ECOLOGICALLY SENSITIVE AREAS

identified by the PARKS AND CONSERVATION COMMITTEE of the VICTORIA NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY

The Victoria Natural History Society has identified the following list of locations, from Albert Head Lagoon to Wolf Island, as “Ecologically Sensitive Areas” (ESA). Have a look at the locations on the list and see how many you know or have visited. A map of Greater Victoria below this introduction identifies by site number the ESA areas.

You will see that the summary information available for most of the Ecologically Sensitive Areas is scant with the information being collected in the early and mid 1990’s. We would like your help to update the information provided for each of the ESA locations. It would be valuable, if you know some of listed ESA sites, to offer updated information for the summary tables. We will review and check the new information with you and will post the new text in the table.

In order to ensure the privacy of the people who originally collected the information found in the published tables below, we have removed their names and contact information. This information is still held by the Victoria Natural History Society. If you are an original information source for sites in this list and would prefer to have your name re-entered in the table please contact us. If you submit new information we will discuss with you if you wish to have your name included with the published information.

Possibly there are other sites that should be added to this list. Please let us know of new sites that you would propose as ecologically sensitive and offer a brief summary of the location using the table headings.

If you have a question about the ESA sites or new information to contribute please send it to John Henigman at [email protected] .

Thanks for your help.

Figure 1. Numbered locations of the Environmentally Sensitive Areas

1 ALBERT HEAD LAGOON

AREA NAME: Albert Head Lagoon MUNICIPALITY: Metchosin TRIM MAP No.: 92B033 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: shoreline Area. CRD Park VEGETATION TYPE: estuary. sparsely vegetated-beach/spit WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, terrestrial birds, reptiles, mammals HABITAT: full range CONCERNS: pollution, shoreline encroachment, No boundary survey posts INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: November 21, 1994

2 ANDERSON COVE

AREA NAME: Anderson Cove MUNICIPALITY: East Sooke TRIM MAP No.: Butts up to Sec. 92 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: This basin offers refuge and sustenance to a diverse body of sea life and wildlife and sensitive shoreline. VEGETATION TYPE: surrounded by freshwater wetland, estuary, coastal bluff, beach/spit WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds, raptors, mammals HABITAT: year round breeding, foraging, migratory, over-wintering, fish spawning CONCERNS: pollution, upland use INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: January 23, 1995

3 ARBUTUS COVE

AREA NAME: Arbutus Cove MUNICIPALITY: Saanich TRIM MAP No.: SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: Half-mile wide sand beach, log strewn below a steep, unstable cliff clad mainly with Red Alders. Rocky outcrops at each end of the beach. Beach can be reached by means of a long stairway from Arbutus Cove park at north end. At south end there is access from east end of Haro Road. VEGETATION TYPE: Red Alders on cliff. A few Douglas-fir, shrubby under story, Salmonberry, Indian Plum. WILDLIFE VALUES: Water habitat for Red Breasted Mergansers, Horned Grebes, Bufflehead, Winter Wrens on cliff side. Probably Alders provide seeds for Siskins. Marine life on gravel beach. HABITAT: Suitable for over wintering marine birds, probably for migratory shore birds, also for otters and mink; tide pools. CONCERNS: Cliff side is very unstable with severe slippage and runnels of water (in winter). Attempts have been made in the past to shore up the cliff with log and concrete supports. These are in a state of deterioration. INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: January 1997

4 BASSO SWAMP

AREA NAME: Basso Swamp MUNICIPALITY: East Sooke. Located TRIM MAP No.: below the junction of East Sooke and Gillespie Roads SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: vegetation, Merganser habitat, Bog Cranberries. Water flows out in east and west directions. VEGETATION TYPE: Pine forest, grassland, freshwater wetland WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds, raptors, amphibians, mammals, reptiles. HABITAT: year round breeding, foraging migratory CONCERNS: development, logging/clearing, pollution, grazing INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: January 23, 1995

5 BAZAN BAY

AREA NAME: Bazan Bay MUNICIPALITY: North Saanich TRIM MAP No.: SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: Eel Grass (Zostera spp) beds provide feeding grounds for spring migrating Brant (Branta bernicla). Reay Creek empties into Bazan Bay improving feeding habitat for ducks and gulls. Loafing area for many species of seabirds, waterfowl and small numbers of shore birds VEGETATION TYPE: Eel Grass in shallow Bay waters, native and non native beach and bank vegetation, beach and mini spit WILDLIFE VALUES: Feeding grounds for migrating Brant gees in the spring from mid-March to mid-May. Winter loafing area for several Waterfowl Species notably Mallard (Anas platyrhynachos), American Widgeon (A. americana), Eurasian Widgeon (A. penelope), Greater Scaup (Aythya marila),Harlequin Duck (Histrionicus histrionicus), Surf Scoter (Melanitta, perspicillata), white-winged Scoter (M. fusca), Common Goldeneye (Bucephala clangula), Buffle head (B. albeola), Red –breasted Merganser (Mergus serrator),. Winter feeding are for common Loon (Gavia immer), Horned grebe (Podiceps auritus), Red-necked Grebe (P. grisegena), Greater Yellowlegs (Tringa melanoleuca). Feeding and loafing area in season for Bonaparts Gull (Larus philadelphia), Heermann’s Gull (L. heermanni), Mew Gull (L.canus), California Gull (L. californicus), Glaucus-winged Gull (L. glaucescens). Year round use by Double –crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus), Pelagic Cormorant (P. pelagicus), Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias), Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus luecocephalus) and Black Oystercatcher (Haematopus bachmani). The above are more commonly seen bird species seen in season. In over five years of monthly Beached Bird Survey conducted between Reay Creek and the Amity Drive beach access, from May 1990 to Dec. 1995, by Barbara Begg, 74 other bird species were noted on the bay, on the beach, or utilizing bank vegetation. (Total bird species recorded 99). Harbour Seals, Mink, Canada Otters also use the area. Two Grey Whales, most unusual, were in the bay for a few days in 1995. During the Beached Bird Surveys a list of bird species and sometimes total numbers of individuals was kept and in available from Barbara Begg. The purpose of the BBS is to determine the average number of dead, oiled or injured seabirds found on the beach, to create a baseline of data in case of an oil spill or other catastrophic event. A low number of dead or oiled seabirds were found, 24 during 67 surveys. There was seldom any evidence of oiling. HABITAT: It is used by birds and mammals for over wintering, a migrating stop, foraging, nesting and loafing. The bank area and upper beach are utilized by land birds for breeding and foraging year round. CONCERNS: Bank loss due to seepage and storms: disturbance of wildlife by dogs and people. There is a small sewage treatment plant operation north of Bazan Bay Park and another near Tulista Park, both off Lockside Drive. INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: March 1997

6 BEACON HILL PARK

AREA NAME: Beacon Hill Park MUNICIPALITY: Victoria TRIM MAP No.: 92B044 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: Rare plant species, Garry Oak Meadows VEGETATION TYPE: 60-100 year old forest, Oak woodland, rock outcrop, grassland, coastal bluffs WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, songbirds, amphibians, reptiles, mammals HABITAT: full range CONCERNS: recreation, invasive species, (Broom) INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF:

24 BEAVER LAKE see ELK / BEAVER LAKE REGIONAL PARK

7 BENVENUTO HILL

AREA NAME: Benvenuto Hill MUNICIPALITY: Central Saanich TRIM MAP No.: SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: Garry Oak hilltop, mixed habitat, excellent dry and wet Garry Oak Meadows VEGETATION TYPE: Garry Oak, Dry Douglas-fir, Second growth lower down, some old orchard trees. WILDLIFE VALUES: important plant species and communities. Two Species of Dodecatheon and two of Camas. Other typical of a Garry Oak meadow. HABITAT: CONCERNS: Top 10+ hectares set aside as a park, the balance is being developed by a farmer. Should be monitored re: runoff concerns, septic systems. May be a candidate for covenants on private land. INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: June, 19. 1996

8 BREAKWATER, OGDEN POINT

AREA NAME: Breakwater, Ogden Point MUNICIPALITY: Victoria TRIM MAP No.: 53B SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: noted for Palm Warblers VEGETATION TYPE: marine WILDLIFE VALUES: marine birds, songbirds HABITAT: full range CONCERNS: possible spills, industrial and marine development INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 15, 1994

9 BLINKHORN LAKE

AREA NAME: Blinkhorn Lake MUNICIPALITY: Metchosin TRIM MAP No.: 92B033 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: local significance as a wetland VEGETATION TYPE: freshwater wetland WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, terrestrial birds, amphibians HABITAT: full range CONCERNS: pollution, invasive species INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF:

10 BROADCAST HILL aka RADIO HILL

AREA NAME: Broadcast Hill, aka Radio Hill MUNICIPALITY: Saanich TRIM MAP No.: SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: View from the top of the hill looking east, southwest some particularly beautiful rock faces with lichens, Stonecrop, ferns, wild flowers. Areas with Fawn Lilies, and Shooting stars VEGETATION TYPE: Mixed deciduous and conifers woodland; some open grassed areas; Garry Oaks and Maples. Areas of shrubs-Broom, Snowberry, Hawthorn, Blackberry, Wild Rose, Mahonia, Holodiscus WILDLIFE VALUES: variety of habitats, winter food, impenetrable clumps of Blackberry for safety and nesting areas HABITAT: mainly rocky knoll, wooded with some open spaces. CONCERNS: Broom removal, wild flower protections, stripping of rocks on top of hill and on the west side above parking lot. Preservation of multi-use aspect and access. INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: April 15, 1996

11 BUTCHART’S COVE: See TOD INLET, BUTCHART’S COVE

12 CATTLE POINT, UPLANDS PARK

AREA NAME: Cattle Point, Uplands Park MUNICIPALITY: Oak Bay TRIM MAP No.: 92B044 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: rare bird species, Garry oak meadows, butterflies, Many rare plant species of national significance. VEGETATION TYPE: Oak woodland, rock outcrop, grassland WILDLIFE VALUES: terrestrial birds, waterfowl, shore birds. rare coastal vegetation, Lapland Longspurs HABITAT: full range, vernal pools and winter flooding CONCERNS: recreation. invasive species INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF:

13 CEDAR HILL GOLF COURSE

AREA NAME: Cedar Hill Golf Course MUNICIPALITY: Saanich TRIM MAP No.:92B044 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: remnant Oak woodland in an urban setting VEGETATION TYPE: Oak woodlands, rock outcrop, freshwater wetland WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, terrestrial birds, amphibians, Green-blue Heron, Virginia Rail HABITAT: breeding and over wintering CONCERNS: pollution, invasive species INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF:

14 CHAIN ISLANDS (See also Discovery and Chatham Islands)

AREA NAME: Chain Islands MUNICIPALITY: Capital Regional TRIM MAP No.: 92B044 District SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: Cormorant and Gull nesting, Seal colonies, Ecological Reserve VEGETATION TYPE: coast bluffs WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, shorebirds, mammals (Seals) HABITAT: year round CONCERNS: pollution and disturbance of nesting areas INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 15, 1994

15 CHRISTMAS HILL: see SWAN LAKE, CHRISTMAS HILL

16 CLOVER POINT, HOLLAND POINT

AREA NAME: Clover Point, Holland Point MUNICIPALITY: Victoria TRIM MAP No.: 92B044 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: high bird diversity, rare migrants VEGETATION TYPE: coastal bluffs WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, migratory birds HABITAT: foraging, resting, over-wintering CONCERNS: recreation INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF:

17 COLQUITZ CREEK

AREA NAME: Colquitz Creek MUNICIPALITY: Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B043 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: mouth of Colquitz River is a wintering site for waterfowl. VEGETATION TYPE: riparian WILDLIFE VALUES: songbirds, mammals HABITAT: full range CONCERNS: invasive species (Broom, Purple Loosestrife) INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 8, 1994

18 CORDOVA SPIT

AREA NAME: Cordova Spit MUNICIPALITY: Central Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B054 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: rare plant species, shoreline habitat, geology VEGETATION TYPE: estuary, beach sand spit, dune plants WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, terrestrial birds, migratory, songbirds, Common Nighthawks HABITAT: over-wintering, migration CONCERNS: development, pollution, recreation, invasive species, management by Native community, hunting INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF:

19 COURTLAND FLATS

AREA NAME: Courtland Flats MUNICIPALITY: Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B043 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: seasonally flooded farmland, important wintering area for waterfowl, including swans VEGETATION TYPE: grassland WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, shorebirds HABITAT: migratory CONCERNS: invasive species, unreliable water levels INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 8, 1994

20 DEVONIAN PARK

AREA NAME: Devonian Park MUNICIPALITY: Metchosin TRIM MAP No.: 92B033 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: Locally significant habitat; wide range of habitat types. Forest understory altered by grazing and invasive species. Last breeding site of Western Bluebird. Oak woodland and Nighthawks. VEGETATION TYPE: 100 year old forest, Oak woodland, riparian, rock outcrop, freshwater wetland WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, songbirds HABITAT: full range CONCERNS: recreation, invasive species, grazing INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF:

21 DISCOVERY AND CHATHAM ISLANDS (see also Chain Islands)

AREA NAME: Discovery and Chatham Islands MUNICIPALITY: Capital Regional TRIM MAP No.: 92B044 District SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: Chain of islands fringed by rich marine life. Important viewing site for migratory birds. Griffin, Alpha and Chain Islands are ecological reserves. Important plants. VEGETATION TYPE: 60-100 year old forest, Oak and Douglas Fir woodland; coastal bluffs. WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, shorebirds HABITAT: year-round CONCERNS: recreation, grazing INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: November 20, 1994.

22 EAST SAANICH INDIAN RESERVE

AREA NAME: East Saanich Indian Reserve MUNICIPALITY: Central Saanich TRIM MAP No.: SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: inland wetland community, Black Cottonwood, Willow, Crabapple community east of Church Road along coastline. VEGETATION TYPE: WILDLIFE VALUES: HABITAT: CONCERNS: INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF:

23 EAST SOOKE REGIONAL PARK

AREA NAME: East Sooke Regional Park MUNICIPALITY: East Sooke TRIM MAP No.: SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: large remnant of 100 yr. old forest, shoreline areas; important raptor migration. VEGETATION TYPE: 100 year old forest, 60-100 year old forest, Arbutus woodland, rock outcrop, riparian, grassland, freshwater wetland, coastal bluffs, beach/spit WILDLIFE VALUES: marine birds, waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds, raptors, reptiles, mammals HABITAT: year-round CONCERNS: INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF:

24 ELK / BEAVER LAKE REGIONAL PARK

AREA NAME: Elk / Beaver Lake Regional Park MUNICIPALITY: Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B053 & 92B054 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: Largest lake in area, forest, grassland, Psilocarphus tenellus by Jennings Lane and by boat launch. VEGETATION TYPE: rare species- Breadroot (Psilocarphus tenellus) WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, songbirds, amphibians, mammals HABITAT: full range CONCERNS: increased recreation, Bullfrogs INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 8, 1994

25 ESQUIMALT HARBOUR

AREA NAME: Esquimalt Harbour MUNICIPALITY: Capital Regional TRIM MAP No.: 92B043 District SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: breeding area for Purple Martins, a declining species. VEGETATION TYPE: rock outcrop, estuary, 0-60 year old forest. WILDLIFE VALUES: noted for Purple Martins, waterfowl HABITAT: breeding, year-round CONCERNS: development, military-development on Songhees band land plans to take down old Arbutus grove on waterfront. INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 15, 1994

26 ESQUIMALT LAGOON

AREA NAME: Esquimalt Lagoon MUNICIPALITY: Colwood TRIM MAP No.: 92B043 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: waterfowl refuge; shrub community for birds, estuary. Important resting place for migrating birds, lagoon/beach ecosystem, unique plant and animal community. VEGETATION TYPE: beach/spit WILDLIFE VALUES: marine birds; waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds, raptors, mammals HABITAT: migratory, foraging CONCERNS: development, pollution, recreation, invasive species – domestic Geese. urban waste, increased human traffic from local development INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 15, 1994

27 FINLAYSON ARM

AREA NAME: Finlayson Arm MUNICIPALITY: Capital Regional TRIM MAP No.: 92B053, 92B063 District SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: Northern Pygmy Owl. Possible location of Mountain Quail. If so, it is the only location of this species in Canada. Ruffed Grouse, Blue Grouse, Turkey Vultures. This is a unique marine ecosystem, a gathering area for Chum Salmon prior to spawning, and for the young salmon parr, as well as for a variety of shorebirds, waterfowl and raptors. VEGETATION TYPE: 60-100 yr. old forest, Douglas Fir, Arbutus, rocky outcrop areas. WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, shorebirds, mammals HABITAT: year-round CONCERNS: development, pollution. Increased pressures from human presence and wastes. If the proposed housing, hotel, and golf course development proceeds, marina and boat spills will increase. INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Dec 1994

28 FRANCIS KING PARK

AREA NAME: Francis King Park MUNICIPALITY: Capital Regional TRIM MAP No.: 92B043 District SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: 100 year old forest, swamp area, rare plants, Heritage Grove VEGETATION TYPE: 100 year old forest, Oak and Arbutus woodland, freshwater wetland, rock outcrop, Alder swamp, Aster curtus WILDLIFE VALUES: songbirds, raptors, amphibians, mammals HABITAT: full range CONCERNS: recreation, invasive species, (Broom and 10 year Holly), logging/clearing, grazing INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 8, 1994

29 FRASER ISLAND, FRASER ISLETS

AREA NAME: Fraser Island, Fraser Islets MUNICIPALITY: Federal IR and East TRIM MAP No.: Sooke SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: Eagle nest, Oystercatcher nests, Otter dens, Harbour Seal pupping, reptiles, protected from dogs, cougars, bears. VEGETATION TYPE: small pocket marsh-fresh water; mixture of old growth Oak, Arbutus, Yew, Crabapple, Willow, undergrowth, some Camas, Honeysuckle, Grass, Pine WILDLIFE VALUES: songbirds, woodpeckers, Otter dens, nesting for eagles and Oystercatchers. There are deer there occasionally. Canada Geese nesting and marine bird wildlife. HABITAT: The young Rhinocerous Auklets gather in the bay. Harlequin Ducks stop over. Golden Eagles rest here. Year round for raptors and marine life. (Seals on lower rocks year round. Babies are born on the surrounding islets. The Otters den here and cross the channel for their basking. CONCERNS: recreation, Human infringement; wildlife should be left alone. INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: August 2, 1996

30 GLEN LAKE

AREA NAME: Glen Lake MUNICIPALITY: Langford TRIM MAP No.: SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: riparian, includes marshland and open deciduous forest VEGETATION TYPE: Alder, Salmonberry, Red-Flowering Currant, some conifers WILDLIFE VALUES: overwintering and breeding waterfowl, shorebirds, excellent butterfly habitat. HABITAT: year-round habitat values CONCERNS: pollution from nearby industries, residential development INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: February 6, 1996

31 GLENCOE COVE PARK

AREA NAME: Glencoe Cove Park MUNICIPALITY: Saanich, 5.25 ha. TRIM MAP No.: SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: sheltered cove-sandy beach; protected on east side by rocky peninsula; one of a very few remaining areas on coastline to be saved from development. VEGETATION TYPE: Meadow foam and Quillwort; low growing plants and shrubs; few trees; noticed invasion of ivy; some rare plants. WILDLIFE VALUES: nesting sites-cormorants, mergansers. Otters on rocky shoreline. Foraging for small birds on section at northern end of park. HABITAT: CONCERNS: Ivy invading; development of Gordon Head properties; Saanich purchased shoreline for park. INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: October 25, 1997

32 GOLDSTREAM PROVINICAL PARK

AREA NAME: Goldstream Provincial Park MUNICIPALITY: Highlands TRIM MAP No.: SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: freshwater streams and estuary; spawning grounds for salmon; riparian mature forest; mature Douglas Fir forest. VEGETATION TYPE: 100 year old forest. 60-100 year old forest. riparian, grassland, freshwater wetland, estuary, beach/spit WILDLIFE VALUES: marine birds, waterfowl, shorebirds songbirds, raptors, amphibians, reptiles, mammals, Dippers HABITAT: year round. migratory, overwintering, breeding, foraging CONCERNS: development, recreation, invasive species, pollution, heavy park use. INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 8, 1994

33 GONZALES POINT

AREA NAME: Gonzales Point MUNICIPALITY: Oak Bay TRIM MAP No.: 92B044 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: wintering habitat for shorebirds VEGETATION TYPE: Oak and Arbutus woodland, rock outcrop, grassland, coastal bluff WILDLIFE VALUES: marine birds, shorebirds, songbirds HABITAT: full range CONCERNS: recreational activities may disturb habitat INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 15, 1994

34 GORGE WATERWAY

AREA NAME: The Gorge Waterway MUNICIPALITY: City of Victoria, TRIM MAP No.: Saanich, Esquimalt SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: It is a unique corridor to Portage Inlet that, with careful development, could be restored to its former saltwater estuary status of abundant wildlife. VEGETATION TYPE: WILDLIFE VALUES: HABITAT: CONCERNS: urban development threatens with its runoff and sewage, industrial wastes and spills. INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF:

35 GOWLLAND RANGE

AREA NAME: Gowlland Range MUNICIPALITY: District of Highland TRIM MAP No.: SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: ranges from relatively open cliffs overlooking Finlayson Arm to gently to steeply inclined rocky slopes off to the east; local swampy areas. VEGETATION TYPE: old growth at higher levels; much is 60 to 100 year (spring- board cuts); some logging 15 years ago, near Jocelyn Hill. Wildflowers: Easter Lilies, Shooting Star; Spring Blush; Saxifrage; various mosses (some uncommon); Manzanita, Arbutus, fir, cedar WILDLIFE VALUES: Deer, birds: migratory – Turkey Vultures, various hawks, Bald Eagle, we saw one Golden Eagle; smaller birds: flycatchers, down on Finlayson Arm: waterfowl. HABITAT: migratory, overwintering in places, breeding CONCERNS: development; overuse and abuse (for example, mountain bike riders tearing up mosses and killing flowers.) INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: 1995

36 GRIFFIN ISLAND

AREA NAME: Griffin Island MUNICIPALITY: Capital Regional TRIM MAP No.: 92B044 District SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: ecological reserve for rare vegetation VEGETATION TYPE: coastal bluffs WILDLIFE VALUES: shorebirds, seals, waterfowl HABITAT: year round CONCERNS: disturbance of nesting areas INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 15, 1994

37 HAGAN CREEK

AREA NAME: Hagan Creek MUNICIPALITY: Central Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B053 &92B063 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: outstanding Garry Oak community; old growth Douglas Fir; Alder and Skunk Cabbage community; unstable soil and spring. VEGETATION TYPE: WILDLIFE VALUES: HABITAT: CONCERNS: INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Dec. 1994

38 HARLING POINT

AREA NAME: Harling Point MUNICIPALITY: Oak Bay TRIM MAP No.: 92B044 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: important rare plant species and shorebirds; wintering habitat VEGETATION TYPE: coastal bluffs, rock outcrop WILDLIFE VALUES: rare plant species, shorebirds, marine birds. HABITAT: grassland and coastal CONCERNS: development INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF:

39 HARO WOODS

AREA NAME: Haro Woods MUNICIPALITY: Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B044 SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: remaining forested fragment in residential landscape VEGETATION TYPE: forest WILDLIFE VALUES: raptors, Owls HABITAT: year round CONCERNS: recreation, invasive species (Ivy, Holly, Daphne) INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Dec 8, 1994

40 HASTINGS AND GRANVILLE FLATS

AREA NAME: Hastings and Granville Flats MUNICIPALITY: Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B043 SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: important wintering habitat for waterfowl including Trumpeter Swans; flood plain; shorebirds in migration. VEGETATION TYPE: grassland WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, shorebirds HABITAT: migratory CONCERNS: development INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Dec 8, 1994

16 HOLLAND POINT: see CLOVER POINT

41 HORTH HILL

AREA NAME: Horth Hill MUNICIPALITY: North Saanich TRIM MAP No.: SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: mixed forest with tree species of limited distribution in Canada and the world; peninsula and Gulf Island views VEGETATION TYPE: Garry Oak (Quercus garryana); coastal Douglas Fir (Pseudotsuga Mensiesii); Western Redcedar (Thuja plicata); Big-leaf Maple (Acer macrophyllum); Arbutus (Arbutus menziesii); rock outcrops WILDLIFE VALUES: Vultures, raptors, passerines, mammals, reptiles, amphibians HABITAT: Year-round habitat for wildlife, uses including nesting, foraging and roosting CONCERNS: INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: March, 1977

42 SEA GRIT POND

AREA NAME: Sea Grit Pond (Hourigan's Pond Park Acquisition) MUNICIPALITY: East Sooke TRIM MAP No.: Seagirt/West, Sec 97, Lot 19 SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: bio-diversity - Heron nests, Kingfishers, noted for California Quail VEGETATION TYPE: Oak or Arbutus woodland, riparian, grassland, freshwater wetland WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds, raptors, amphibians, reptiles, mammals HABITAT: breeding, foraging, year round, migratory, over-wintering. CONCERNS: development, logging/clearing, pollution INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Jan 23, 1995

43 ISLAND VIEW BEACH

AREA NAME: Island View Beach MUNICIPALITY: Central Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B054 SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: fragile sand dune area, home to several rare and beautiful plants; long sandy beach; geology and coastal wetland community; rare beach/dune community; unique geological history VEGETATION TYPE: grassland, estuary, coastal bluffs, beach/spit, hedge-rows, Black Cottonwood, Crabapple and Willow community; dune vegetation-Sand Verbena; also an uncommon grass (A.Ceska) WILDLIFE VALUES: marine birds, shorebirds; owls, raptors, songbirds, Common Nighthawks; stopover for migrant shorebirds, Brant, winter seabirds, passerines, raptors. HABITAT: year-round, non-native vegetation on drained former salt-marsh, behind sandy beach CONCERNS: development, recreation, pollution, invasive species, dogs, possible return of equestrian problem; R.V. Park; horses do not use it much anymore. Proposed development on ridge just north of Island View Road could result in further park dedication at cost of higher density. INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Jun 19, 1996

44 JOHN DEAN PARK

AREA NAME: John Dean Park MUNICIPALITY: Capital Regional TRIM MAP No.: District SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: older Douglas Fir forest fragment (large) VEGETATION TYPE: 100 yr. old forest, 60 - 100 yr. old forest, rock outcrop, freshwater wetland. WILDLIFE VALUES: songbirds, raptors, amphibians, reptiles, mammals, owls, mourning doves (south slope), woodpeckers HABITAT: full range CONCERNS: logging/clearing, recreation, invasive species. INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF:

45 KINGSBURY CRESCENT POND

AREA NAME: Kingsbury Crescent Pond MUNICIPALITY: Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B044 SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: wintering site for Hooded Mergansers and roosting site. They fly in after dark and leave before daylight. Mallards and Widgeons also roost here, but come in at dusk. VEGETATION TYPE: varied pond habitat WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, songbirds HABITAT: migratory CONCERNS: development encroachment may eliminate the pond. INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Dec 8, 1994

46 LANGLOIS see SILVER SPRAY RANCH

AREA NAME: Langlois MUNICIPALITY: East Sooke TRIM MAP No.: Sec. 13, Lots 13 - 16 SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: sensitive shoreline, nesting site for Eagles, Cormorants and Ospreys VEGETATION TYPE: 60 - 100 yr. old forest, rock outcrop, coastal bluffs WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, shorebirds, raptors HABITAT: year round CONCERNS: development, logging/clearing, area may have been developed since 1995 INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Jan 23, 1995

47 LONE TREE HILL, LONE TREE HILL REGIONAL PARK

AREA NAME: Lone Tree Hill; Lone Tree Hill Regional Park MUNICIPALITY: Capital Regional TRIM MAP No.: 92B053 District SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: nominee as an Ecological Reserve VEGETATION TYPE: Oak and Arbutus woodland, rock outcrop WILDLIFE VALUES: songbirds, raptors, migration as well as breeding HABITAT: migratory CONCERNS: recreation, invasive species, grazing INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Dec 15, 1994

48 MABER FLATS

AREA NAME: Maber Flats MUNICIPALITY: Central Saanich TRIM MAP No.: SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: seasonally flooded agricultural area; important wintering area for waterfowl; Skylark nesting area. VEGETATION TYPE: agricultural bordered by older second growth in places with hedgerows and a few Cottonwoods. WILDLIFE VALUES: songbirds, wintering waterfowl, often raptors e.g. Peregrine Falcon, Bald Eagle, Northern Harrier and Short-eared Owl (less often). Breeding Skylarks, Savannah Sparrows, wintering passerines; fish in creek? Pheasants and Eurasian Skylark (introduced). HABITAT: over-wintering, foraging. CONCERNS: subject of golf course proposal, turned down. Some sold for farming; old large lot subdivision could allow development; drainage would create a problem and may reduce bird population; invasive species. INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Jun 19, 1996

49 MacNAMARA CREEK

AREA NAME: MacNamara Creek MUNICIPALITY: East Sooke TRIM MAP No.: Border 132/135 SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: Otter birthing area; this area should be identified as an historical Otter haul-out for entering the forest and birthing their young. VEGETATION TYPE: 60 - 100 yr. old forest WILDLIFE VALUES: mammals HABITAT: breeding CONCERNS: development; logging/clearing INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Jan 23, 1995

50 MALTBY LAKE: See PROSPECT LAKE; MALTBY LAKE

51 MANDARTE ISLAND

AREA NAME: Mandarte Island MUNICIPALITY: Capital Regional TRIM MAP No.: 92B064 District SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: bird sanctuary, breeding populations. VEGETATION TYPE: Rock outcrop, coastal bluffs WILDLIFE VALUES: marine birds, mammals (seals) HABITAT: year round breeding CONCERNS: boating activities INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Dec 8, 1994

52 McMICKING POINT

AREA NAME: McMicking Point MUNICIPALITY: Oak Bay TRIM MAP No.: 92B053 SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: important shorebird habitat VEGETATION TYPE: coastal bluffs WILDLIFE VALUES: marine birds, shorebirds, mammals (seals) HABITAT: coastal habitat CONCERNS: INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Dec 15, 1994

53 MARTINDALE FLATS; McINTYRE RESERVOIR; "L" RESERVE

AREA NAME: Martindale Flats; McIntyre Reservoir, "L" Reserve MUNICIPALITY: Central Saanich TRIM MAP No.: SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: seasonally flooded farmland, hedgerows alongside Lochside Trail and reservoirs; important wintering area for ducks and Trumpeter Swans. VEGETATION TYPE: grassland, seasonal freshwater wetland, agricultural, east of Lochside Drive - wetlands surrounded by Black Cottonwood, Crabapple and Willow WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, shorebirds, raptors, songbirds HABITAT: full range CONCERNS: development, clearing, recreation, ALR land being made into smaller parcels; highway expansion and proposed use of Lochside Trail as a secondary road. Two critical areas are for sale, and this area could be drained and the wetland lost to waterfowl. INFORMATION SOURCES: Two studies have been done - Studies should be on file at VNHS Library and Swan Lake. Christmas bird counts. VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: 1993

53 McINTYRE RESERVOIR: see MARTINDALE FLATS, "L" RESERVE

54 MILL HILL PARK

AREA NAME: Mill Hill Park MUNICIPALITY: View Royal TRIM MAP No.: 92B043 SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: diversity of wildflowers, rare species VEGETATION TYPE: 100 yr. old forest, 60 - 100 yr. old forest, Oak or Arbutus woodland, riparian, rock outcrop WILDLIFE VALUES: songbirds, raptors, reptiles HABITAT: year round, full range CONCERNS: logging/clearing, recreation, invasive species INFORMATION SOURCES: CRD Parks has a wildflower list, CDC has a rare plant occurrence list VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Dec 15, 1994

55 MOUNT DOUGLAS PARK

AREA NAME: Mount Douglas Park MUNICIPALITY: Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B044 SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: large forest area and rocky outcrops VEGETATION TYPE: 60 - 100 yr. old forest, Oak or Arbutus woodland, rock outcrop, coastal bluffs WILDLIFE VALUES: marine birds, songbirds, reptiles HABITAT: full range CONCERNS: mountain bikes, invasive species INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Dec 8, 1994

56 MOUNT MATHESON YELLOW IRIS MARSH

AREA NAME: Mt. Matheson Yellow Iris Marsh MUNICIPALITY: East Sooke TRIM MAP No.: SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: only known Yellow Iris in East Sooke VEGETATION TYPE: freshwater wetland WILDLIFE VALUES: songbirds, raptors, amphibians, reptiles, mammals HABITAT: year round CONCERNS: development, logging/clearing, pollution INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Jan 23, 1995

57 MOUNT METCHOSIN

AREA NAME: Mount Metchosin MUNICIPALITY: Metchosin TRIM MAP No.: SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: diverse undisturbed mature second growth provides excellent birding opportunities (e.g. a dawn survey during 1994 Spring Bird Count yielded 36 passerine species in less than one hour) VEGETATION TYPE: mixed? WILDLIFE VALUES: Western Screech Owl nesting, Blue Grouse nesting HABITAT: mature second growth Douglas Fir and Arbutus with many old growth firs present; grove of Garry Oaks at the summit. CONCERNS: unknown development future as most of the mountain appears to be privately owned with restricted access and continued subdivision growth daunting. INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Jun 2, 1996

58 MOUNT NEWTON SOUTH (South-east slope)

AREA NAME: Mt. Newton South; south-east slope MUNICIPALITY: Central Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B063 SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: Hammond's Flycatcher habitat, native wildflower species (Fawn Lily), Black-headed Grosbeak and Western Tanagers nest here. All species of Flycatchers nest here; Mourning Doves. A number of small ponds and streams. VEGETATION TYPE: 100 yr. old forest, Oak or Arbutus woodland, rock outcrop, pasture WILDLIFE VALUES: songbirds, raptors, mammals, butterflies, reptiles, owls, Mourning Doves, woodpeckers HABITAT: breeding area for many migratory birds, also owls and hawks; year-round for other birds. Native wildflower species (Fawn Lillies). CONCERNS: development - rezoning to permit smaller lots. INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Sep 23, 1995

59 MOUNT TOLMIE

AREA NAME: Mount Tolmie MUNICIPALITY: Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B044 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: Garry Oak woods, resting area for migrant songbirds VEGETATION TYPE: 100 year old forest; Oak or Arbutus woodland, rock outcrop WILDLIFE VALUES: songbirds, reptiles, Anna’s Hummingbird habitat, migrant songbirds HABITAT: full range CONCERNS: invasive species; recreation INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 8, 1994

60 MUNN ROAD

AREA NAME: Munn Road MUNICIPALITY: Highlands TRIM MAP No.: 92B043 and 92B053 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: VEGETATION TYPE: 60-100 year old forest WILDLIFE VALUES: songbirds, raptors, amphibians, reptiles, mammals, possible Mountain Quail (introduced) HABITAT: full range CONCERNS: development, logging/clearing, recreation, invasive species, grazing INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 15, 1994

61 MURDER BAY

AREA NAME: Murder Bay MUNICIPALITY: East Sooke TRIM MAP No.: SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: biodiversity, previous Salmon Enhanced, sensitive shoreline (creates chain of ecosystems) Basso Swamp drains into north corner of East Sooke Park and creates a chain of biodiversity loading into Murder Bay, thus becomes a priority for acquisition as a park. VEGETATION TYPE: 60 – 100 year old forest; Oak or Arbutus woodland, rock outcrop, grassland, freshwater wetland, estuary, coastal bluffs, beach/spit WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds raptors, amphibians, reptiles, mammals HABITAT: year round, breeding, foraging, migratory, overwintering. CONCERNS: development, logging/clearing, pollution INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: January 23, 1995

62 MYSTIC VALE

AREA NAME: Mystic Vale MUNICIPALITY: Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B044 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: Freshwater stream and pool; forest remnant near residential area. VEGETATION TYPE: 100 Year old forest WILDLIFE VALUES: songbirds, amphibians, owls, herons, Bald Eagles and nest HABITAT: year-round CONCERNS: invasive species INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: September 23, 1995

63 OBSERVATORY HILL

AREA NAME: Observatory Hill MUNICIPALITY: Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B053 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: attracts migrating birds; nesting area for Western Tanagers VEGETATION TYPE: 60-100 Yr. old forest, Oak or Arbutus woodland, Douglas Fir WILDLIFE VALUES: songbirds, raptors HABITAT: full range, wintering songbirds CONCERNS: invasive species INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 8, 1994

8 OGDEN POINT BREAKWATER: see BREAKWATER, OGDEN POINT

64 PANAMA FLATS

AREA NAME: Panama Flats MUNICIPALITY: Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B043 & 92B044 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: butterfly hotspot VEGETATION TYPE: grassland WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, songbirds (Meadowlarks) HABITAT: over-wintering, foraging CONCERNS: pollution (dumping), invasive species INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 8, 1994

65 PATRICIA BAY

AREA NAME: Patricia Bay MUNICIPALITY: North Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B063 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: Black Scoters, Sea lion habitat, habitat for wintering waterfowl, Greater Scaup, Surf Scoters, White-Winged Scoters. Well- known area for wintering migratory birds, particularly ducks. VEGETATION TYPE: Douglas Fir WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, shorebirds HABITAT: wintering area for waterfowl CONCERNS: pollution, increased aircraft activity and proposed boat ramp will greatly increase the disturbance of birds and the potential for oil spills. INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 15, 1994

66 PEDDER BAY

AREA NAME: Pedder Bay MUNICIPALITY: Metchosin TRIM MAP No.: 92B033 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: rare coastal vegetation species VEGETATION TYPE: 100 Yr. old forest, Oak and Arbutus woodland, rock outcrop, rare species WILDLIFE VALUES: marine birds, shorebirds, raptors, mammals HABITAT: full range CONCERNS: development, logging/clearing, marina, pollution (oil spill) INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 15, 1994

67 PORTAGE INLET

AREA NAME: Portage Inlet MUNICIPALITY: Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B043 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: tidal estuary VEGETATION TYPE: estuary WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, songbirds, shorebirds HABITAT: full range CONCERNS: pollution, development INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 8, 1994

68 PRIOR LAKE: See THETIS LAKE, PRIOR LAKE

50 PROSPECT LAKE; MALTBY LAKE

AREA NAME: Prospect Lake; Maltby Lake MUNICIPALITY: Saanich TRIM MAP No.: SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: one of the few remaining breeding areas for the Purple Martin VEGETATION TYPE: riparian, freshwater wetland, Garry Oaks and Arbutus shrub communities WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, songbirds, amphibians, (Common and Hooded Mergansers, Canada Geese, Northern Pygmy Owl, Ruffed Grouse, Owls, Wood Ducks) HABITAT: over-wintering CONCERNS: pollution INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 8, 1994

69 QUICK’S BOTTOM

AREA NAME: Quick’s Bottom MUNICIPALITY: Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B043 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: floodplain, waterfowl area but rapidly filling in and open water area becoming restricted VEGETATION TYPE: freshwater wetland WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, songbirds, raptors, reptiles, amphibians, mammals HABITAT: full range CONCERNS: pollution, development, invasive species, eutrophication INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 8, 1994

70 RACE ROCKS

AREA NAME: Race Rocks MUNICIPALITY: Capital Regional TRIM MAP No.: 92B023 District SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: isolated tidal islets with unique marine growth VEGETATION TYPE: rocky islets WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, songbirds, mammals (Sea Lion hangout) HABITAT: year-round CONCERNS: recreational activities INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 15, 1994

10 RADIO HILL: see BROADCAST HILL

71 REAY CREEK

AREA NAME: Reay Creek MUNICIPALITY: Sidney and North TRIM MAP No.: 92B063 Saanich SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: fish habitat; nesting Bullock’s Orioles, rare to uncommon on coastal B.C. VEGETATION TYPE: riparian, grassland, freshwater wetland, estuary WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, seabirds, raptors, passerines including nesting Bullock’s Orioles (Icterus bullocki), amphibians, fish HABITAT: Suitable for wintering and breeding waterfowl, wintering seabirds, foraging raptors year round and passerines year round. CONCERNS: pollution from Victoria International Airport where creek originates, trash, possible contamination from septic tanks and farm runoff INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: March 1997

72 RITHET’S BOG

AREA NAME: Rithet’s Bog MUNICIPALITY: Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B044 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: only remaining bog, Liverworts, Birch (Betula spp.), 60-100 Yr old forest VEGETATION TYPE: freshwater wetland, 60-100 Yr old forest of pine and Douglas Fir WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds, raptors, amphibians, mammals, Virginia Rail, Anna’s Hummingbird, Great Horned Owl HABITAT: year round CONCERNS: pollution, recreation, dogs, vegetative change, the level of water is critical, bog habitat. INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 8, 1994

73 ROCHE COVE

AREA NAME: Roche Cove MUNICIPALITY: Sooke TRIM MAP No.: 92B053 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: shoreline VEGETATION TYPE: 100 Yr old forest, rock outcrop, freshwater wetland, estuary WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds, amphibians, mammals, jellyfish HABITAT: full range CONCERNS: logging/clearing, recreation, invasive species INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 15, 1994

74 ROCKBOTTOM AND SANDCUT CREEKS

AREA NAME: Rockbottom and Sandcut Creeks MUNICIPALITY: CRD TRIM MAP No.: R92G050 about 5 mi. east of Jordan River SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: Sandstone Creek bed, woodland, coastal bluff, beach, fossils VEGETATION TYPE: 60-100 Yr old forest, woodland, riparian WILDLIFE VALUES: marine and shorebirds, songbirds, raptors, amphibians, mammals HABITAT: year-round CONCERNS: logging/clearing INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF:

75 ROCKY POINT

AREA NAME: Rocky Point MUNICIPALITY: Capital Regional TRIM MAP No.: 92B033 District SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: One of the last large remaining Garry Oak meadows; staging area for fall migrating birds VEGETATION TYPE: 100 Yr old forest, coastal bluffs, Arbutus woodland, rock outcrop WILDLIFE VALUES: songbirds, raptors, Turkey Vulture roost in migration? HABITAT: full range, migratory CONCERNS: logging/clearing, invasive species, grazing, military INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Dece 15, 1994

76 ROSS BAY (see also ROSS BAY, LITTLE)

AREA NAME: Ross Bay MUNICIPALITY: Victoria TRIM MAP No.: SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: year round habitat for non-breeding Harlequin Duck, Surf Scoter, and White-winged Scoter, also Canada Goose and Mallards. Habitat for migrating shorebirds in both spring and fall. VEGETATION TYPE: N.A., shoreline mostly concrete and stonework above high tide line. WILDLIFE VALUES: Winter feeding area for Loons, Grebes, sea ducks, Alcids and Gulls. HABITAT: marine – rock outcropping at both the west and east ends of the bay. CONCERNS: unregulated storm drain outlets and removal of logs. The logs help to stabilize what small amount of sand and gravel is left on the shoreline. INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: March 10, 1996

76 ROSS BAY, LITTLE (see also ROSS BAY)

AREA NAME: Ross Bay, Little MUNICIPALITY: Victoria TRIM MAP No.: SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: About the only remaining sandy beach along the whole length of Ross Bay. Used to be resting and feeding habitat for migrating shorebirds. VEGETATION TYPE: very little native flora remains except at the foot of St. Charles St. and Hollywood Place. WILDLIFE VALUES: the value as a resting and feeding area has been greatly reduced due to the number of dogs and humans frequenting the area. HABITAT: sandy beach and rock outcropping with very little native grasses, plants and shrubs. CONCERNS: stone and concrete work on the foreshore banks and the “manicuring” of the native grass plants above the beach. INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: March 10, 1996

77 ROYAL ROADS UNIVERSITY GROUNDS

AREA NAME: Royal Roads University Grounds MUNICIPALITY: Colwwod TRIM MAP No.: SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: historic gardens, 60-100 yr old forest with some older trees as well; vegetation on the ancient Colwood Delta that developed from outflow from Finlayson Arm toward the end of the last glacial event in the area. The vegetation has stabilized the slopes. There are slow to brisk streams, ponds, open grassy to shrubby and blackberry thicketed areas, and the ocean shorelines. VEGETATION TYPE: 30m(?) Douglas Fir (one had 2.5 m diameter base), Redcedar , Hemlock, Arbutus, Oak, Poplar, Alder and Huckleberries in the native areas; also accidentally(?) introduced species like Daphne and Holly trees. Exotic trees occur, for example near the Library, unusual evergreens including Cyprus, various pines and deciduous types like Plane trees occur in the gardens and along the winding roads of the grounds. Some trees have Ivy (looks like it was planted) partially covering them and Ivy forms ground cover locally. Fields have grasses, Broom, Blackberries, Alder fringing the. The gardens have many varieties of flowers and there area several styles of gardens. WILDLIFE VALUES: Deer, Gray squirrels seen, Peacocks; migratory and resident bird populations; raptors (Bald Eagles, hawks), songbirds: Winter and Bewick’s Wrens, Song Sparrow, Crows, Pine Siskins; near the shore: Red-Winged Blackbirds; on the playing field: several dozen Canada Geese (only the normal kind seen); on a pond: Mallards, Pied-billed Grebes, Ring-Necked Ducks, Bufflehead, Greater Scaup; ducks and shorebirds: Great Blue Heron, Greater Yellowlegs, Glaucous-Winged Gull; American Wigeons, Buffleheads Mergansers, Pintails, Mallards. HABITAT: area has various habitats suitable for overwintering, year-round foraging, breeding, migrants CONCERNS: preservation of large trees and historically significant gardens; for the larger DND grounds, to prevent loss of old forest to development INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: many past visits; special visits Feb. 23, 1997

74 SANDCUT CREEK: see ROCKBOTTOM AND SANDCUT CREEK

75 SAND HILL CREEK

AREA NAME: Sand Hill Creek MUNICIPALITY: Central Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B053 or 92B063 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: Salmon and Cutthroat Trout spawning in creek. Outstanding Garry Oak community, old growth Douglas Fir, Alder, Skunk Cabbage community between Keating X Rd and East Saanich Rd. Unstable soil and springs. Inland wetland community. VEGETATION TYPE: 60-100 yr old forest, Oak or Arbutus woodland, riparian, rock outcrop, grassland, freshwater wetland, estuary, coastal bluffs, beach/spit. WILDLIFE VALUES: fish spawning, waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds, raptors, amphibians, reptiles, mammals HABITAT: year-round CONCERNS: development, logging/clearing, pollution, recreation, grazing, invasive species INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 15, 1994

76 SAN JUAN RIVER ESTUARY

AREA NAME: San Juan River Estuary MUNICIPALITY: Renfrew Land District TRIM MAP No.: 92C058 and Port Renfrew Indian Reserve SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: estuary and salt marsh VEGETATION TYPE: salt marsh grasses bordered by cedar, spruce, alder, and native shrub growth. WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds, raptors, amphibians, reptiles, mammals HABITAT: estuary CONCERNS: logging/clearing, silting more bridge washout INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: March 1991

77 SIDNEY CHANNEL

AREA NAME: Sidney Channel MUNICIPALITY: Capital Regional TRIM MAP No.: 92B064 District SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: overwintering habitat for waterfowl and summer feeding for alcids VEGETATION TYPE: water WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, marine birds, mammals HABITAT: overwintering CONCERNS: oil spills, sewage, pollution, boat traffic INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: December 15, 1994

78 SIDNEY SPIT MARINE PARK

AREA NAME: Sidney Spit Marine Park MUNICIPALITY: Sidney TRIM MAP No.: 92B064 SPECIAL FEATURES OF SIGNIFICANCE: marine park, saltwater lagoon. important area for migrating shorebirds and herons. (sometimes nesting.) VEGETATION TYPE: coastal bluffs, beach/spit, 60-100 yr old forest, Arbutus woodland WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, shorebirds, herons; buffer for Mandarte Island bird colonies. HABITAT: overwintering, migratory CONCERNS: logging/clearing, grazing (Fallow Deer) INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: September 15, 1995

79 SILVER SPRAY RANCH

AREA NAME: Silver Spray Ranch MUNICIPALITY: East Sooke TRIM MAP No.: Sec. 13, Part 78-83 SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: waterfront, continuation of East Sooke Park; biodiversity and hills, fields, vegetation. VEGETATION TYPE: 60 - 100 year old forest, Oak orArbutus woodland, riparian, rock outcrop, grassland, freshwater wetland, coastal bluffs WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds, raptors, amphibians, reptiles, mammals HABITAT: Year round, breeding, foraging migratory, over-wintering CONCERNS: grazing, development, logging/clearing, pollution. This area should be added to East Sooke Park to prevent intrusions INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Jan. 23, 1995

80 SMITH HILL: See SUMMIT PARK, SMITH HILL

81 SOOKE BASIN

AREA NAME: Sooke Basin MUNICIPALITY: Sooke TRIM MAP No.: 92B032 SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: shoreline area, sheltered waters; an important water bird and fish habitat VEGETATION TYPE: forest remnants, rock outcrop, estuary WILDLIFE VALUES: wintering site for waterfowl; shorebirds, mammals, raptors, songbirds HABITAT: year round CONCERNS: development, pollution, recreation; increased development with accompanying industrial and sewage wastes INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Dec. 15, 1994

82 SOOKE BEACH/SPIT: See WHIFFEN SPIT; SOOKE BEACH/SPIT

83 SOOKE RIVER FLATS

AREA NAME: Sooke River Flats MUNICIPALITY: Sooke TRIM MAP No.: 92B032 SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: estuary VEGETATION TYPE: estuary, beach/spit WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, shorebirds HABITAT: year round CONCERNS: development, pollution INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Dec. 15, 1994

80 SUMMIT PARK, SMITH HILL

AREA NAME: Summit Park, Smith Hill MUNICIPALITY: Victoria TRIM MAP No.: SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: one of the largest remnants of Garry Oak meadow ecosystems within the City of Victoria. Reservoir provides open body of fresh water for migratory and resident birds. Overgrown shrubbery provides valuable habitat. VEGETATION TYPE: Garry Oak meadow (age unknown) including rare species, such as Viola praemorsa. Invasive naturalized plants such as Broom, Blackberry, and Ivy; rocky outcrops WILDLIFE VALUES: songbirds, raptors, waterfowl (Buffleheads, Merganzers, Ruddy Ducks, Coots), particularly evident in increased numbers during winter months. HABITAT: Reservoir and surrounding shrubbery provides indispensable habitat for a variety of both resident and migratory birds (over-wintering, breeding, foraging) Natural rocky areas provides ideal habitat for snakes and salamanders. CONCERNS: invasive species, pressures for development of reservoir and surrounding lands, city owned lots adjacent to GVWD lands; recreation uses in Summit Park impact on natural values; loss of private land (GVWD land) to private sources INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Dec., 1996

15 SWAN LAKE, CHRISTMAS HILL

AREA NAME: Swan Lake, Christmas Hill MUNICIPALITY: Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B044 SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: lake and freshwater marsh with surrounding woods and grassland in an urban setting. VEGETATION TYPE: Oak or Arbutus woodland, freshwater wetland WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, shorebirds, raptors, amphibians, songbirds, Pied billed Grebes, Ruddy and Ringnecked Ducks, American Bittern, Green Heron HABITAT: year round CONCERNS: pollution, invasive species INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Dec. 8, 1994

84 TAYLOR BEACH, TAYLOR ROAD

AREA NAME: Taylor Beach, Taylor Road MUNICIPALITY: Metchosin TRIM MAP No.: 92B033 SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: beach (<5% of CRD shoreline), Taylor road borders a Blue Camas meadow VEGETATION TYPE: beach/spit WILDLIFE VALUES: shorebirds and Camas meadow HABITAT: Oak and Arbutus woodland along Taylor Road CONCERNS: pollution (oil spill) and development INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Dec. 15, 1994

85 TEN MILE POINT, TEN MILE POINT ECOLOGICAL RESERVE

AREA NAME: Ten Mile Point, Ten Mile Point Ecological MUNICIPALITY: Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B044 SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: high rock outcrop, coastal bluffs extending into strait; Ecological Reserve No. 66 VEGETATION TYPE: 60 - 100 yr old forest, Arbutus, Oak, and Douglas Fir WILDLIFE VALUES: marine birds, songbirds, shoreline and underwater wildlife; plant species of ecological reserve. HABITAT: year round CONCERNS: development INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Dec. 8, 1994

68 THETIS LAKE, PRIOR LAKE

AREA NAME: Thetis Lake; Prior Lake MUNICIPALITY: View Royal TRIM MAP No.: 92B043 SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: older Douglas Fir forest; rare and endangered species of associations VEGETATION TYPE: 100 yr. old forest, 60 - 100 yr. old forest, Oak or Arbutus woodland and meadows, mossy rock outcrop, freshwater wetland bog and swamp WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, songbirds, amphibians HABITAT: lake, swamp, bog, streams, forest, Garry Oak meadows and rock outcrops; year round CONCERNS: Human pressure via trails, off-trail hiking, trail erosion, encroachment by introduced species - Scotch Broom and grasses; predation by domestic animals INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Jun. 30, 1996

69 TOD CREEK FLATS

AREA NAME: Tod Creek Flats MUNICIPALITY: Central Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B053 SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: important wintering area for Trumpeter Swans; flood plain of Tod Creek VEGETATION TYPE: freshwater wetland, hedgerows, some upland WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl including Trumpeter Swans, songbirds and Virginia Rail HABITAT: over-wintering, foraging CONCERNS: development INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Dec. 15, 1994

11 TOD INLET, BUTCHART’S COVE

AREA NAME: Tod Inlet, Butchart's Cove MUNICIPALITY: Central Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B053 SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: Barrow's Goldeneye habitat VEGETATION TYPE: 100 yr. old forest 60 - 100 yr. old forest, Arbutus woodland, coastal bluffs WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, (marine birds), songbirds, raptors, mammals (seals), owls HABITAT: full range CONCERNS: development, logging/clearing, invasive species, grazing, Native claims INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Dec. 15, 1994

86 TREVLAC POND

AREA NAME: Trevlac Pond; Prospect Lake Road MUNICIPALITY: Saanich TRIM MAP No.: SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: municipal park - Zoned P4N - natural park area 22 acres, of which about 7 acres are man-made pond with 800 yds. of 10 - 20 feet deep channels. Second growth rain forest (age 90 years) some Oak and Arbutus. Rock outcroppings arise, some man-made meadowland. Great variety of habitats. VEGETATION TYPE: on man-made islands, Alder and Aspen with Cattails, Red-Osier and some Willow (species?) WILDLIFE VALUES: all species of local wild flowers and ground cover. Cutthroat Trout and man-made spawning beds on one or two winter feeder streams. HABITAT: overflow empties into Maltby Lake; resident Mink, Raccoon, Muskrat, rare Water Shrew, in summer Bats (2 species), Douglas and now Grey Squirrels. Regular visits by River Otters - sometimes with young. One Cougar sighting. Tree and Northern Toads, Newts, Garter Snakes and many water creatures. CONCERNS: few concerns. Managed by Saanich Parks and guarded by its zoning. INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Jan. 11, 1997

87 TRIAL ISLANDS ECOLOGICAL RESERVE

AREA NAME: Trial Island Ecological Reserve MUNICIPALITY: Capital Regional TRIM MAP No.: District SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: excellent butterfly habitat - Northern Ringlets. Probably the best remnant wildflower reserve. Many rare threatened/endangered plant species VEGETATION TYPE: grassland WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, shorebirds, raptors, (occasional Snow Owls). Haul- out for seals. HABITAT: migratory, over-wintering CONCERNS: recreational activities INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Dec. 15, 1994

88 TRIANGLE MOUNTAIN

AREA NAME: Triangle Mountain MUNICIPALITY: Colwood and partly TRIM MAP No.: Metchosin SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: accessible height of land with pocket of old growth offer a unique birding opportunity in Western Communities. VEGETATION TYPE: WILDLIFE VALUES: excellent year-round birding; one property on Karger Terrace has produced 115 bird species in only five years! Pockets of wildflowers remaining. Columbia Black-tailed Deer abound. HABITAT: mixed CONCERNS: development of new housing, particularly on or near the few remaining riparian habitats. Amphibians, butterflies, and owls appear in decline over the last five years. INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Jun. 2, 1996

89 UNIVERSITY OF VICTORIA

AREA NAME: University of Victoria MUNICIPALITY: Oak Bay, Saanich and TRIM MAP No.: 92B044 Victoria SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: VEGETATION TYPE: grassland, forest remnants, Cottonwoods WILDLIFE VALUES: Screech and Barred Owls, songbirds, butterflies, mammals HABITAT: year round CONCERNS: development INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Dec. 15, 1994

12 UPLANDS PARK: see CATTLE POINT

90 VIADUCT FLATS

AREA NAME: Viaduct Flats MUNICIPALITY: Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B043 SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: It provides a shallow fresh water habitat on a year round basis for water based birds. Especially important during fall migration. Only beaver on peninsula. First time breeding for a number of Saanich Peninsula waterfowl’ such as Ruddy Ducks, Ring-necked Ducks, Pied Billed Grebe. VEGETATION TYPE: WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, songbirds, amphibians HABITAT: breeding, full range; now permanently flooded. CONCERNS: possible expansion of Horticultural Centre; invasive species (Purple Loosestrife); possible destruction of Beaver dam leading to water level alteration; Bullfrogs INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Sep. 23, 1995

91 VICTORIA AIRPORT

AREA NAME: Victoria Airport MUNICIPALITY: North Saanich TRIM MAP No.: 92B063 SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: breeding area for Skylarks, Short-Eared Owl and Northern Harrier habitat VEGETATION TYPE: 60 - 100 yr. old forest, grassland WILDLIFE VALUES: songbirds, Short-Eared Owl, Snowy Owl, and Northern Harrier, Eurasian Skylard (introduced) HABITAT: full range CONCERNS: development INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Dec. 15, 1994

92 WITTY’S LAGOON

AREA NAME: Witty's Lagoon MUNICIPALITY: Capital Regional TRIM MAP No.: 92B033 District SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: salt water lagoon, marsh, important area for migratory waterfowl and shorebirds; geology VEGETATION TYPE: 100 yr. old forest, riparian, marsh, estuary beach, spit WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds, raptors, owls, herons, mammals HABITAT: year-round, migratory, foraging, over-wintering CONCERNS: some logging/clearing, slight pollution, invasive species, grazing, recreation INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Dec., 1994

82 WHIFFEN SPIT; SOOKE BEACH/SPIT

AREA NAME: Whiffen Spit; Sooke Beach/Spit MUNICIPALITY: Sooke TRIM MAP No.: 92B032 SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: winter site for waterfowl VEGETATION TYPE: WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, shorebirds, mammals HABITAT: year round CONCERNS: pollution, dogs? INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Sep. 23, 1995

83 WOLF ISLAND

AREA NAME: Wolf Island MUNICIPALITY: East Sooke - located in TRIM MAP No.: Murder Bay SPECIAL FEATURES OR SIGNIFICANCE: Bio-diversity, sensitive shoreline, access to shoreline by foot at low tide VEGETATION TYPE: 100 yr. old forest, 60 - 100 yr. old forest, Oak or Arbutus woodland, rock outcrop, coastal bluffs, beach/spit WILDLIFE VALUES: waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds, raptors, amphibians, reptiles and mammals HABITAT: year round, breeding, foraging, migratory, over-wintering CONCERNS: logging/clearing, development INFORMATION SOURCES: VNHS CONTACT: PHONE No.: INFORMATION AS OF: Jan. 23, 1995