Hello OntBirders, At Cranberry Marsh on the South Trail, Jan 1st between 3:15PM - 3:30PM , my husband & I observed a male "Oregon" Junco in a small flock of Slate-Coloured Juncos. It was seen along the right hand trail where the path splits that leads to the lake. It was feeding along the grassy verge of the trail occasionally coming into full view. The dark hood clearly defined from its white breast and the flanks showing distinct light rusty sides & a brownish back. It was raining at the time but this bird stood out from the other juncos it was with.
A male Red Winged Blackbird was by the South Trail's viewing platform by the "Raptor Viewing" sign. He was silent and flew down by the Dogwood Osiers and marsh grass. His epaulettes were barely discernible but showed more orange than red. Also seen there: 1 Downy Woodpecker, 1 Bluejay, 2 Golden Crowned Kinglets, numerous American Tree Sparrows, many Black Capped Chickadees feeding along the path where seed is readily available and a few American Goldfinches. Barb & Jim Scott Etobicoke, ON Directions: Exit the 401 at Brock Street South, Whitby & go south to Victoria St.W. Turn west and continue along Victoria, past Lynde Shores C.A. to Halls Road. Turn south and go to the second trail, walk east from the parking lot to Cranberry Marsh. _______________________________________________ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to birdalert@ontbirds.ca For information about ONTBIRDS visit http://www.ofo.ca/
