Carden Alvar Adventure

Tour Description

Join us for an 8 hour adventure across the unique landscape of Carden Alvar! We will spend our day exploring one of the rarest habitat types in southern Ontario, the limestone alvar. This location hosts a large number of rare and endangered Ontario breeding birds, including Loggerhead Shrike, Upland Sandpiper, Golden-winged Warbler, Bobolink, Grasshopper Sparrow and more. Carden Alvar is also home to many rare plant and butterfly species, which we will point out as we encounter them. We will also be visiting several other habitat types, including wetland and mixed forest, which will add some diversity to our day's list. Carden Alvar is one of the best places to look for a large diversity of elusive snake species such as the redbelly, ring-necked, ribbon, and milk snake. This habitat also offers great opportunities for rare encounters with large mammals such as Black Bear and Moose. Exploring Carden with a small group will offer intimate experiences with the wildlife we encounter, as well as allow us to more personally guide you throughout the day. During the hike we will be offering identification tips, advice about local birding and naturalist hotspots, and answering any questions you may have about naturalizing on the alvar. At the end of the trip we will send you a detailed report of all the bird sightings of the day that we will record and share through eBird and/or email. This hike is accessible for those with physical difficulties; Most of our birding will take place along gravel roadsides, where we will go on short walks from our vehicles. We will spend the day birding at a slow and relaxed pace, taking frequent stops along the way. Bathrooms are spaced throughout the day and are easily accessible. *Notes* -bring your own lunch, snacks, and water (keep hydrated!) -bring sunscreen, and a hat because there is often little to no shade out on the grasslands. -a Swarovski scope will be provided, but feel free to bring your own scope!