Birding (and appreciation of other wildlife)
Ladywood is situated on a migratory flightway and so we are privileged to host a wide variety of bird species (we have counted 103 species to date). One day each spring, just before the leaves open (usually the Victoria Day long weekend in May) we experience an ornithological dream come true when hundreds of songbirds return. Over the years we have built nest boxes for bluebirds and tree swallows which now sit atop the fence posts surrounding the potato field and are faithfully occupied every year. In the summers there are several resident families of loons on the lake, and even trumpeter swans and white pelicans have visited. Birding does not diminish in the winter as we have also built owl nesting platforms, and annually we look forward to those few weeks early in the new year when courting barred and great horned owls can be heard calling across the lake. Even in the depths of winter, the number and diversity of birds at the feeders is quite astonishing!

Botanizing
As much as we are avid birders, we also share a zeal for exploring the woods and finding and identifying new plants. Kathy has a particular passion for indigenous orchids, many of which we have photographed and have put on display in the Photo Gallery section of this site.

Hiking
We are situated in a mixed forest region suitable for pleasant strolling or more energetic hiking. There are several nature trails crossing Ladywood, as well as numerous worthwhile, though more distant hikes in the surrounding Crown land.

Canoeing
In our opinion, no other summer activity rivals the tranquility and peacefulness of canoeing at Ladywood. We have an aluminum canoe available to guests. As the only boat launch site on the lake is on our property, boat traffic is limited (usually non-existent), making for a calm, serene setting for paddling and viewing wildlife.

At the south end of the lake a creek flows through extensive marshes that are home to white-tailed deer, moose, beavers, mink, otters, owls, hawks, osprey, ducks, geese, red-winged blackbirds and great blue herons to name a few. Closer to home, there are a few wide, shallow bays containing turtles, sleepy jack fish, beaver and otters.

Other Summer Recreation
Should you choose to stay close to the cabin rather than venture out in search of the wildflower to trump even Kathy's most infamous find, activities abound. If you have a green thumb and like getting your hands dirty, there are several gardens (flower and vegetable) in which to potter. We also have bicycles, a croquet set, and other lawn games available for use. And of course, on hot days nothing is more refreshing than a swim in the lake!

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