Thomas Stewart

Orange Hawkweed (Pilosella aurantiaca) is a plant native to some parts of Europe. It is known as a invasive plant in some parts of BC because it can replace native vegetation if left unattended. It is mainly grown as a ornamental flower and spreads though seeds blown in the wind.

The American toad (Anaxyrus americanus) is a toad species that is thought to have descended from a invasion of toads from South America. All stages of the toad have poison glands and will release poison if they feel threatened. But if you don't try to eat it, you'll be okay.

The Eastern Gartner Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis) is a snake that can be found across many parts of eastern North America. They are ovoviviparous which means they give live birth instead of laying eggs. They eat many animals such as frogs, toads, salamanders, and mice.

Virginia Spring Beauty (Claytonia virginica) is a plant found in the Eastern temperate deciduous forst of North America. The Iroquois used it for multiple purposes. This includes treatment for convulsions, and as food. They also believed it could be used to prevent contraception.

Recently I found some Common Whitlow Grass (Draba verna) it is a plant in the mustard family. It is native to parts of great Britain and Central Europe, and we believe it was introduced to North America when colonisers from Europe came to the New world .

The Common Drone Fly (Eristalis tenax) is a hoverfly that mimics the looks of honey bees. It is one several species of hoverfly whose larvae are called 'rat-tailed maggots' The larvae live in muddy water, feeding on decaying organic matter.