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Nature Watching
Photographers and Nature Lovers
From May through September, wildflowers abound making the Island a
photographers paradise. Many are protected species and observers are asked to
look, photograph and enjoy, but leave untouched for the next viewer. The first
sign of spring is wild pussy willows growing along the road, followed closely by
trillium and marsh marigolds. Lilacs follow these and many varieties of wild
orchids can be found by the careful observer. Fields of daisies abound and,
armed with a wildflower book, many other species of flowers and ferns can be
identified. The Maxton Plains, which is a protected area, contains many
interesting specimens. Wildlife is also abundant on the island. Many residents
and regular guests of the island have learned how wise it is to always keep a
camera close at hand for sightings of deer, black bear, red fox, and sometimes
just a beautiful sunset over the bay.
The Nature Conservancy owns a portion of the Maxton Plains
which has been identified as the world's best alvar region. Many rare plants
exist there and many species of birds and butterflies, as well as other
wildlife, exist together. Visitors to the Plains are asked not to ride ORV's off
the road to preserve this fragile environment.
Bird watchers can have a "field day" on the Island. Eagles and osprey, as well
as owls and hawks, are residents here. Many varieties of ducks can be seen and
Canada geese return to the Island each spring. Loons call and dive in area
waters and over 200 varieties of songbirds have been identified. Monarch and
other species of butterflies flit among the flowers all summer.
Mushroom and berry hunters go in search of the ever-elusive morel and wild
strawberries and raspberries in season. A word of caution - poisonous mushrooms
and berries also grow on the Island so it is better not to eat any unidentified
mushrooms or berries.
Deer, bear, fox, coyote and rabbits are among the wildlife native to the Island.
Happily, skunks and porcupines are non-existent. An evening ride around the
Island will usually result in at least of glimpse of native wildlife.
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