Somenos Marsh is a fascinating, rich and diverse wetland complex lying at the geographic, demographic, and economic centre of the Cowichan Valley.
That it is still an area of exceptional bird, fish and other wildlife values is a testimony to the passion and determination of so many to preserve it - the people who over eighteen years have been active in the Somenos Marsh Wildlife Society.
The Somenos Marsh Conservation Area is located in North Cowichan, BC, on the north edge of Duncan. It is about a one-hour drive north from Victoria and one hour south of Nanaimo, via Highway 1, the Trans-Canada Highway.
Tundra to Tropics: Connecting Birds, Habitats, and People
Migratory birds travel long distances between breeding and non-breeding sites throughout the Western Hemisphere. In 2008, IMBD will explore the birds that make these fantastic journeys, the habitats on which they depend, and the people who are important to the conservation of birds and their habitats along the way.
International Migratory Bird Day is officially celebrated on the second Saturday in May in the U.S. and Canada. Most events will take place on May 10, 2008.
From late April to late May, the Taylor’s Checkerspot appears in open meadows, pastures, wetlands, and young clearcuts. Its wingspan is about 4 cm with distinctive red and white spots on its wings.
Don't attempt to capture Taylor's Checkerspot but photographs and accurate site records are very useful.
Taylor’s Checkerspot occurred historically in meadows of the Georgia Basin from Victoria to Courtenay. Most of these populations have disappeared in the last 50 years as a warming climate, invasive plants, and urbanization have reduced meadow habitats. It is now found on Denman Island.
Taylor's Checkerspot is an endangered species in Canada and has also declined in Washington and Oregon.
Please report any sightings to the BC Conservation Data Centre at 1-800-663-7867 (toll free) or or to Jennifer Heron at (604) 222-6759 or . This project issponsored by BC Ministry of Environment and Parks Canada.
Tundra to Tropics: Connecting Birds, Habitats, and People
From late April to late May, the Taylor’s Checkerspot appears in open meadows, pastures, wetlands, and young clearcuts. Its wingspan is about 4 cm with distinctive red and white spots on its wings. 
