Join biologist Sandra Milligan for an exploration of the Intertidal Zone. Low tide at Willow Point Reef typically uncovers over 80 species including dozens of algae, squishy Anemones and Sea Cucumbers, and beautifully decorated Lined Chitons, Shield Limpets and Top Snails. Departing from Jaycee Park, the most durable high-tide critters are seen first, like Little Brown Barnacles and Periwinkles, then mid-tide Mussels and iridescent Rainbow Leaf. As one moves through the “portal” to the low intertidal zone, other treasures are revealed like Red Rock Crabs, Green Urchins, and Gumboot Chitons. Colours abound: Purple Sea Stars, Red Urchins, Yellow Ascidians, and perhaps an Opalescent Nudibranch. Turning a rock uncovers tiny ecosystems of Tube Worms, Gunnels, and perhaps a Daisy Brittle Star that ranks as the most gasp-inducing sight on the reef. Organisms present vary with the seasons and across the years, so every trip is different.
What to Wear
Please dress for the weather and wear waterproof footwear, ideally with good traction as we must walk through a wet area to access the reef. Walking poles are highly recommended as the footing can be very slippery.
Parking at Jaycee Park is very limited, so please allow an extra 10 minutes to park on Larwood Road or Erickson Road and walk to Jaycee Park. Please leave the Larwood plaza parking for their customers.
Join biologist Sandra Milligan for an exploration of the Intertidal Zone. Low tide at Willow Point Reef typically uncovers over 80 species including dozens of algae, squishy Anemones and Sea Cucumbers, and beautifully decorated Lined Chitons, Shield Limpets and Top Snails. Departing from Jaycee Park, the most durable high-tide critters are seen first, like Little Brown Barnacles and Periwinkles, then mid-tide Mussels and iridescent Rainbow Leaf. As one moves through the “portal” to the low intertidal zone, other treasures are revealed like Red Rock Crabs, Green Urchins, and Gumboot Chitons. Colours abound: Purple Sea Stars, Red Urchins, Yellow Ascidians, and perhaps an Opalescent Nudibranch. Turning a rock uncovers tiny ecosystems of Tube Worms, Gunnels, and perhaps a Daisy Brittle Star that ranks as the most gasp-inducing sight on the reef. Organisms present vary with the seasons and across the years, so every trip is different.
What to Wear
Please dress for the weather and wear waterproof footwear, ideally with good traction as we must walk through a wet area to access the reef. Walking poles are highly recommended as the footing can be very slippery.
Parking at Jaycee Park is very limited, so please allow an extra 10 minutes to park on Larwood Road or Erickson Road and walk to Jaycee Park. Please leave the Larwood plaza parking for their customers.
