Who knew that there could be so much wildlife within the city?! This week is all about exploring the different habitats of the Arboretum and learning about the different creatures that call this place home. Campers will learn animal tracking and bird identification skills, and will be conducting studies within the river and ponds

This week campers will explore the beautiful and mysterious process of pollination! Pollinators such as butterflies and bees are key to our food supply, and affect our lives in many important ways. Campers will learn about different types of pollinators, their relationships with trees and plants, and why we need to protect native species of plants to help pollinators thrive.

Stewardship can mean many different things, but here at the Arboretum the definition is quite simple—to take care of nature. With all of the magic that this place provides for its visitors, we want to make sure that we are also giving back. As the future leaders of this camp, the Jr. Naturalists will be helping with some big initiatives, like litter cleanups and invasive plant removals, while putting into practice their own leadership skills with the younger campers.

During this week of camp we will explore the wildlife that lives within the city of Toronto and discover what the City is doing to ensure wildlife has a home now and for generations to come. Focusing on animal adaptations we will look at the needs and characteristics of the mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and insects to figure what makes urban wildlife unique and what we can do to enhance wildlife habitat at our homes and in our communities.

Nature has been a major source of inspiration for artists throughout history. From capturing a landscape in a painting or a photo, to hearing the melody in a bird’s song, art truly is all around us. During this week of camp the Jr. Naturalists will tune in to their inner artist, while also learning some practical bushcraft skills that utilize natural materials, such as carving, basket weaving, and coal burning.

This week campers will explore the art of survival! Food, shelter, water, and way-finding – this week is all about the basics of wilderness survival. Campers will use clues in nature to help determine direction and be introduced to basic edible and medicinal plants. We’ll look at the importance of water for survival and learn tips such as how to build a below-ground water capture still.

This week campers will explore the Arboretum through play and competition! This active week is full of fun games that build teamwork and various outdoor skills. Campers divide into different Animal Countries so they can face off and cheer each other on. Join us this week and find out which Animal Country you’ll be playing for. Will it be Ant Arctica? Owlstralia? Or maybe Beavaria!

At the Arboretum we have a great appreciation for the plant life here, from the tiniest dandelion to the mightiest oak. Not only will the Jr. Naturalists learn how to identify some common trees and wildflowers, but they will learn how to use them for food, medicine, and so much more! Campers will learn how to use a field guide and will collaborate to create one of their own.

This week is all about getting down and dirty with nature by exploring roots and the soils they call home!  Soils are fascinating and are the cornerstone of any ecosystem as they provide the minerals and nutrients that help our plants and fungus thrive.  This week campers will dig deep to look at different root structures of plants and will be introduced to the wonderful world of fungus and its amazing relationship with soil and plants.  Campers will discover that “dirt is good” not only for their health but for the health of all the animals and plants that live in the Arboretum.

Shelter, fire, water, food—these things are crucial to any survival situation. In this final week of camp, the Jr. Naturalists will learn about making natural shelters, tying tarps, fire safety, friction fire, and how to find sources of food and drinking water in nature. Are you ready for the challenge?