Connecting Lake Simcoe's Community

By David Hawke -- It starts with a single peep, usually on an April eve. Just a peep.

By David Hawke -- The country lane looked peaceful enough, the first true warming rays of springtime sun easily splashing down on the still damp gravel. The snow had gone, with a few small puddles of melt water all that remained to remember the winter snows. As I wandered along, little did I know that this was a scene of great anxiety, as I had just intruded on the butterfly wars.

Energetic Walker needs a special home. 

By David Hawke -- While the name 'timberdoodle' may sound wacky, it somehow seems to fit the bird whose moniker it is.

By David Hawke -- Buffleheads and ringnecks. Goldeneyes and bluebills. Hoodies and woodies.

UPDATE: Majestic and proud Frankie has been adopted!

Lake Simcoe Living, in partnership with the SPCA Orillia Animal Centre, brings you a regular feature highlighting a special pet that is in need of adoption.

By David Hawke -- The snowbanks are melting, tree sap is running, puddles are ripe for splashing and the annual springtime mess under the bird feeders is once again revealed.

Luney is an affectionate 10-year-old black cat with mesmerizing green eyes.

By David Hawke -- I have a challenge with otters.

By David Hawke – At the end of each winter, usually mid to late March, there comes a time when the snow conditions are ideal for walking, just about anywhere, without the aid of snowshoes or skis.

By David Hawke -- While reading through an agricultural newspaper last week, I came upon a short article about bees and apple orchards.

By David Hawke -- Maybe it's just the time of year, but each March many people, myself included, get a tad melancholy. Each day passes looking much the last... and tomorrow is shaping up to be a lot like today. Ho-hum. Is it just us, or are we missing something?

The Ontario SPCA in Stouffville has the sweetest senior dog who needs a little extra TLC in her forever home.

By David Hawke -- You don't see them very often, but when you do it's a moment to remember. With their bright scarlet top-knot and striking black-and-white plumage, the pileated woodpecker is a bird that looks quite “dressed-up.”

Meet Rose, who is available for adoption.

By David Hawke - As a nature-loving kind of guy I like to think that a report of a species strengthening its population is a good thing.

By David Hawke -- About the only time a chickadee remains still is when it's dead, sleeping, or about to become dead.

Hey there! Our names are Gabbie and Tumble. We are seven-year old Calico ladies.

By David Hawke -- "Art is where you find it. Art is all around us, always."