Some 30 observers disregarded heavy rain warnings to join this new entrant into the list of OFO excursions. Despite the forecast the day dawned clear and started well with good views of flocks of White-winged Scoters, Brant, and three Snow Geese migrating along the Ottawa River. The hoped for Nelson's Sparrows proved elusive; in fact there were very few sparrows whatsoever and the extensive marshes flanking the river were virtually empty of birds. One exception was an Orange-crowned Warbler, a lifer for some, and a nearby field held a pair of Sandhill Crane. The rain, which arrived in the late morning, turned into a visibility killing deluge when we reached Lac Dore. After an hour it let up and we were able to scan the lake, tallying over 100 Common Loons, another flock of White-winged Scoter, some obliging Surf Scoters, and good numbers of Bonaparte's Gull, Horned Grebe and Red-necked Grebe, along with one immature Common Tern, and, in a lakeside park, a continuing Northern Mockingb ird. Despite the rain the troop enjoyed the beautiful autumnal foliage, and exploring two excellent birding sites that were new to many. _______________________________________________ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists - 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