cowan at 604-465-1402. 

Friday 1 July 

Canada Day Hike in Chilliwack 

This year’s Canada Day hike will be to Lindeman and Greendrop 

Lakes in the Chilliwack Valley. This is a moderately strenuous 

hike of about 13-14km return with an elevation gain of about 

400 metres. Pack lunch, water, sunscreen, rain gear and bring 

good hiking boots. Carpool at 0700 at Franklin and Penticton 

or meet at 0815 at the Wendy’s on Vedder Road just south of 

the TransCanada Highway in Chilliwack (Exit 119). Contact 

leader Bill Kinkaid at billkinkaid@gmail.com or 604-710-6329. 

Difficulty rating: C6. 

Birds. Small miracles. 

Birds by Oiva Toikka. 

Hand-blown Glass Art Inspired by Nature 

The Gray Jay - The Boreal Bird 

Puddifoot is donating 100% of proceeds from the sale of the 

Gray Jay to bird conservation programs in the Boreal Forest. 

During this time, Puddifoot is also donating 20% 

of all Iittala bird sales to conservation programs 

in the Boreal Forest. 

2375 West 41st Avenue, Vancouver, BC Canada V6M 2A3 

Phone: 604-261-8141 Toll Free: 1-877-261-8141 

mail@puddifoot.com 


Editor’s Note: 

This workshop was incorrectly listed as “Digital Photagraphy” in 

the last issue. 

Photography Seminar 

with Ron Long 

March 26, 2011 

9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. 

George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary 

Museum - Delta 

Cost: $30.00 - Limit 15 students 

Whether you use a film or digital camera, photography is 

photography. This seminar will provide information and 

techniques that will significantly improve your photography no 

matter which type of camera you are using. The seminar is fully 

illustrated with hundreds of images demonstrating the techniques 

being discussed. COMPOSITION will provide many suggestions 

and a few simple guidelines to improve your compositions. 

LIGHT will give you insights into using naturally occurring light 

effects to make your photographs more interesting and exciting. 

Please bring your camera, camera instruction book, notebook 

and pen, lunch and snacks. Coffee, tea and juice will be 

provided. 

Please register by phoning or emailing Jude Grass at 604-538- 

8774 - judegrass@shaw.ca, and then mailing a cheque for $30.00 

payable to VNHS - Photography Seminar, to 17375 27A 

Avenue, Surrey, BC V3S 0E9. 

Ron Long graduated from the Photographic Arts program at 

Ryerson University and for thirty-six years was employed as 

a full-time photographer at Simon Fraser University. Ron, a 

member of Nature Vancouver, has been a judge for the Nature 

Vancouver Photo Competitions, and he coordinates competition 

in March every year. 

North Vancouver Teenager Takes Top U.K. 

Wildlife Photography Award 

On show at the Natural History Museum in South Kensington, 

London, are 118 images of Nature and Wildlife. Photographers 

from 81 different countries competed in 17 different categories, 

some of which are: Endangered Wildlife, Behaviour of Birds, 

The Underwater World, In Praise of Plants, and Wildlife Photo 

Journalist. In addition there are three categories for young 

wildlife photographers by age. Martin Gregus Jr. of North 

Vancouver took top prize in the 11 to 14 age group for an 

image of a Sandhill Crane at Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary 

in Ladner. In 2008, another of Martin’s images obtained a 

"Specially Commended”. 

The overall winner in the competition was 26 year-old Bence 

Mate from Hungary. Bence Mate is an interesting observer of 

wildlife as he and two colleagues are building specialized hides 

in Hungary, Costa Rica and the Pantanal. 

To see this material go to www.nhm.ac.uk/wildphoto, www. 

matebence.hu/ and www.matkopictures.com. 


Ongoing Nature Walks 

and Bird Surveys 

Hastings Park Sanctuary 

The Hastings Park Conservancy’s Environmental Committee 

and guest naturalists lead monthly nature walks in the Sanctuary. 

All walks leave from the northeast corner of the Sanctuary 

(near the red barns and the Playland restrooms). There is free 

parking on site for visitors to the Sanctuary, or take the bus to 

Hastings & Renfrew Streets. For a schedule of walks go to http:// 

hastingspark.ca or contact Pat Miller at 604-294-1272. 

Maplewood Flats Conservation Area 

The Wild Bird Trust’s monthly bird survey of Maplewood Flats 

Conservation Area, North Vancouver is conducted on the first 

Saturday of each month. Meet at 8 a.m. in the parking lot of the 

Pacific Environment Science Centre, 2645 Dollarton Highway. 

For details, please contact Janice Wilson at 778-279-3216. On 

the second Saturday of each month, you’re welcome to join Al 

and Jude Grass for a nature walk starting at 10 a.m. 

Terra Nova Natural Area 

This bird survey of the Terra Nova Natural Area in Richmond 

is conducted on the third Saturday of each month. Meet in the 

Terra Nova parking lot at 8 a.m. (October-March) or 7 a.m. 

(April-September). For details please contact the co-ordinator, 

Eric Greenwood at 604-737-4724. 

Alpine Meadow Hiking 

Durrand Glacier Chalet in the Selkirks 

Hiking trails, blooming meadows… waterfalls and mountain 

lakes… marmots, mountain goats and birds… over one hundred 

different flowers, a mecca for naturalists and photographers. 

Guided or on your own…helicopter access only, from 

Revelstoke, BC…Swiss-style alpine chalet…first-class meals 

and lodging, one or two-person rooms…always smiling and 

helpful staff! 

Selkirk Mountain 

Experience 

Box 2998, Revelstoke, BC V0E 2S0 Canada 

Tel: 250-837-2381 

E-mail: info@selkirkexperience.com 

Website: www.selkirkexperience.com 

Bird Surveys at UBC Farm 

Every third Sunday of each month, join in a bird survey at the 

UBC Farm. Meet at 8 a.m. (March to September) and 9 a.m. 

(October to February) at the main gate to the farm located off 

Westbrook Mall between 16th Ave. and Southwest Marine 

Drive. Please contact Sue Kay-Downs at 604-569-3058 for more 

information. 

Reifel Bird Sanctuary 

Every Sunday, enjoy a bird walk with volunteer birders at Reifel 

Bird Sanctuary in Delta. Meet at the reception area at 10 a.m. 

Admission fee is $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for children (2-14) 

and seniors (60+). Phone 604-946-6980 for more information. 

Squamish Estuary 

Squamish estuary monthly bird counts are held on the first or 

second Sunday of each month, depending on the tide. For more 

information, contact Judith Vetsch at 1-604-892-3340. 

Stanley Park Ecology Society (SPES) 

Discovery Walks are two-hour guided walking tours leaving 

from the Lost Lagoon Nature House most Sundays. Departure 

times, topics and fees vary. Space permitting, drop-ins are 

welcome. Contact the Program Manager at 604-257-8544 to 

reserve, or see www.stanleyparkecology.ca/WebCalendar/month. 

php for schedule of events. 

Birding in Stanley Park: Join naturalist, Catherine Aitchison 

for a two-hour birding walk to learn how to identify migratory 

and resident birds.. Meet at the Lost Lagoon Nature House at 9 

a.m. on the last Sunday of every month. Fee by donation. 

Welcome New Members 

by Sandra Booth, Membership Secretary 

Welcome to all new and rejoining members. Our online and 

therefore paperless newsletter is a favorite for many of us. 

Please notify me if this is of interest to you. My e-mail is 

boothsj@shaw.ca 

New Members 

Kaye Simard, Ross Bailey, Evelyn and John Lennig, Trevor and 

Hughena Jones, Marti Wendt, Christine McGilvray and Douglas 

Chase, Kristine Webber, M. Lee Finch, Tony Arnold-Wallinger, 

Anne Allgaier. Jane McDonald, Lynn and Howard Pollard, 

Geoff Hoare, Bengt Blomgren, Betty Davison, Carol Ensor, Ming 

Li, Man-Kay Koon, Gene and Marg Brenda, Chrystine Richer, 

Thomas W. Walker, Bjorn Jadersten and family, Elly Knight, 

Diane Donaldson, Mary Connolly, Shelley Cherkowski, Pat 

Greyell, Harvey and Linda Schneider 

Rejoining Members 

Andrew Lamb, Joseph and Kumru Caron, Jeremiah Kennedy, 

Gail Kenner, Frank and Sonia Ward, Steve Prokopenko 


YOUNG NATURALISTS’ CLUB of British Columbia 

www.ync.ca 604-985-3057 

President: Daphne Solecki Executive Director: Jennifer Swanston 

YNC Vancouver Co-ordinator: Eva Nagy evnagy@shaw.ca 604-929-4286 

YNC Vancouver Trip Report: 

November 2010 & February 2011 

by Eva Nagy 

The Young Naturalists’ Club of BC celebrated its 10th 

Anniversary last year. Following is a report by Jennifer 

Swanston, YNC Clubs Coordinator on the big event: 

On Saturday, November 20, the Young Naturalists’ Club of 

BC was delighted to share our “Recycle, Up-cycle, Buy-less“, 

hands-on 10th Birthday Party with the Stanley Park Ecology 

Society. Hosted at the Pavilion, it was a wonderful day, with a 

sprinkling of snow on the ground making Stanley Park more 

beautiful than usual. Member families from the Vancouver, 

Stanley Park, Lynn Canyon and Home Learners YNC groups 

shared in an afternoon of nature with still life artistry, Japanese 

Gyotaku fish printing and wrapping paper creations. Our display 

of gifts made from recycled materials provided some great 

gift-giving inspirations. Robert Bateman donated a beautiful 

signed print to YNC, and we held our draw for this treasure 

right before we served our ladybug and flower-covered birthday 

cake. Everyone enjoyed a great party and went home stuffed 

with ideas, artworks and birthday cake…on to the next decade of 

YNC! 

- Jennifer Swanston 

Only the North Vancouver YNC based in Lynn Valley Ecology 

Centre had a program in January: STAYING WARM. Children 

explored and learned the ways that animals keep warm in winter. 

They also enjoyed some story-telling, crafts and a walk to 

complete the program. 

WINGS and FEATHERS was the title of our February program, 

held in the Bird Lab of the Beaty Museum at UBC. The 

program was lead by Ildiko Szabo, Honorary Assistant Curator 

of the Cowan Vertebrate Museum. Ildiko continues the tradition 

of Dr. Rex Kenner in providing interesting programs for the 

Young Naturalists. Part of what fascinates us most about birds 

is that they can fly. It is the magic of the feathers that make up 

a bird’s wing that makes it possible. Ildiko showed us a great 

variety of wings, from tiny hummingbirds to unbelievably large 

great heron wings. We learned not only why wings come in 

different shapes, sizes and textures and colours, but were also 

able to touch and feel the difference of the delicate wings. 

For the second half of our program, Ildiko took us through the 

museum, and then in the auditorium we had a chance to step 

back in time. We were invited to ask questions from a young 

Charles Darwin about his life, his experiences on board of the 

HMS Beagle and of course about writing the famous book On 

the Origin of Species. Dr. Greg Boyle, in the role of young 

Darwin, answered the questions of the audience. I was rather 

impressed by the many well informed inquiries from the younger 

generation as well as their parents. 

My sincere thanks go to the leaders who helped, by donating 

their time and expertise and providing great programs, to 

develop the knowledge of our budding naturalists. 

YNC EXPLORER DAYS - Upcoming trips 

March – Musqueam Creek Tour, learning about juvenile 

Coho, with Terry Point 

April – The Bizarre Life of Barnacles, with Sheila Byers 

May – UBC Farm - Caterpillars, with Heather Kharouba 

YNC’s 10th Birthday Cake, 

photo by Eva Nagy 

YOUNG NATURALISTS’ CLUB of British Columbia 

is for young people aged 5 to 14. A one-year individual or family 

membership is $25. Family memberships receive one copy of 

NatureWILD magazine, four times a year and a membership 

pack for each child of 5 and up. For more information go to 

www.ync.ca 



Canadian Publications Mail 

Sales Agreement 40038882 

Published quarterly by Nature Vancouver 

P.O. Box 3021, Vancouver, BC V6B 3X5 

604-737-3074 

Nature Vancouver Membership Information 

Founded in 1918 by Professor 

John Davidson, Nature 

Vancouver is a not-for-profit 

charitable society, registered 

under the BC Societies Act. 

All donations to the Society 

other than membership 

dues are tax deductible. 

Membership in Nature 

Vancouver is open to all. 

Nature Vancouver is a 

federated club of BC Nature; 

so members of Nature 

Vancouver are also members 

of BC Nature and receive 

its quarterly newsletter, BC 

Nature. 

BC Nature also provides 

third-party liability insurance 

for members who participate 

in field trips organized by 

Nature Vancouver, BC Nature 

or other member clubs. 

The programs offered by 

Nature Vancouver include 

weekly field trips, and 

evening programs on subjects 

such as birds, botany, marine 

biology and natural history 

topics. 

Workshops on bird 

identification and digital 

photography are also 

available to members. 

Membership Application and Renewal Form (Please Print) 

New Member: ( ) / Renewing Member: ( ) / Please renew my membership for 1 yr. ( ), 2 yrs. ( ), 3 yrs. ( ) 

Last Name(s):_____________________________________ First Name(s):____________________________________________ 

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An annual week-long summer 

camp is organized in various 

alpine wilderness areas 

different parts of BC, usually 

in alpine wilderness. 

The Conservation 

Section undertakes nature 

conservation initiatives in 

Metro Vancouver area. 

Discovery, an annual 

journal of natural history, 

and Vancouver Naturalist, 

a quarterly newsletter, 

are included with the 

membership. 

Membership Category (Please Select One) 

Donations (optional) 

( ) Family $50 An income tax receipt will be issued for donations. 

( ) Individual $40 ( ) Operating Fund 

( ) Student (18-25 yrs) $20 ( ) VNHS Endowment Fund 

( ) Junior (under 18) $10 ( ) Conservation Fund 

( ) Reduced-dues (after 30 yrs) Family $25 ( ) Education Trust Fund 

( ) Reduced-dues (after 30 yrs) Individual $20 ( ) YNC Fund 

Membership entitles you to membership in BC Nature. If you are already a member of BC Nature through another club, 

please check here ( ) and deduct $14.00 from either Family / Individual or Reduced-dues memberships. 

For more information please 

contact: 

Jeremy McCall 

604-876-7694 or 

Judy Sullivan 

604-983-2026. 

Privacy Policy: 

Nature Vancouver does not 

share personal information 

with third parties. The 

information collected on 

membership forms will be 

used solely for the purpose 

of providing services 

to members or for the 

organization of the Society’s 

programs and activities. 

Dues enclosed: $_______________Donations enclosed: $_____________Total Amount: $ _________________ 

Please mail this application form and a cheque or money order, payable to Nature Vancouver, to: 

Membership Secretary, Nature Vancouver, P.O. Box 3021, Vancouver, BC V6B 3X5 

16 Vancouver Naturalist March 2011 

Printed by Infigo, Richmond, BC

Vancouver Naturalist - Nature Vancouver

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