Trail Clearance Work Party
Sechelt Airport
Sunday 28 September 2025
Greg Caple, the airport manager, has a long term plan to extend the walkable trail around the whole of the airport, outside the fence. At present only the southern fence has such a trail. Birders have made good use of this trail as it enables us to see birds inside the airport and in the adjacent forest which we would otherwise not be able to see. It is possible to make arrangements to go inside the fence but this has to be done well in advance and is not always convenient.
Extending the trail would be a great boon to birders and the SCNHS is organising a work party to help realize Greg’s plan. We will work on the section from the far end of the runway past the drag racing buildings, up to the gate at the top of the hill used by the astronomers and the drag racers. Extending the trail along the outside of the fence here will give us free access to view a particularly birdy area.
In the middle of this section of fence is a small gate and so we could have up to 4 teams working: One from the far end of the runway, one from the large gate at the top of the hill and one in each direction from the small gate.
Greg will join us and use a chainsaw. He can also supply a few weed-whackers. We will have to bring some of our own tools (loppers, saws, weed-whackers, rakes etc). There will be no electrical power available. Gloves will be essential. Hearing protection will also be required for those using or near power tools.
We will meet at the airport main gate at 09:00 and Greg will lead a small convoy to the starting points. More details nearer the time.
(by kind permission of the Airport Manager, Greg Caple)
Sturdy footwear is advised and some rough ground may be encountered. The walk will last between 2 and 3 hours.
Bird Walk
Sunday 17 August 2025
led by John Hodges
Meet at 11:00 (note time chosen for tides) at Wilson Creek estuary
At Wilson Creek traffic light, turn off the highway towards the water. Follow the road round to the right and park on the gravel at the side of the road before you reach the new apartment building.
We will be looking for migrating shorebirds here and possibly at Mission Point.
9:00 - 11:30
Some Geological Features of the Roberts Creek area
led by Peter Hews
The two locations display coarse granite from the Sechelt Pluton which extends north along the east side of Sechelt Inlet to Jervis Inlet. This represents granites formed in deep magma chambers during Jurassic times 185 to 155 million years ago, subsequently brought to the current surface by collisions along an ancient subduction zone. There are also Cretaceous basalt intrusions (145 to 112 million years old) as well as an overlying gravel layer that may represent a distant part of the Gibsons Aquifer from a previous glacial period perhaps as old as 43,000 years ago. There are also some glacial erratics on the beach from the Ice Age, roughly 18,000 years ago.
The first stop will be at Marlene Road, just south of Beach Avenue, to the north of the Roberts Creek Pier. The beach is accessed down well constructed stairs with a handrail on both sides and 84 steps (each way).
The second stop will be at the intersection of Stephens Road and Latimer Road, just south of Lower Road and south of the Roberts Creek Pier. This is a street level beach access followed by a 200 m walk on beach sand and pebbles.
Meet at 9am in the parking lot for the picnic area at the bottom of Flume road in Roberts Creek and carpool from there.
9:00 - 11:30
Some Geological Features of the Roberts Creek area
led by Peter Hews
The two locations display coarse granite from the Sechelt Pluton which extends north along the east side of Sechelt Inlet to Jervis Inlet. This represents granites formed in deep magma chambers during Jurassic times 185 to 155 million years ago, subsequently brought to the current surface by collisions along an ancient subduction zone. There are also Cretaceous basalt intrusions (145 to 112 million years old) as well as an overlying gravel layer that may represent a distant part of the Gibsons Aquifer from a previous glacial period perhaps as old as 43,000 years ago. There are also some glacial erratics on the beach from the Ice Age, roughly 18,000 years ago.
The first stop will be at Marlene Road, just south of Beach Avenue, to the north of the Roberts Creek Pier. The beach is accessed down well constructed stairs with a handrail on both sides and 84 steps (each way).
The second stop will be at the intersection of Stephens Road and Latimer Road, just south of Lower Road and south of the Roberts Creek Pier. This is a street level beach access followed by a 200 m walk on beach sand and pebbles.
Meet at 9am in the parking lot for the picnic area at the bottom of Flume road in Roberts Creek and carpool from there.
Halfmoon Bay Hydro Ponds
led by
Take road from Hwy 101 towards Big Trees parking lot (coming from Sechelt, this road is on the right, about 200m before Trout Lake). Follow this gravel road for about 200m and then park in the open area under the powerline.
We will walk further along the road and down to the ponds under the powerline. The distance, out and back, is about 3 Km.
This will be a walk of about 3 km on reasonable trails, but wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for the occasional muddy patch.
Turn up Pell Road from the highway in Roberts Creek (between the Provincial Park and Flume Road). At the powerlines, follow the road to the left. After about 100m park in the area where the road turns away from the powerlines.
Nature Walk
Sunshine Coast Botanical Gardens
Thursday 22 May 2025
led by
Mary Blockberger
Meet at the Gardens at 1pm. The walk will take about 2 hours.
Entry by donation.
Salmon Release Festival
Chapman Creek Hatchery
Sat 17 May 11am - 3pm
Come help release young Coho Salmon into Chapman Creek and also come see the SCNHS at the Chapman Creek Hatchery for the Salmon Release Festival. It's a fun event for the whole family! We will have scopes set up for bird watching as well as some recent bird photos and bird protection information. Shishalh Nation opens the festival with a blessing to the salmon.
Chapman Creek Hatchery
4381 Parkway Drive, Sechelt, BC,
(off Sunshine Coast Hwy on to Field Road, 950 metres to Parkway Drive then down the dirt road)
A Family & Community Day & Salmon Release Day
FREE Admission FREE Parking
Bird Walk
Sunday 11 May 2025
led by John Hodges
Meet at 9:00 at Wilson Creek estuary
At Wilson Creek traffic light, turn off the highway towards the water. Follow the road round to the right and park on the gravel at the side of the road before you reach the new apartment building.
We will be looking for migrating shorebirds and spring arrivals.
SCNHS in-person Meeting
Friday 2 May 2025
presented by
Bill Henwood
Earth Day - Roberts Creek
Sunday 27 Apr 2025
SCNHS will be hosting a booth and bird watching experience with scopes at the pier at the Roberts Creek celebration of Earth Day on Sunday April 27th from noon until 5pm.
Come on down and celebrate Earth Day and share the experience with our regular crew along with some likely first-time birders!
Hope to see you there.
Carpooling trip to
Reifel Bird Sanctuary and Brunswick Point
Tuesday 15 April 2025 (note date change!)
Birding led by John Hodges and Tony Greenfield
We looked at the cost of hiring a bus and driver but that was much more expensive than carpooling. A midweek day has been chosen so that the seniors amongst us can travel free on the ferry.
The idea is for those in each car to share the costs associated with the car: ferry cost and gas cost.
Entry fee at Reifel is $8 for adults and $6 for seniors.
I suggest that everyone bring a packed lunch. There is a warming hut with seating where we can eat our lunch.
We will catch the 8:40 ferry from Langdale and meet in the restaurant area on board. We should arrive at Reifel around 11:00.
It will be up to each driver to decide which ferry to go for on the way home. Suitable ferries leave Horseshoe Bay at 4:20pm, 5:30pm and 7:50pm.
We should be finished at Reifel at around 2pm after which we will drive to Brunswick Point and walk along the waterfront trail there. How far we will go depends on the weather, but a couple of hours should be more than enough.
If you are interested in joining this outing, please send an e-mail to johnhodges@dccnet.com with the following information:
Are you willing to drive or are you looking for a ride?
If you are willing to drive, who else will be travelling with you and how many seats do you have available for others?
So that we can match passengers with vehicles, where will you be travelling from (eg Sechelt or Gibsons)?
Hopefully we will get enough drivers and I hope to see you on the day.
SCNHS in-person Meeting
Friday 4 April 2025
Tree Planting, a Naturalist’s Perspective
SCNHS Bird Walk
Sargeant Bay
POSTPONED due to weather from Saturday 15 March 2025
to Sunday 16 March 2025
led by
John Hodges
(upper parking lot, just before slope down to water)
SCNHS Zoom Meeting
Friday 7 March 2025
Stream Keepers - protecting and preserving freshwater habitats on the Sunshine Coast
presented by
Shirley Samples
Registration details will be sent to members.
Bird Walk
Bonniebrook Beach, Gibsons
Saturday 8 February 2025
led by
John Hodges
Meet at parking area by Chaster Creek estuary at 09:00.
From Hwy 101 turn down Pratt Road, then turn right on Gower Point Road and continue all the way to Ocean Beach Esplanade. Parking is available on the left after you cross the small bridge.
SCNHS Zoom Meeting
Friday 7 February 2025
Pacific Salmon - their evolutionary origins and how they accomplish their incredible migrations
presented by
Dr. Michael Healy, Professor Emeritus UBC
Registration details will be sent to members.
SCNHS Zoom Meeting
Friday 10 January 2025
Waiting for the next Big One -
Earthquakes on the Sunshine Coast
presented by
Peter Hews
Registration details will be sent to members.
Bird Walk
Sechelt Marsh and head of Porpoise Bay
Saturday 4 January 2025
led by
John Hodges
Meet at the Ebbtide Street entrance to Sechelt Marsh at 09:00.
Pender Harbour
Christmas Bird Count
Wednesday 18 December 2024
If you would like to participate in the Pender Harbour CBC please contact John Field/compiler, at johnfield307@gmail.com
or 604-883-2807.
Sunshine Coast
Christmas Bird Count
Saturday 14 December 2024
The 46th Sunshine Coast CBC will take place on Saturday, 14th December. The area of the CBC extends from Port Mellon to West Sechelt. Participants will be organized into numerous parties, each with a leader who knows all the birds, and we will cover the whole area. If you do not wish to venture out, you can also participate by reporting your sightings as a feeder watcher. The CBC usually finds between 80-100 different species on the day.
If you would like to participate please contact Tony Greenfield/compiler, at gfieldtony@gmail.com
or 885-5539.
SCNHS Zoom Meeting
Friday 6 December 2024
Trekking across the Istrian Peninsula
through vineyards, olive groves, forests and hilltop medieval towns.
presented by Jack Pope
Registration details will be sent to members.
Bird Walk
Saturday 9 November 2024
led by John Hodges
Meet at 9:00 at the parking lot for Roberts Creek pier.
We will also visit Wilson Creek estuary.
SCNHS Zoom Meeting
Friday 1 November 2024
Birding in Ecuador
presented by Mike McGrenere
With over 1500 species of birds, Ecuador offers more bird diversity than any other country in the world.
Registration details will be sent to members.
(by kind permission of the Airport Manager, Greg Caple)
Sturdy footwear is advised and some rough ground may be encountered. The walk will last between 2 and 3 hours.
SCNHS in-person Meeting
Friday 4 October 2024
PODFS (Pacific Ocean Discovery Station)
(or Wilson Creek estuary if weather unsuitable)
Turn towards the water at the light on the highway at Wilson Creek and park on the gravel by the abandoned building before you get to the Arbutus apartment block.
This is the time for migrating hawks and the best place to see them is from clear-cuts at mid to high elevation. Two good spots are near the 5km and 9km marks on the road up to Dakota Ridge and we can carpool to get there. The weather needs to be at least partially sunny and the wind from the west. Binoculars are essential!
There is very little walking involved but wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for some rough ground.
Some Geological Aspects of the Connor Park area
led by Peter Hews
Meet at 09:30 at the parking lot on Northwood Road in Halfmoon Bay.
Bird Walk
Sunday 4 August 2024
led by John Hodges
Meet at 9:00 at Wilson Creek estuary
At Wilson Creek traffic light, turn off the highway towards the water. Follow the road round to the right and park on the gravel at the side of the road before you reach the new apartment building.
We will be looking for migrating shorebirds here and possibly at Mission Point.
Halfmoon Bay Hydro Ponds
led by
Take road from Hwy 101 towards Big Firs parking lot (coming from Sechelt, this road is on the right, about 200m before Trout Lake). Follow this gravel road for about 200m and then park in the open area under the powerline.
We will walk further along the road and down to the ponds under the powerline. The distance, out and back, is about 3 Km.
This will be a walk of about 3 km on reasonable trails, but wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for the occasional muddy patch.
Turn up Pell Road from the highway in Roberts Creek (between the Provincial Park and Flume Road). At the powerlines, follow the road to the left. After about 100m park in the area where the road turns away from the powerlines.
Sargeant Bay
jointly with Sargeant Bay Society
(upper parking lot, just before slope down to water)
Bird Walk
Sunday 12 May 2024
(note date change)
led by John Hodges
Meet at 9:00 at Wilson Creek estuary
At Wilson Creek traffic light, turn off the highway towards the water. Follow the road round to the right and park on the gravel at the side of the road before you reach the new apartment building.
We will be looking for migrating shorebirds and spring arrivals.
AGM
Zoom meeting
Tuesday 7 May 2004
7:30 pm
SCNHS in-person Meeting
Friday 3 May 2024
SCNHS Tetrahedron Project
(by kind permission of the Airport Manager, Greg Caple)
Sturdy footwear is advised and some rough ground may be encountered.
SCNHS in-person Meeting
Thursday 18 April 2024
(Not usual Friday as this is first date available after special exhibition at Arts Centre)
Ellesmere Island
9:30 - 11:00ish
Meet at the bottom of the Homesite Creek FSR on Highway 101 and we can carpool the 1 km to the start point as there is limited parking on the FSR.
This is a relatively new trail that encompasses open moss-covered rocky bluffs, fern-covered forest floor, and some very large Douglas-fir and Western Red-cedar.
We will spend some time exploring the various ferns and undergrowth, as well as the mosses, lichens and liverworts as can be found. The trail reaches the edge of Homesite Creek and does a circle tour.
Some of the downhill terrain is a bit rocky as the trail is new for a portion of the distance, so good footwear is suggested, and a walking pole may be useful.
(upper parking lot, just before slope down to water)
SCNHS Zoom Meeting
Friday 8 March 2024
Birds = feathered dinosaurs?
Have you ever pondered the question - where did birds evolve from? In fact, they are now accepted to be a continuation of the dinosaur line that survived the major extinction event 66 million years ago, so in evolutionary terms they are simply “dinosaurs that fly” - well most of them can still fly anyway.
Rand Rudland will present a slide show on this topic, covering such items as the fossil record of the avian lineage, the characteristics that define “birdiness”, and where some of these traits first appeared in the ancestry of the birds we see today.
Registration details will be sent to members.
SCNHS Bird Walk
Saturday 17 February 2024
Mahan Trail, Gibsons
led by John Hodges
Meet at 09:00 at intersection of Chaster Road and Mahan Road
SCNHS Zoom Meeting
Friday 2 Feb 2024
Adventures with Bears in British Columbia and Alberta
presented by
Mike Healy
7pm start
Registration details will be sent to members.
Bird Walk
Saturday 20 January 2024
led by John Hodges
Meet at 9:00 at the parking lot for Roberts Creek pier.
We will also visit Wilson Creek estuary.
SCNHS Zoom meeting
Friday 5 Jan 2024
Aquifers and Water Availability
presented by Peter Hews
7pm start
Registration details will be sent to members.
Pender Harbour
Christmas Bird Count
Wednesday 20 December 2023
If you would like to participate in the Pender Harbour CBC please contact John Field/compiler, at johnfield307@gmail.com
or 604-883-2807.
Sunshine Coast
Christmas Bird Count
Saturday 16 December 2023
The 45th Sunshine Coast CBC will take place on Saturday, 16th December. The area of the CBC extends from Port Mellon to West Sechelt. Participants will be organized into numerous parties, each with a leader who knows all the birds, and we will cover the whole area. If you do not wish to venture out, you can also participate by reporting your sightings as a feeder watcher. The CBC usually finds between 80-100 different species on the day.
If you would like to participate please contact Tony Greenfield/compiler, at gfieldtony@gmail.com
or 885-5539.
SCNHS Zoom meeting
Friday 1 Dec 2023
OWL (Orphaned WildLife)
7pm start
Registration details will be sent to members.
Bird Walk
Saturday 18 November 2023
led by John Hodges
Meet at 9:00 at the parking lot for Roberts Creek pier.
We will also visit Wilson Creek estuary.
SCNHS Zoom meeting
Friday 3 Nov 2023
Lions Bay, Bird Friendly Towns
7pm start
Registration details will be sent to members.
SCNHS Zoom Meeting
Friday 13 October 2023
Borneo
(repeat of last week's in-person presentation)
Registration details will be sent to members.
(or Wilson Creek estuary if weather unsuitable)
Turn towards the water at the light on the highway at Wilson Creek and park by the abandoned building before you get to the Arbutus apartment block.
October is the time for migrating hawks and the best place to see them is from clear-cuts at mid to high elevation. Two good spots are near the 5km and 9km marks on the road up to Dakota Ridge. The weather needs to be at least partially sunny and the wind from the west. Binoculars are essential!
There is very little walking involved but wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for some rough ground.
SCNHS in-person Meeting
Friday 6 October 2023
Borneo
(by kind permission of the Airport Manager, Greg Caple)
Sturdy footwear is advised and some rough ground may be encountered.
Bird Walk
Sechelt Marsh and head of Porpoise Bay
Saturday 26 August 2023
led by
John Hodges
The shorebird migration continues and when the tide is out, Porpoise Bay mud flats are a good location for spotting them and other species.
Meet at the Ebbtide Street entrance to Sechelt Marsh at 09:00.
Bird Walk
Saturday 29 July 2023
led by John Hodges
Meet at 9:00 at Wilson Creek estuary
At Wilson Creek traffic light, turn off the highway towards the water. Follow the road round to the right and park on the gravel at the side of the road before you reach the new apartment building.
We will be looking for migrating shorebirds here and at Mission Point.
Postponed to Saturday 17 June 2023
(by kind permission of the Airport Manager, Greg Caple)
Sturdy footwear is advised and some rough ground may be encountered.
Sargeant Bay
jointly with Sargeant Bay Society
(upper parking lot, just before slope down to water)
SCNHS in-person Meeting
Friday 12 May 2023
Alberta
SCNHS Intertidal Walk
Saturday 22 April 2023
Led by Duane Sept
Bargain Bay, Madeira Park
Meet at 1:00pm at the intersection of Hwy 101 and Francis Peninsula Road (opposite RONA)
Note: This is an intertidal site with both mud and rock substrates. It is advisable to wear footwear suitable for walking on mud such as rubber boots for this site at low tide.
GENERAL INFORMATION
All SCNHS members are welcome on these walks. Day membership is available for $5 at the event. All participants must sign a liability form if they have not already done so. It would be appreciated if dogs were not brought on the walks.
SCNHS Bird Walk
Saturday 15 April 2023
Mahan Trail, Gibsons
led by John Hodges
Meet at 09:00 at intersection of Chaster Road and Mahan Road
SCNHS in-person Meeting (first for 3 years!)
Friday 14 April 2023
SCNHS March Nature Walk
Hidden Grove
Sunday 19 March 2023
led by Rand Rudland
meet at 9:30 in parking lot
(upper parking lot, just before slope down to water)
SCNHS Zoom meeting
Friday 10 March 2023 at 7:30 pm
Papua New Guinea
presented by Peter Candido
Registration details will be sent to members.
Bird Walk
Saturday 18 February 2023
led by John Hodges
Meet at 9:00 at the parking lot for Roberts Creek pier.
We will also visit Wilson Creek estuary and possibly Mission Point.
Natural History Walk
Big Tree Recreation Site
Date & Time: 10:00 AM, Sunday, February 5th, 2023
Leader: Tony Greenfield
Meet at: Trout Lake south pullout on Hwy 101
Join guide Tony Greenfield for a nature walk to the Big Firs, some of the biggest trees on the Sunshine Coast. The emphasis of the outing will be on botany and forestry.
This outing was postponed in December due to snow on the access road. The 3K road is now clear of snow and is in good condition. Vehicle sharing is encouraged from Trout Lake. The 2K trail is level & in good condition. Duration of outing about 2 hours.
SCNHS Zoom meeting
Friday 3 February 2023 at 7:30 pm
Climate Change and Biodiversity Loss
presented by Mike Healey
"In this talk I will summarize human activities threatening biodiversity, including climate change, review what actions nations have taken to address the crises, and explore additional actions that governments and individuals can take to contribute to the protection of biodiversity." Registration details will be sent to members.
This presentation was recorded and is now available at:
Bird Walk
Saturday 21 January 2023
postponed to Sunday 22 January 2023 because of weather
led by John Hodges
Meet at 9:00 at the back entrance to Sechelt Marsh (on Ebbtide St).
We will also visit Blue Heron beach access and Willow Spit.
SCNHS Zoom meeting
Friday 6 January 2023 at 7:30 pm
Karst Landscapes
presented by Peter Hews
Pender Harbour
Christmas Bird Count
Wednesday 21 December 2022
If you wish to participate in the Pender Harbour CBC please contact John Field/compiler, at johnfield@dccnet.com
or 883-2807.
Sunshine Coast
Christmas Bird Count
Saturday 17 December 2022
The 44th Sunshine Coast CBC will take place on Saturday, 17th December. The area of the CBC extends from Port Mellon to West Sechelt. Participants will be organized into numerous parties, each with a leader who knows all the birds, and we will cover the whole area. If you do not wish to venture out, you can also participate by reporting your sightings as a feeder watcher. The CBC usually finds between 80-100 different species on the day.
If you wish to participate please contact Tony Greenfield/compiler, at tony@whiskeyjacknaturetours.com
or 885-5539.
Nature Walk
Sunday 4 December 2022
at
Halfmoon Bay Big Firs Park
Cancelled due to snow on access road
led by Tony Greenfield
Meet at 10:00 at the south end gravel pullout at Trout Lake
Join us for the second in SCNHS’s nature walks that focus on natural history topics separate from our regular monthly bird walk. Big Firs Park is not well known, but contains two of the biggest fir trees on the SC. Access is via about 3K of level logging road, followed by a short, level walk. We will carpool from Trout Lake. Duration less than 2 hours.
SCNHS Zoom meeting
Friday 2 December 2022 at 7:30 pm
Lords of the Arctic
presented by Laura Maddalozzo
Polar bears are at greatest risk of extinction from climate change because they rely on sea ice to hunt, mate, and live. In the circumpolar Arctic there has been a significant decline in the polar bear population. This is attributed to many factors, but the most significant reason is that warmer weather delays the formation of sea ice, so bears must fast for longer periods. Maternal bears are particularly vulnerable as they do not eat or drink while in the den, meaning they go without food for six – eight months.
Come and find out more facts about polar bears as we journey to Churchill, Manitoba – the Polar Bear Capital of the World. Ms. Maddalozzo will speak about the evolution, life cycle, habitat and behaviour of polar bears as researched and observed at the Churchill Northern Studies Centre. Her talk will be aided by a stunning collection of photographic images created by the presenter and her travel companions.
Bird Walk
Saturday 12 November 2022
led by John Hodges
Meet at 9:00 at the parking lot for Roberts Creek pier.
We will also visit Wilson Creek estuary and Mission Point.
SCNHS Zoom meeting
Friday 4 November 2022 at 7:30 pm
Vital Kelp Enhancement and Restoration
presented by Lee-Ann Ennis
Nature Walk
Sunday 23 October 2022
at
Kinnikinnick Park
led by Tony Greenfield
Meet at 10:00 at the park entrance, just past Kinnikinnick School.
(or Wilson Creek estuary if weather unsuitable)
Turn towards the water at the light on the highway at Wilson Creek and park by the abandoned building before you get to the Arbutus apartment block.
October is the time for migrating hawks and the best place to see them is from clear-cuts at mid to high elevation. Two good spots are near the 5km and 9km marks on the road up to Dakota Ridge. The weather needs to be at least partially sunny and the wind from the west. Binoculars are essential!
There is very little walking involved but wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for some rough ground.
SCNHS Zoom meeting
Friday 7 October 2022 at 7:30 pm
e-Bird
presented by Melissa Hafting
(Note date change due to last minute rescheduling of drag race meeting)
(by kind permission of the Airport Manager, Greg Caple)
Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for some rough ground.
Some Geological Aspects of Halfmoon Bay
led by Peter Hews
Wednesday 10 August 2022
Meet at 9am at Boulder Place (off Redrooffs Road, Halfmoon Bay)
From N end of Redrooffs Rd take the third turn on right (after Mintie & Rutherford) & is about 1 km past Mintie Rd.
First stop is the beach below Boulder Place to view igneous outcrops & glaciation features.
Second stop will be at Sargeant Bay PP to view the zonation of beach deposits.
REGISTRATION: NOT REQUIRED.
Open to members of SCNHS…….free.
Other persons can attend on payment of the $5 day membership fee.
Waiver must be signed.
BRING: Sturdy shoes, sunscreen, snack, water, binoculars, etc.
LIMITATIONS: We will descend to the beach from Boulder Place on a steep, wooden staircase.
The start of the walk is behind the airport on the road towards the gun club range. Getting there involves about 2 km of gravel road from the top of Field Road. There are a few potholes but most cars will be able to manage the road with care. There will be an opportunity to carpool from the mall and we will travel in convoy so that nobody gets lost.
This will be a circular walk of about 4 km on reasonable trails, but wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for the occasional muddy patch.
This will be a walk of about 3 km on reasonable trails, but wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for the occasional muddy patch.
Turn up Pell Road from the highway in Roberts Creek (between the Provincial Park and Flume Road). At the powerlines, follow the road to the left. After about 100m park in the area where the road turns away from the powerlines.
Please note the change of venue. We have decided to join forces with the Sargeant Bay Society for a joint bird walk.
We will look for migrating shorebirds and any recent arrivals.
SCNHS Zoom meeting
Friday 6 May 2022 at 7:30 pm
Important Bird Areas (IBA)
presented by Liam Ragan
SCNHS Zoom meeting
Friday 1 April 2022 at 7:30 pm
Haida Gwaii
presented by Rand Rudland
(upper parking lot, just before slope down to water)
SCNHS Zoom meeting
Friday 4 March 2022 at 7:30 pm
Howe Sound Biosphere
presented by Ruth Simons
Ruth Simons, lead of the Howe Sound Biosphere Region Initiative Society, will share her story about this region becoming Canada's 19th UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The Átl'ka7tsem/Howe Sound Biosphere Region received this designation on September 15th, 2021. Ruth will provide information on the process, what qualified the region for this designation, what this means for conservation, and what is next.
(back entrance on Ebbtide Street)
SCNHS Zoom meeting
Friday 4 February 2022 at 7:30 pm
The Great Trail of Canada
presented by Sonya Richmond
SCNHS Zoom meeting
Friday 7 January 2022 at 7:30 pm
Ice Age? What Ice Age?
presented by Peter Hews
Geologist Peter Hews will explore what evidence there is today that polar and sub polar conditions existed on the Sunshine Coast in the last 30,000 years as well as evidence for warmer interludes than we are witnessing today.
Pender Harbour
Christmas Bird Count
Wednesday 22 December 2021
See Home>Events>Christmas Bird Counts
for general information on CBCs.
If you would like to help, contact Tony Greenfield via info.scnhs@gmail.com
Sunshine Coast (Port Mellon to Sechelt)
Christmas Bird Count
Saturday 18 December 2021
See Home>Events>Christmas Bird Counts
for general information on CBCs.
If you would like to help, contact Tony Greenfield via info.scnhs@gmail.com
SCNHS Zoom meeting
Friday 3 December 2021 at 7:30 pm
What Makes Tumbler Ridge Unique?
presented by
Dr Charles Helm
SCNHS Zoom meeting
Friday 5 November 2021 at 7:30 pm
a presentation on
Nicholas Sonntag Marine Education Centre
presented by
Jenny Wright
SCNHS Zoom meeting
Friday 15 October at 7:30 pm
"State of the World's Birds and what we can do to help them"
presented by
Derek Matthews of VARC (Vancouver Avian Research Centre)
and Tony Greenfield
Hawk Watch / Bird Walk
Saturday 9 October 2021
led by John Hodges
Meet at bottom of Field Road, Wilson Creek at 9am. (Turn downhill from highway at Wilson Creek light, follow road to right and park on gravel on left).
I am hoping that the weather will be suitable for a hawk watch, in which case we will carpool (with masks) up the Dakota Ridge road to the viewpoint. Binoculars are essential! We need to have a sunny day with a wind from the southwest or west.
If the weather is unsuitable for watching migrating hawks, we will walk around Wilson Creek estuary and possibly a few other locations.
I hope to see you there!
Bird Walk
Saturday 4 September 2021
Sechelt Marsh
Head of Porpoise Bay
Mission Point
and possibly Wilson Creek estuary.
Organised and led by John Hodges
Meet near the back entrance to Sechelt Marsh in Ebbtide Street at 09:00.
The tides at Porpoise Bay and Wilson Creek will be low enough to expose some mud and the migration season is in full swing. So we may get to see some shorebirds.
I hope to see you there!
SCNHS GEOLOGY FIELD TRIP
WEDNESDAY, 18TH AUGUST 2021
Peter Hews will lead our annual geology field trip to view some aspects of the Gibsons aquifer.
Registration is required as participation is limited to 15 persons, due to limited parking.
The meeting time & place will be 9AM in Granthams Landing (exact details later).
Peter has done a recce & reports the following………
· First access is 750m return on a forest trail with easy to steep grades
· Second access is 600m return on a forest trail with easy to
moderate grades
· Trip will last for 2+ hours & will conclude by 1130AM.
To register please respond to this e-mail address……….
tony@whiskeyjacknaturetours.com
Your attendance will be confirmed along with specific meeting details.
Hope to see you there,
Tony Greenfield (organiser)
available on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/mAOzkOcwcaU
Some Bat Resource links provided by John Saremba are here
SCNHS Zoom Meeting
Friday 2 April 2021 7:30 pm
Endangered Black Swift
presented by
Christine Rock & Paul Levesque
(WildResearch)
Registration details will be sent to members.
SCNHS Zoom Meeting
Friday 5 March 2021 7:30 pm
Landscaping for Wildlife
presented by Harry Hill
Registration details will be sent to members.
Available on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/UhQL4fwETBA
SCNHS Zoom Meeting
Friday 12 February 2021 7:30 pm
Birds of New Zealand
presented by Russ Cannings
New Zealand has been separated from other large land masses for millions of years, and was one of the last land masses discovered by humans. Its isolation allowed an impressive variety of unique creatures to develop, none more prevalent than birds. Russell will be sharing some of these amazing birds, their habits, and how they have been impacted by humans and the animals that humans brought with them.
Russell Cannings grew up in the Okanagan Valley where he became interested in birds and insects at an early age. After expanding his birding trips to British Columbia and beyond, he eventually found himself in New Zealand where he now lives with his wife Lisa and 2 year old daughter Alexandra. He teaches high school, but still finds time to chase after birds during the holidays!
Registration details will be sent to members.
Available on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FgS3Rr-U9H0
SCNHS Zoom MEETING
8 January 2021 7:30 pm
Ancestors' Skies
presented by Charles Ennis
Available on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=19urO_HQWNw&t=2294s
Sunshine Coast Christmas Bird Count
Saturday 19 December 2020
postponed to Sunday 20 December
contact Tony (tony@whiskeyjacknaturetours.com) if you would like to help
Pender Harbour Christmas Bird Count
Wednesday 16 December 2020
postponed to Thursday 17 December
contact Tony (tony@whiskeyjacknaturetours.com) if you would like to help
SCNHS AGM (Zoom)
Thursday 10 December 2020 7:00 pm
Registration details will be sent to members.
SCNHS Zoom Meeting
Friday 4 December 2020 7:30 pm
Butterflies of the Sunshine Coast
presented by
Tony Greenfield & Rand Rudland
Join Tony Greenfield and Rand Rudland for a photo presentation on the 40 known species of butterflies of the Sunshine Coast. Since release of their butterfly Identification pamphlet last year there has been in increasing interest amongst both birders and non-birders, with the predictable result that we are seeing an increase in both the frequency of reports and the accuracy of identifications.
This presentation will discuss the basic differences between moths and butterflies, present some basic identification tips, and explore the more common larval host plants and adult nectaring plants that are found on the Sunshine Coast.
Registration details will be sent to members.
SCNHS Zoom Meeting
Friday 6 November 2020 7:30 pm
Weather Forecasting in Canada
presented by
Louis Legal
The Sunshine Coast Natural History Society is going remote!
We'll enjoy some updates on recent sightings and then Louis Legal will be speaking about Weather Forecasting.
Louis Legal was employed by Environment Canada as a meteorologist for 34 years between 1962-97. During this time he worked out of Winnipeg Manitoba, Goose Bay Newfoundland, Lahr W Germany, Comox, BC & Vancouver, BC. Technologies have changed considerably since he first started in Winnipeg. Today Numerical modelling plays a major part of the predictions. Join us in watching Louis to learn what the future holds for this fascinating topic.
Registration details will be sent to members.
Bird Walk
Sunday 25 October 2020
led by
John Hodges
Meet at Roberts Creek Pier at 09:00
We will also visit Mission Point, and perhaps Sechelt Marsh and the head of Porpoise Bay.
In this time of Covid-19, please note the following:
1 Masks are mandatory
2 Please try to keep 2m apart
3 Please do NOT share telescopes
4 Please do not car-share unless it is with a household member
Hawk Watch
Sunday 27 September 2020
POSTPONED to Monday 28 September 2020
In this time of Covid-19, we have decided to run a field trip on a trial basis, limited to 10 people, and see how it goes. There are a number of considerations:
1 Masks are mandatory
2 Please try to keep 2m apart
3 Please do NOT share telescopes
4 Please do not car-share unless it is with a household member
5 Because of limited numbers, day memberships will not be available.
We will travel in convoy to a new potential hawk-watching spot behind the airport. After spending some time there, we will travel in convoy again to our traditional hawk-watching spot. The roads are in reasonable condition. There are some pot-holes but most cars will be able to avoid them.
Because numbers are limited, those members who would like to attend are requested to contact us at
SCNHS Meeting Friday 3 April 2020
CANCELLED
It seems prudent to cancel this meeting because of COVID-19.
SCNHS Meeting Friday 1 May 2020
CANCELLED
No bird walks or other nature walks are being organised for the time being.
Birding Trip to
Reifel Bird Sanctuary
Wednesday 11 March
8:30 ferry
meet in cafeteria