A male Golden-winged Warbler was seen by many this morning in Thickson's Woods, Whitby. The bird was mainly in the central portion of the woodlot, feeding low and offering excellent views. Many other migrants arrived last night including Black-billed Cuckoo, a late Pine Siskin, Red-shouldered Hawk, Lincoln's Sparrow and Green Heron but this morning's highlight was certainly the warblers. At least 19 species were present including N. Parula [observed singing from below eye level !], Cape May, Blackburnian, Pine, American Redstart and Bay-breasted. Ovenbirds seemed to be 'everywhere' in the woods and there were also good numbers of Black and White, Black-throated Blue, Black-throated Green, Nashvile and Magnolia Warblers. A 'report' in no way does justice to the birding at Thickson's this morning - it was wonderful ! Perfect light and many close views. Tomorrow , Saturday May 8th, from 9am to noon is the BREAKFAST AND BOBOLINKS celebration at Thickson's Woods. There will be guided bird walks, a pancake and sausage breakfast -with real maple syrup; a silent auction and various displays. All proceeds go to paying off the mortgage on the 'meadow' just north of the woodlot. Directions [from Dennis Barry] To reach Thickson's Woods exit from 401 to Thickson Road South in Whitby. Proceed south past Wentworth Street to the Waterfront Trail. Turn left, turn around and park on the north side of the road. Enter the woods on a path from the south side, about 200 metres east of Thickson Road. Follow the trails through the woods, some of which access the Lake Ontario shore. To view the beaver pond and Corbett Creek Marsh continue east about 100 metres past the entrance to the woods. The meadow is across the Waterfront Trail immediately north of the woods. The entrance is directly across the waterfront trail from the entrance to the woods. To view a map, visit the Thickson's Woods website at http://www.thicksonswoods.com Jerry Walsh Scarborough ON
