Size: 56.24 acres

Established: 2020

Status: Not Open to the Public

Protection: Purchased

Left: Photo courtesy of Daria Koscinski.

Background:

Ross's Woods is part of the Five Points Woods Wetland Complex and an important wildlife refuge. There is also a wetland that is designated as a Provincially Significant Wetland (PSW). Ross’s Woods is named after Ross Snider, an avid birder and well-respected bird rehabilitator. He spent many years caring for injured and orphaned wildlife at his Tamarack Raptor Rehabilitation Centre. From Ross's detailed and extensive coverage of what is now known as Ross's Woods, it is apparent what value this nature reserve holds for a variety of bird species that call it home.

To read more about Ross, visit http://www.ofo.ca/library/view/id/22, page 14.

Description:

The mixed deciduous/coniferous forest contains unusual habitats, such as stands of hemlock and many large mature trees of various species. Streams support cold-water fish species, and spring-fed PSWs furnish essential habitat for amphibians and turtles. Rare species of dragonflies, butterflies, birds, and plants make their homes here. 

Left: Photo courtesy of Dave Martin (left) with Ross Snider (right) holding gray morph and red morph Eastern Screech-Owls at Tamarack Raptor Rehabilitation Centre near Ingersoll Ontario. Photo by Jack Mayos, 1985.

Ross's Woods and adjacent lands are regularly visited and inhabited by 150 bird species, at least 35 of which are priority species in Bird Conservation Region 13, and at least 2 of which are species at risk. This area has been identified as a significant area where wintering birds gain shelter from adverse weather conditions. A groundwater-fed stream remains open most of the winter, providing birds with water for drinking and bathing.

Right: Photo courtesy of Terry Parker.