A third of the island is actually owned by the Nova Scotia Nature Trust, and not just for the flora. The fauna, as I men- tioned, plays a major role in the biodiversity of Brier Island. It is, in fact, one of the major resting spots for migratory birds on the eastern seaboard. There is a species of hawk that migrates through here every fall, for instance. There are thousands and thousands of them. It’s something to see. Every two years, we host nature retreats by Speyside Wildlife, a group out of Scotland famous for their guided birdwatching and wildlife holidays around the world. Brier Island is also part of the Southwest Nova Biosphere. Growing up in Nova Scotia myself, I remember hearing about the dancing lambs at Brier Lodge. It seems like animals have always played an important role in the everyday life of residents and the experience of guests. VT : Animals have been associated with the lodge from day one. I’ve been interested in farm animals, particularly heritage breeds, for a number of years. Actually, when we opened the lodge, the Cotswold sheep was an endangered farm animal, along with the Berkshire pig, and some of the heritage breeds of chickens. Well, I decided I’d get myself a sheep for a pet – but I didn’t originally get a Cotswold, I
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APRIL 2017 • SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE
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