Barnum Creek Nature Reserve—an exceptional 600-acre protected landscape gifted to the Haliburton Highlands Land Trust (HHLT) in 2018 by Leopoldina and Margaret Dobrzensky—proved once again that it is a jewel of biodiversity in the Haliburton Highlands. With its rolling mixed and hardwood forests, thriving wetlands, and expansive open fields, the reserve was the perfect setting for Haliburton County’s second bioblitz.
Early on the morning of June 21, 2025, an energetic group of dedicated volunteers arrived to bring the event to life. Tents went up, tables and chairs were arranged, food and refreshments prepared, and parking areas organized—all before the arrival of 22 visiting scientists, naturalists, and nature enthusiasts ready to take part in the 24-hour biodiversity survey.
Although the weekend brought challenging weather, including a deluge of rain and oppressive humidity, nothing dampened the participants’ spirits. Teams spread out across the reserve, exploring both well-known areas and seldom-visited corners rarely seen by the public. Botanists carefully documented plant life, birders tuned in to songs and calls drifting through the forest canopy, and insect specialists swept fields and wetlands with nets and cameras. Spiders, beetles, and snails were collected for closer microscopic study and DNA analysis, while fungi, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and mammals were all observed, identified, and recorded.
By the end of the bioblitz, the results were nothing short of remarkable: an impressive 630 species were documented in just 24 hours!
Among the discoveries were several species of conservation concern, including the Wood Thrush and the regionally rare Yellow-billed Cuckoo. Scarce plants such as Orange-fruited Horse Gentian and Meadow Evening Primrose were also recorded. The participation of arachnid and gastropod experts added exceptional value, generating important data on species groups that are often underrepresented in biodiversity studies.
While dedicated survey teams continued their work throughout the weekend, other experts welcomed members of the public on engaging guided hikes, sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm for the reserve’s rich natural heritage. A delicious supper generously provided by McKeck’s Tap and Grill offered a welcome opportunity for participants to refuel and take shelter as heavy rain fell late in the afternoon. The shared meal created a warm and lively atmosphere—an ideal time to reconnect with old friends, meet new ones, and celebrate a shared passion for nature and conservation.
Overall, this successful bioblitz was a powerful demonstration of what can be achieved when passionate volunteers, skilled experts, and protected natural spaces come together—further reinforcing Barnum Creek Nature Reserve’s importance as a haven for biodiversity and a cornerstone of conservation in the Haliburton Highlands.
Finally, this high-quality event would not have been possible without the generous support of our funders and donors. Their vital financial contributions enabled us to rent and purchase essential equipment, promote the event widely, and provide a complimentary supper for our hard-working volunteers. We are deeply grateful for their belief in our mission and their ongoing commitment to conservation in the region.
