Algonquin Park continued to provide magnificent winter scenery this week, but little change in the birds reported.
A pair of Red Crossbills on Barron Canyon Road just before Sand Lake Gate on February 7 was noteworthy. These were likely Type 2 birds, a few of which may be finding a a very small number of cones among the white pines and red pines of Algonquin's East Side forests this winter. The white-striped morph White-throated Sparrow continues to thrive at the Visitor Centre feeders. A Black-backed Woodpecker was reported on the Leaf Lake Ski Trail near Junction B on February 6. There were three Pine Grosbeaks on Highway 60 between the West Gate and the West Boundary on February 8. Very few are being seen. One hundred plus American Goldfinches are visiting the Visitor Centre feeders on most days now. Such numbers in the absence of virtually all other finch species this winter is unprecedented in Algonquin Park. However, very few goldfinches are being seen away from feeders. Martens have been less frequent at the Visitor Centre feeders this week. Some are still being reported around campsites in Mew Lake Campground. We would appreciate receiving your bird observations for our Visitor Centre records. Ron Tozer Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired) Dwight, ON Directions: Algonquin Park is three hours north of Toronto, via Highways 400, 11 and 60. Follow the signs, which start in Toronto on Highway 400. From Ottawa, take Highway 17 to Renfrew, then follow Highway 60 to the park. Kilometre markers along Highway 60 in the Park go from the West Gate (km 0) to near the East Gate (km 56). Get your park permit and the park tabloid (with a map of birding locations mentioned here) at the gates. The Visitor Centre at km 43 has details on recent sightings, feeders, and park information. It is open to the public this holiday weekend from 10 am to 5 pm on February 13, 14 and 15. Birder access to the Visitor Centre through the service entrance to observe the feeders is usually possible on weekdays. Hot and cold drinks and snacks are available in the restaurant this winter on weekends, but not full meal service. Algonquin Park birding updates and information are available at: www.algonquinpark.on.ca _______________________________________________ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to ONTBIRDS mailing list ONTBIRDS@hwcn.org For information about ONTBIRDS visit http://www.ofo.ca/
