Long-term Monitoring Protocol for Ontario's Snakes - Hands-On Training

Join Ontario Nature at Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre to learn more about our Long-term Monitoring Protocol (LTMP) for Ontario’s snakes. Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre protects 3,000 acres of land in the Heart of Georgian Bay, which supports an abundance of wildlife, including several snake species. Since 2024, Wye Marsh staff have been monitoring snakes following the LTMP to help improve our understanding of snake populations.

At this event, you will learn about snake ecology, threats, and habitat stewardship from Ontario Nature staff. You will participate in a demonstration of the LTMP using existing cover boards and gain hands-on training on identifying suitable snake habitat, setting up a LTMP monitoring transect, and properly handling, identifying, sexing and aging Ontario’s snakes.

Directions 
The meeting location will be at the Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start time. Please park in the parking lot and make your way into the Wildlife Centre. Directions using Google Maps. The Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre is located just outside of Midland, approximately 45 minutes from Barrie.

What 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. This event will run rain or shine. A portion of the event will occur indoors. If there is severe weather, the entire event will occur indoors.

This training event is generously supported by the TD Friends of the Environment Foundation, the Hodgson Family Foundation, and the Huronia Community Foundation.

Cover photo: Eastern Garter Snake © Peter Ferguson