NatureBASICS

Off to the park, backyard or cottage? Turn outdoor fun into a scientific exploration. Look out for the NatureBASICS species listed below. Observe their characteristics and behaviours. Once you’ve returned from the park, visit naturebasics.ca, click on Submit Your Data, and share your discoveries.

You’ll be helping the NatureBASICS scientists understand the effects of climate change on Canada’s plants and animals so they can better protect these important species.

NatureBASICS Species

White Water Lily - a freshwater perennial herb with large, round leaves and showy, fragrant blossoms. 

Wild Strawberry - a small plant that grows all across Canada in the woods or fields, often forming little colonies. 

Mourning Cloak Butterfly - can be found in almost any habitat across Canada because of the wide variety of host plants their larvae feed on.

Monarch Butterfly - our most recognized butterfly can be found across most of Canada.

American Toad - can be found from Manitoba east to the Maritimes - one American Toad can eat up to 1,000 insects every day.

Wood Frog - the most widely distributed amphibian in North America, even reaching beyond the Arctic circle!

Learn more about where to find these NatureBASICS species and what to look for!