Fens

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What's on this page
Where Fens are Found
Fen Characteristics
Vegetation
Wildlife

Fens;

• Are more common in northern Ontario
• Have surface waters that may be acidic or alkaline
• Have a high water table with slow drainage
• May contain shrubs and trees but are dominated by sedges
• Are more productive than bogs because they are not as low in nutrients

 

Muskoka Heritage Areas classified as having a fen:
Axe Lake Peatland * Bala Bog Bruce Lake Marshes * Concession Lake Fawn Lake Wetland * Lewisham Wetland * Loon Lake Wetland * Lost Channel Neipage Lake Complex Port Cunnington Wetland Shack Creek Wetland * South Three Mile Lake Spring Creek Wetland
* Are also classified as being provincially significant wetlands

Fen Characteristics

Fens have a high water table and some flow-through, but not much fresh water. They absorb massive amounts of water and are exceptional at preventing floods, supplying a constant flow of water and water filtration.

Vegetation in a Fen

Fens are dominated by grasses, sedges, and some mosses. Trees are more common in a fen than in a bog. There are more nutrients in a fen compared to a bog and the vegetation and organic matter fall to the bottom rather than float on top. Low oxygen levels and lack of bacteria in fens means that plant and animal matter decomposes very slowly.

Wildlife Inhabitants in a Fen

Fens contain a variety of species that help make up a productive ecosystem.

There is an abundant insect population consisting mainly of deerflies, horseflies and mosquitoes. Butterflies and moths associated with grasses and sedges are also present.

A variety of amphibians that breed in local ponds can usually be found in fens, including turtles and frogs.

Bird species include the Virginia rail, the Yellow warbler and the Swamp sparrow, as well as other swallows and flycatchers.

Mammals include Cinerous shrew, Water shrew, Star-nosed mole and Muskrat. In addition, many other species may be encountered entering the fen from adjacent habitats.

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