Not sure if this counts as a rarity in Ontario, but it is a bird I don't see often. In fact, I think it is a first for me in Ontario. An adult Red-headed Woodpecker was seen today (Thursday, May 10) in Erindale Park in Mississauga. It was at the northern end of the Park. Also seen were several Red-breasted Grosbeaks in the same area. These birds (and many others) were observed while walking with Rita Schulze, teacher of Riverwood's Education Naturally program, and a class of 22 fourth graders. We all had a good look at these birds.
The easiest way to reach this location is to go to Riverwood and park in the angler's parking lot. * From Hwy 403, take the Mavis Road Exit. * Go south on Mavis Road to Burnhamthorpe Road West and turn right. * Take Burnhamthorpe Road to The Credit Woodlands. There are traffic lights at this intersection. Turn into Riverwood Park on the north side of Burnhamthorpe Road at the intersection. * Take the very first left turn immediately after turning into Riverwood. The road turns quickly to gravel and you will go down a hill to the anglers' parking lot. * Exit the parking lot on foot at the south end and go right. After a short distance you will reach the Culham Trail. Go left and walk under Burnhamthorpe Road. (If you go right, you will be in Riverwood Park, which also has excellent birding.) * Continue following this Trail a couple hundred metres. The area where the Red-headed Woodpecker was seen is just before you reach the pond on your left side as you walk south. * You can also enter Erindale Park from its south end on Dundas but you will have a much longer walk.however, it is good birding all along the trail. You may also see some beaver activity near the south end of Erindale.
