Featured image for “In Our Backyard: Veery”

In Our Backyard: Veery

February 7, 2025

The Veery in the Thompson-Nicola Region: A Glimpse into a Secretive Songbird The Thompson-Nicola region is host to the elusive veery (Catharus fuscescens), a small thrush renowned for its haunting,...

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Featured image for “In Our Backyard: Spotted Owl”

In Our Backyard: Spotted Owl

January 6, 2025

The Enigmatic Spotted Owl: A Symbol of Old-Growth Forests in the Thompson-Nicola The spotted owl (Strix occidentalis) is a captivating and elusive bird, a true denizen of old-growth forests, including...

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Featured image for “In Our Backyard: Rusty Cord-Moss”

In Our Backyard: Rusty Cord-Moss

December 5, 2024

The rusty cord-moss (Entosthodon rubiginosus) is a small, endangered moss species found in specific saline and alkaline environments within the Thompson-Nicola region of British Columbia. This delicate plant, often overlooked...

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Featured image for “In Our Backyard: Williamson’s Sapsucker”

In Our Backyard: Williamson’s Sapsucker

November 8, 2024

The Williamson’s sapsucker (Sphyrapicus thyroideus) is a captivating woodpecker that graces the mountainous landscapes of western North America, including the Thompson-Nicola region of British Columbia. This species is renowned for...

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Featured image for “In Our Backyard: North American Racer”

In Our Backyard: North American Racer

October 9, 2024

The North American racer (Coluber constrictor) is a slender, agile snake found in the dry grasslands of British Columbia’s southern interior. Racers have been seen moving with their heads raised,...

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Featured image for “In Our Backyard: Cliff Swallows”

In Our Backyard: Cliff Swallows

September 3, 2024

Soaring Beauties Facing Challenges The cliff swallow (Petrochelidon pyrrhonota) is a familiar sight in our skies during the summer. These social birds, easily identified by their buffy rump and dark...

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Featured image for “In Our Backyard: Sage Thrasher”

In Our Backyard: Sage Thrasher

July 8, 2024

The sage thrasher (Oreoscoptes montanus) is a rare songbird found in BC’s Dry Interior. It is listed as endangered in Canada due to its very small population and threats to...

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Featured image for “In Our Backyard: Flammulated Owl”

In Our Backyard: Flammulated Owl

June 6, 2024

The flammulated owl is a small, insectivorous owl found in drier montane coniferous forests of British Columbia. They nest in tree cavities excavated by woodpeckers. The flammulated owl is listed...

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Featured image for “In Our Backyard: Grizzly Bear”

In Our Backyard: Grizzly Bear

April 25, 2024

Grizzly bears are iconic animals that play an important role in the ecosystems and cultures of the Thompson Watershed. They are one of the most magnificent and powerful animals in...

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