Annual Hamilton Odonata Count

The Hamilton Odonata Count is an annual one-day community science event focused on monitoring odonata species — dragonflies and damselflies — throughout the Flamborough area. Held on the same Saturday each year, the count is part of a long-term effort to track changes in species diversity, abundance, and distribution over time while also encouraging public education and appreciation for these fascinating insects.

The count circle covers a 15 km radius centered at Kirkwall Road and Concession 8 West and includes a wide range of habitats across the northwest edge of the Hamilton Study Area. Survey locations range from conservation areas, such as Valens Conservation Area , to roadside stream crossings and public rights-of-way where odonata can be safely observed and recorded.

Participants meet at 9:00 a.m. in the church parking lot at the corner of Kirkwall Road and Concession 8 West ( https://maps.app.goo.gl/NQ22MC4kxGf3knkq5 ) where volunteers are assigned sections of the count area before heading out into the field. Participants may choose to take part for either a full or half day depending on their interest and availability. Surveyors are encouraged to prioritize known “hotspots” within their assigned areas, with time spent in the field varying based on weather conditions, species diversity, and observer interest. While many participants finish by early afternoon, others continue surveying into the evening.

IN CASE OF RAIN, THE EVENT MAY BE RESCHEDULED TO JULY 5TH. PLEASE RSVP TO BE NOTIFIED OF POTENTIAL CHANGES.

Admission: Free

Organizer: Field Events Director | fieldevents@hamiltonnature.org