Reptiles and Amphibians of Hamilton: a Guided Hike at Sheelah Dunn Dooley Nature Sanctuary

Join Ontario Nature to learn about the reptiles and amphibians of Hamilton and how you can contribute to their conservation, through a guided hike at Sheelah Dunn Dooley Nature Sanctuary, on traditional territories of the Haudenosaunee confederacy and Anishnaabe nations. This nature sanctuary stewarded by the Hamilton Naturalists' Club contains a diverse range of habitat types that are home to many species of reptiles and amphibians. It is also one of over 60 sites participating in Ontario Nature’s Long-term Monitoring Protocol (LTMP) for snakes. In 2025, Hamilton Naturalists' Club staff 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 learn how to contribute to community science using iNaturalist.

This event is generously supported by the TD Friends of the Environment Foundation.

Location details: Sheelah Dunn Dooley Nature Sanctuary. Specific meeting location details will be shared with registered attendees before the event. 

Accessibility notes: The event will include approximately 2 km of walking on gravel paths and dirt trails. There is some uneven terrain and mild inclines.

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.

By participating in the event, you agree to abide by the Event Code of Conduct.

Photo: Joe Crowley