September 14: Goldenrod Study

In late summer and early fall, goldenrod is buzzing with activity! From monarchs and bees, to ambush bugs and tiny beetles, goldenrod has it all. This session we will be exploring the diversity of life that use these bright yellow flowers.

Fungi are neither plants nor animals, they’re in a kingdom of their own! The fall is one of the best times to find mushrooms, so join us for a foray as we explore the fascinating world of fungi!

Ever noticed some weird bumps on a leaf or strange swelling on a stem of a plant? Inside, there is a whole other world of insects, mites, bacteria, and fungi! This session we will be exploring the hidden world of galls that can be found in The Arboretum.

Chris Earley will be leading this session and we will learn how ornithologists (bird scientists) study birds using bird banding! The Young Naturalists will have the chance to get hands-on with the birds of The Arboretum.

Whooo is living in The Arboretum forests at night? Join us in the evening for a special Young Naturalists program where we will be heading out to find the owls that call The Arb home. Make sure to dress warmly and bring flashlights or headlamps since we will be walking around in the dark trying to find our nocturnal friends.

Even though plants and animals don’t have coats, mittens, and hats to put on, they have evolved their own special adaptations to life in the snow. Bundle up because we’re exploring how animals and plants are able to survive even the coldest of temperatures!

Sometimes it takes some detective work to figure out who lives in our neighbourhoods. Plants usually have gone dormant, with many only leaving behind their seedheads. Animals are abundant but sometimes they can be illusive. Learn how to find signs of animal activity in the winter and how to identify what remains of the summer flowers!

April 5: HitchhikersAs people travel around the world, we often bring plants, animals, and pathogens with us. But once these hitchhikers arrive in a new space, what happens? Join us to learn all about the species that have found new homes in Ontario and what problems they are causing with our ecosystems.

It’s better down where it’s wetter, and ponds are the perfect place to explore the often-overlooked underwater world! Rain boots are strongly recommended and a change of clothes for any intrepid explorers may be handy!

There isn’t a corner of the world that insects don’t inhabit, and The Arboretum is no exception. Join us and find out why insects are the little things that run the world!