JoAnne Burek

Twelve people came out on a sunny day to hike the area next to the Ministik Bird Sanctuary. The trail runs through the Ball property of the Nature Conservancy Canada (NCC).

We were fortunate that our hike leader, Delaney, is the NCC steward of this property, because she led us on paths that we would not take on our own. She also told us about the unique inhabitants of this property, such as sun-dews, Alberta’s only carnivorous plant.

We didn’t see sun-dews, but we saw plenty of channels like these, carved out by beavers.

Our lunch spot was at the Berg Stopover, from which we took our group photo below. Thanks to Delaney for leading the hike, to trail maintenance for their dedication and hard work clearing the trail on that very hot day, and to the landowner for their continuing support. You will find these photos on Flickr.

Where we’re going next.

Sixteen people came out on a gorgeous day to hike the trail from the Gwynne area eastward. The first thing we did was stop at the bench installed by the landowner, that overlooks the valley.

We were fortunate to have a bird expert in our midst. She introduced us to species that we might not have spotted on our own.

For example, a juvenile red-tail hawk soared quite close over our heads. We learned it was a juvenile because its feathers were perfect. The adult hawks would be starting their moult right now.

Other birds included Swainson’s hawk, turkey vultures, boreal chickadees, waxwings, and this catbird pictured here.

We had our lunch on the hill that overlooks the valley, just before the trail turns into the wooded slope that tracks above the river. The wasps have taken over that part of the trail for the rest of summer, and there’s no good way to avoid them.

Thanks to Terry for scouting and leading the hike, to trail maintenance for their excellent work, and to the landowners for their continuing generosity. You can see all the photos on Flickr.

Where we’re going next.