Reptile and Amphibian Conservation in Hamilton: a Guided Hike at McMaster Forest Nature Preserve

Join Ontario Nature to learn how you can contribute to reptile and amphibian conservation in Hamilton, through a guided hike at McMaster Forest Nature Preserve, on traditional territories of the Haudenosaunee confederacy and Anishnaabe nations. This nature preserve contains a diverse range of habitat types that are home to many species of reptiles and amphibians. It is also one of over 50 sites participating in Ontario Nature’s Long-term Monitoring Protocol (LTMP) for snakes. In 2024, staff at McMaster Forest began conducting LTMP surveys to identify trends in snake populations in this densely populated region of Ontario.

At this event, you will learn about reptile and amphibian ecology, habitat, and conservation, including two community science projects led by Ontario Nature. You will join Ontario Nature staff on a guided hike in search of reptiles and amphibians and gain hands-on training in snake monitoring. You will also learn how to contribute to community science using iNaturalist and have the opportunity to view printed copies of the recently published Ontario Reptile and Amphibian Atlas.

This event is generously supported by the City of Hamilton City Enrichment Fund.

Meeting location: The meeting location will be in the parking lot of the McMaster Forest Nature Preserve in Hamilton.

The McMaster Forest Nature Preserve is located on Lower Lions Club Rd, just off of Wilson St E. It can be accessed by car or by taking the 5C or 51 HSR bus routes to the West Hamilton Bus Loop stop.

To Bring: We will be running the event in areas with ticks. Please wear long pants, long sleeves, and closed-toe shoes. Rubber boots are recommended, if possible. Please also bring a re-fillable water bottle and snacks.

Weather: This event will run rain or shine. If there is severe weather, every effort will be made to reschedule the event.