From the smallest to the largest in nature and all the biodiversity in between
Nature comes in all shapes, sizes, and colours—from the tiniest insect to the mighty bison, and everything in between. This month, we’re celebrating that incredible diversity by sharing some of our favourite and most unique images from past winners of our annual photo contest. We hope they inspire you to step outside and explore the amazing variety of nature that exists all around you—whether it’s in your backyard, a nearby park, a conservation area, or your favourite protected place.
Hummingbird Moth – Tom Lusk
At first glance, you might mistake it for a hummingbird as it flutters around a flower—but look a little closer, and you’ll discover the marvelous Hummingbird Moth. These fascinating pollinators can be spotted from May through July and are commonly found in gardens, meadows, and open woodlands across Canada. You might consider adding bee balm or liliacs to your garden to increase your chance of attracting one. Our blog on the Hummingbird Moth is a fan favourite, reminding us that there are still wonders to discover and new species to learn about in nature—if we take a moment to slow down and let your curiosity lead the way.
American Goldfinch – Raghuvamsha Chavali
I remember thinking what an incredible photo it was—perfectly capturing the light, the songbird, and the delicate thistle seed fluff (or pappus) floating through the air. A beautiful composition featuring a bird that’s a favourite among many of our members. In fact, I recently spoke with a member who shared that the American Goldfinch was her spark bird—the one that first ignited her excitement and inspired her to learn more about local birds in her area.
Goldfinches are frequent feeder visitors, especially if you offer Nyjer or sunflower seeds. Want to attract more feathered friends to your yard? Check out our popular blog for birdfeeding tips and tricks!
Tree Frog – Wendy Erlendson
“My children found this Tree Frog perched on a leaf in the grapevine in our yard. It became our “family pet of the day”—we laughed while it jumped from one person to another, and enjoyed its loud song—until it was time to release the Tree Frog back into nature. Its colour was so beautiful, I just had to capture this memory and take its photo! ”
What a lovely memory for that family, and no doubt you have similar memories of spotting a new species in the wild or in your own backyard too. There are many types of frogs which can be found in a variety of habitats but especially in your local wetlands. I think a member said it best: we all should check out the mystery of what lurks in the wetlands…the frogs, turtles, small fish, the quietness.
Iconic Buffalo – Paula Hjertaas
Bison, also known as Buffalo, are one of Canada’s largest mammals and roamed freely on the great plains all across North America a century ago but overhunting drove them almost to extinction. Wood Buffalo National Park was established to protect the existing herds. Subsequently reintroduction of Bison to some of our national parks has also occurred in collaboration with local Indigenous communities. This photo was taken at Wiarton National Park. Bison have been reintroduced to Banff National Park which is a good news story. You can learn more about Bison at our blog.
Sunrise Lake – Joe Walter
It’s been such a pleasure reading all the responses to our recent Member Survey. Many of you shared your favourite places to connect with nature—from national and provincial parks to local conservation areas. Beyond the locations, what stood out most were the reflections on how nature makes you feel. So many members spoke of the sense of solitude, grounding, tranquility, and peace they experience in the quiet moments outdoors.
This photo beautifully captures that feeling—the quiet solace of sunrise, with shimmering rays stretching across calm water. A moment of stillness that refreshes and soothes the soul.
“It’s being one with nature, listening to the wind and the birds and the water to give us direction.”
“Every area I visit is my favourite. They all offer different wildlife and peace to cherish and to calm the soul and ease my mind.”
We look forward to seeing your favourite memories of time spent in nature. Every photograph submitted brings a smile to our faces! Remember to submit your favourite photo before midnight on Monday August 4th, to be entered in our 2nd early-bird draw for a $50 gift certificate for outdoor gear.
