St. Francis Valley Naturalists’ Club members recently enjoyed a walk at Heather Ross’ farm in Birchton. Photo courtesy
Local Naturalists’ Club VP talks birdwatching, club activities
By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
Are you wowed by warblers and eager to see eagles? In a June 4 interview with The Record, Gary McCormick, vice president of the St. Francis Valley Naturalists’ Club (SFVNC), shared on the rich history, vibrant activities, and the thriving birdwatching community of the local club.
The SFVNC, established in the 1950s, has long been a beacon for nature enthusiasts in the region.
“Our club is dedicated to educating the public about all things nature and our role in it,” McCormick explained. The club’s mission is to foster a greater understanding and appreciation of the natural world through education, conservation, and hands-on experience. McCormick has served as vice president for several years after a seven-year term as president, underscoring his deep commitment to the club.
Birdwatching is a cornerstone of the club’s activities, attracting a diverse group of enthusiasts ranging from amateur ornithologists to casual nature lovers. The club organizes regular field outings, primarily within the Sherbrooke area, but occasionally ventures further afield. Popular birdwatching spots include Burbank Pond near Danville, the Johnville Bog, and the marsh at Atto-Beaver Park.
“Spring is by far the best time for birdwatching,” McCormick explained, highlighting the increased variety of birds during this season.
“Birds are not only returning to nest and breed in the area but also passing through on their way further north, as far as the Arctic.” The early spring season, with its less dense foliage, provides optimal conditions for spotting birds.
When asked about notable bird sightings, McCormick mentioned several species that draw significant interest.
“We’ve seen Bald Eagles on some of our outings this spring, which is always exciting. The colourful Warblers are also a big draw, with species like the Indigo Bunting captivating many of our members. Sometimes we encounter rarities, such as the Summer Tanager at Katevale Marsh.”
Etiquette is crucial for a successful and respectful birdwatching experience. McCormick emphasized the importance of maintaining a quiet presence and avoiding the urge to chase after birds.
“It’s always best to keep conversations to a minimum and stay quiet,” he advised.
“Larger groups might split up, allowing the more dedicated birdwatchers to move ahead quietly, while others enjoy the social aspect of the outing.”
Technology has become an invaluable tool for birdwatchers, with apps like Merlin significantly enhancing the experience. Merlin identifies birds by “listening” to their calls.
“Merlin is very useful, especially for beginners learning common bird songs,” McCormick said.
“It’s also beneficial for experts who might not immediately recognize a distant call. However, it’s not a complete replacement for learning bird calls through experience. I find that sometimes I can identify a bird call before Merlin does, just because of familiarity and practice.”
Beyond birdwatching, the St. Francis Valley Naturalist Club is deeply involved in educational outreach. The club conducts educational programs in schools and hosts monthly meetings with speakers on a wide range of nature-related topics.
“We have talks on everything from bee and butterfly migration to opening up new trails,” McCormick noted. The club’s efforts extend to practical conservation projects, such as maintaining a pollinator garden on Square Queen in Lennoxville.
The club fosters a sense of community among its members, offering a platform for like-minded individuals to connect and share their passion for nature.
“It’s about enjoying nature and the environment together, learning something new, and meeting people with similar interests,” McCormick said. The club’s activities provide both educational value and social engagement, making each outing a multifaceted experience.
As the spring walking season concludes, McCormick encouraged members and interested individuals to stay informed about future events through the club’s Facebook page.
“Our regular meetings will resume in September, along with more field trips in the fall,” he said. The fall season, while not as prolific as spring, still offers excellent birdwatching opportunities.