Species of the Week: The Gray Ratsnake

Posted on June 19, 2020 by Friends of Murphys Point

8A6F6900-2A88-4517-BA34-656BDBDA76CFThis picture features Echo, a 20+ year old Gray Ratsnake that’s been seen in the park frequently over the last 17 years. The Gray Ratsnake is this week’s species of the week. An average full-grown length of 6ft makes this species Canada’s longest snake! They are docile constrictors, feeding on mostly small rodents and bird eggs. Young Gray Ratsnakes have a dark grey and black pattern that darkens as they get older to become mostly black. Not to be confused with the Northern Watersnake, Gray Ratsnakes have a bright white chin and a flat underbelly which makes them excellent climbers. Unfortunately, Gray Ratsnakes are a threatened species due to habitat loss, road mortality, and persecution. If you’ve seen a Gray Ratsnake in the park or elsewhere, share a picture with us using the hashtag #friendsofmurphyspoint on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook. Check back next week to learn about another species that can be found at Murphys Point!

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Friends to Host Virtual AGM

Posted on June 19, 2020 by Friends of Murphys Point

We had a bit of a delay, but we’re finally hosting our Annual General Meeting – virtually!

The big day is  Saturday, June 27, 2020 at 1 p.m. We have sent the Zoom link to members, so if you’d like to join the fun, please consider joining the Friends! You’ll find the membership form here: Memberships

Memberships are only $10 per person and give you a vote at the AGM. Payments can be made through e-transfer to friendsofmurphyspointpark@yahoo.ca

We hope you will be able to join us to say hello to the Directors, Park Staff and meet our awesome Friends students. We’ll summarize last year’s activities and do our best to provide information about how things look for this year (it’s always in flux….). We expect the meeting will likely last about half an hour…and we can virtually socialize after! (Bring your own snacks!)

Hope you’ll join us on the 27th!

 

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Murphys Point and COVID-19

Posted on June 6, 2020 by Friends of Murphys Point

Understandably, the summer season at Murphys Point Provincial Park is looking a little different this year due to COVID-19. Please watch this space and our Facebook page and Twitter feed for updates about any Friends activities, which are currently on hold.

For updates about the Park, including day use, camping and facilities, please visit https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/murphyspoint.

Stay safe and well!

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