Very pleasant late fall weather prevailed for much of the week, but some snow squalls occurred today.
Ruffed Grouse: birds along Opeongo Road, the old railway and the Visitor Centre driveway were regular this week and particularly enjoyed by southern Ontario birders that infrequently observe this species near home anymore. Otters: there has been good viewing of small groups at Opeongo Access Point, along Costello Creek beside Opeongo Road, and in Eucalia Lake west of Lookout Trail. Boreal Species: Spruce Grouse: a male was getting grit on the edge of Opeongo Road last weekend. Black-backed Woodpecker: a male was at the parking area at the Cameron Lake Road gate off Opeongo Road on November 11. Gray Jay: seen regularly at Spruce Bog Boardwalk, along Opeongo Road, the old railway east of Arowhon Road past the chain gate, Boreal Chickadee: one at Spruce Bog Boardwalk, a small group of them along Opeongo Road, and one along the old railway east of Arowhon Road, all on November 11. There were two small groups of Boreal Chickadees near Wolf Howl Pond on November 12. Finches: Observations were almost entirely of birds flying over or landing only briefly, and clearly on the move. Very few are coming to the feeders at the Visitor Centre to date. Purple Finch: two along the old railway near Wolf Howl Pond on November 12. White-winged Crossbill: small flocks along the old railway past the chain gate east of Arowhon Road on November 11 and 12. Small flocks reported at various locations along Highway 60 during the week. Red Crossbill: about 20 were reported along the old railway past the chain gate east of Arowhon Road on November 11. Common Redpoll: small flock along the old railway past the chain gate east of Arowhon Road on November 11. American Goldfinch: at least one was at the Visitor Centre this week. Evening Grosbeak: Five or less have been irregularly observed at the Visitor Centre this week. We would appreciate receiving your bird observations for our Visitor Centre records. Ron Tozer Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired) Dwight, ON Directions: Algonquin Park is three hours north of Toronto, via Highways 400, 11 and 60. Follow the signs, which start in Toronto on Highway 400. From Ottawa, take Highway 17 to Renfrew, then follow Highway 60 to the park. Kilometre markers along Highway 60 in the Park go from the West Gate (km 0) to near the East Gate (km 56). Get your park permit and the park tabloid (with a map of birding locations mentioned here) at the gates. Locations are also described at: www.algonquinpark.on.ca The Visitor Centre at km 43 has recent bird sightings, feeders and information. The centre will be open on weekends only until December 27, from 9 am to 5 pm. The Visitor Centre restaurant will not be open this winter but visitors are welcome to bring a packed lunch and use the seating area. Hot and cold beverages, and light snacks will be available to purchase, as well as the use of a microwave. Birders visiting during the week may be able to enter the Visitor Centre to view the feeders and exhibits. Check in with staff to find out what birds are being seen. _______________________________________________ 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/
