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- calendar_today November 8, 2026
Ontario Nature Acquires Thickson’s Woods in Whitby
Thickson’s Woods, a nature sanctuary located in Whitby, Ontario, has officially become part of Ontario Nature’s reserve system. The conservation group, Ontario Nature, acquired the 10-hectare forest from the Thickson’s Woods Land Trust last week, securing the future of this unique site for generations to come.
A Sanctuary Home to Rare and At-Risk Species
The wooded area is notable for being home to over 75 rare species, dozens of which are classified as at-risk. These include diverse wildlife such as various rare birds, pollinators, and an impressive array of over 1,200 discovered moth species. Thickson’s Woods is recognized for its role as a critical sanctuary and stopover point for migratory birds along the northern shores of Lake Ontario, according to ecologist James Kamstra. He describes it as a “haven” for fauna under pressure from urban development elsewhere in southern Ontario.
The Oldest White Pine Stand on Lake Ontario
Andrés Jiménez Monge, executive director of Ontario Nature, highlighted that Thickson’s Woods contains the oldest stand of white pine trees along Lake Ontario. These white pines date back approximately 150 to 250 years, making the area the last remaining pine wood of this age on the lake. The mature trees are considered a living testament to the area's natural heritage.
Decades of Community Conservation Efforts
Thickson’s Woods was first protected in 1983, when local residents banded together to keep commercial loggers out of the region. This effort formed the basis of the Thickson’s Woods Land Trust, a group that has since managed the forest and maintained trails connecting to the Lake Ontario waterfront trail. After over forty years, with many founding volunteers unable to continue stewardship, the land trust sought a sustainable, long-term custodian and identified Ontario Nature as the optimal partner.
Joanne Brown, a former director on the land trust board, noted that Ontario Nature's stewardship would ensure the area remains shielded from development “in perpetuity.” She emphasized the forest’s role as a community hub accessible by car or transit, offering residents a retreat and education about the value of natural heritage.
Ensuring Protection Against Urban Development
Ontario Nature’s acquisition of Thickson’s Woods marks its 27th nature reserve across Ontario. “Every single hectare matters,” said Monge, underscoring the importance of protecting remaining green spaces amid increasing urbanization. Kamstra and Monge both stress that conservation measures like this are essential to maintain biodiversity and provide urban populations with access to nature.
The addition of Thickson’s Woods to the Ontario Nature reserve system represents an ongoing commitment to preserving vital ecosystems and places of refuge for at-risk species, as well as ensuring nature remains accessible to the public for education and recreation.
Source: cbc.ca.
