Natural Histoy Society news

Twenty four members attended the December meeting in the Health Build ing. They were informed that both the Society and the Canadian Nature Fed— eration have written letters opposing the proposed bridge over the Lake of Shining Waters, and there was discussion over the cutting that took place on the Canoe Cove canopy road. President of the NHS, Rosemary Curley, said she would write a letter asking the provincial government to use their guide— lines and designate roads for protection.

Dan McAskill showed slides of past CNF conference field trips and talked about the upcoming conference in Saskatoon in June this year.

If first impressions hold true, the Natural History Society's new meeting place at the Farm Centre on University Avenue will be quite a good move. There were about 35 members at the meeting and the larger seating capacity was most welcome.

Winston Johnston gave the yearly report on the NHS finances (we're still in good shape) and Diane Griffin reported on the activities of the Island Nature Trust in 1986. In his update on the CNF, Dan said they will oppose big game ranching in Canada, and that they are reviewing the Nation- al Parks Act. The CNF is also still working on the South Moresby issue, with a video to be finished soon that could be shown here if enough people are interested.

The nominating committee for the 1987 executive (Gerald MacDonald, Jane Symmes and chairperson Diane Griffin) named their candidates and the members declared them elected. The 1987 executive is:

President - Rosemary Curley Vice-President - Dan McAskill Secretary Treasurer — Margaret Mallett . Recording Secretary - Geoff Hogan ’ Directors - Teresa Hughes

- Joyce MacLeod

The members also voted to subscribe to American Birds for the Robertson Library (the winter edition carries the results of all the bird counts). Rosemary Curley was chosen as the Island's suggested nominee for represent— ative to the Canadian Nature Federation. Dan McAskill is stepping down as director. '

Guest speaker for the meeting was Winston Johnston, who used slides and samples to give a history of wildlife on stamps. It was especially inter- esting to see how the artwork has changed over the years

Use sharp-shin as bioffionitor

The Canadian Wildlife Service is attempting to assess the potential of the Sharp-shinned Hawk as biomonitor of toxic chemical contamination of the terrestrial environment. Specimens are needed. These hawks are fairly common frequenters of winter bird-feeding operations and occasionally col- lide with window panes near the feeders.

A request is made that such casualties be labelled, placed in plastic bags, and frozen. CWS should then be called collect at (506) 452-3086 for shipment instructions. Potential contributors of specimens are thanked in advance for their support of this investigation.