Randy Mooi, Curator of Zoology, The Manitoba Museum
Manitoba is the northern and western limit for many species as southern and eastern faunal elements hit their ecological limits against the boreal forest and prairies. We will focus on the surprising recent discoveries of some species of amphibians in the Interlake and beyond, as well as the clash between American and Canadian toads taking place in the province. You will be given an introduction to the trials and tribulations of amphibian surveying in the hinterland, along with some of the biological questions surrounding species range limits.
Bill Watkins, Zoologist with MB Department of Conservation
Not all of Manitoba's rare or endangered species are large and charismatic. Some are tiny and secretive, some are drab and some pose unique challenges for inventory and monitoring. All are important components of the province's bio-diversity and merit our attention. This workshop will look at a few of these species, from mole salamanders to freshwater clams, from prairie skippers to prairie crayfish. Participants will learn where these species are found, how to identify them and how to help in their conservation.
