Conservation Volunteering Toronto

Tiny Titans: Insects Up Close | Book Launch & Panel Talk

Discover the hidden world of arthropods through stunning macro photography — a visual journey celebrating their beauty, complexity, and essential role in our ecosystems. Meet **Dara Ojo**, an award-winning macro photographer and conservation storyteller whose work brings the hidden world of arthropods into vivid relief. Ojo's book, [Tiny Titans: The Silent Keepers of Our Ecosystem](https://tpl.bibliocommons.com/item/show/4813317234) reveals the fascinating lives of insects, spiders, and other small creatures that quietly sustain life on Earth. Captured across Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica, and beyond, Dara Ojo’s photography highlights the intricate details and diversity of these often-overlooked species. Ojo will be leading the conversation with: **Dr. Sandra Rehan**, professor at York University and principal investigator of the Rehan Lab with a focus on wild bees, pollinator biology and conservation. Rehan's research explores the biology, behaviour and evolution of bees, with a particular interest in understanding and protecting native pollinators. **Dr. Laura Timms**, Senior Specialist of Natural Heritage Management at Credit Valley Conservation and Adjunct Professor with the Daniels Faculty’s Institute of Forestry and Conservation. **Lorraine Johnson**, author and native plant and ecological gardening advocate, bridging the connection between insects, plants, habitat and practical conservation action. Join in this evening to celebrate macro photography and the intricate beauty and ecological importance of insects and spiders, creatures that quietly anchor global biodiversity, pollination, and climate resilience. Free. Register for a reminder via [TPL website](https://tpl.bibliocommons.com/v2/events/6ac7e7bbea50a10050a6a31f) or RSVP here. **5:30 pm:** Doors open. Mingle and chat with fellow nature and environmental enthusiasts! **6:00 pm:** Presentation begins. Enjoy a highly visual presentation combining photography, science, conservation and storytelling, taking the audience behind the scenes of six years documenting tiny worlds across five continents and exploring why these overlooked species matter. A light, informal conversation with guest speakers will explore why arthropods are so essential to our ecosystems, with a discussion of challenges impacting local species, and how science, photography and art can work together to help people notice, understand and care about the natural world. An audience Q&A follows this discussion. **7:30 pm:** Book signing with books available for purchase. \*\*\* This program is part of TPL's [Our Fragile Planet](http://tpl.ca/fragileplanet?_gl=1*g8zm29*_ga*MTE5NTI3NDU1Ny4xNzU0NDg5MTI0*_ga_G99DMMNG39*czE3NzEwMTk5NTMkbzE4JGcxJHQxNzcxMDIwMTUzJGo1NyRsMCRoMA..*_ga_VGX2640F9T*czE3NzEwMTk5NTMkbzE4JGcxJHQxNzcxMDIwMTUwJGoyNCRsMCRoMA..) program series, supported by Friends of Toronto Public Library, South Chapter.​ Questions? Please contact North York Central Library - Business, Science & Technology Department. **\*\*\*** Place a hold or borrow from Toronto Public Library: * [Tiny Titans : The Silent Keepers of Our Ecosystem](https://tpl.bibliocommons.com/item/show/4813317234) (book) - Dara Ojo * [A Garden for the Rusty-patched Bumblebee](https://tpl.bibliocommons.com/item/show/4182820234) (book) - Lorraine Johnson ## Accessibility Live or automated closed captioning, sign language interpretation, intervenor services, or attendant services are available upon request. Please submit your request at least 2 weeks in advance to: [tpl.ca/accessibility-events](https://tpl.ca/accessibility/accessibility-supports/programs-and-events/?_gl=1*v83hy7*_ga*NDk5MDg2NTE1LjE3NjYwMDgxODQ.*_ga_G99DMMNG39*czE3NjkxMDY3NDMkbzE0JGcxJHQxNzY5MTA2ODM0JGozOCRsMCRoMA..).

Community Meal Service at Good Shepherd (Toronto)

✨ **Community Meal Service at Good Shepherd** We're heading back to Good Shepherd to serve meals for people experiencing homelessness and those at risk. Last time we served meals, chopped veggies, made sandwiches, and helped prep pasta. **Only 6 spots!** **How to sign up** 1. **Create your Toronto Joy free account**. It's one-time only and takes about 2 minutes. We ask for an emergency contact and a safety agreement so everyone is looked after. [https://torontojoy.org/register/](https://torontojoy.org/register/) 2. **Go to the event page**, look for November 14 Good Shepherd, and click "Register." [https://torontojoy.org/event/community-meal-service-at-good-shepherd-toronto-4/](https://torontojoy.org/event/community-meal-service-at-good-shepherd-toronto-4/) Already have an account? Skip to step 2. ***Only people registered on our website can reserve a spot.* We share the event on various platforms, so sign-ups occur on the website.** If you sign up, please plan to attend. Good Shepherd counts on our numbers. **When you arrive** Check in at Reception. Staff will take you to the volunteer room, where you can leave your things in a locker and meet the group. **Good to know** ✦ Closed-toe shoes required ✦ Tie back long hair; keep jewelry minimal ✦ Water is available; just ask Reception ✦ Can't make it? Message me as soon as you can 🙏 Full guidelines on what to wear and safety: [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1piAyloECv9YUDkPJuoJBdCmh3x8n1un1rGvJSFIkbs4/edit?usp=sharing](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1piAyloECv9YUDkPJuoJBdCmh3x8n1un1rGvJSFIkbs4/edit?usp=sharing) Grateful to serve alongside you. Amar and Team

Practical Philosophy Social!

Get to know your fellow hikers more intimately with a night of Practical Philosophy. In partnership with the Practical Philosophy Meetup I thought it would be a fun a social ! **How does it work?** We select a topic like monogomy vs pologomy and in groups of 6-8 with a moderator (so conservations are respectful) ten questions are asked and everyone has a chance to give their take on the subject. Get to know your fellow hikers on a deeper level! You may be surprised! **Opposing views are of course welcome!** Location to be determined!

Intro to Survival Skills: Shelter, Fire and Knots

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/survival-skills/intro-survival-skills)** **Spend a Saturday becoming someone who knows what to do.** Join us for a hands-on beginner day in Copeland Forest with Kyle, a survival instructor with over a decade of experience. You'll pitch a shelter, light a fire without matches, carve with a knife and tie the knots that hold it all together. This class is open to any adult, member or not. Come on your own or bring a friend. Most people at our classes arrive solo. Total beginners are welcome: Kyle starts from zero, and there's no hiking, just short walks into the trees to gather wood. **Kit provided:** Tarps, saws, hatchets, loaner ferro rods and knives to borrow, plus your own tinder kit and a printed handout. Want your own ferro rod (+$10) or Mora knife (+$40) to keep? Add one when you book. **Getting there:** Add the bus for $50 and we'll pick you up at Keele Station at 8am and drop you back around 6pm. Or drive yourself to the P1 parking lot in Copeland Forest, near Horseshoe Valley, about an hour and a half north of Toronto. No membership needed. After you book, we'll email you the waiver to sign and your plan with directions, timings and a packing list. **Accessibility** Wilderness Union is committed to making our adventures as accessible as possible. If you wish to make an accommodation request relating to a disability or provide feedback, please do so by sending an email to info@wildernessunion.com **Highlights** **Put a roof over your head:** Learn to pick a good spot and pitch a tarp two ways, the A-frame and the plow point, so you know how to stay dry when the weather turns. **Light a fire without matches:** Catch a ferro rod spark on fluffed jute, build up through twigs to logs, split wood by batoning and carve feather sticks. **Knots, knife work and a tripod grill:** Learn the taut-line hitch, slip knot and bowline, carve your own chopsticks, spoon or spatula, then lash a tripod and grill over the fire. **Itinerary** **08:00** \- Bus leaves Keele Station \(if you've added it\) **10:00** \- Meet at location\, for a welcome\, safety talk and knife handling **Late morning** \- Tarp shelters: the A\-frame and the plow point **Lunch** \- Bring a packed lunch and eat around the fire **Afternoon** \- Fire without matches: ferro rod\, jute\, batoning and feather sticks **Late afternoon** \- Knots\, bush cutlery and a tripod grill **16:00** \- Wrap up and head home **18:00** \- Bus arrives back at Keele Station **Event cost: $135+HST. $50 optional transport also available. Please register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/survival-skills/intro-survival-skills)** **About Wilderness Union** Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community that connects you to the life-changing magic of the outdoors and helps you find your people. Attendance numbers on Meetup don't reflect our actual event attendance - we typically have 15-20 community members at each event. Large enough that there's someone new to meet but small enough that it's not overwhelming! ***Learn more at our website [www.wildernessunion.com](https://www.wildernessunion.com/)***

Volleyball Foundations 1 — Build Skills & Confidence | Oct 17-Nov 14 (15+)

**Registration Required in Advance** RSVP’ing on Meetup does not reserve your spot. [Register here](https://app.amilia.com/store/en/miles-nadal-jcc/api/Activity/Detail?activityId=ym0RQmp) ☎️ Or call 416-924-6211 ext. 0 Spaces are limited to ensure personalized instruction — register early! **Volleyball Foundations 1 — Build Confidence & Master the Fundamentals (15+)** Ready to feel more confident and consistent on the volleyball court? This beginner clinic is designed for players who are new to the game or want to strengthen their core skills in a supportive, instructional environment. In this session, you’ll work on the essential skills every volleyball player needs: • **Passing:** Learn platform control and accuracy • **Setting:** Master proper hand positioning and ball control • **Serving:** Develop consistency and basic power You’ll also be introduced to court positioning and basic game awareness, so you’ll know **where to be and why**. Sessions combine high-energy skill drills to build muscle memory with controlled scrimmage play, giving you the chance to apply what you’ve learned in real-time. **Who This Clinic Is For:** • New players, recreational athletes, or anyone looking to build a strong technical foundation • Players wanting to feel more comfortable and confident on the court **Location:** Miles Nadal JCC — 750 Spadina Ave. (enter through Spadina doors) **Format:** Group instruction led by an experienced, supportive coach **Why Join?** • Build confidence in your volleyball skills • Strengthen core techniques for passing, setting, and serving • Gain practical court awareness and understanding of gameplay Whether you’re stepping on the court for the first time or looking to reinforce your fundamentals, this clinic will help you **feel more capable, confident, and ready to play**.

Garden with Purpose: Practical Ecological Gardening

You have the power to create real ecological change — right in your own backyard. In this introductory program, discover the core principles of ecological gardening and learn how to transform your garden into a space that’s both environmentally responsible and visually stunning. A **Toronto Master Gardener** will provide guidance on how to create habitat, manage water wisely, and reduce your ecological impact — all while cultivating a landscape rich with beauty and year-round interest. Suitable for gardeners of any skill level and any outdoor space. Register via TPL's website: [Garden with Purpose: Practical Ecological Gardening | Toronto Public Library | BiblioCommons](https://tpl.bibliocommons.com/v2/events/6ac3bad29d27a000454eac67) Doors open at 5:30 pm to mingle and chat with fellow nature and environmental enthusiasts! The program starts at 6:00 pm. This program is part of TPL's [Our Fragile Planet](http://www.tpl.ca/fragile-planet) program series, supported by Friends of Toronto Public Library, South Chapter.

Amherst Island Experience featuring Owl Woods

Join us for an unforgettable adventure to Amherst Island, one of our favorite birding destinations especially for owls and birds of prey. During previous outings, we observed Northern Saw-whet Owls, Long-eared Owls, Short-eared Owls, Barred Owls plus amazing birds of prey including Bald Eagles, Rough-legged Hawks, Red-tailed Hawks, Northern Harriers, and American Kestrels. As autumn deepens, we anticipate even more arrivals including the possibility of an early Snowy Owl, making this the perfect time for another visit! **Why Amherst Island?** * **Saw-whet Owls**: A rare opportunity to see these small, secretive owls as they pass through on migration. * **Barred and Short-eared Owls**: Prime season to spot these elusive species as they arrive for the colder months. * **Snowy Owls**: Snowy Owls will be arriving in Southern Ontario soon, so we will keep a lookout for these stunning owls of the tundra. * **Birds of Prey**: Experience sightings of Bald Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks, Northern Harriers, American Kestrels, and Rough-legged Hawks hunting across the island’s open fields. **Event Highlights:** * **Guided Tour of Owl Woods**: Traverse the world-renowned Owl Woods sanctuary, where various owl species reside. Our respectful approach and guiding expertise make this a special opportunity to observe these owls. * **Important**: Owl Woods will be closed for until mid-December for deer hunting season, so this will be our last chance for a while to vi * **Wildlife Sightings**: We'll keep an eye out for wildlife such as Coyotes, White-tailed Deer, and Red Foxes. * **Historical Charm**: Amherst Island’s untouched charm offers a peaceful, remote retreat and an authentic glimpse into Canada’s rustic beauty. **Itinerary:** * **7:30 AM**: Departure from Finch Station Passenger Pickup (please arrive by 7:15 AM). * **10:30 AM**: Ferry from Millhaven to Amherst Island. * **Owl Woods Guided Walk**: Stroll through this secluded sanctuary, renowned for its owl sightings. * **Afternoon Wildlife Drive**: A leisurely drive around the island to spot birds of prey and other wildlife. * **4:00 PM**: Return ferry to the mainland, with an estimated arrival in Toronto around 7:00 PM. **Important Information:** * **Transportation provided** * **Limited Spots**: Only 3 spots available. * Meeting us on-site at the Amherst Ferry is also an option. * **Cost**: $129.00 (including tax) * **Payment**: Via PayPal or bank e-transfer to [torontonaturelovers@hotmail.com](torontonaturelovers@hotmail.com) * **What to Bring**: Pack a lunch, snacks, and drinks, and dress for variable weather. A rest stop will be made En Route for additional needs. * **Walking Requirements**: The walk to Owl Woods is approximately 1.5 km each way, plus additional walking in Owl Woods. Please ensure you’re comfortable with this distance. * **Respect for Nature**: Owl Woods is a protected area, and we must treat it with respect. Please follow all guidelines, minimize time spent near each owl, and observe quietly to ensure we can continue enjoying this special place. While sightings can’t be guaranteed, our extensive experience gives us a high success rate. **Join Us!** Don’t miss this incredible adventure!! Experience the awe of observing amazing birds of prey and other wildlife up close in their natural environment. Reserve your spot today for an unforgettable day at Amherst Island!

ROM Discounted - Tour, World Wildlife Photography + Other Exhibits

On **Saturday November 21st,** **join me at the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) to take a Museum Tour, visit the World Wildlife Photography Exhibit, the Crawford Lake Exhibit and Cloudscape Installation.** Be among the first in Canada to see this year’s winners and finalists of the annual *[Wildlife Photographer of the Year](https://www.rom.on.ca/whats-on/exhibitions/wildlife-photographer-year-2026)* 2026 competition. Attendees can see any exhibits of interest. **Purchase your ticket for Saturday November 21st. We will be heading out for dinner after at the number 1 Chinese restaurant in Canada. This is a separate event and you can sign up [here](https://www.meetup.com/experiencetoronto/events/316869554/) if you'd like to join us.** **Museum Highlights Tour** Explore the wonders of ROM in a 45-minute tour that brings iconic objects to life. Enjoy highlights of arts, culture and nature… throughout the world and throughout time. **Cloudscape Installation** *Cloudscape* is a mesmerizing installation that blends traditional artistry with contemporary themes. Immerse yourself in Yan's floating masterpiece, where each sculpted cloud tells a story of cultural heritage and environmental consciousness, and invites us to reflect on our relationship with nature. **World Wildlife Photography** Each year, the annual competition - organized by the Natural History Museum in London, UK - receives tens of thousands of image submissions from aspiring wildlife photographers of all ages. One hundred selected images from this year's competition - unforgettable photographs of wildlife and the natural world - will travel to ROM right after the winners are announced. Experience the power of photography to reveal, connect, and transform our view of nature. **Itinerary** **2:30pm Meet inside the ROM at the Museum Station entrance** to the right side on the 1st Floor **2:35 - 2:45pm Cloudscape Installation** (**Level 1 China(** **2:45 - 3:45pm Museum Highlights Tour (Level 1 Currelle Gallery)**. The Tour starts 3pm, then head directly to the Wildlife Exhibit to enter before 4pm. **3:45 - 4:45pm World Wildlife Photography Exhibit, Level 4, Patrick Harris Gallery (last entry 4pm)** **4:45pm - 4:55pm Break** **4:55 -** **5:15p Crawford Lake Exhibit (Level 3, European Rotating Exhibitions)** Powerful, inspiring, and enlightening, the annual Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition invites viewers into a world of extraordinary images and visual storytelling. The world's longest-running and most prestigious annual nature photography competition, Wildlife Photographer of the Year attracts and recognizes the world's best nature photography, and has done so every year since 1965. **5:15 - 5:25pm: ROM Store.** Take a look around for souvenirs. **5:30pm Museum closes** **We will be heading out for dinner at the number 1 Chinese restaurant in Canada. Sign up [here](https://www.meetup.com/experiencetoronto/events/316869554/) if you'd like to join us.** **COST** Adults: Admission $26 + Photography Exhibit $9 = $35 Seniors: Admission $21 + Photography Exhibit = $27.75 Discounted 15% (message me for the code) Adults: Admission only is $22.10, Admission + Photography is $29.75 Seniors: Admission only is $17.85, Admission + Photography is $23.59 Meetup fee: $5 *** **SIGNING-UP** * **Simply RSVP Yes (everyone goes on the waitlist until they post they have purchased their ticket).** * **[Purchase](https://tickets.rom.on.ca/en/shop) your ticket by selecting Saturday November 21st, General Admission plus World Wildlife Photography, 10am - 4pm, and complete the transaction. Please post you have your ticket, and I will move you to attending. If you would like the discount code, please message me.** * RSVPs close 1 day prior, and cancellations after will result in a No Show and impact future attendance. * You can also just show up and join us at the event meetup spot and time * A reminder will go out the day before with my cell and details when to meet, etc. ‐‐----‐----‐‐-------------‐----------- **MEETUP TIME** **Meet members at 2:30pm** **inside the entrance of the ROM at the Museum Station Entrance on Queen's Park Avenue to the right side** We will follow the itinerary above: however, folks can choose which other exhibits to visit, understanding there may be an additional cost. Enjoy and please post your Comments after!

The Wilderness Brothers (Sudbury)

Contact Alex for location and information.

Another Long One Folks!

**Meetup Point: 155 Rowntree Mill Rd, North York, ON M9L 2K1** **Steeles Avenue West and the Humber River, where it connects with Thackeray Park off Kipling Avenue/Steeles Avenue** Join Honey for a scenic, full length hike along the Humber River through parks, wooded valley sections, wetlands, the Old Mill area and down to Lake Ontario at Humber Bay Arch Bridge, We will hike the 20.4 km point-to-point route from the north to south following the park. It's not a difficult hike but it is long. **If you are a beginner this might not be the hike for you as the pace is steady and the distance is far.** Come prepared with good walking shoes, lots of water, snacks and layers as who knows what the weather will be like. Note: We are like the postman. Rain or shine we hike!

Bee-ing a Pollinator Protector: Plan Now for a Buzzing Spring Garden

Saving the bees is an environmental cause that resonates deeply with Canadians. While most of us might not be thinking about bees this time of year, our actions during the colder months can still support these pollinators, particularly native bees, which are crucial and threatened by climate change, habitat loss, and other pressures. In honour of the late bee scientist Sheila Colla, this presentation will offer practical tips on planting and maintaining gardens that provide beautifully blooming habitat for pollinators, with a particular focus on how native plants support wild bees. Presented by **Lorraine Johnson**, who co-authored [A Garden for the Rusty-Patched Bumblebee](https://tpl.bibliocommons.com/v2/search?_gl=1*f3a1f1*_ga*MTYyODk1Mjc3Ni4xNzc5Mjg4NDQ1*_ga_VGX2640F9T*czE3ODkxNTc3NTEkbzE1NCRnMSR0MTc4OTE1OTAwNyRqNTckbDAkaDA.*_ga_G99DMMNG39*czE3ODkxNTc3NTEkbzE0OSRnMSR0MTc4OTE1OTAwNCRqNjAkbDAkaDA.&query=A%20Garden%20for%20the%20Rusty-Patched%20Bumblebee&searchType=smart "https://tpl.bibliocommons.com/v2/search?_gl=1*f3a1f1*_ga*MTYyODk1Mjc3Ni4xNzc5Mjg4NDQ1*_ga_VGX2640F9T*czE3ODkxNTc3NTEkbzE1NCRnMSR0MTc4OTE1OTAwNyRqNTckbDAkaDA.*_ga_G99DMMNG39*czE3ODkxNTc3NTEkbzE0OSRnMSR0MTc4OTE1OTAwNCRqNjAkbDAkaDA.&query=A%20Garden%20for%20the%20Rusty-Patched%20Bumblebee&searchType=smart") with Sheila Colla, as part of TPL's environmental program series, [Our Fragile Planet](http://tpl.ca/fragileplanet?_gl=1*g8zm29*_ga*MTE5NTI3NDU1Ny4xNzU0NDg5MTI0*_ga_G99DMMNG39*czE3NzEwMTk5NTMkbzE4JGcxJHQxNzcxMDIwMTUzJGo1NyRsMCRoMA..*_ga_VGX2640F9T*czE3NzEwMTk5NTMkbzE4JGcxJHQxNzcxMDIwMTUwJGoyNCRsMCRoMA..), supported by Friends of Toronto Public Library, South Chapter.​ Free. Register for a reminder. Doors open at 6:30 pm for attendees to mingle, chat with Lorraine, and explore related resources. Presentation begins at 7:00 pm. **Place a hold or borrow from Toronto Public Library:** * **[A Garden for the Rusty-patched Bumblebee](https://tpl.bibliocommons.com/item/show/4182820234)** (book) * **[A Garden for the Rusty-Patched Bumblebee](https://tpl.bibliocommons.com/item/show/8820424980)** (ebook) This program will also be offered virtually on [Tuesday, November 3, 2026](https://tpl.bibliocommons.com/v2/events/6abc0fdb377296003a4874e7), from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm, as part of Climate Action Week. To register for the online program and for more info, see the [listing](https://tpl.bibliocommons.com/v2/events/6abc0fdb377296003a4874e7). Photo credit & info: [https://www.savethebumblebees.ca/poster/](https://www.savethebumblebees.ca/poster/) **Accessibility** Live or automated closed captioning, sign language interpretation, intervenor services, or attendant services are available upon request. Please submit your request at least 2 weeks in advance to: [tpl.ca/accessibility-events](https://tpl.ca/accessibility/accessibility-supports/programs-and-events/?_gl=1*v83hy7*_ga*NDk5MDg2NTE1LjE3NjYwMDgxODQ.*_ga_G99DMMNG39*czE3NjkxMDY3NDMkbzE0JGcxJHQxNzY5MTA2ODM0JGozOCRsMCRoMA..).

Stories in the Landscape