[Ontbirds] OFO Durham Waterfront Outing - October 14, 2018
12 OFO members joined me yesterday as we explored the area including Pringle and Lynde Creeks and Cranberry Marsh. Although the area of study was small, the variety and number of birds was quite excellent. The weather was gorgeous (too good for a hawk flight but great for lingering birds). Highlights of our 71 species included: 5 species of sandpipers: Semipalmated Plover, Killdeer, Dunlin, and White-rumped and Semipalmated Sandpiper 5 species of warblers: Yellow-rumped, Nashville, Tennessee, Orange-crowned and Palm The highlight for one lucky observer was a Nelson’s Sparrow at Cranberry, but this hard to see species eluded the rest of us! Lots of pipits and a few hawks drifted by overhead, while phoebes, kinglets, Hermit Thrushes, bluebirds, Pine Siskins and Purple Finches were noted as well. Great day, great weather and great folks! thanks for sharing the day with me. Geoff Carpentier AVOCET NATURE SERVICES Contact me at: 905-852-2011 or avocetnatureservi...@gmail.com Visit my website: www.avocetnatureservices.com Specializing in Environmental & Natural History Surveys and Group & Personalized Guiding Services ___ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to birdalert@ontbirds.ca For information about ONTBIRDS including how to unsubscribe visit http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup Posting guidelines can be found at http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdsguide Visit the OFO Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OntarioFieldOrnithologists
[Ontbirds] Fw: Info Request Red-necked Grebe nesting at Nonquon - summer 2018
Sorry one more information gap: did anyone see the birds between June 16 and 18 and if so, did you note if the nest had eggs or were young visible and on which date? thx Geoff Geoff Carpentier AVOCET NATURE SERVICES Contact me at: 905-852-2011 or avocetnatureservi...@gmail.com Visit my website: www.avocetnatureservices.com Specializing in Environmental & Natural History Surveys and Group & Personalized Guiding Services From: geoff.carpent...@gmail.com Sent: Friday, October 12, 2018 5:42 AM To: OntBirds - Bird Alert Subject: Info Request Red-necked Grebe nesting at Nonquon - summer 2018 Posted with permission of the Ontbirds Administrator. I am in the final stages of preparing an article for Ontario Birds chronicling the Red-necked Grebe nesting in the summer of 2018 at Nonquon sewage lagoons. There is a small information gap I’m trying to fill. Does anyone have any records or sightings between the period July 9 to 16, 2018 specifically noting if they saw eggs in the nest or young with the adults? I’m trying to determine the egg dates for this nest. This is a time sensitive request and I need a response by Saturday evening pls. thank-you Geoff Geoff Carpentier AVOCET NATURE SERVICES Contact me at: 905-852-2011 or avocetnatureservi...@gmail.com Visit my website: www.avocetnatureservices.com Specializing in Environmental & Natural History Surveys and Group & Personalized Guiding Services ___ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to birdalert@ontbirds.ca For information about ONTBIRDS including how to unsubscribe visit http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup Posting guidelines can be found at http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdsguide Visit the OFO Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OntarioFieldOrnithologists
[Ontbirds] Info Request Red-necked Grebe nesting at Nonquon - summer 2018
Posted with permission of the Ontbirds Administrator. I am in the final stages of preparing an article for Ontario Birds chronicling the Red-necked Grebe nesting in the summer of 2018 at Nonquon sewage lagoons. There is a small information gap I’m trying to fill. Does anyone have any records or sightings between the period July 9 to 16, 2018 specifically noting if they saw eggs in the nest or young with the adults? I’m trying to determine the egg dates for this nest. This is a time sensitive request and I need a response by Saturday evening pls. thank-you Geoff Geoff Carpentier AVOCET NATURE SERVICES Contact me at: 905-852-2011 or avocetnatureservi...@gmail.com Visit my website: www.avocetnatureservices.com Specializing in Environmental & Natural History Surveys and Group & Personalized Guiding Services ___ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to birdalert@ontbirds.ca For information about ONTBIRDS including how to unsubscribe visit http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup Posting guidelines can be found at http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdsguide Visit the OFO Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OntarioFieldOrnithologists
[Ontbirds] Scugog Twp--Port Perry - Nonquon Sewage Lagoons, 11-Jul-2018
Hi All: For the first time in a few years the habitat at the Nonquon lagoons is looking amazing. I have been fortunate to have gained the cooperation of staff at Durham Region to lower water levels so migrating shorebirds have a place to feed. And here they come - 5 species of shorebirds and over 50 individuals! Best lagoons are the southern most one and the 2nd one counting from the east side. Scugog Twp--Port Perry - Nonquon Sewage Lagoons, Durham, Ontario, CA 11-Jul-2018 7:14 AM - 8:24 AM 50 species Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) 7 Two adults and five Young Lesser Scaup (Aythya affinis) 1 Adult male continuing bird Hooded Merganser (Lophodytes cucullatus) 38 Several Broods noted all attended by females Ruddy Duck (Oxyura jamaicensis) 1 Pied-billed Grebe (Podilymbus podiceps) 1 Red-necked Grebe (Podiceps grisegena) 3 breeding pair Sora (Porzana carolina) 1 Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus) 2 Spotted Sandpiper (Actitis macularius) 7 Solitary Sandpiper (Tringa solitaria) 1 Greater Yellowlegs (Tringa melanoleuca) 2 Lesser Yellowlegs (Tringa flavipes) 44 Bonaparte's Gull (Chroicocephalus philadelphia) 1 Molting adult Black Tern (Chlidonias niger) 6 Marsh Wren (Cistothorus palustris) 8 View this checklist online at https://ebird.org/view/checklist/S47128965 Don't forget your permits How to Obtain a Nonquon Sewage Lagoon Permit Permits must be purchased in advance of entering the lagoons. Permits can be obtained in person or by mail from 605 Rossland Rd., Whitby, or in person at the Scugog Waste Transfer Station, 1623 Reach Street, Port Perry. Transfer Station is closed Sunday and Monday, but open the other days from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Whitby office is open Monday to Friday from 8:30- 4:30 p.m. An electronic version of the Nonquon Sewage Lagoon Birder Permit is available in PDF format at https://www.durham.ca/en/regional-government/resources/Documents/Budget-and-Financial/2018-Birder-Permit---Updated-March-8-2018.pdf Nonquon Sewage Lagoon Birder Permits are available for $10 per permit. Cheques will only be accepted at Regional Headquarters. Payment by cash only at the Scugog Waste Transfer Station. For mail in orders: Completed Applications should be forwarded to: Finance Department - Insurance & Risk Management, 605 Rossland Road E., Whitby, ON L1N 6A3. The lagoons are located one road north of the transfer site on Concession Rd. 8 [don't get confused as, despite the fact that these roads are both numbered "8", they are two different roads - one is a regional paved road, the other a dirt concession road.]. Access to the lagoons is from the east end of Conc. 8 only as the bridge is out west of the lagoons. When you get to Concession 8 Road, go to the most easterly gate on the south side of the road (not the huge ones that lead to the sewage plant, but a double gate with a small locked gate immediately beside it opposite a small brown bungalow). This small gate has a combination lock on it. When you get your permit, it will have a five digit number written in the upper right or left hand corner - that is the combination to the gate. Please remember to close the gate behind you if you go as it is not self-closing. Geoff Carpentier AVOCET NATURE SERVICES Contact me at: 905-852-2011 or avocetnatureservi...@gmail.com Visit my website: www.avocetnatureservices.com Specializing in Environmental & Natural History Surveys and Group & Personalized Guiding Services ___ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to birdalert@ontbirds.ca For information about ONTBIRDS including how to unsubscribe visit http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup Posting guidelines can be found at http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdsguide Visit the OFO Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OntarioFieldOrnithologists
[Ontbirds] Nonquon lagoons update
The section of the lagoons that has been closed for the last few weeks is now open .. don’t forget your permits! Durham Region has updated their application forms and provided more clarity to permitees in their online revised permit application. One important change from previous years is that you must download an application form, complete it and bring the entire form with you when requesting a permit at one of the locations listed below. The link to retrieve the form is provided below. How to Obtain a Nonquon Sewage Lagoon Permit Permits must be purchased in advance of entering the lagoons. Permits can be obtained in person or by mail from 605 Rossland Rd., Whitby, or in person at the Scugog Waste Transfer Station, 1623 Reach Street, Port Perry. Transfer Station is closed Sunday and Monday, but open the other days from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Whitby office is open Monday to Friday from 8:30- 4:30 p.m. An electronic version of the Nonquon Sewage Lagoon Birder Permit is available in PDF format at https://www.durham.ca/en/regional-government/resources/Documents/Budget-and-Financial/2018-Birder-Permit---Updated-March-8-2018.pdf Nonquon Sewage Lagoon Birder Permits are available for $10 per permit. Cheques will only be accepted at Regional Headquarters. Payment by cash only at the Scugog Waste Transfer Station. For mail in orders: Completed Applications should be forwarded to: Finance Department - Insurance & Risk Management, 605 Rossland Road E., Whitby, ON L1N 6A3. The lagoons are located one road north of the transfer site on Concession Rd. 8 [don't get confused as, despite the fact that these roads are both numbered "8", they are two different roads - one is a regional paved road, the other a dirt concession road.]. Access to the lagoons is from the east end of Conc. 8 only as the bridge is out west of the lagoons. When you get to Concession 8 Road, go to the most easterly gate on the south side of the road (not the huge ones that lead to the sewage plant, but a double gate with a small locked gate immediately beside it opposite a small brown bungalow). This small gate has a combination lock on it. When you get your permit, it will have a five digit number written in the upper right or left hand corner - that is the combination to the gate. Please remember to close the gate behind you if you go as it is not self-closing. Geoff Carpentier AVOCET NATURE SERVICES Contact me at: 905-852-2011 or avocetnatureservi...@gmail.com Visit my website: www.avocetnatureservices.com Specializing in Environmental & Natural History Surveys and Group & Personalized Guiding Services ___ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to birdalert@ontbirds.ca For information about ONTBIRDS including how to unsubscribe visit http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup Posting guidelines can be found at http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdsguide Visit the OFO Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OntarioFieldOrnithologists
[Ontbirds] Nighthawks - Scugog Twp.
I just had at least 21 Common Nighthawks migrating over Reach and Lakeridge in Scugog Twp. They were flying very high and actively feeding but seldom called. Geoff Carpentier AVOCET NATURE SERVICES Contact me at: 905-852-2011 or avocetnatureservi...@gmail.com Visit my website: www.avocetnatureservices.com Specializing in Environmental & Natural History Surveys and Group & Personalized Guiding Services ___ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to birdalert@ontbirds.ca For information about ONTBIRDS including how to unsubscribe visit http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup Posting guidelines can be found at http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdsguide Visit the OFO Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OntarioFieldOrnithologists
[Ontbirds] Restricted access to Nonquon lagoons
Durham Region staff asked me to pass on the message that a small part of the lagoons will be closed to the public for approximately the next 3 weeks. I will advise via this forum and Facebook when full access returns. Specifically, the northern part of lagoon 3 (counting from the east) is closed to the public. When you enter the lagoons and travel along the access road on the north edge of the lagoons, you will come to a series of pylons partially blocking the road. You are NOT permitted to go any further in this westerly direction along this roadway. You must at that point either turn back and travel south along the east edge of the eastern most lagoon (#1) or go south on the berm between lagoons 1 and 2. All the rest of the berms are open. However, when you finish your circuit you cannot enter the restricted area from the west either. Again pylons will be placed across the roadway partially blocking it. Access for Durham staff vehicles is being left open in the restricted area, so even though it appears that the road is partially open, it is not. Please adhere strictly to this restriction that Durham staff have put in place. Any questions pls email me privately. thanks Geoff Geoff Carpentier AVOCET NATURE SERVICES Contact me at: 905-852-2011 or avocetnatureservi...@gmail.com Visit my website: www.avocetnatureservices.com Specializing in Environmental & Natural History Surveys and Group & Personalized Guiding Services ___ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to birdalert@ontbirds.ca For information about ONTBIRDS including how to unsubscribe visit http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup Posting guidelines can be found at http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdsguide Visit the OFO Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OntarioFieldOrnithologists
[Ontbirds] OFO Durham waterfront outing April 29, 2018
Fifteen OFOers met me at Lynde Shores with the temperature hovering at 1 degree C this morning. It soon warmed up and we enjoyed a great day travelling between Cranberry Marsh, the foot of Hall’s Road, Whitby Harbour and Thickson's Woods. A total of 81 species was found. Highlights included: Eurasian Wigeon, Little Gull (2) with about 3000 Bonaparte’s Gulls, Great Egret, Peregrine Falcon, 6 species of swallow, Pine Warbler, Red-necked and Horned Grebes, 3 Iceland Gulls, and Common & Caspian Terns. Thanks to all who braved the chilly start and helped us all find these great birds. All data was entered in eBird. Geoff Carpentier AVOCET NATURE SERVICES Contact me at: 905-852-2011 or avocetnatureservi...@gmail.com Visit my website: www.avocetnatureservices.com Specializing in Environmental & Natural History Surveys and Group & Personalized Guiding Services ___ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to birdalert@ontbirds.ca For information about ONTBIRDS including how to unsubscribe visit http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup Posting guidelines can be found at http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdsguide Visit the OFO Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OntarioFieldOrnithologists
[Ontbirds] Nonquon lagoon access and permits - changes to permit process for 2018
From: geoff.carpent...@gmail.com Sent: Friday, March 30, 2018 9:37 AM To: Undisclosed-Recipient:; Subject: Nonquon lagoon access and permits - changes to system for 2018 The 2018 Nonquon lagoon permits are now available for purchase. Durham Region has updated their application forms and provided more clarity to permitees in their online revised permit application. One important change from previous years is that you must download an application form, complete it and bring the entire form with you when requesting a permit at one of the locations listed below. The link to retrieve the form is provided below. How to Obtain a Nonquon Sewage Lagoon Permit Permits must be purchased in advance of entering the lagoons. Permits can be obtained in person or by mail from 605 Rossland Rd., Whitby, or in person at the Scugog Waste Transfer Station, 1623 Reach Street, Port Perry. Transfer Station is closed Sunday and Monday, but open the other days from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Whitby office is open Monday to Friday from 8:30- 4:30 p.m. An electronic version of the Nonquon Sewage Lagoon Birder Permit is available in PDF format at https://www.durham.ca/en/regional-government/resources/Documents/Budget-and-Financial/2018-Birder-Permit---Updated-March-8-2018.pdf Nonquon Sewage Lagoon Birder Permits are available for $10 per permit. Cheques will only be accepted at Regional Headquarters. Payment by cash only at the Scugog Waste Transfer Station. For mail in orders: Completed Applications should be forwarded to: Finance Department - Insurance & Risk Management, 605 Rossland Road E., Whitby, ON L1N 6A3. The lagoons are located one road north of the transfer site on Concession Rd. 8 [don't get confused as, despite the fact that these roads are both numbered "8", they are two different roads - one is a regional paved road, the other a dirt concession road.]. Access to the lagoons is from the east end of Conc. 8 only as the bridge is out west of the lagoons. When you get to Concession 8 Road, go to the most easterly gate on the south side of the road (not the huge ones that lead to the sewage plant, but a double gate with a small locked gate immediately beside it opposite a small brown bungalow). This small gate has a combination lock on it. When you get your permit, it will have a five digit number written in the upper right or left hand corner - that is the combination to the gate. Please remember to close the gate behind you if you go as it is not self-closing. Geoff Carpentier AVOCET NATURE SERVICES Contact me at: 905-852-2011 or avocetnatureservi...@gmail.com Visit my website: www.avocetnatureservices.com Specializing in Environmental & Natural History Surveys and Group & Personalized Guiding Services ___ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to birdalert@ontbirds.ca For information about ONTBIRDS including how to unsubscribe visit http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup Posting guidelines can be found at http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdsguide Visit the OFO Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OntarioFieldOrnithologists
[Ontbirds] OFO walk Sunday October 15th
I have been offered a guiding opportunity to the Falkands, South Georgia and the Antarctic (poor me!) and therefore I will not be able to do the OFO walk to the Durham waterfront on October 15th, but Charmaine Anderson and Mike Ferguson have graciously offered to do the walk for me. Thank-you so much to both of them. Pls note the details on the OFO website are not entirely accurate ... so here’s the correct directions: Meet 8 am at Lynde Shores Conservation Area parking lot on Bayly/Victoria Street (same street with two names), Whitby. Paid parking is in effect but ask Charmaine or Mike how long they expect to be there before you pay for your parking. If coming from the west, exit Highway 401 at Lakeridge Road. Turn south to Bayly/Victoria Street then east until you reach the large marsh and road construction. Enter parking lot at Lynde Shores on your right. If coming from the east, exit 401 at Brock Street, Whitby. Go south to Bayly/Victoria. Go west about 2.5 km to Lynde Shores parking area on south side. Visits to Cranberry Marsh hawk watch, Pringle Creek, Whitby harbour and Oshawa Second Marsh, and more depending on conditions and water levels. Geoff Carpentier AVOCET NATURE SERVICES Contact me at: 905-852-2011 or avocetnatureservi...@gmail.com Visit my website: www.avocetnatureservices.com Specializing in Environmental & Natural History Surveys and Group & Personalized Guiding Services ___ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to birdalert@ontbirds.ca For information about ONTBIRDS including how to unsubscribe visit http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup Posting guidelines can be found at http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdsguide Visit the OFO Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OntarioFieldOrnithologists
[Ontbirds] Scugog Twp. sparrow fallout overnight
Not unexpectedly a large number of sparrows arrived overnight in Scugog Twp. and elsewhere. Lots of White-throats joined those already here. White-crowned Sparrows in small numbers and several juncos were here at my feeders today as was a towhee and thrasher – all new arrivals. Lots of Rusty Blackbirds are now moving through and a Pine Siskin flew over early today. Nashville, Pine, Yellowthroat and Orange-crowned were here and a nice sighting was a Cackling Goose, cooperatively flying over low with a Canada! nearest intersection – Lakeridge and Reach Geoff Carpentier AVOCET NATURE SERVICES Contact me at: 905-852-2011 or avocetnatureservi...@gmail.com Visit my website: www.avocetnatureservices.com Specializing in Environmental & Natural History Surveys and Group & Personalized Guiding Services ___ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to birdalert@ontbirds.ca For information about ONTBIRDS including how to unsubscribe visit http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup Posting guidelines can be found at http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdsguide Visit the OFO Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OntarioFieldOrnithologists
[Ontbirds] Red Crossbills - Scugog Twp.
For the 3rd time in the last 10 or so days, Red Crossbills have been observed flying over my house or landing in my conifers. Today a male and female sat in one of my spruces for a few moments and then flew off to the NW. It is difficult to tell if they are local breeders or birds on the move, but other respondents have reported them in Northumberland & Halliburton Counties recently so maybe this is a forbearer of good news? Nearest intersection Lakeridge and Reach, just east of Uxbridge. Geoff Carpentier AVOCET NATURE SERVICES Contact me at: 905-852-2011 or avocetnatureservi...@gmail.com Visit my website: www.avocetnatureservices.com Specializing in Environmental & Natural History Surveys and Group & Personalized Guiding Services ___ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to birdalert@ontbirds.ca For information about ONTBIRDS including how to unsubscribe visit http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup Posting guidelines can be found at http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdsguide Visit the OFO Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OntarioFieldOrnithologists
[Ontbirds] Some info about Nonquon lagoon access
First of all the spectacle of the ducks, swans, rails, Osprey and of course Cedar Waxwings continues. Yesterday, the levels were down about a foot in one lagoon so there is finally some habitat developing,. Two Lesser Yellowlegs and several Killdeer were using that patch. More to come soon I hope and maybe if the rains hold off we can get some real habitat. Over 50 Black Terns are now there daily feeding their young and putting on great aerials shows. The real purpose of this email is to help new users with access. I get a lot of emails from folks asking for advice so thought it might be helpful to do a broadcast email. In a moment I’ll remind you how to get a permit, but first ... when you pick up your permit in Whitby or at the Transfer Station in Port Perry, they don’t tell you where to go (so see directions below) . When you get to Concession 8 Road, go to the most easterly gate on the south side of the road (not the huge ones that lead to the sewage plant, but a double gate with a small gate immediately beside it opposite a small brown bungalow). This small gate has a combination lock on it. When you get your permit, it will have a five digit number written in the upper right hand corner - that is the combination to the gate. Please remember to close the gate behind you if you go as it is not self-closing. How to Obtain a Nonquon Sewage Lagoon Permit Permits must be purchased in advance of entering the lagoons. Permits can be obtained from 605 Rossland Rd., Whitby, or at the Scugog Waste Transfer Station, 1623 Reach Street, Port Perry. Transfer Station is closed Sunday and Monday, but open the other days from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Whitby office is open Monday to Friday from 8:30- 4:30 p.m. An electronic version of the Nonquon Sewage Lagoon Birder Permit is available in PDF format at http://www.durham.ca/finance.asp?nr=/departments/finance/financeinside.htm. Nonquon Sewage Lagoon Birder Permits are available for $10 per permit. Cheques will only be accepted at Regional Headquarters. Payment by cash only at the Scugog Waste Transfer Station. Completed Applications should be forwarded to: Finance Department - Insurance & Risk Management, 605 Rossland Road E., Whitby, ON L1N 6A3 The lagoons are located one road north of the transfer site on Concession Rd. 8 [don't get confused as, despite the fact that these roads are both numbered "8", they are two different roads - one is a regional paved road, the other a dirt concession road.]. Access to the lagoons is from the east end of Conc. 8 only as the bridge is out west of the lagoons. Geoff Carpentier AVOCET NATURE SERVICES Contact me at: 905-852-2011 or avocetnatureservi...@gmail.com Visit my website: www.avocetnatureservices.com Specializing in Environmental & Natural History Surveys and Group & Personalized Guiding Services ___ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to birdalert@ontbirds.ca For information about ONTBIRDS including how to unsubscribe visit http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup Posting guidelines can be found at http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdsguide Visit the OFO Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OntarioFieldOrnithologists
[Ontbirds] Nonquon Lagoons ... life goes on for some
Today at the Nonquon lagoons in Port Perry, there was an interesting mix of life and death struggles. Lots of sighs of successful breeding as Mallards, Wood Ducks, Hooded Mergansers and Trumpeter Swans showed off their new families. Very few shorebirds but the habitat is still not good for them – water is too high. However two Soras were in full song and a Virginia Rail showed off her two offspring. 5 Common gallinules and a Coot were new arrivals as they haven’t been here all summer. The show stopper was the feeding frenzy by the Cedar Waxwings. 15+ birds were feeding at eye to ground level chasing and catching a huge new hatch of bluets. For the odonatros out there this is the time be here .. crazy numbers of these insects. Also a large hatch of Monarchs must have occurred as they were everywhere. Lots of herps - Midland Painted Turtles, Northern Leopard Frogs, Green Frogs and my second (dead) Red-bellied Snake at this site this year. Lots of other butterflies and myriad other insects to amuse. A groundhog and a muskrat represented the mammal clan. A full adventure awaits if you can drag yourself away from the Toronto Tri-coloured Adjacent fields had several Lesser Yellowlegs, Killdeer and Spotted Sandpipers - so they are here .. you just gotta look further afield. Directions: Please remember to close the gate behind if you go as it is not self-closing. How to Obtain a Nonquon Sewage Lagoon Permit Permits must be purchased in advance of entering the lagoons. Permits can be obtained from 605 Rossland Rd., Whitby, or at the Scugog Waste Transfer Station, 1623 Reach Street, Port Perry. An electronic version of the Nonquon Sewage Lagoon Birder Permit is available in PDF format at http://www.durham.ca/finance.asp?nr=/departments/finance/financeinside.htm. Nonquon Sewage Lagoon Birder Permits are available for $10 per permit. Cheques will only be accepted at Regional Headquarters. Payment by cash only at the Scugog Waste Transfer Station. Completed Applications should be forwarded to: Finance Department - Insurance & Risk Management, 605 Rossland Road E., Whitby, ON L1N 6A3 The lagoons are located one road north of the transfer site on Concession Rd. 8 [don't get confused as, despite the fact that these roads are both numbered "8", they are two different roads - one is a regional paved road, the other a dirt concession road.]. Access to the lagoons is from the east end of Conc. 8 only as the bridge is out west of the lagoons. Geoff Carpentier AVOCET NATURE SERVICES Contact me at: 905-852-2011 or avocetnatureservi...@gmail.com Visit my website: www.avocetnatureservices.com Specializing in Environmental & Natural History Surveys and Group & Personalized Guiding Services ___ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to birdalert@ontbirds.ca For information about ONTBIRDS including how to unsubscribe visit http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup Posting guidelines can be found at http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdsguide Visit the OFO Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OntarioFieldOrnithologists
[Ontbirds] Nonquon shorebirds and ducks
The lagoons at Nonquon remain high with all the rain we’ve had, but tonight I saw the first southbound migrant shorebirds I’ve seen this fall. Three Lesser Yellowlegs and one Least Sandpiper joined the resident Killdeer and Spotted Sandpipers. Over 50 Black Terns, many Marsh Wrens, hundreds of swallows, a male Lesser Scaup and 3 male Ruddy Ducks hinted at nesting. Mallard, Hooded Merganser and Wood Ducks broods were a nice treat. A family of Trumpeter Swans and the Osprey nest rounded out a great evening walk. For the lepidopterists - lots of butterflies .. odonators – many dragonflies and allies ... for the herpetologists – Green and Gray Tree Frog and Snapping Turtles put on a show. And finally for the botanists – the flowers were in profusion and the evening light was conducive to some great photo opportunities. Please remember to close the gate behind if you go as it is not self-closing. How to Obtain a Nonquon Sewage Lagoon Permit Permits must be purchased in advance of entering the lagoons. Permits can be obtained from 605 Rossland Rd., Whitby, or at the Scugog Waste Transfer Station, 1623 Reach Street, Port Perry. An electronic version of the Nonquon Sewage Lagoon Birder Permit is available in PDF format at http://www.durham.ca/finance.asp?nr=/departments/finance/financeinside.htm. Nonquon Sewage Lagoon Birder Permits are available for $10 per permit. Cheques will only be accepted at Regional Headquarters. Payment by cash only at the Scugog Waste Transfer Station. Completed Applications should be forwarded to: Finance Department - Insurance & Risk Management, 605 Rossland Road E., Whitby, ON L1N 6A3 The lagoons are located one road north of the transfer site on Concession Rd. 8 [don't get confused as, despite the fact that these roads are both numbered "8", they are two different roads - one is a regional paved road, the other a dirt concession road.]. Access to the lagoons is from the east end of Conc. 8 only as the bridge is out west of the lagoons. Geoff Carpentier AVOCET NATURE SERVICES Contact me at: 905-852-2011 or avocetnatureservi...@gmail.com Visit my website: www.avocetnatureservices.com Specializing in Environmental & Natural History Surveys and Group & Personalized Guiding Services ___ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to birdalert@ontbirds.ca For information about ONTBIRDS including how to unsubscribe visit http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup Posting guidelines can be found at http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdsguide Visit the OFO Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OntarioFieldOrnithologists
[Ontbirds] Scugog Update
Despite the rather chilly morning (O C) the bird flight was pretty good today at my house. Bobolinks and Hermit Thrushes were on the move, while the FOY Baltimore Oriole sang early. A Lesser Yellowlegs was the only shorebird other than a Killdeer. The Ruffed Grouse were drumming, but the woodpeckers were pretty quiet surprisingly. A pair of Cooper's Hawks did their aerial display flight while a Broad-winged Hawk called to its mate below. Purple Finches were in full song as well. Loons put on a good show with 20 birds passing over between 6:37 and 8 a.m. The cool weather and moderate winds slowed the start of their journey. Usually they start flying about 20 minutes after sunrise but today took almost twice that long. The flight direction varied between N, NNW and NW depend on the fickle winds today. Nearest intersection is Lakeridge and Reach St. Geoff Carpentier AVOCET NATURE SERVICES Contact me at: 905-852-2011 or avocetnatureservi...@gmail.com Visit my website: www.avocetnatureservices.com Specializing in Environmental & Natural History Surveys and Group & Personalized Guiding Services ___ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to birdalert@ontbirds.ca For information about ONTBIRDS including how to unsubscribe visit http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup Posting guidelines can be found at http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdsguide Visit the OFO Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OntarioFieldOrnithologists
[Ontbirds] Nonquon lagoons - access info
Good Morning: I visited the lagoons today and there is as expected lots happening. Many ducks, swallows, drumming grouse, Pileated Woodpecker and lots of smaller migrants. Conditions are very muddy but worth the effort. I have been talking to Durham Works and they have agreed to try, where possible, to manage the lagoons with birds in mind again this year – particularly shorebirds. To this end, they will be lowering at least one lagoon by May 1st to help these little guys on their way north. Hopefully a lot of interesting birds are attracted this year. Please remember you need individual permits to visit this site. How to Obtain a Nonquon Sewage Lagoon Permit Permits must be purchased in advance of entering the lagoons. Permits can be obtained from 605 Rossland Rd., Whitby, or at the Scugog Waste Transfer Station, 1623 Reach Street, Port Perry. The Durham Region Transfer Site is open during the following business hours Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 6 p.m. An electronic version of the Nonquon Sewage Lagoon Birder Permit is available in PDF format at http://www.durham.ca/finance.asp?nr=/departments/finance/financeinside.htm. Nonquon Sewage Lagoon Birder Permits are available for $10 per permit. Cheques will only be accepted at Regional Headquarters. Payment by cash only at the Scugog Waste Transfer Station. Completed Applications should be forwarded to: Finance Department - Insurance & Risk Management, 605 Rossland Road E., Whitby, ON L1N 6A3 The lagoons are located one road north of the transfer site on Concession Rd. 8 [don't get confused as, despite the fact that these roads are both numbered "8", they are two different roads - one is a regional paved road, the other a dirt concession road.]. Access to the lagoons is from the east end of Conc. 8 only as the bridge is out west of the lagoons. Geoff Carpentier AVOCET NATURE SERVICES Contact me at: 905-852-2011 or avocetnatureservi...@gmail.com Visit my website: www.avocetnatureservices.com Specializing in Environmental & Natural History Surveys and Expedition & Personalized Guiding Services ___ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to birdalert@ontbirds.ca For information about ONTBIRDS including how to unsubscribe visit http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup Posting guidelines can be found at http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdsguide Visit the OFO Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OntarioFieldOrnithologists
[Ontbirds] More on Carden - May 24th
Further to Norm Murr's post, I also did Carden on the 24th and can add a singing male Prairie Warbler on Wylie Rd about 4.5 km north of the sedge marsh bridge and a singing Brewster's (singing like a Blue-winged Warbler) on Wylie about 2.5 km north of the bridge. All else similar to his post, except I could not find a single Clay-coloured! hmpff Directions courtesy of Norm Murr ... Directions: CARDEN ALVAR INCLUDING WYLIE ROAD / THE SEDGE WREN MARSH / PROSPECT ROAD ALONG WITH A FEW AREAS SOUTHWEST OF KIRKFIELD Wylie Road is north of Kirkfield in Victoria County and Kirkfield itself is on County Road 48 east of Highway 12 and well north of Whitby and about 130 km from Toronto if you follow the roads and not a Crow. >From the centre of Kirkfield go north on County Road 6 passing under the Lift >Lock on the Trent Canal and drive about 2 ½ km further north to where the road >curves left or west. On this curve and on your right is McNamee Road, turn >right here onto McNamee and drive east for about 300 yards and you will be at >Wylie Road. This road is about 9 ½ km long ending at Alvar Road (a T >intersection). Birding can be good on Alvar Road as well, either way. The Sedge Wren Marsh is about 5 ½ km up Wylie Road, you can't miss it as it has the only bridge along the road. Park just to the south of and overlooking the bridge and walk the road. Birding is good all along the road and I find that the best birding happens when you park and walk both ways a km or two from your auto. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Carden Alvar - Cerulean Warblers, Sedge Wrens, BB Cuckoos, and more - May 20/11
Today, Terrie Smith and I did our second Grassland Survey at Carden. We started the day at dawn at the Sedge Wren Marsh on Wylie Road, and heard lots of Sora and Virginia Rails, but no Yellows. There were several singing Sedge Wrens, many Upland Sandpipers and one Alder Flycatcher. Also on Wylie Rd (later in the morning) we had several Grasshopper and Vesper Sparrows (but no Clay-coloured), one shrike (box 10), Scarlet Tanager, ravens, etc. We didn't see them but there were Golden-winged Warblers reported as well. Elsewhere, we added a Sandhill Crane, Merlin, Black-billed Cuckoo, and two Cerulean Warblers (on private property and, at the request of the landowner, I can't reveal location of the latter). Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] OFO Outing - Durham Waterfront - May 7th
29 OFOers joined me this morning as we birded the Durham waterfront. Stops included Duffin's Creek/Rotary Park in Ajax, Hall's Road/Cranberry Marsh, Whitby Harbour, Thickson's Woods and Second Marsh. We found 101 species. Highlights included: 1 Little Gull in a large flock of Bonaparte's Gulls off Hall's Road several Common Loons and Horned Grebes Trumpeter Swans, Redheads, Ring-necked Duck were amongst the 15 species recorded 5 species of raptors - Red-tailed, Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks + Merlin and Northern Harrier Virginia Rail at Second Marsh and Sora and Moorhen at Cranberry Marsh 1 Great Horned Owl in Thickson's Woods 1 Chimney Swift at Rotary Park, Ajax 1 Marsh Wren at Second Marsh 1 Least Flycatcher and 3 Eastern Kingbirds at Second Marsh 2 Great Egrets and 3 BCN Herons at Second Marsh 1 Red-bellied Woodpecker and a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker at Thickson's Woods Blue-headed and Warbling Vireos 1 Orchard Oriole at Second Marsh + lots of Baltimores everywhere 1 BG Gnatcatcher at Hall's Rd and two at Cool Hollow (Second Marsh) 1 Swainson's Thrush at Thickson's Woods 11 species of warblers 8 species of sparrows including one Fox Sparrow at Thickson's Woods 3+ Bobolinks at Second Marsh 1 Eastern Meadowlark at Thickson's and Hwy 401 - an uncommon sighting in the city thx to all who came and endured my bad jokes. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Access to Port Perry Lagoons for 2011
Hi Everyone: I have been advised that the permits for the Port Perry/Nonquon sewage lagoons are now available - see instructions below. As always everyone needs their own permit for liability reasons. Have a great season! Permits must be purchased in advance of entering the lagoons. They cost $10.00 last year, don't know what the price is this year. The permits may be purchased at the Durham Region Transfer Site located at 1623 Reach Rd, Port Perry during the following business hours Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 6 p.m. To get to the transfer station, travel north on Hwy 12 past Port Perry [Hwy 7A] to the next traffic lights [Regional Road 8 = Reach Rd.] and travel east to #1623 on the north side of the road. The lagoons are located one road north of the transfer site east off Hwy 12 on Concession Rd. 8 [don't get confused as, despite the fact that these roads are both numbered "8", they are two different roads - one is a regional paved road, the other a dirt concession road.] Geoff Carpentier Ajax, Ontario www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Ross's Geese - Ajax
The Ross's Geese have moved to the Annandale Golf Course and seem to be happily settled in feeding with about 200 Canadas on the grass by the driving range. This is the second record for Ajax. Craig McLauchlan refound thes birds and called me and I was fortunate to see them about 20 minutes ago. For some photos I took of them follow this link ... https://picasaweb.google.com/Avocetnatureservices/RossSGooseAjaxMarch2011 >From 401 exit Brock Rd. in Pickering and go south to Bayly and then east to >Church then north for about 300 meters to the Annandale Golf Course. I asked >and received permission for birders to park in their parking lot and to walk >out onto the driving range. From the lot, walk south to the end of the parking >lot and then angle southeast across the top of the slope above the driving >range. The birds are sitting on the grass below (east) of you. They are a bit >skittish so pls don't approach too closely. Pls respect this private property. thx Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] White (Ross's?) Geese at Frenchman's Bay, Pickering - March 9/11
Terrie Smith and I saw two adult small white geese flying out of Frenchman's Bay going east (and then presumably north) with the Canadas at 8 a.m. today. I'm thinking these are the Ross's Geese Dan Kazinski saw there yesterday, but we didn't see the beak well enough to be sure. Their small size relative to the Canadas certainly put them in the right size range. Looks like they head our early to feed so if you try I suggest you come early (before 8) or later in the day. One first winter Iceland Gull stood out amongst the hundreds of gulls there. Exit 401 at White's Road, then south to Bayly then east to Liverpool then south to Commerce then west to Front then south for 25 meters to a parking lot on your right overlooking the bay. Lots of ducks and geese here. >From the east, exit 401 at Brock Rd and then south to Bayly then west to >Liverpool and follow directions as above. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Redpolls on the move? Ajax
For the last few days I've had mixed flocks of Common Redpolls and Pine Siskins moving through my yard in Ajax, mostly only in the a.m. but today they seem to be hanging around. Hard to tell if the same flock is coming every few days or if they're different birds, but the numbers vary and the mix of siskins to redpolls varies as well. Perhaps they're on their way through and fattening up for the trip north. lots of song now - mostly Cardinals and House Finches. Geoff Carpentier Ajax, ON Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Algonquin Feb 24th
Peter Hogenbirk and I visited Algonquin today the 24th. Somewhat different results from Norm's trip yesterday. Since we left home very early this morning, we didn't know about the Spruce Grouse locale nearer the parking lot where Norm had the birds yesterday, so looked in vain for over 3 hours in other areas. We did find evidence of at least 8 Spruce Grouse further along the Spruce Bog boardwalk, nearer the other suet feeder, along Opeongo Road in the spruce bog and along the spruce bogs on Arrowhon Road, but never actually saw any birds. We did see three Black-backed Woodpeckers along Opeongo Rd - a male near the gate and a pair near the north end of the spruce bog past the creek where it crosses the road. We also had 3 White-winged Crossbills there and four Gray Jays. It was great to Ian Shanahan and Dan Strickland here monitoring the Gray Jays. At Spruce Bog Trail we had 2 Boreal Chickadees, 2 Red Crossbills and 2 Gray Jays. We had two more Gray Jays in the west end of Whitney near the river and two along Arrowhon Road. Lots of Common Redpolls, one Evening Grosbeak, a few RB Nuthatches, one WB Nuthatch, lots of BC Chickadees, one Brown Creeper, many Blue Jays, Ravens, a Downy and 3 Hairies rounded out the day in the park. Only mammal of note was a Red Fox mousing near the East Gate. On the way home, we were fortunate enough to see Shirley's Donald's Orillia Pine Warbler on the way - gorgeous bird! Directions per Ron Tozer: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 recent bird sightings, feeders, and information. The centre and restaurant are open weekends from 10 am to 4 pm. During the week, birders may be able to enter the centre by the service entrance (far right as you face the building) to view the feeders. Contact staff for permission. Algonquin Park birding updates and information are available at:www.algonquinpark.on.ca Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Ajax Redpolls - Feb 22
I have a flock of redpolls visiting my feeder today for the first time in 2011. Included were 25-30 Southern Commons, 2 Greater Commons and 1 (and possibly 2) exilipes Hoaries. Ajax, ON Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Whitby Dark-mantled Gull
Eight birders studied the gull at Whitby harbour over the past hour. It was much closer than the day it was first observed, but still spent most of its time sleeping and behind other gulls. However it eventually came out into the open and offered good looks. Some of the features being observed may not be consistent with a Slaty-backed Gull. Several photos were taken today that will help tell the final story. The light is really tricky and the leg colour is literally changing as the bird turns toward or away from the light. At one time legs looks pale pink, then yellow then yellowish-legged with pink feet. Bizarre light. It's still an interesting bird, but ??? Whitby harbour is a the foot of Brock St. in Whitby. The mass of gulls is on the ice near the centre of the harbour. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Bohemian Waxwings and Red-shouldered Hawk - Pickering/Whitby - Jan 22nd
Following up on Doug Lockrey's report of Bohemians in north Pickering. Terrie Smith and I checked out the spot at S.R. 4 and Conc 8 where Doug had seen the birds yesterday and saw a Northern Shrike but no waxwings. We then travelled a north on S.R. 4 to the next road (County Rd 5 and drove east to the town of Balsam (about 1.5-2 km.) and on the east side of town we hit paydirt! 16 (at least) Bohemians and 35 Robins were feeding on buckthorn on the north side of the road - about 250 meters back in a small swampy area immediately north of the blue sign (Welcome to Balsam) at the east edge of town. At Whitby harbour we watched an immature plumaged Red-shouldered Hawk hunting just southeast of the bridge that crosses Pringle Creek. Lots of ducks in the harbour itself, including scaup, redheads, etc. Also one Iceland and one "Kumlien's" Gull (at least) in the mass of gulls resting on the ice. Directions: Bohemians - exit 401 at Westney and go north to Taunton Rd then east to Lakeridge and north to Cty Rd. 5 then west to the east edge of the Hamlet of Balsam. Red-shouldered Hawk - exit 401 at Brock St., Whitby and go south to where the bridge crosses the road just north of the harbour. Geoff Carpentier, Ajax www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Durham Waterfowl - Jan 9-10th
There are a few nice species of winter waterfowl in Durham right now: King Eider - seen today at channel leading into Oshawa harbour (Carpentier) Harlequin - I believe it was a first winter male but it was hard to be sure as it was sleeping during the observation period - today swimming with the eider (Carpentier) + one first winter male yesterday at Bowmanville harbour (Dennis Barry) and a male yesterday in Whitby harbour (LaForest) Barrow's Golden-eye - continues to be seen off the southwest part of Oshawa Second Marsh (Hoar) - yesterday Cackling Goose - one at foot of Hall's Road (Carpentier) and one off southwest Oshawa Second Marsh near the Barrow's (T. Hoar) - both yesterday Also today 2 Glaucous and one Iceland Gulls at Whitby harbour (Carpentier) Directions: Oshawa harbour: exit 401 at Simcoe St. and drive south to the lake and aprk - walka short distance east to the channel. Check the channel and the mouth as most of the harbour is now mostly frozen. Whitby harbour - exit 401 at Brock St., and go south to the harbour - birds are scattered in the open water inside the harbour Oshawa Second Marsh - exit 401 at exit 419 - go south on Farewell to Wentworth/Colonel By and then east to GM plant and then walk from southwest corner to lake and then west along the shore to where the creek enters - birds are offshore. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Barrow's Golden-eye and Lapland Longspurs in Oshawa/Courtice - Jan 7th
Peter Hogenbirk and I did a quick run through parts of eastern Durham Region this afternoon. Highlights included: 25+ Robins, 1 Northern Harrier, 25-30 Common Redpolls - Oshawa Second Marsh 1 Barrow's Golden-eye - off the beach south of Second Marsh 1 female Ruddy Duck - Oshawa harbour 11+ Lapland Longspurs, 200+ Horned Larks and 20+ Snow Buntings on Hancock Rd., Courtice - fresh manure was being spread - there likely were several more longspurs, but the birds were quite skittish, so it was hard to count them. Directions: Second Marsh - exit 401 at exit #419, south to Wentworth/Colonel By and then east to GM parking lot then walk trail from SW corner Hancock Rd - exit 401 at Courtice Rd., then go north to Bloor then east to Hancock and then north to the field opposite #2402. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] leucistic Canada Goose - Pickering - Jan 2nd
While doing the Pickering CBC yesterday, I saw a leucistic Canada Goose at the Sewage Treatment Plant. This may be the same bird I saw flying high over Ajax with a large flock of migrating Canadas on September 10, 2010. STP is located at the foot of Brock Rd. in Pickering. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Peregrine, Barrow's and sparrows at Oshawa Second Marsh
Peter Hogenbirk and I circled Oshawa Second Marsh today and found a few decent birds: 1 adult male Peregrine Falcon 1 adult male Barrow's Golden-eye on the lake near where Harmony Creek creek exits to Lake Ontario 2 White-crowned Sparrows (juvenile) 9 Swamp Sparrows 15+ Song Sparrows 50+ Tree Sparrows no sign of previously reported Marsh Wren or Catbird directions: exit 401 at exit 419 (Farewell St.) - and go south to Wentworth and then east to the GM parking lot. Follow the trail south to the lake and then circle the marsh - conditions for walking were excellent. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] repolls - ajax Dec 24th
It's been a very good day at my feeders - lots of birds! Two redpolls showed up at my Niger feeders in Ajax just now (2 p.m.) - one was a common and one a hoary (exilipes) - both were adult males - the clear unmarked undertail coverts, finely marked flanks, unmarked pinkish rump, pale pink upper breast and stubby bill were evident on the Hoary. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Peregrine in Ajax - dec 24th
An adult male Peregrine just buzzed a flock of about 15 robins in my yard in Ajax . The falcon flew northwest from here - all the robins are safe and should have a merry xmas after all! Good birding and Merry Xmas to all of you! Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Wood Thrush - Whitby - Dec 21st
I relocated the Wood Thrush at Lynde Shores Conservation Area in Whitby at 1:30 p.m. today Dec 21st. It was along the west side of the woodlot near the wire fence. When I saw it, it was foraging on the ground a bit east of the fence, near a mixed flock of robins, red-winged blackbirds and starlings. If coming from the west, Lynde Shores can be reached by exiting 401 at Salem Rd. and then going south to Victoria/Bayly and then east past Hall's Rd to the next parking lot on the right side of the road. Park here and follow the private road to the trail into the woods due south of the parking lot. If coming from the east, exit 401 at Brock St., then south to Victoria/Bayly then east to Lynde Shores. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Port Stanley Lagoons - today 8am
two ross's geese (adult and immature) 4 killdeer and 2 pipits ... no avocet. Directions: from county road 4 at north end of town turn right on warren street. follow through stop and turn righ on Scotch line. go 1km to viewing tower on your left ... killdeer in lagoon 1 and geese on berm between lagoons 2 and 3. thanks, G Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Cranberry Hawk watch - Golden Eagle and more - Nov. 24th
Today was gorgeous at Cranberry Marsh! Lots of great company at the hawk watch. Doug Lockrey even came by for a visit thx to Alan Woods and the miracle of Doug's wheel chair - what a great treat for all of us! A few late straggling hawks came through to brighten the day as well. Totals for the day: Turkey Vulture - 1 (quite late - latest ever for the watch?) Sharp-shinned Hawk - 4 Cooper's Hawk - 1 Red-tailed Hawk - 17 Rough-legged Hawk - 1 dark morph Golden Eagle - 1 (unknown age by Charlie Adey and Jim Skene just after I left for my nap! hmpff!) Among the 40 species observed today were a Horned Grebe, a Purple Finch, one Northern Shrike and a lone female Ring-necked Duck. Secret message to CM - "guess you don't owe me any money after all!" Hurry only 6 more hawk days left this year - go visit your local hawk watch NOW! Cranberry Marsh can be reached by exiting 401 at Salem and then south to Bayly then east to Hall's Road then south to south platform. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Northern Gannet - Whitby/Oshawa
Andrew Keaveney and Tim Scheider (spelling??) just called me to report a juvenile Northern Gannet off Whitby Point flying west towards Oshawa harbour. Ohawa harbour is south of the 401 on Simcoe St. to the lake. I'm posting on their behalf. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Cranberry Hawk Watch - Nov 17th
Well, I finally got my NW winds - strong enough to blow these puppies to Panama! A few birds were seen today, but it was very interesting to watch them as they struggled against the strong winds. Generally, they approached from the east, often 100-300 feet up, and occasionally higher. They were clearly trying to use the winds to reduce the energy loss, but despite their best efforts, they all eventually flapped a bit, soared a bit and then "coasted" downhill below treetop level and stayed at that altitude for several hundred meters and then climbed and did it all again, as they slowly moved westward. Numbers today: Cooper's Hawk - 3 Northern Harrier - 1 Red-tailed Hawk - 15 Rough-legged Hawk - 2 Other birds of interest - Snow Goose - 4, Fox Sparrow - 2, and Cackling Goose - 5 Rosemary Harris and Janice Melendez were the only hardy souls to join me at the watch. Cranberry is at the Foot of Hall's Rd. Exit 401 at Salem, south to Bayly, east to Hall's Road, south to south platform. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Cranberry Hawk Watch - Nov 10 - WW Crossbills, Evening Grosbeaks and several hawks ... 53 species of birds today
Despite unfavourable winds (that's 6 weeks in a row for me in case you're counting) ... 155 hawks were on the move today, albeit flying high and far to the north. But thanks to my keen-eyed compatriots we saw: 7 Turkey Vultures 1 Northern Harrier + 1 resident 3 Sharp-shinned Hawks + 1 resident 2 Cooper's Hawks 2 Northern Goshawks 134 Red-tailed Hawks 5 Rough-legged Hawks (2 light and 3 dark morphs) + 2 resident dark morphs 1 Merlin Amongst the 53 species of birds seen was some neat stuff: 8 Evening Grosbeaks (stopped by and sat over our heads for a few minutes - nice lighting for the photographers!) 16 WW Crossbills 4 Snow Geese 1 Virginia Rail 4 Cackling Geese 1 Gray Catbird 1 Northern Shrike Cranberry is at the foot of Hall's Rd in Whitby ... exit 401 at Salem, go south to Bayly, then east to Hall's Rd., then south to south platform on east side of road. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Cranberry Marsh Hawk Watch - Nove. 3/10 - hawks and much more ...
Today was sunny with light southerly winds and a falling barometer - about as bad as it gets for hawk watching - unless you're a hawk that just has to migrate! Hawks & Vultures: 7 Turkey Vultures, 1 Sharp-shinned, 1 Red-shouldered, 14 Red-tailed, 3 Rough-legged (2 light and one dark morph) and 1 Merlin. Amongst the 51 species seen today were: 1 White-winged Crossbill, 1 Pine Siskin, many Snow Buntings and several Lapland Longspurs, 1 Northern Shrike, 3 Fox Sparrows, 1 Wood Duck, 2 coots and one pipit. Not bad for a "hawkless" day! Directions: exit 401 at Salem Rd in Ajax and go south to Bayly then east to Hall's Rd then south to south platform. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Golden Eagles - Ajax
Two 1st fall Golden Eagles flew over my house today at 1:40 and 1:45 p.m. respectively. Later, 1 Merlin, 6 Red-shouldered, 1 Sharp-shinned and 25 Red-tailed Hawks were also seen overhead. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Cranberry Hawk Watch - Oct 27th
A quiet day at the watch with southwesterly winds all day ... no swallows (hmpff!) but we did see 54 species including 4 Snow Geese, 1 Blue-winged Teal, 3 Fox Sparrows, 2 pipits, 3 Rusty Blackbirds and 1 Purple Finch + 17 Turkey Vultures, 2 Sharp-shinned Hawks and 1 Merlin. Directions: exit 401 at Salem Rd in Ajax and go south to Bayly then east to Hall's Rd then south to south platform. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] OFO to Durham waterfront - October 24th
Despite heavy rain to start the outing, 7 hardy souls joined me as we birded the Durham waterfront. Tyler Hoar joined me for part of the adventure (unfortunately leaving just before we saw the loons (see below) :-) His knowledge and observational skills were most appreciated. We started at Lynde Shores woods where we found several most cooperative and hungry chickadees and sparrows at the feeders. As we worked through the woods we added Purple Finches, Fox Sparrow and Hermit Thrush. On the walk south toward Cranberry Marsh we had great looks at several Rusty Blackbirds, a phoebe, a catbird and many more Fox, White-throats and White-crowned Sparrows and a few more Hermit Thrushes. A Common Yellowthroat was in the tall weeds and about 6 deer sauntered across the road at one point. At Cranberry we added most of the expected puddle ducks plus Hooded and Common Mergansers and Bufflehead and Northern Harrier that was hunting the marsh. Back at the car we drove to Pringle Creek where Trumpeter and Mute Swans slept on flats and two Greater and three Lesser Yellowlegs allowed great opportunities to compare these confusing species. >From here we headed east to Oshawa Second Marsh, where we birded the main >marsh first adding lots of cormorants and Great Blue Herons, Pied-billed >Grebes, 47 coots, lots of puddle ducks including Wood Duck, a Marsh Wren, >pipits and several Swamp Sparrows. The fields nearby were jumping with >sparrows - Song, White-throated, White-crowned and a Chipping. A few >Yellow-rumped Warblers joined the melee and a Peregrine Falcon appeared >overhead looking for lunch in the marsh. Golden-crowned Kinglets offered great >up close views, with one male showing his orangey-red crest. In sleepy hollow >we added Winter Wren, Ruby-crowned Kinglet and a phoebe. As we neared the shore, things got exciting as I scoped for loons and grebes - first I found a winter plumaged Common Loon, then several White-winged Scoters and a few Long-tailed Ducks, plus hundreds of Red-breasted Mergansers. As I rescanned the area looking for grebes, a beautiful breeding plumaged Pacific Loon was suddenly directly in front of us. It dove repeatedly so was unfortunately not seen by the entire group. (I understand it was relocated later by other parties near Oshawa harbour). Then two loons flew into view going west to east - one was a Red-throated (winter plumage) and the other was not identified due to distance, but appeared to also be a Red-throated. >From here we went to Thickson's Woods where we added very little but did see >about 50 Pine Siskins, another Winter Wren and several Common Loons out on the >lake. Then it was off to Duffin's Creek in Ajax, where we added a single Surf >Scoter and a Killdeer. Total count for the day was 68 species - not bad for a rainy day! P.S. would the two brothers who left a bit early pls email me privately. Directions: Oshawa Second Marsh - exit 401 at exit 419 and proceed south on Farewell Drive to Wentworth then east to the SW corner of the GM parking lot. Thickson's Woods - exit from 401 south on Thickson's Rd and proceed to woods on your left side just before you get to the private cottages. Pringle Creek - exit 401 at Brock in Whitby and go south to the bridge over the Pringle Creek and you can see the mudflats on both sides of the road. Lynde Shores - from Pringle Creek, go north on Brock and turn west until you cross a large marsh. Lynde Shores C.A. is on your left and is well signed. Duffin's Creek - exit 401 at Westney (exit 401) and go south to Lake Driveway and then west and south around a long bend to Rotary Park on your right. Park near the pavilion and walk west to a foot bridge. The lake and marsh are visible from the bridge. Watch for cyclists please. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Pacific & Red-throated Loons, Oshawa
Geoff is doing an OFO walk today and just reported: We just (11:30am) had a breeding plummaged Pacific Loon, 1 winter plummaged Red-thorated Loon, 1 winter plummaged Common Loon, on Lake Ontario below Second Marsh. Directions: 401 to Oshawa, exit 419 south on Farewell to the first traffic lights (Wentworth) drive east to the GM parking lot follow trail to the west, and then straight south to Lake Ontario. Thanks, Kim (for Geoff) Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Golden Eagles - Hastings
My wife Kim and is saw two 2nd year Golden and one 1st fall Bald Eagle today at about 3 p.m. flying together in a southwesterly direction across the Trent River into Peterborough County, about 3 km downstream of the Village of Hastings. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Cranberry Hawk Watch - Cackling Geese, Great Egret, Peregrine, Goshawk, Rough-legged and more - Oct 20th
Despite the mostly southwest winds today, for a brief period they shifted to the NW and then W and then back to south producing a small flight. 56 species total including 11 Turkey Vultures, 2 Sharp-shinned, 1 Cooper's, 1 Goshawk, 1 light morph Rough-legged and 1 Peregrine. None raptors: 24 Cackling Geese in one noisy flock! 1 Great Egret wing tag 14A 2 Black-crowned Night-herons 1 blue morph Snow Goose 1 Blue-winged Teal 2 Pine Siskins 1 American Pipit 2 Common Loons A small flight of crows was evident shortly after 9 travelling west along the north edge of the marsh. Yesterday in Ajax, I had about 135 crows pass over in a 10 minute period at noon but then nothing. Non-birds: Green Darner (1) many Autumn Meadowhawks Cabbage White (2+) Clouded Sulphur (1) Monarch (1) Observers - a modest 9 persons Cranberry is at the foot of Hall's Rd. in Whitby - exit 401 at Salem Rd in Ajax and go south to Bayly then east to Hall's Rd then south to the south platform. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Evening Grosbeak and Sandhill Crane - Ajax
I had a single Evening Grosbeak and two Sandhill Cranes fly over my yard in Ajax today. The latter was #168 for the yard list. Also seen were 1 Pipit, 1 Fox Sparrow, several Purple Finches, one Northern Harrier, 3 Sharp-shinned Hawks, 1 Red-tailed Hawk, and two Red-shouldered Hawks. I'm never leaving home again! Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Coloured marked Great Egret and hawks at Cranberry
Today's flight was a bit confusing as the winds started light from the north then shifted to the SE and then the SW. One would have expected a modest flight on the north winds, which ended about 10 a.m. DST, but it was not forthcoming. When the winds shifted to the SE, the vultures started flying well to the north of Cranberry. At the same time a front was coming in from the NW at a higher altitude, so the birds were presumably following it leading edge. When the winds turned SW the flight stopped entirely. A colour marked Great Egret (fuchsia under both wings) was noted. The bird circled the marsh several times and then flew off to the northeast. 108 Turkey Vultures 4 Sharp-shinned Hawks 5 red-tailed Hawks 1 Merlin Other species: one each of Barn Swallow, Marsh Wren and Eastern Phoebe + a few Rusty Blackbirds amongst the 48 species observed. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] October 7, Cranberry Hawk Watch
Favourable winds and clear skies promised a great flight, that unfortunately it didn't materialize. A few birds amused the 15 or so people who attended the watch today for about 5.5 hours. 210 Turkey Vultures 1 Osprey 1 Northern Harrier 27 Sharp-shinned Hawks 1 Cooper's Hawk 11 Red-tailed Hawks 6 American Kestrels Other birds included two Barn Swallows and a Virginia Rail. Zillions (approximately) Green Darners and 3 Monarchs also razed the skies. Cranberry Marsh can be reached by exiting 401 at Salem Rd and going south to Bayly then east to Hall's Rd then south to the south paltform. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Blue Jay fall migration in Ontario
This message is approved by the coordinator of Ontbirds I am working on a paper on the Blue Jay fall migration in Ontario for Ontario Birds. I am seeking records detailing fall Blue Jay fights (exceeding 1000 individuals) on any given day in Ontario. I am looking for both current and historical sightings. Would you pls email me privately with the number, location, observer(s), flight direction and height and any other information that might be useful. Thoughts on which days are better for flights or which flight paths are chosen would also be helpful. thx Geoff Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] 3747 Blue Jays at Cranberry Hawk Watch - Sept 29th
53 species today at Cranberry in 4 hours today was great! ... unless you were looking for hawks ... 2 Sharp-shinned Hawks, 1 Cooper's Hawk, 1 Northern Harrier and 1 Osprey rounded out the hawks A personal high of 3747 Blue Jays passed overhead in 3 hours Other birds: R.T. Hummingbird, Northern Parula, Palm, Nashville, Yellow-rumped &.Nashville Warblers, 8 Moorhens, Virginia Rail, Pied-billed Grebe, Blue-winged Teal and Wilson's Snipe were seen. Cranberry can be reached by exiting 401 at Salem Rd in Ajax and going south to Bayly and then east to Hall's Road and then south to the south platform. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Cranberry Hawk Watch - Sept. 22/10
It was a quiet day today with only 10 hawks moving through in 4 .5 hours, but other spectacles were truly amazing. It was perhaps the best Monarch flight I think I've ever seen with many hundreds (thousands?) of them going though. At most times all through the observation period, 30-50m were in view as they streamed westward. Blue Jays also put on a spectacular flight, mostly between 9 and 11 a.m. EDT, when 2936 (actual count) flew through. Amongst the 63 species recorded today, other birds included Blackpoll, Chestnut-sided, Magnolia and Cape May Warblers, 13 bluebirds, pipits, Virginia Rail, 12 loons, Marsh Wren, Wilson's Snipe and a mostly leucistic Gadwall. Hawks included 5 Sharp-shinned, 1 Copper's, 3 Merlin and 1 American Kestrel + the usual local vultures and harriers. Cranberry is at the foot of Halls' Rd. in Whitby. Exit Brock St. from 401 and go south to Bayly and then west on Hall's Rd. and hen south to second platform. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Durham waterfront TOC outing - Sept 17
Today 10 birders joined me the Toronto Ornithological Club (TOC) outing along the Durham waterfront. We found 71 species of birds, one turtle (a very young Painted), several dragonfly species (nothing unusual) and many many hundreds of Monarchs + Viceroy, Red Admiral, Clouded Sulphur and Mourning Cloak. Birds included the ever-present White Pelican at Second Marsh, as well as several Pied-billed Grebes, American Wigeon and a Coot there. A Bald Eagle and osprey overhead were a treat. The Cranberry Hawk Watch was underwhelming due to unfavourable winds, but a few warblers were found. At Krosno Creek in Pickering we found several shorebirds, including about 5 Stilts, several Pectorals, lots of Lesser Yellowlegs, two Solitary Sandpipers. We also refound the previously reported Long-billed Dowitcher here. Just before the walk, when I was scooting the areas I found a red-necked Phalarope but could not locate it on the walk. At Duffin's Creek we added Northern Pintail, Trumpeter Swan, Merlin (one of several we saw today) and a latish Caspian Tern. Tomorrow's Durham TOC round-up premises to be good! Directions: Krosno Creek - exit 401 at White's Rd and go south to Bayly and then east to Sandy Beach Rd and then south until you cross over a small bridge. Park in the lot just south of there and follow the woodland trail along the creek until it opens up into a large mash. The shorebirds were all at the jct. of the creek and the marsh area. Duffin's Creek - continue east on Bayly to Westney and then south to Lake Driveway and follow this west and then south to Rotary Park. Go into the park and follow the waterfront trail westward (on foot) to the bridge - all the birds were seen near the bridge. Cranberry Hawk Watch - continue east on Bayly to Whitby and watch for Hall's rd. on your right, just after you pass Lakeridge Rd (Cty 23) and go south to south platform. Second Marsh ... go to Brock St in Whitby by following Bayly eastward and then take 401 east to exit 419 (Harmony and Bloor) and follow Farewell Rd south to Wentworth and then follow Wentworth east to GM parking lot. Te marsh is visible to your west. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Ajax hawks - Sept 17
I couldn't resist hawk watching today as the conditions this morning seemed perfect for a good flight. Between 9:30 a.m. and 1 p.m Terrie Smith and I watched the spectacle as 2205 hawks/vultures streamed over my house in Ajax. When the winds shifted south, the flight abruptly stopped. Included were: 2158 Broad-winged Hawks 26 Sharp-shinned Hawk (including one that "dropped in" to dine on one of my now ex-goldfinches) 4 Red-tailed Hawks 4 Bald Eagles (1, 2 and 3 year olds - no adults) 1 Osprey 3 American Kestrels 1 Merlin 1 Peregrine Falcon 7 Turkey Vultures Also seen were 2 pipits and a Philadelphia Vireo amongst sundry other birds Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Cranberry Hawkwatch - Sept. 15, 2010
A total of 2208 hawks were observed today on the gentle north west winds, flight pattern was scattered, everything from coming in directly off the lake, to following a north to south inland path, or more typical east to west path. About 30 observers watched the birds between 8:45am and 3:40pm EDT (7:45am - 2:45pm EST). The reason I am reporting both times to you is that hawkwatchers always report on standard time so that the reports across the country can better be compared. Turkey Vulture 35 Osprey 7 Bald Eagle 8 (2 adults, 6 young of the year) Northern Harrier 26 Sharp-shinned 301 Broad-winged 1712 Red-tailed Hawk 2 American Kestrel 109 Merlin 1 Peregrine Falcon 5 unidentified 2 Other interesting sightings included: 15 Common Loons, 1 Great Egret, 1 American Pipit, and the first young of the year White Crowned Sparrow. When I got home for my over-due nap, there was a Dark-eyed Junco first of the fall. Thanks, G Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Cranberry Hawk Watch - Sept 8th
63 species of birds today , including 11 species of raptors (6 birds total) Osprey 10 Bald Eagle 1 adult Sharp-shinned Hawk 19 Cooper's Hawk 1 Red-tailed 3 non-migrants Turkey Vulture 1 migrant + 4 non-migrants Broad-winged Hawk 1 Northern Harrier 4 migrants + two locals Merlin 1 American Kestrel 1 Peregrine Falcon 1 adult Unidentified raptor 1 Other species: 3 American Golden Plover, Solitary Sandpiper, 2 Pectoral Sandpiper, Wilson's Snipe, Virginia Rail, four species of swallow (Cliff, Barn, Tree and N. Rough-winged), Yellow-belled Flycatcher, Marsh Wren, American Bittern 124 monarch Butterflies about 20 birders and photographers stopped by to observe - thx to all Directions: Travel along Victoria St. 1 block east of Lakeridge Rd. turn south down Hall's Rd. toward the lakefront, park in the second roadside parking area; walk east to the platform. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Sora - A Very Strange Yard Bird Indeed!
While I sipped my morning coffee today on the deck, a sudden noise behind me caught my attention and there was a somewhat bedraggled Sora crouched down on my deck behind a flower pot. It quickly flew to the back part of my garden to resume its rest. #166 for the yard! Ajax, Ontario Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Dark Morph Adult Pomarine Jaeger - Presqu'ile P.P. - Sept 5
I had a dark morph adult Pomarine Jaeger at the Calf Pasture at Presqu'ile P.P. yesterday (Sept.. 5). It was a different bird than that reported by John Schmelefske on the beach, being almost totally chocolate brown and an adult still in breeding plumage. Details have been submitted to the Park for review. I was camping with friends at the park on the weekend and the onshore winds were magnificent (except when I was sleeping in my tent at our lakeshore campsite!) and continuous for over 40 hours. I also heard a report of a Sabine's Gull on Sept 4th at the Lighthouse, but haven't seen the details. In addition to shorebirds mentioned by Don Tyerman, there were two White-rumped Sandpipers at Owen's Point yesterday about 2 p.m. To reach Presqu'ile Provincial Park, exit the 401 at exit # 509 (Hwy 30) at Brighton. Go south and follow the signs through town. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Cranberry Hawk Watch - Sept. 1st
I spent two hours today at the Cranberry Hawk Watch but loneliness, the high humidity and 32C temperatures drove me to the comfort of home. I only saw one migrating raptor (an adult Bald Eagle), but did see hunting Cooper's Hawk, American Kestrel and a Northern Harrier - all were locals who have staked out territories for awhile at Cranberry, so are not recorded as migrants. What does one do at a hawkatch when it's that hot and the hawks aren't flying? well ... one observes: 42 species of birds, 3 butterflies and 3 dragonflies amused me. Best birds were: Virginia Rail, Marsh Wren, 21 Bobolinks, Solitary Sandpiper, Blackpoll Warbler and Blue-grey Gnatcatcher. The following species were in full song: Northern Cardinal, Swamp Sparrow, Virginia Rail, Mourning Dove, Marsh Wren and Song Sparrow - not as rare as one would think, but this was a very good mix of songsters! Interactions between species is common, especially during migration as many birds compete for food and cover. This is a partial list of what I observed: a Green Darner (a dragonfly for those who don't study these creatures) aggressively chased a Ruby-throated Hummingbird away from the jewelweed that the dragonfly had been hunting; a cardinal confronted a mourning dove that was hogging a feeder - the cardinal made a sound best described as a grunt -never heard one do this before - it did this repeatedly but the dove never gave up its seat! one hummingbird chased everything in sight - it undertook a very aggressive display against a Nashville Warbler - the interaction was really interesting as the hummer would repeatedly fly sideways and up and down (sort of like a pendulum) in front of the warbler. The latter was clearly disturbed by the repeated challenges by the hummer over a 2-3 minute period. After a few minutes, the hummer was distracted by two other hummers and went on a chaotic chase after them. In the absence of the hummer, the warbler snuck off to a more peaceful place! and you thought nothing happens on hot days! and a reminder - Doug Lockrey has served the hawkwatch admirably for many years and of late is not as mobile as he would like. Pls remember to enter the data you see on one of the recording sheets available at the site. I know that people were there yesterday, but no data was recorded - remember if you see something of interest and no one is writing it down, then the data is lost forever - pls do your part! Cranberry Marsh can be reached by exiting 401 at Salem Rd in Ajax going south to Bayly St and then east to Hall's Road and then south to the south platform trail. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Shorebirds, Frenchman's Bay, Pickering
Peter Hogenbirk and I waded through the knee deep mud and water to view the shorebirds at Frenchman's Bay today at 11 - not as bad as it sounds but the water definitely is high so be prepared to get wet! But it was worth it : 2 Red Knots 2 Semi-palmated Plover 2 Killdeer 3 Baird's Sandpipers 6 Stilt Sandpipers 9 Semi-palmated Sandpipers 7 Least Sandpipers 1 Solitary Sandpiper 3 Lesser Yellowlegs 1 Spotted Sandpiper Aging was difficult as most of the birds were backlit ... Directions: Exit 401 at White's Road and go south to Bayly then east until you see the Gingerbread Centre (a low brown building all by itself in a large parking lot) on your right... park in their parking lot and walk east from the SE edge of the parking lot and follow the trail to the marsh then along the creek (you're wading in water now) to the mud flats where the creek meets Frenchman's Bay. The birds are very accommodating. Lots of dragonflies for the Odonaters (??) out there! Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Durham and Carden Alvar - Aug 22
I birded the Durham shore, Port Perry and Cannington lagoons and Wylie Rd on the Carden Alvar yesterday, showcasing our birds to a visiting Ozzie birder, Bruce Wedderburn. We found just over 100 species despite the early morning heavy rains and scattered showers throughout the day. Highlights included: An amazing 8 Green Herons at Cannington lagoons and two more at Jim's Pond, Second Marsh Two Great Egrets at Second Marsh + two more at Duffin's Creek in Ajax Greater (1) and Lesser (5) Yellowlegs and 2 Solitary Sandpipers at Jim's Pond 12+ Lesser Yellowlegs, 1 Least Sandpiper and 1 Juvenile Stilt Sandpiper at Port Perry lagoons 15+ Black Terns at Port Perry 5 Merlins (2 at Port Perry, 2 at Cannington and one on Alvar rd, Carden) 2 Sedge Wrens at Sedge Wren Marsh (where else?) on Wylie Rd., Carden 1 Marsh Wren at Port Perry lagoons small numbers of warblers and vireos scattered along lakeshore and at Cannington, including one Philadelphia Vireo at Cranberry Marsh and Blackpoll Warbler at Sleepy Hollow, Second Marsh The ever present White Pelican and young male orchard Oriole at Second Marsh viewing platform 2 Moorhens at Cranberry Marsh and two more at Cannington 2 Common Terns at Duffn's Creek 1 Grasshopper Sparrow on Wylie Rd. 1 Indigo Bunting and several Bobolinks at Jim's Pond Pewee, Least, Great-crested and Alder Flycatcher at Sleepy Hollow Northern Mockingbird at Whitby harbour 2 Purple Finches at Cannington lagoons Since we visited so many places, pls email me privately for directions ... Cannington lagoons are located just east of the town of Cannington on the main road. Exit NE on the "Rail Trail" and drive about 100 meters and the laneway to the lagoons which are straight ahead through the gate. Note that gates are almost always closed so access may be difficult. Port Perry requires that you have a valid permit. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Beeton Sod farms and Scissor-tailed Flycacther
Well I finally gave in and made the trek to see these wonderful birds. At Beeton Sod farms - 2 juv. Buff-breasted Sandp. 10+ Baird's Sandp. 15+ Black-bellied and 5 Golden Plovers + 2 Semi-palmated Plover and 15+ Least Sandpipers. The flycatcher finally showed itself at about 4 p.m. - it was SW of the plaque noted in previous posts. From parking lot, walk west/northwest to the plaque and then go west on the trail that leads in that direction, follow it around to the south and just where it meets another trail coming from the west, we found the bird after about 1.5 hrs of searching. It seemed to come from further south as we did not see it when we first arrived. When we left it had moved in a southerly direction but was soon lost from sight. Lots of other birds to amuse you - many bobolinks in the tall weeds, osprey, harrier, merlin, pied-billed grebes, 12 great egrets, BCN Heron, American Bittern, etc. Direction: Sod farms - To get there go north from Hwy 9 or south from Hwy 89 on the Tottenham Road. Count the concession roads until you get to the 11th concession and turn east. Go about 1 km and look to the north on a large partially de-sodded/reseeded field. The desodded field to the southwest of it also had many sandpipers and plovers. Monticello flycatcher - > Luther Marsh/Lake is located north of Rd 109 approx. half way between Arthur and Orangeville. From the only intersection in Monticello, go south until you see a bird blind on the west side of the road. Go a short distance past this and park in the small marked parking area on the west side. Walk to the west/northwest until you see a plaque on a stone cairn and then follow my directions above for more details where we saw the bird today. Peter Hogenbirk and Terrie Smith accompanied me on this wonderful birding adventure. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] White Pelican - Oshawa - Aug 10th
I watched the White Pelican at length yesterday as it was feeding. I couldn't see exactly what it was catching, but its behaviour seemed interesting (at least to me) ... It was swimming in shallow water which appeared to be less than 10" deep based on cormorants and herons standing nearby. It would repeatedly dip its closed bill in the water by first stretching its neck out and then drawing it back towards its chest through the water, as if it was dredging. On several occasions, the end of the bill carried some muddy weed fragments when it was pulled out of the water, indicating that it was being submerged to or near the bottom of the lake bed. On about 1 out of 5 tries on average, it caught something and then with a quick upward flip of the bill swallowed it. The prey was never airborne as it was being flipped into the pouch (i.e. visible to the eye) and must have been quite small for I never once saw what it was, despite watching the bird catch over 25 prey items! It repeated the "dredging" manoeuvre as frequently as once/second in short bursts of 5-6 times, then rested for 30-120 seconds and repeated the process. It was still hunting when I left. The literature speaks of salamanders, fish, crustaceans, crayfish and the like as food. Was it scraping the shallow mud to dislodge small molluscs or crayfish? - not sure, but I don't think it was catching fish as I would think the bill would have been used more like a shovel than a dredge if that was the case. Any thoughts? email me privately pls. Directions: Exit 401 at Harmony Rd and proceed due south to Wentworth and then east to GM parking lot. Second Marsh is on your right. Bird is visible from platform on east shore of the marsh. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Prairie Warblers on the move in Georgian Bay
I had the opportunity to spend the last four days on a private island on Twelve Mile Bay near Georgian Bay Islands N.P. Many warblers and vireos were aggressively feeding on the 2.8 acre site. Amongst them were several Prairie Warblers, both adult and immature. Friday July 30th - 2 immatures seen feeding with mixed flcok of warblers Saturday, July 31st - 2 adults and 3 immatures (at least) - two flew off to the SE and did not return - unknown age class Sunday, August 1st - 3 adults, 2+ immatures - 2 flew off to SE and did not return - unknown age class Monday, August 2nd - 1 immature feeding with mixed flock of warblers. Twelve Mile Bay is located off hwy 400 south of Parry Sound. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Osprey - post season dispersal or migration? - Pickering July 22nd
I watched two adult Osprey moving SW today in downtown Pickering at 11 a.m. calling all the while. They were not local nesters as none nest in the south of Durham Region. They were likely post breeding individuals wandering slowly southward. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] black-bellied whistling duck in PEC
Today at 6:30a.m. Terrie Smith and I found the duck, no problem - directions are as per below. Thanks, G Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com Directions: From the west end of Picton at the traffic lights take Lake Street from the LCBO and follow south (Lake Street becomes County Road 10) to Cherry Valley. At the Stop sign in Cherry Valley, turn left and follow C.R. 10 for another 6 km to Milford. Upon reaching Milford, turn left at the Stop sign, then right again at the post office in Milford, and continue on C.R. 10 for about 2 km. and the ponds are on the bend of the highway almost across from the intersection of Royal Road. In brief, stay on C.R. 10 ! ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Red Efts, Chick-wills-widow and Acadian Flycatcher - June 23rd
Didn't see a post in a while ... Peter Hogenbirk and I did a run for the Acadian Flycatcher yesterday (June 23) and were immediately successful in hearing and seeing it. On the walk into the woods we saw 9 Red Efts (land form of the Red-spotted Newt) - most I've ever seen in a day. They do not move out of the way so be careful not to trample them please. We were very lucky as the rain stopped at 9 p.m. and started again about 9:45 - just enough of a window for the bird to start calling. We heard the Chuck-wills-Widow at Carden at 9:13 p.m. and it was still calling at 9:33 when we left. It is very buggy there now so bring bug juice! A whip-poor-will briefly joined the chorus about 9:20. Directions: Chuck-wills-widow: From Kirkfield, take Hwy 48 east for about 3 km, turn left onto Victoria Road (aka City Road 35), go about 3 km north then right (east) onto Doyle Road. After about 1.5 km after you cross under the hydro lines start listening for the bird; if you get to the sharp left bend in the road, you have gone too far. Acadian Flycatcher: Directions - 400 Hwy N to King Sideroad, W to 7th Concession, N to where it stops at 16th Sideroad. Turn right and follow this road for ~1km until it ends at a cul-d-sac where the well marked narrow trail starts on north side of parking area - pass through narrow fenced trail entrance and walk about 2-300 meters to where a very small creek bed runs parallel to the trail and look and listen. Bird is very vocal. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Hwy birds and a Cardinal Sin
Ontbirds is understandably full of migratory bird news but I thought I'd share a couple of observations of interest (at last to me) ... 1. "My" male cardinal was taken by a sharp-shinned hawk a few days. The female seemed forlorn for a day and called him repeatedly on day 1. On day 2 she called for him more vociferously. On day 3 - 3 new males had shown up vying for the now vacant territory. On day 4 one entered our yard and started a cautious courtship. On day 5 they flew about for a few minutes together but she still seemed distracted. By day 7 they were paired and he now fought off all rivals. Love is never forever if you're a cardinal I guess. 2. Yesterday on the 401 I watched a Rock Pigeon get hit by a car and flutter to the pavement. A red-tailed hawk came out of nowhere and swooped low over the cars and down on the road, grabbing it and flying off with dinner. A dangerous move but it successfully dodged the racing cars. 3. A kamikaze Canada Goose stood on the inside lane 401 near Cambridge as we drove back from Pelee yesterday. Somehow, a dozen cars missed it and each other as it WALKED (somewhat in a panic I must admit) to the south shoulder, crossing 2.5 lanes of traffic, dodging all the cars successfully. Congrats to talk the drivers who took evasive action and managed to avoid killing this surely doomed goose. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Oshawa Second Marsh & Cool Hollow - shorebirds, vireos, etc
I spent about an hour at Second Marsh and Cool Hollow today looking for the Harris's Sparrow but was unsuccessful. It is a huge area and the bird could very likely still be around though. Lots of White-crowned and White-throated Sparrows for company. Saw a Lincoln's sparrow, 2 Least Flycatchers, 1 Yellow-throated Vireo, Cedar Waxwing, Grey Catbird, gnatcatchers, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Warbling Vireo, and several warblers in Cool Hollow. At Second Marsh, two adult Little Gulls entertained and several Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs, 1 Black-bellied Plover, 1 Wilson's Phalarope and several Dunlin were on the flats. Both places can be reached by exiting 401 at Bloor St and heading south to Wentworth then left to the GM building. Cool follow is located south of the building and the marsh is west. Enter by the footpath at the SW corner of the parking lot. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] No Harris's Sparrow at Second Marsh, Oshawa at 3:30 p.m.
I went looking for the Harris's Sparrow reported earlier by Tyler Hoar but was unsuccessful. I did find Chimney Swift, Lincoln's Sparrow, Redstart and several Common Terns. Shorebirds were too distant and backlit to be sure of ID but it looked like a dowitcher and 3 Wilson's Phalaropes were out on the flats with Dunlin and both Yellowlegs. Directions: Exit 401 at Bloor St, Oshawa and go south to Wentworth then east to GM parking lot. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Long-billed Dowitcher - Stoney Creek
Last night after a day of hawk watching at Beamer, Terrie Smith and I stopped at the 10th line in Stoney Creek and saw the bird about 5:30 p.m. - excellent views in the evening sunlight. As we watched form the main trial, I was dismayed to see four photographers, wading in the ponded area (one with shoes and socks off) stalking the bird to get their shots. As we arrived the bird was in taller vegetation and the photographers approached it until it flew to a more open area. It is my understanding from personal communications with several photographers that many photographers now monitor Ontbirds to find out where rare/uncommon birds are being found. If you (birders or photographers) choose to go see something reported on Ontbirds please respect the Ontario Field Ornithologists Code of Ethics. If you're unsure what these are pls visit OFOs website at http://www.ofo.ca/aboutus/ethics.php Directions: 10th road is located on the Niagara escarpment between Grimsby and Stoney Creek. Directions below are provided by a local Model Plane Flying place which is located on 10th Road. >From the QEW either Toronto or Niagara bound exit at fifty road and turn south >directly up the mountain. Once on the top of the mountain you will come to a >stop sign at Ridge road. Turn right approximately 1 km to the first road you >come to on the left ( 10th road), turn left and follow approximately 1 km to >field on left side. >From Mud St either direction turn north on 10th road to Green Mountain, slight >jog right then left again on 10th. Go past quarry on left down a small hill >field located on right side at bottom of hill. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Access to Port Perry Lagoons 2010
Hi All: I have been advised that the permits for the Port Perry/Nonquon sewage lagoons are now available - see instructions below. As always everyone needs their own permit for liability reasons. Have a great season! Permits must be purchased in advance of entering the lagoons. They cost $10.00 now due to an increase approved by Regional council. The permits may be purchased at the Durham Region Transfer Site located at 1623 Reach Rd, Port Perry during the following business hours Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 6 p.m. To get to the transfer station, travel north on Hwy 12 past Port Perry [Hwy 7A] to the next traffic lights [Regional Road 8 = Reach Rd.] and travel east to #1623 on the north side of the road. The lagoons are located one road north of the transfer site east off Hwy 12 on Concession Rd. 8 [don't get confused as, despite the fact that these roads are both numbered "8", they are two different roads - one is a regional paved road, the other a dirt concession road.] The code on the gate has also been changed, it is now 2135. Geoff Carpentier Ajax, Ontario www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/ ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Ressor geese and more - April 6th
Terrie Smith and I went to Reesor Pond to look for the Ross's Goose but were unsuccessful. We stayed until dark when all the geese had presumably returned. We did see two adult Blue and one adult Snow Goose and a female Canvasback. In the field to the east a lone Savannah Sparrow sang. Reesor Pond lies just north of Hwy 407 on Reesor Road in Markham Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] grebes and a swallow at Saddlington Park, Port Credit
Following up on the previous reports of the Western Grebe, I tried for the bird yesterday afternoon but failed. I did see 38 Red-necked Grebes and 6 Horner Grebes and one lonely Tree Swallow. Saddlington Park can be reached by exiting QEW from either Mississauga Road or Hurontario. Go south on either and turn left from Mississauga or right from Hurontario when you reach Lakeshore DR. then go south on Front St South to the park. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Carolina Wren - Ajax - Mar 24th
On a chilly morning I was greeted by a singing Carolina wren in my garden today. Hopefully it will find love and stay. Ravenscrot Rd., Ajax Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
Fw: [Ontbirds] correction re Palgrave buntings etc.
addresses for buntings and larks should read 14684 and 14685 Hwy 50 which are across the street from each other - sorry for the confusion. G Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com - Original Message - From: "Geoff - Birds" To: "OntBirds" Sent: Tuesday, March 02, 2010 3:20 PM Subject: [Ontbirds] bohemians and harlequins etc. - March 2 Terrie Smith and I followed the trail left by others and found 12 Bohemian Waxwings in Palgrave at 14 Birch St. feeding on juniper berries in the front yard. We then headed south on Hwy 50 and at #14684 and #14865 Hwy 50 found a farmer spreading fresh manure on both sides of the road .. 300+ Snow Buntings and 4 Horned Larks enjoyed the feast. I suspect that in a couple of days, one might look for Longspurs here as well, although we couldn't find any today. At Port Credit, the Harlequins (male + 2 females) were well offshore to the west of the gazebo (foot of Hurontario St.) near the south edge of the rocky peninsula which is visible from the gazebo. One Yellow-rumped Warbler frolicked on the shore east of the gazebo and the Pied-billed Grebe was easily found with the Trumpeter Swans at the mouth of the Credit River. If you need directions, pls email me privately Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/ ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] bohemians and harlequins etc. - March 2
Terrie Smith and I followed the trail left by others and found 12 Bohemian Waxwings in Palgrave at 14 Birch St. feeding on juniper berries in the front yard. We then headed south on Hwy 50 and at #14684 and #14865 Hwy 50 found a farmer spreading fresh manure on both sides of the road .. 300+ Snow Buntings and 4 Horned Larks enjoyed the feast. I suspect that in a couple of days, one might look for Longspurs here as well, although we couldn't find any today. At Port Credit, the Harlequins (male + 2 females) were well offshore to the west of the gazebo (foot of Hurontario St.) near the south edge of the rocky peninsula which is visible from the gazebo. One Yellow-rumped Warbler frolicked on the shore east of the gazebo and the Pied-billed Grebe was easily found with the Trumpeter Swans at the mouth of the Credit River. If you need directions, pls email me privately Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Cooper's hawk - courtship flight - Ajax
My Cooper's Hawks (both male and female) have loosely defended their nesting territory all winter near my house. They have let a Sharp-shinned Hawk hunt my yard periodically and have tolerated a Red-tailed Hawk low overhead on at least two occasions. Today the male was doing a beautiful display flight over my house. Spring is near! Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] In Memoriam - Bill Stone, Bailieboro Onatrio
It is with sadness that I must report the passing of my dear friend Bill Stone after a long battle with cancer. A quiet and gentle man, he was well-known on the international circuit as a nature guide and locally, as he contributed significantly to the chronicling of the wildlife of the Rice Lake area. I will think of Bill each spring - he used to call me every April so I could be the first to hear "his" purple martins as they returned his martin houses at Rice Lake. Service will be held on March 5th, 2 p.m. Bailieboro. If you require additional details, pls email me privately. Thank-you Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Varied Thrush, Scoters, King Eiders, SE Owl, and breeding season has begun - Feb 15
Terrie Smith and I did a long birding run and saw the Varied Thrush at 10:15 today. Then we drove to Hamilton where we saw 15 Black Scoters, 100+ Surf Scoters, 75+ WW Scoters, 2 female King Eiders - between McNeilly Rd. and Aquamarine Dr ( which is a new road just west of McNeilly). At Redhill Creek we had all the usual ducks + an immature Black-crowned Night-heron. We ended the day at Hall's Rd. in Whitby, where we watched the geese coming in to roost by the 1000s. As a bonus we added a Short-eared Owl sitting in a tree by the shore. Evidence of breeding: singing House Finch in my yard; Black Scoters displaying to each other on McNeilly Rd. and of the 61 Red-tailed Hawks we saw today, 5 were paired - spring is here sort of! If you need directions to any of these places pls email me privately. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Hamilton - Niagara Feb 7th
Dying to see "George" the non-Barnacle Goose at Grimsby (yes I know there was a real one!), Dave McDonald (visiting birder from Texas) and I did the cold trek to Hamilton and Niagara yesterday. First - yes we did see George but not the real Barnacle Goose Lift Bridge - Burlington - one Peregrine eating breakfast Fruitland Rd.- 3 female King Eiders and White-winged and Surf Scoters McNeilly Rd - 1 King Eider and all three scoters (including 6 Blacks) Burlington Canal - too windy to walk out to mouth and part by lift bridge was closed due to construction Redhill Creek- usual suspects but no Wood Duck or Night-herons Niagara - breakwall above the falls - 1 glaucous (first winter), 1 Iceland (subadult) and two Kumlien's (adult and subadult) and one Thayer's (first winter) Adam Beck - two Kumliens (adult and subadult) and 4-5 Icelands (various ages) Queenston - the only Bonies of the day, one first winter Glaucous and one adult Little Gull then we went inland looking for land birds but didn't find much worth reporting. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Whitby Gulls - Feb 2/10
Today from 3:00-3:45 I studied a fairly large flock of gulls roosting in Whitby harbour. Amongst the many Herring, Ring-billed and Great Black-backed were three gulls of interest. One was a third or fourth winter California Gull - virtually identical to plate 24.24 in Peterson's "Gulls of the Americas"; one was a first winter Thayer's Gull and one was a first winter Glaucous Gull. I did not find the previously reported Lesser Black-backed Gull. Directions: Exit 401 at Brock St. in Whitby, go south to Victoria St and then west to Gordon and then south to a small parking area on your left (east) ... park your car and walk to the ice edge with a scope. The birds roost here late in the day virtually every day. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
Fw: [Ontbirds] Phainopepla Continues in Brampton
it was still there at 2:20 feeding low on berries (92 Addington) and sitting high one house east. - about 2:35 it flew off to the north and others went in search - not sure if they found it ... Directions: From the intersection of Dixie Road & Steeles Avenue in Brampton, go north on Dixie to Birchbank Rd, turn right here to the stop sign where you turn left on Avondale Blvd, Addington Crescent is the 4th street on the right, turn here and park either here or on Ascot Ave or Aberdeen Cres. if you're so inclined pls check out my website re my new book. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Eagles - Ajax
Today at 2:45 an immature Golden Eagle flew over my house, followed two minutes later by an immature Bald Eagle, a Red-tailed Hawk and a Sharpie ... Ravenscroft Rd. Ajax Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Blackpoll Warbler, Whitby
After a quiet day at the Cranberry Hawk Watch, I went off in search of a large shorebird I had seen flying down Lynde Creek and found instead a Blackpoll Warbler with a small flock of Yellow-rumped Warblers at the mouth of Lynde Creek in Whitby. Back to the shorebird - it was seen from the platform at Cranberry flying south along Lynde Creek, but the distance was too great to identify it, except to say it was large, had a long straightish bill and was not boldly pattered. It may have been a godwit but I'm not sure ... hopefully someone can relocate it soon. Directions: 401 to Brock Rd in Whitby then south to Bayly/Victoria and then west across a large marsh (Lynde Creek) and turn into Lynde Creek Conservation Area paring lot. Walk trail to lake which follows west side of Lynde Creek. If you're so inclined check out my new book "Antarctica - First Journey" on my website - thx Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Golden and Bald Eagle, Brant - Ajax
Today I did a bit if "Chawking" (you will recall this is pretending to do yard chores while actually hawkwatching ... 200+ Brant flew over at 10:00 a.m. (new yard bird - wahoo!) Golden Eagle - 3 immature together at 11:20 Bald Eagle - one adult at 1:10 Red-tailed Hawk - 59 Sharp-shinned Hawk - 1 Northern Goshawk - 1 all from my yard on Ravenscroft Rd., Ajax if you're so inclined check out my new book "Antarctica - First Journey" on my website Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Update on Brant - Ajax - 2p.m.
The brant reported earlier today by Lisa Klue had moved about 1/2 km eastward - just east of Harwood Ave and the Water Treatment plant - right on the grass by the edge of Lake Driveway. There were 3 adult and 3 immatures. Exit 401 at Westney and go south to Lake Driveway, then follow it to the shore and then eastwards to Harwood and then the Water Plant is just beyond that intersection. +++ If you are so inclined, please check out my website to see details of my new book "Antarctica - First Journey". Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/ ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Brant - Ajax
Reporting for Lisa Klue - My husband and I saw a Brant at the lake front (near Love Cres. Ajax) on Sunday. My husband walked today and saw 6 Brant in the same location. Love Crescent is located along the waterfront in Ajax - Exit 401 at Westney and go south to Lake Driveway, then follow it to the shore and then eastwards to Love Crescent. +++ If you are so inclined, please check out my website to see details of my new book "Antarctica - First Journey". Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Hudsonian Godwit - Duffin's Creek, Ajax
Today, the juvenile Hudsonian Godwit was feeding on the mudflats near the mouth of Duffin's Creek, Ajax. It was with 3 Least Sandpipers and many Green-winged Teals. Directions: 401 to Westney Rd., exit south and follow until you reach Lake Driveway, then turn right and follow it to Rotary Park. The mudflats are to the west and the trail follows the shore. The bird was visible from the western end of the bridge over Duffin's Creek on the north side. If you are so inclined, please check out my website to see details of my new book about Antarctica. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] lost camera lens cap in Oshawa/Whitby
If anyone finds a camera lens cap for my Sony camera pls email me privately. It was likely lost at either Lynde Creek in Whitby or Oshawa Second Marsh yesterday - black with an orange lower case "a" on it ... Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Carolina Wren, Ajax
A Carolina Wren visited by yard today singing almost continuously through most of the afternoon. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Ajax migrants - osprey with dirty feet and a bird flies backwards
Intrigued? Well here goes - migrants are drifting through - a few warblers (Yellow and Redstart), vireos (Red-eyed and Warbling), Baltimore Orioles in northcentral Ajax and and several Purple Martins along the waterfront today. Yesterday, I watched a Cedar Waxwing pair feeding on some small moths in a Manitoba Maple near my house. They were foraging by gleaning and by flycatching. What was most interesting was that one of them actually flew backwards for about a metre as it lined up to pursue a fleeing moth. This wasn't a glide or free fall, not a side slip and not a wind driven reaction, but actual and deliberate level flight backwards. Interesting to watch as I've never seen a waxwing do this before. And near Hastings (yesterday) I watched an Osprey presumably cleaning its talons. It would fly about 15 metres above the water and then glide down, with both sets of talons clenched like a fist, and drag them in the water for about 10 metres. It would then flap and gain altitude and do it again. It repeated this over 10 times in succession and then gave its entire body a shake and flew away. The reason for the behaviour was unclear, but it could have been to soothe sore feet (???) or to clean them of fish debris. It was not carrying any visible prey so it was not trying to clean a fish or drown something. It was not bathing itself as only the talons were immersed, never the belly or breast. Any thoughts? email me privately please. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Carolina Wren - Ajax
I had a Carolina Wren in my yard this evening in Ajax ... first time ever for the yard #162! Never common in Durham, these little guys are notorious wanderers - nice that he chose my place this time! Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Fall migrant warblers, etc ... + new Ajax bird list
I was up on the Trent River today near Hastings in Northumberland County. Over the course of a couple of hours several small waves of migrant passerines were moving southwards towards Rice Lake. Included were Warbling Vireo, Ovenbird, Am . Redstart, Northern Waterthush and YB Sapsuckers + others that got past before I could grab my bins from the car. I guess the migration has begun! On another note, I was asked by the Town of Ajax to help them develop a birding page on the website and to compile an annotated bird checklist. I have done so and if you're interested pls go to http://www.townofajax.com/Page3707.aspx to check it out. This is very progressive of the Town and it's nice to see a municipality put value on birds and nature in their community. If you find any errors or can provide additional info pls email me privately. The posting of this information was approved by the Ontbirds convenor. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Cooper's hawks - successful neting season
My Ajax Cooper's Hawks (well actually they're really mine, but I claim them anyways as they nest virtually in my backyard) have successfully fledged young again this year. The nest now at least 3 years old has successfully produced young every year. This year at least two females fledged, but there could be more as they are still somewhat secretive, albeit boisterous in their vocalizations. Ajax, Ontario Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Carden Alvar - June 25th
Terrie Smith and I did our 3rd run to Carden for the Grassland Survey study. We had a lot of song, but most interesting were 24 Upland Sandpipers along Cty Rd 6 and Wylie Rd, 10+ Grasshopper Sparrows and 3 Clay-coloured Sparrows amongst the usual suspects. No sedge Wrens at the Sedge Marsh but one was singling near the junction of Wylie and McNamee Rds. But where are the kestrels? I've been up to the alvar 6 times this spring and have not seen one kestrel. I know some are about but this is a bit scary! Are they also suffering some serious decline in numbers? Lots of butterflies today, along Wylie Rd in particular, including a massive emergence of hundreds of Skippers (European - I think - still struggling to identify these pesky skippers so pls bear with me!) + White Admirals (lots), Monarch Butterfly (pay attention Don Davis!), Mourning Cloak, a couple of Bronze Coppers and several Canadian Tiger Swallowtails. Also of note, my resident Cooper's Hawks (Ajax) have suddenly become more visible as the young grow - both male and female being visible nearly every day carrying food to the nest. Most interesting was my wife's observation of the female carrying nest material presumably to repair the nest as the rambunctious youngsters do damage. Last year she (the Cooper's not my wife) was seen to do the same nest repair on July 13th. Geoff Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Darlington & Second Marsh - Am. Tree Sparrow and shorebirds
I did a run to Darlington Barrier Beach and Oshawa's Second Marsh this morning. No migrants to speak of (except some shorebirds) but an American Tree Sparrow was a huge surprise. A Long-tailed Duck, several Common Loons and many RB Mergansers were found as well. Shorebirds included 1 White-rumped Sandpiper, 1 Ruddy Turnstone, 7 Dunlin, 17 Semi-palmated Plovers and 68 Least/SP Sandpipers (the latter were every active and getting an accurate count was difficult - majority of these were SP Sandp.). Directions: Second Marsh and Darlington Barrier Beach can be accessed off the 401 at the Harmony Rd. Exit (419) in Oshawa. Go south on Farewell St. Colonel Sam Drive. Turn East onto Colonel Sam Drive and follow to the parking lot at the GM Headquarters. Park in the west parking lot close to the marsh. The east (GM) platform is visible from the NW corner of the lot. Geoffrey Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Darlington Update re Piping Plover
Piping Plover still there at 11:30 - feeding actively on beach near old boathouse. Lots of sandpipers - more than Tyler reported plus one White-rumped. Also 7 Arctic Terns flew by at 11:35 (3) and 11:40 (4) - one was vocalizing. In the Hollow - lots of warblers including several Canadas, Tennessee, Parula, Blackpoll etc and a Black-billed Cuckoo. Check out my new website photo page to see a couple of pictures of the plover. www.avocetnatureservices.com Directions - from Tyler: Oshawa Second Marsh Exit from the 401 at the Harmony Rd. Exit(419) in Oshawa. Go south on Farewell St. Colonel Sam Drive. Turn East onto Colonel Sam Drive and follow to the parking lot at the GM Headquarters. Park in the west parking lot close to the marsh. The east (GM) platform is visible from the NW corner of the lot. To the Barrier Beach head south to the lake and then east along the shoreline Geoffrey Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
[Ontbirds] Durham and Carden birding May 23rd
On my birdathon (team = Terrie Smith, Tony Bigg and Peter & Daniel Hogenbirk) we found 163 species in Durham and Carden Alvar. Thx for all who offered advice along the way and in particular to Rayfield Pye, Margaret Carney and Tyler Hoar for specific tips that helped us out greatly. Highlights included: Hudsonian Godwit (thx for posting this for me Rayfield) on Hall's Road north of Hwy 2 Red Knot and 4 turnstones + 4 other spp at Darlington barrier beach Short-billed Dowitcher + a Pectoral Sandp. + 4 other spp of shorebirds at Port Perry 2 Red-thr Loons off Courtice Rd + WW Scoters and Long-tailed Ducks Red-necked grebe off the foot of Hall's Rd at the lake + Common Golden-eye Another golden-eye at Second Marsh + 2 at Port Perry sewage lagoons (don't forget your permit) Ruddy Ducks at Port Perry + one at McLaughlin Bay Red-headed Woodpecker on McNamee Rd (Carden) + 2 Merlins, many Sedge Wrens, Golden-winged Warblers, Cay-coloured & Grasshopper Sparrows, nighthawks, whip-poor-wills at Carden 10 cuckoos at Carden (eight Black-billed and two Yellow-billed) Purple Martins at Port Perry (the town) - are these the last surviving martins in Durham Region? 4 owl species (Great Horned, Screech, Long-eared & Barred) Black-poll warblers everywhere If you need any specific directions pls email. Geoffrey Carpentier www.avocetnatureservices.com ___ 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/
