Category: Movie

“The aim of art is to represent not the outward appearance of things, but their inward significance.”

– Aristotle

Every living being has a story to tell. As an artist and nature enthusiast, Lisa Vanin tells the stories of the natural world through her art. Her unique art style transports her audience to a world where folk art and fine art collide. Lisa’s paintings of Ontario’s at-risk species remind us of their beauty and vulnerability, and that we all have a role in helping them fight for their survival.

Blanding’s Turtle: Threatened Provincially, Endangered Nationally

Did you know that all native Ontario turtles are now at risk? While it is easy to identify a Blanding’s turtle by its distinctive bright yellow chin and throat, threats such as wetland habitat loss, vehicle collisions and nest predation are driving their decline, making them harder to spot in the wild.

Turtle road mortality is generally the highest in May, June and July, as they travel to find a mate once the weather warms up. Some female turtles are found crossing roads to reach nesting sites, while others lay eggs in the gravelly substrates on road shoulders. It is therefore important to always be aware of your surroundings while driving. Wildlife warning signs can often be found in turtle hotspots. If you see turtles crossing the road, help move them in the direction they are travelling, if it is safe to do so.

Bobolink: Threatened Provincially and Nationally

Bobolinks are among the very few bird species that undergo two complete molts per year. Every summer, breeding males distinguish themselves from females by molting into their sleek black plumage, accessorized with a yellow head patch and bold white patterns down their back. Afterwards, they molt back into a striped, brown plumage, disguising themselves among the females.

The bobolink’s population in Ontario has decreased by 75 percent in the past 50 years. The population is expected to decline further due to the continued habitat loss and degradation, incidental mortality (e.g. hay mowing during breeding season) and hostile wintering grounds.

Eastern Loggerhead Shrike: Endangered Provincially and Nationally

A disproportionately large head has given this fearsome predatory songbird its common name. Despite their draconian feeding behaviour, eastern loggerhead shrikes are losing their habitats not only to development, but also to vegetation succession, when thickets and shrubs creep in to take over the unmanaged grasslands. Road mortality and toxic prey ingestion pose threats to their survival as well.

Boreal Caribou: Threatened Provincially and Nationally

Boreal caribou are among the most elusive and majestic of North America’s big mammals. They rely heavily on mature conifer forests to avoid predators and to forage. With rapid human developments and activities such as industrial logging, caribous are losing their habitats. The situation is worsened with the provincial government prioritizing profit over wildlife protection.

Ontario Nature will continue to protect boreal caribou’s critical habitat through conducting research and holding stakeholders accountable in forest management. We have recently partnered with Birds Canada to evaluate the conservation value of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) candidate protected areas and to make the case for their need for permanent protection. Those areas include significant boreal caribou habitat.

Redside Dace: Endangered Provincially and Nationally

In Canada, Redside dace is found only in southern Ontario. Males are more intensely coloured than females, with red and yellow stripes along the body. Their vibrant colours intensify during spawning seasons. Riparian vegetation loss, altered stream flow and changes in water temperature caused by nearby developments threaten their habitats.

Rusty-Patched Bumblebees: Endangered Provincially and Nationally

With a particularly short tongue, the rusty-patched bumble bees feed by puncturing flowers to suck up the nectar. Although once abundant, the species population has declined by 90 percent throughout its range. Some of the factors that contribute to the decline of Canadian native bees are pesticide use, disease spillover, habitat loss and climate change.

Monarch Butterfly: Special Concern Provincially and Nationally

The iconic monarch butterfly serves as a reminder of the importance of public engagement in wildlife conservation. From caterpillar rearing to planting milkweed in the backyard, nature lovers have put tremendous effort into saving these legendary migrants, which are threatened by habitat loss, pesticide use and climate change. Learn more about how to re-wild your property to help Ontario’s wildlife and native pollinators in our summer 2021 issue of ON Nature magazine.

The post Seven Ontario Species at Risk Through the Eyes of an Artist appeared first on Ontario Nature.

Vacations are the moment where we can finally cut free and feel easier without the weight of our daily lives on our shoulders. Unfortunately, many people go in without any planning.

You should spend the time you usually would looking at Banff homes for sale and turn that energy into figuring out the best vacation plan for yourself.

Go Without A Daily Budget

One of the worst things someone can do is go on a vacation without a solid daily budget. You don’t have to follow this to a tee, but you should attempt to create a budget that will make it to get the most out of your vacation.

Your daily budget should be able to safely handle your food, some excursion or activity, and any transit you need.

If you realize you have money left over at the end of every day: that’s great! Celebrate with it by buying yourself a fun little souvenir!

photo source

Act Like You’re In Your Own Home

Although you should feel free enough to be yourself while on vacation, don’t let that make you feel like you have permission to disrespect the locals or the local lands.

If you go camping, take everything back with you, even if it’s trash. If you’re in a foreign country, be patient if someone doesn’t speak your language, and try to find other ways to communicate.

photo via

Make Yourself An Easy Mark

Many tourist towns get hit hard by pickpockets and petty thieves because they know they can get away with it.  Tourists don’t stay in town long, which means the likelihood of running into the thief again is low: so you have to be careful.

Keep your money in a secure location close to your body, where you would notice if someone grabbed it. Don’t keep your wallet or passport in your back pocket, and if you use a backpack, don’t keep vital documents or money in it.

photo source

Be Too Strict On Yourself

This is your vacation! Don’t be afraid to cut loose and have fun! Although a schedule, a budget, and proper manners are essential, so is the chance you get at enjoying yourself. Instead of stressing about your program or diet, or budget, shed off all of your daily expectations, and try to relax. T

ake time enjoying a local spa treatment or doing something active that will get your heart going. If having fun means deviating from the plans, do it!

Get On Your Phone Every Day

It may be a cliche by now, but if you’re spending every moment of your vacation on your phone, you’re not using it right!  Our vacations are our time to slip away from the world at large and try to find ourselves.

This can be impossible to do for some, so don’t worry, you don’t have to leave your phone behind or forget about it. Instead, focus on only allowing yourself your phone in small bursts that won’t distract you from the trip at large.

The post What Not to Do on Vacation appeared first on Earth's Attractions – travel guides by locals, travel itineraries, travel tips, and more.

Are you looking to get away for a few days? Sometimes, we all need a break from the stresses and strains of everyday life and a holiday can prove the perfect tonic, offering the chance to switch off your brain and recharge your batteries.

Of course, not everyone has the same idea of what an enjoyable holiday looks like. For some, it’s a long weekend in a bustling European city.

For others, it’s a week or more spent sunning themselves by a pool with a good book. But what about those who prefer to stay a little closer to home?

The UK is blessed with a wide range of stunning destinations, and with staycations predicted to boom in popularity in 2021, millions are set to experience the joys of what our nation has to offer. At the top of that list is an abundance of beautiful countryside, just waiting to be explored.

Whether you strike out on your own, with a companion or book on one of the several escorted tours around the UK, there are many National Parks that are perfect for walking enthusiasts and those who love to immerse themselves in the natural environment.

Snowdonia

photo source

The go-to destination for those who love an outdoor adventure. Home to Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales, this is a National Park that offers a wide variety.

During your stay you can enjoy activities such as white water rafting – ideal for the adrenaline junkies out there – or train enthusiasts can revel in a narrow-gauge railway trip.

Of course, if you fancy a challenge then you can always take on the summit of Snowdon itself.

You can find all the information you need about visiting Snowdonia in our travel guide, including not only things to do, but where to stay and where to eat.

The Peak District

photo via

Situated right in the heart of the UK, the Peak District National Park is ideally placed for travellers from all corners of the country. This is actually one of the best destinations for fall colours in Europe!

The Monsal Trail is a must for walking or cycling fanatics, but it’s an area that offers something for everyone.

If you prefer to spend your downtime with your feet up, why not pay a visit to Chatsworth House and revel in a spot of afternoon tea.

Cairngorms

photo source

How about venturing to Scotland and take in the stunning natural beauty that is Cairngorms National Park?

Nature reserves are dotted all around the park, with the rare red squirrel a particular highlight, so it’s the perfect destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Meanwhile, those who live their life at a slightly faster pace might be tempted by the UK’s first permanent bridge-based bungee jump.

The Yorkshire Dales

For simply spectacular views, look no further than the Yorkshire Dales National Park. For a major challenge, and one that’s not for the faint-hearted, why not take on the Yorkshire Three Peaks.

Scaling Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough on their own are tough enough, so all three back-to-back in one day over the course of 25 miles is a real test. Believe us when we say the stunning scenery makes it all worth it.

The post The best National Parks in the UK appeared first on Earth's Attractions – travel guides by locals, travel itineraries, travel tips, and more.

When it comes to holiday destinations, few places are as overlooked as Wales. While this does mean that you can benefit from peace and quiet, it is a shame because it is such as beautiful part of the UK with a lot to offer and friendly locals.

This makes Wales a real hidden gem and somewhere to consider this summer if you are planning a staycation.

Ideal for a Staycation

Staycations look set to be a huge trend again this summer with the situation unclear surrounding international travel. Major hotspots like Cornwall and the Lake District are likely to be fully booked already throughout summer, so instead you may want to look at a few places in Wales, which can be perfect for a staycation that allows you to enjoy peace and quiet along with breathtaking natural beauty.

Holiday Rentals

Many people have turned to buying holiday rental properties during the last year or so and Wales could certainly be a good place for this as there is so much to discover throughout the country.

This would give you the ability to have a vacation home as well as make money off the back of the staycation boom.

So, where are a few of the best places to visit in Wales on a staycation?

Portmeirion Village

photo source

Located in North Wales, Portmeirion is a stunning and unique village designed in the style of an Italian village which gives the feeling of being abroad.

Located on the coast, you can enjoy being by the sea while exploring this beautiful and welcoming small village filled with cottages, restaurants, cafes and woodland gardens.

Dolgoch Falls

Nature lovers will want to visit the breathtaking Dolgoch Falls in Snowdonia National Park. These are amongst the best waterfalls in the UK accessed by a rewarding walk through the park – be sure to pack a camera!

Brecon Beacons National Park

photo via

Another national park that is a must-visit while in Wales is Brecon Beacons. This is the perfect space for hiking, cycling, mountain biking with paths and routes for all abilities and even stargazing at night.

This is one of the best places for a cycling holiday Wales has to offer, so if you enjoy exploring on two wheels then this should be at the top of your list.

Castell Coch

Located in South Wales, the striking 19th century Gothic Revival Castell Coch (also known as The Red Castle) has a fairytale-esque look arising from the beech woods of Fforest Fawr.

The inside is even more stunning with lavish interiors and rich furnishings which are not to be missed – this is often voted as the public’s favourite building in Wales.

Wales is somewhat of a hidden gem with these being just a few of the great places to explore on a staycation this summer.

The post Hidden Beauty Spots in Wales Worth a Visit appeared first on Earth's Attractions – travel guides by locals, travel itineraries, travel tips, and more.

One versus a thousand

You might think that that phrase can be interpreted in multiple ways: a philosophical mindset, a mental state, or a frame of mind. You would be forgiven if you overlooked the literal meaning behind the phrase: One person versus a lot of other people. Samurai Warriors 5 is a game that pits you against entire armies and spoiler alert: the armies do not do well. This type of game has the moniker of “Musou” and if you have not experienced this before, now would be a perfect time. Koei Tecmo has rebooted the ‘Warriors’ series into a “fresh re-imagining”; complete with a more compact storyline, new gameplay additions, and a new visual style. Will newcomers to the series be drawn into this historical hack-and-slash? Will returning fans be happy with the roster of changes? Let’s find out. 

Samurai Warriors 5 focuses on the Sengoku period of Japan, a 150-year period of almost neverending civil war that saw clan leaders and warlords fighting for power until the 3 “Great Unifiers” restored a central government in the region. The main storyline in the game focuses on a condensed timeframe of the Sengoku period where the story is told through the viewpoint of two primary characters: Nobunaga Oda and Akechi Mitsuhide. Whilst the game boasts an impressive roster of 37 playable characters, you will mainly be playing through the story as Nobunaga Oda (with smatterings of Akechi Mitsuhide). This main-character-centered focus helps to bring a level of continuity to the story and also adds a refreshing change of pace when a side-character steps into the story and you can carve up the battlefield with a fresh pair of blades. I will say, this forms more of a double-edged sword as I found myself falling in love with the playstyle of a side character (the legendary Lady Nō) and subsequently thereafter, falling out of love with Nobunaga’s playstyle throughout the story. This creeping feeling of boredom started to become worryingly apparent when the real enemy of the game started rearing its ugly head: repetition. 

With such an ugly beast on the horizon, surely the game can now turn to its biggest champion: the gameplay. I will say that the core idea behind the Muso playstyle is incredible. You stand alone in front of hundreds of (apparently brainless) soldiers who all fall victim to your blade. You can string together simple combos that play off variants of Square and Triangle and you have a “Hyper” attack that propels you forward whilst still attacking enemies (and knocking them along with you). Combine this with customisable ultimate attacks and a devastating Muso finisher and you have the ability to chain combos that reach into the thousands. To me, there is nothing better than carving through the battlefield whilst sending hundreds of enemies flying away with each arcing slash. It really helps to de-stress after a long day at work. The visual style complements this beautifully and the revamped musical score adds a layer of speed and aggression to the game. 

Are all of these positives enough to ward off the beast of boredom? Sadly, no.

The story and gameplay are the two worst casualties of this beast. The game does well to inform you of the story through in-game cutscenes and beautifully rendered artistic showcases and the voice acting on the characters is stellar but the game really can be boiled down to a simple “Move from A to B and kill everything along the way.” The historical elements add a level of intrigue and awe as you find yourself immersed in famous battles but the repetitive nature of the level structure and gameplay makes the game hard to stay passionate about. The “One versus a thousand” element is exhilarating and it is hard to complete a level without a smile on your face but once you have completed a few levels, you find that the details start to get lost in the wind. I love intense gaming experiences but there needs to be more respite and variance to break up the repetition. There is an impressive amount of weapon customisation available but this almost seems redundant when you are sending whole armies back to the stone age with each sword-swing. The AI also seems inconsistent to the point where the difficulty between the filler soldiers and the end of level bosses is too great. I found myself blindly massacring hordes of soldiers who seemed to struggle to even tie their laces, only to run head-first into a boss who made me feel like a 5 year-old armed with a butterknife. There is also a citadel mode which acts as a pseudo-tower defence mode where you can train characters for EXP and additional weapons but the appeal wears thin after a few hours of slaughter. 

Overall, Samurai Warriors 5 is an impressive reboot of an already well-loved series. The repetition was a huge issue for me but I must confess that I am relatively new to the Musou style of gameplay. I was immediately hooked with the beautiful visuals and the voice acting (and of course, the gameplay) but I did not find myself wanting to play longer than a level or two at a time. The game is also relatively smooth-running (except for the PS1-grade camera AI which threatens to get stuck behind anything and everything on the battlefield).

 If you are happy with a solid story, an absurdly destructive combat system, and an artistic rendition of a bloody time in Japan’s history then you will love Samurai Warriors 5. If you are like me and new to the series then you might want to take it slowly to avoid the danger of burnout but don’t worry, there is enough meat there to satisfy your bloodlust until the end credits roll. 

I give this 7.5 Demon Kings out of 10 

GameRev was provided with a digital download of the game for the purpose of this review.