Dr. Cathy Charles Bird Count

Marsh’s Falls Nature Reserve
Saturday, May 2 | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Join us for our annual spring bird count, one of our most anticipated nature events of the year!

Led by local naturalists Rick and Kelly Stronks, this guided walk explores the rich birdlife of Marsh’s Falls Nature Reserve during peak spring migration. Together, we’ll observe, listen, and document the many species that call this special place home. No experience needed, everyone is welcome.

What to Expect

• A relaxed, guided walk through the reserve
• Opportunities to learn bird identification by sight and sound
• A chance to contribute to a citizen science effort that supports bird monitoring data

The data collected will be submitted to eBird, a worldwide platform used to track bird populations and migration patterns.

What to Bring

• Waterproof hikers or rubber boots
• Binoculars (a few will be available to borrow, or borrow from the Dwight Library)
• Camera (optional)
• Bug spray
• Your curiosity and sense of adventure

Why This Count Matters

May is an especially exciting time for birding. Many male birds are actively singing to establish territory and attract mates, making them easier to detect.

Our goal is to document all bird species present, with a focus on those that may be breeding on the property. Over time, this data helps build a clearer picture of biodiversity at Marsh’s Falls.

How to Register

Please email registration@lakeofbaysheritage.ca to let us know you’re coming or if you have questions.

Can’t Attend in Person?

You can still take part! Spend time observing birds around your property that weekend and send your sightings to info@lakeofbaysheritage.ca. We’ll include your observations in our Lake of Bays summary.

Not sure what you’re seeing or hearing? Record it and send it along. Our team of naturalists will help identify it.

About Dr. Cathy Charles

Our annual spring bird count now carries the name of Dr. Cathy Charles. Cathy enjoyed a long career as a Professor in the Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics at McMaster University. She was also a lifelong cottager on Kerrimuir Road.

Unfortunately, she died in November 2015. Her love of Lake of Bays was expressed in her will: she left the Foundation a very generous bequest. It was indeed the first bequest of several that the Foundation has since received. To recognize these generous donors, the Foundation has established the Legacy Circle. In Cathy’s instance, the Foundation also decided to name the spring bird count in her memory to honour her love of nature.