Beak To Where We Began

As we come to the end of September, it’s time for me to say goodbye. Over the past twelve months I’ve survived tornadoes and blizzards, witnessed migrating warblers and waterfowl, and shared in the wonder of the refuge with countless visitors. It’s been an absolutely fantastic year at Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge. I’m now certain that there’s no place in the world quite like  this.

Thank you to everyone who made this year a success. Refuge staff, thank you for teaching me the skills I needed to succeed, and for trusting me to safely lead large groups of children through the swamp. Thank you to our volunteers, without whom our impact this year would have been infinitely smaller.

And thank you to our visitors. To the birders and the hunters, the experienced naturalists and the folks just looking to get outside: You are the reason we are here. By visiting your National Wildlife Refuges, taking a tour, and learning more about the world around you, you are helping to secure a legacy of conservation.

Farewell, Ottawa NWR! May you continue to protect our nation’s wildlife for many, many years to come.

All the best,
Caitlin Verdu