In late spring each year, we have the movement of many birds returning to their nesting regions, both local nesters and those that just pass through on their journey further north. The warblers are one such group that pass through our area. These little birds are very colorful and very vocal as they stop for a rest and feeding. In late May, we can often locate many of the warbler species in the Hillsborough area. This May 16, 2026, Nature Moncton will host a hike for members and anyone interested in observing warblers. The warblers are most active as the morning warms and the insects take to flight, making 9 AM a good starting time. The hike will be on an abandoned rail line, flat but with the rails still in place, so a little bit of difficulty. The rail hike is only 200 metres up and we double back. Also in the same location are the prepared trails of the Hillsborough water park, a walk on gravel surface of 2 kilometres. Those wishing for a little more birding can do this trail after we lunch, or Gordon can take the group for a quick visit and short walk at the White Rock Recreation area which is a short drive.

National Parks are not just for camping!  They also support ecological health and monitoring programs to assess indicators and ecosystems of the park, the health of wildlife, and to help guide restoration efforts.

Fundy National Park has been monitoring moose in its boundaries and buffer areas for some time using aerial surveillance. More recently in 2024, based on guidance from Mi’gmaq partners, trail cameras were added.  Since then, eight trail cameras have gathered hundreds of photos that have allowed the park to collect much more valued health information on the moose that frequent the area.

Becky Graham is acting Resource Conservation Manager at Fundy National Park and has been involved with the moose surveillance program from its beginnings. The Mi’maq indigenous community have been a valued asset in the project’s development, and Becky has worked closely with Steve Ginnish, the forestry director at Mi’gmawe’l Tplu’taqnn Inc.  In this presentation, both Becky and Steve will present some of the data and images they have collected and will share what they have discovered about the moose population in Fundy National Park.

This presentation will be live at Mapleton Park Lodge and recorded for those unable to participate in person.

As always, all are welcome, Nature Moncton member or not.

Our June meeting will continue the tradition of a fun social event with good food to celebrate the success of another fantastic fall/winter series of meeting presentations, outings and workshops! Members and non-members are invited to the Rotary Pavilion at Mapleton Park, where we will serve some delicious beef and veggie hamburgers and enjoy a picnic outdoors. Burgers and potato chips will be provided as a thank you from the executive for all your help and participation, but we would welcome any other food contributions brought for sharing (please note that this is a non-alcoholic event).

After we feast on hamburgers, we’ll go inside and watch a presentation of photos taken by participants of various nature highlights they have had throughout the year. If you would like to share some of your sightings, choose your best 10 photos and bring them on a USB stick. Photos of birds, plants and insects, as well as photos of participants on outings, are all welcome as ways to share great memories of the year.

To help us get an idea of how much food will be needed, please let us know if you plan to attend the barbeque by sending an email to outandabout4nm@gmail.com. Also indicate whether you would prefer a veggie burger, so we have an idea of how many we’ll need.

Hope to see you there. All are welcome, Nature Moncton member or not.