Pamela Rutherford, Associate Professor, Department of Biology, Brandon University
Southwestern Manitoba is home to sixteen species of amphibians and reptiles, and several of these species have localized distributions. In addition, many of these same species are secretive and little is known about their natural history.
John Gray, Retired economist and forestry consultant
This evening John Gray will explore the diverse uses and values of forests, and some of the issues in managing forests, drawing on examples from Canada, Manitoba, and elsewhere in the World. John studied forestry at the University of British Columbia and worked in forestry in B.C. He has consulted on forestry issues for Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, and Newfoundland and Labrador.
Dr. W. Gary Anderson, Associate Professor, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Manitoba
A life history strategy of slow growth and late sexual maturity have made Lake Sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens) particularly vulnerable to over-fishing and habitat fragmentation. Over the last century, population declines have been sufficiently severe to lead to the potential listing of the species under the Species at Risk Act in Canada.
Our “members’ night” presentations have moved from the December program to our Annual General Meeting in March. So let us know if you want to contribute – we’re looking for two or three 20-minute presentations on nature-related topics. Travelogues should have a strong nature component, please!
Dr. Richard Westwood (Associate Professor, Environmental Studies Program, Department of Biology, University of Winnipeg)
The amount of undisturbed prairie habitat has diminished in Manitoba at an alarming rate over the past century. Dr. Westwood will explain the habitat requirements of several threatened and endangered butterfly species found only in Manitoba, and describe the history of the decline of these species.
Darryl Hedman’s presentation will focus on polar bear ecology as it relates to Churchill and Manitoba, the Polar Bear Alert program, and bear safety recommendations. Of the 19 sub-populations of polar bears, 13 of them are in Canada. Manitoba Conservation has surveyed polar bears in September since 1969. During the surveys, bear numbers are recorded as well as body condition and location.
Marilyn Peckett (Superintendent, Manitoba Field Unit, Parks Canada Agency)
Join Marilyn Peckett as she shares the charms and challenges of managing two different national parks. Separated by 90 years of history and two provinces apart, Elk Island and Wapusk provide valuable habitat for two of our country’s magnificent species at risk: the Wood Bison and Polar Bear.
Ernest Thompson Seton (1860-1946) is described by the US National Park Service as “one of America’s greatest naturalists.” This artist, widely read author and scientist was instrumental in bringing the Boy Scout movement to the United States. Less well known are the years he spent in Manitoba documenting all its animal life including mammals, birds, fishes, snakes, etc.
James Duncan (Manager, Biodiversity, Habitat and Endangered Species Section, Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch, Manitoba Conservation)
Manitoba is well known for its ‘cuddly’ polar bears, hypnotic Great Gray Owls and writhing masses of mating Garter Snakes. But it also home to dragon hunters, pseudo scorpions and other assorted creepy creatures. From three species of arrow worms to over 25,000 arthropods, Manitoba has it all.
William Watkins (Biodiversity Conservation Zoologist, Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch, Manitoba Conservation)
Have you ever wondered if there are cougars living in Manitoba? Recent reports of sightings and three dead animals turned into Manitoba Conservation in the last seven years have excited and sometimes alarmed the public.
