A trail goes around the perimeter, bordering Otter Creek then parallel to Kimball Road. The woodlot section was actually a little island surrounded by marsh, but is connected to high ground via the dike. This was always known a Chicken Island. Local people always went skating here in the winter, including myself. However, in early 1990's vegetation began to fill in the open area. Recently, dike work has maintained the water level and more open water is seen.
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| 1990's |
It is a good spot to see a variety of birds whether it be marsh birds, waterbirds, passerines, etc. It is a good migrant trap during migration periods and you never know what may be around.
A variety of plant life attracts insects such as butterflies.
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| Swamp Milkweed |
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| Vervain |
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| Monkeyflower |
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| Swamp Milkweed Beetle |
Just today, I saw a Buckeye, which was actually the first one I have seen this year!
Viceroys are plentiful.
Last year I saw a Milbert's Tortoiseshell which was rather unique for here.
This year I saw Striped and Banded Hairstreaks along the dike.
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| Striped Hairstreak |
This past weekend, members of the Sydenham Field Naturalists erected a platform.
It will be wheelchair accessible once a ramp is made.
Black-crowned Night-Herons have been hanging around the wetland this summer again. I have seen up to six at a time.
One time last year I caught sight of this American Bittern on the trail!
Green Herons are plentiful here as well. Last Friday there were six flying around.
Both Sora and Virginia Rails are present, but most often heard. Sunday evening I saw two Virginia Rails, and today heard one, Deryl.
A variety of ducks will stop by during migration times as well. Mallard and Wood Ducks are resident.
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| Bufflehead |
Last year a family of Common Gallinules took up residence. This year they did not return.
A Motus Wildlife Tracking Station is located at Peers.
Peers Wetland will always be a frequent stop of mine!
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