BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//wp-events-plugin.com//7.2.3.1//EN TZID:America/Toronto X-WR-TIMEZONE:America/Toronto BEGIN:VEVENT UID:107@natureguelph.ca DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto;VALUE=DATE:20260101 DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto;VALUE=DATE:20260301 DTSTAMP:20251209T233935Z URL:https://natureguelph.ca/events/north-wellington-winter-birds-self-driv ing-tour/ SUMMARY:North Wellington Winter Birds - Self Driving Tour DESCRIPTION:The North Wellington Winter Bird Tour is a self-drive\, self-gu ided tour around key locations in North Wellington County.  The goal is t o try and see the winter visitor and year round resident bird species thro ugh the region. Some winter species\, such as Snowy Owls\, are attracted t o the large\, flat\, open farmers’ fields in the area\, which provides e xcellent views and lines of sight for observing them. You are invited to e xplore the area on your own throughout January or February 2026.  Have fu n!\n\nhttps://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1Gkt4Shm8q8sKlxYQDpKMVQ8NCw6V bTg&\;usp=sharing\n\nTraveling Safely\n\nOn isolated country roads in w inter\, safety depends on preparation and awareness. The quiet stretches c an be beautiful\, but they often hide dangers like black ice\, drifting sn ow\, or wildlife crossing unexpectedly. Drivers should slow their pace\, k eeping a steady hand on the wheel and avoiding sudden movements that could cause skidding. Visibility is often reduced\, so headlights should be on even during the day\, and windshields must be kept clear. Here are a few s imple tips:\n\n Use your hazard lights and turn signals when slowing down and pulling over\n Be mindful of local traffic\n Ditches and other haza rds can be hidden by snow banks and drifting snow.  Use caution when ‘p ulling over’ to ensure your wheels stay on the road.\n DO NOT trespass onto private property\; observations should be made from your vehicle or t he side of the road\n Do not harass wildlife or play calls\n Be sure to bring your binoculars\, scopes and bird guides if you have them. You can a lso borrow binoculars from the Guelph Public Library.\n DRESS WARMLY! It will be colder than you think! Dress for the weather – it’s often cold er than you think\, so wear lots of layers! \n Sign up for free eBird an d iNaturalist accounts prior to heading out. \n Plan Ahead – Know like ly birding spots and safe pull-off areas before you drive.  Cell phone si gnals can be spotty. \n Emergency Kit – Carry essentials like a flashl ight\, blanket\, and snacks in case you’re out longer than expected.\n Fuel\, Washer Fluid &\; Battery – Keep your tank at least half full a nd phone charged\, since rural areas may lack services.  Ensure you have plenty of washer fluid to keep your windows clear.\n\nFinally we ask that everyone abide by the Ontario Field Ornithologists' guidelines for ethical birding and member conduct\, emphasizing respect for birds\, habitats\, l andowners\, and fellow birders\, while promoting inclusion and conservatio n.\n\nNature Guelph activities are open to non-members and everyone is wel come! This event is free\, but donations are always appreciated. If you en joy our events and programs\, we hope you will consider buying an annual m embership. Nature Guelph memberships are: Individual: $30.00\, Student: $1 5 www.natureguelph.ca \n\nEmail birdwing@natureguelph.ca if you have any event-related questions. Please do not request assistance with registratio n through our social media accounts. ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://natureguelph.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/ 12/IMG_7741-edited.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Toronto X-LIC-LOCATION:America/Toronto BEGIN:STANDARD DTSTART:20251102T010000 TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE END:VCALENDAR