A Nature Guide to Ontario

Janet Arnett is the former campus manager of adult education at Ontario’s Georgian College. She is the author of Antiques and Collectibles: Starting Small, The Grange at Knock, and 673 Ways to Save Money.

The Federation of Ontario Naturalists (FON) drew on its members’
knowledge of nature and their photographic skills to compile this
complete reworking of the 1964 Naturalists’ Guide. More than an
updated edition, this volume takes into consideration the realities of
the 1990s: more endangered species, ever-shrinking natural areas, the
spread of imported species, new highways, cuts to government funding,
and a spreading interest in and appreciation of nature. In the 1960s,
most amateur naturalists were either birders or wildflower enthusiasts.
More than 30 years later, the new Nature Guide assumes that readers are
also interested in trees, shrubs, dunes, mammals, reptiles, amphibians,
fish, butterflies, ferns, mosses, geological features, and water
quality.

The book includes information on more than 60 sites in seven Ontario
regions. The selection is based on interesting features coupled with the
site’s accessibility and its ability to endure heavy traffic
consisting of caring naturalists. Each site description includes
geographic, geological, and flora and fauna highlights, along with
travel directions and details about any outstanding characteristics or
necessary cautions. As fun additions to this core material, the book
includes 50 really good color photos and a subjective list of the top 10
nature spots in Ontario.

Any Ontario resident or visitor with even the slightest interest in any
aspect of nature needs this work.