Traditions

Morel (Papilio glaucus)

The Owen Sound Field Naturalists Collection, #12

The Morel is one of Ontario's most celebrated and fiercely sought wild fungi, its extraordinary honeycomb cap and rich earthy flavour making it the holy grail of spring foraging across Grey and Bruce Counties and the subject of a passionate seasonal hunt that has defined rural communities and family traditions for generations. Emerging briefly in May in the leaf litter of mixed forests, old orchards, and disturbed woodland edges, Morels fruit unpredictably and fleetingly, their precise locations guarded as closely as any family secret and passed down only to the most trusted, a tradition of knowledge and place that connects foragers to the landscape in a profoundly intimate way. Not a species at risk, Morels are nonetheless sensitive to changes in forest composition, moisture, and temperature, and shifting climate patterns across Grey and Bruce Counties are already altering the timing and abundance of their legendary spring emergence. To find a Morel is to be initiated into one of the oldest and most quietly joyful relationships between people and the wild places they wander.

Reference photography for inspiration was kindly provided by Yvonne Turbitt. Thank you!

✨ 15% will be donated to conservation from all OSFN Collection original paintings ✨

In a collaboration to highlight the enjoyment of our backyard wildlife here in Ontario, the Owen Sound Field Naturalists and signature member of Artists for Conservation, Sarah McComb Turbitt, created a challenge to paint as many local species as she can during March 2026. 15% of original artworks, 35% of limited-edition prints, and 50% of artwork cards will be donated to OSFN. The Owen Sound Field Naturalists promotes and fosters learning about nature through their ongoing programs and sponsorships. They support a wide variety of activities, including a Young Naturalists Program, stewardship of many natural heritage properties in Grey Bruce Counties, interpretive signage, presentations by knowledgeable speakers and outdoor excursions with experienced leaders.

All original artwork is hand-signed by Sarah McComb-Turbitt and includes a certificate of authenticity and white cotton gloves for handling the painting upon delivery.