Comox Valley Nature is pleased to welcome Bryan Walwork, who will give a presentation of photographs from a recent Natural History Trip to Costa Rica. Walwork’s intense two-week trip was designed for the naturalist. The trip leader, Dr. Keith Wade taught biology, ecology and bio-geography at Capilano University for thirty nine years. A very knowledgeable Costa Rican guide accompanied the group throughout the trip. The combined experience of these two leaders resulted in fabulous animal and bird sightings, which Bryan was able to photograph.
With over 900 species of birds and a mixture of habitats, Costa Rica is a Mecca for birdwatchers. For them, Bryan’s bird photos will probably be the highlight of his presentation, but there is plenty of other wildlife to be seen in this show. From the large to the small, Bryan likes to photograph it all!
Bryan Walwork developed an interested in photography at a young age when he learned to develop and print in the darkroom. Over the years, his photography has evolved to cover a wide range of subjects and he has embraced new technologies in the process. A self-described generalist, he enjoys photographing a broad range of subjects. He uses photography as a means to share the natural world, exotic places and the intriguing things he has seen abroad and at home in Canada.
Since his retirement to the Comox Valley in 2002, Bryan has been sharing his knowledge and techniques by conducting workshops and photo sessions in his private studio. He is a member of the Comox Valley Photographic Society, the Canadian Association for Photographic Art (CAPA), the Comox Valley Naturalist Society (and their photography group) and the Comox Valley Shooters. Walwork’s lecture, entitled: “A Natural History Adventure in Costa Rica; A photographic presentation” will take place at the Florence Filberg Seniors Centre at 7pm (sharp) April 17, 2016.
Comox Valley Nature is a non-profit society affiliated to BC Nature consisting only of unpaid volunteers. CVN fulfills its educational mandate by hosting monthly lectures, organizing free weekly guided hikes for members, and a free monthly walk open to the public. The society also undertakes a variety of environmental projects. Aside from its main activity as a non-profit, Comox Valley Nature also supports specialized groups (Birding, Botany, Conservation, Garry Oak Restoration, Wetland Restoration, Photography and Young Naturalists) all of which have separate monthly activities.
Membership in BC Nature and Comox Valley Nature is $30 per adult and $40 for a family. Founded in 1966, it is one of the oldest environmental societies on the North Island. Meetings and lectures of the Comox Valley Naturalists Society are held on the third Sunday of most months at the Florence Filberg Centre, 411 Anderton, Courtenay. Meetings and guided walks are open to the public, including children and youth.
Lecture is free, though a $4 contribution from non-members is appreciated. New memberships are always welcomed.
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Comox Valley Nature invites its members and the public to CVN’s October general meeting, where you can hear the following keynote presentation by our guest speaker: Birdbrains – Smarter than you think- with Sandra Milligan Once dismissed as “birdbrains,” birds are now recognized for their remarkable intelligence. Sandra explores the evolution of our understanding of avian neuroanatomy, focusing on local species. Through engaging stories and videos, Sandra explores how birds solve problems, use tools, express empathy, and communicate with rich vocabulary – inviting you to see these creatures with newfound respect and wonder.Sandra Milligan has been teaching university level biology at North Island College for over twenty years. With graduate degrees in neuroscience, she’s now a generalist, naturalist, and lifelong learner. In Campbell River, she’s a recognized environmental advocate and public educator. Her passion for birding has evolved into a deep interest in avian behaviour and intelligence. Drawing on her neuroanatomy background, Sandra has followed the growing research on bird cognition, confirming what many intuitively felt – birds display an extraordinary range of intelligent behaviours. Sunday, October 25, 2026 at 3 pm in the main hall of Comox United Church, 250 Beach Drive, Comox. Members of the public welcome.This will be an in-person only meeting. We will not record the presentation on this occasion [this is a correction to previous information].As always, there will be a break after the presentation with a chance to meet new people and socialize with old friends. Tea, coffee and treats will be available (by donation).A brief meeting follows. Reports from some of our interest groups and projects are an opportunity for guests to learn more about what we do.
It's that time of year! A couple of off leash dogs have been seen romping at the confluence of Morrison Creek and the Puntledge River. Dogs get quite excited to see those big chum. The chum do spawn right at the mouth of the creek, salmon eggs are very sensitive to disturbance so paws, or feet, in the creek kill eggs. Keep your dog on a leash, especially if you do not want a smelly dog! Dogs like to roll in dead fish. Salmon spook, be a quiet calm wildlife paparazzi.
Fish Walk!!! ( Well, not really...but don't miss this chance to follow their journey!)Join the Morrison Creek Streamkeepers for a walk along Morrison Creek, starting at its confluence with the Puntledge River in Puntledge Park, to watch salmon spawning after their remarkable journey back from the ocean. Register here: form.jotform.com/262924316992264
Thanks to community support, a property in Deep Bay is now protected, safeguarding its mature forests, salmon streams and diverse shoreline.Now, we’re helping restore this land so it can regenerate into a healthy forest.Join the Comox Valley land Trust and WolfTree for a hands-on day to rehabilitate the former homestead by planting trees and shrubsIf you'd like to volunteer your time, the work party is Sunday, October 25th, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.Meet at Rosewall creek Provincial Park parking lot at 9:50 to carpool to the deep bay restoration site.See this link or link in bio to register and for more information: www.jotform.com/form/262826298698277
Comox Valley Nature’s Wetlands restoration group has been working on the Courtenay Rotary Trail removing invasive plants.Removing invasive plants ensures that native plants can thrive. A vigorous native plant population also provides food for insects and birds.Join us in liberating native plants from invasive thugs such as ivy.We meet at the end of 21st street in Courtenay, where it meets the Courtenay Rotary Trail near Dogwood Park. You’ll find us there every Sunday starting Oct 18 to mid-Dec, mid-Jan to March 14, from 1:00 to 3:30 Bring gloves and water, dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes.For more information contact
