Temperatures were above normal and most days were sunny this week. Snow cover was reduced and compacted, but there is still lots left. Crows arrived on March 6 and became widespread immediately. A European Starling was at the Visitor Centre today. These are the first migrants.
At least one Boreal Chickadee among Black-capped Chickadees was noted about one kilometre north of the Costello Creek bridge on the Opeongo Road on March 8. Gray Jays were regularly seen along Opeongo Road. The large flock of American Goldfinches persists at the Visitor Centre feeders. There were seven Evening Grosbeaks at the Visitor Centre today, and several continue to be observed in Whitney near the junction of Ottawa and Second streets. THE VISITOR CENTRE WILL BE OPEN DAILY FROM 10 AM TO 5 PM FROM MARCH 13 TO MARCH 21. We would appreciate receiving your bird observations for our Visitor Centre records. Ron Tozer Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired) Dwight, ON Directions: Algonquin Park is three hours north of Toronto, via Highways 400, 11 and 60. Follow the signs, which start in Toronto on Highway 400. From Ottawa, take Highway 17 to Renfrew, then follow Highway 60 to the park. Kilometre markers along Highway 60 in the Park go from the West Gate (km 0) to near the East Gate (km 56). Get your park permit and the park tabloid (with a map of birding locations mentioned here) at the gates. The Visitor Centre at km 43 has details on recent sightings, feeders, and park information. Hot and cold drinks and snacks are available in the restaurant this winter, but not full meal service. Birder access to the Visitor Centre through the service entrance to observe the feeders is usually possible on weekdays. Algonquin Park birding updates and information are also available at: www.algonquinpark.on.ca _______________________________________________ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to ONTBIRDS mailing list ONTBIRDS@hwcn.org For information about ONTBIRDS visit http://www.ofo.ca/
