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Parry Sound Nature Club Christmas
Bird Count
Posted
on December 31, 2007 at 10:43:35 AM by J.
Gardner
The 2007 count was conducted on December 30, 2007 by sixteen observers and a
total of 31 species was recorded with 1316 individual birds. Weather conditions
were -2 degrees under a general overcasst with light snow flurries and calm
winds. Species of note included one Oregon Junco (a first time observation), 3
Bald Eagles, a Brown Thrasher. The Big Sound was still ice free but ice in the
back bays probably reduced the waterfowl count. Jim Gardner
Birds observed
Mallard 30
Black Duck 1
Goldeneye 54
Common Merganser 10
Cooper's Hawk 1
Herring Gulls 313
Ring-billed Gulls 15
Mourning Doves 10
Rock Doves 162
Pileated Woodpecked 2
Hairy " 27
Downy " 8
Blackbacked " 1
Blue Jay 77
American Crow 15
Raven 71
Blackcapped Chickadee 87
Whitebreasted Nuthatch 25
Redbreasted Nuthatch 4
Northern Shrike 1
Starling 78
Dark Eyed Junco 6
Snow Bunting 11
Pine Grosbeak 50
Common Redpoll 246
American Goldfinch 4
Bald Eagle 3
Bohemian Waxwing 1
Brown Thrasher 1
Oregon Junco 1
Algonquin Park CBC
Posted
on December 30, 2007 at 11:29:54 AM by Ontbirds
*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (Dec. 30, 2007) and
is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.
The 34th annual Algonquin Provincial Park Christmas Bird Count
(sponsored by The Friends of Algonquin Park) was held on Saturday,
December 29. As expected in this winter of almost non-existent tree
seed crops here, the totals for species (23) and individuals (1,300)
were well below average. There were no unusual species. The only
finches recorded were Pine Grosbeak and Common Redpoll.
Unfortunately, as with several other Ontario counts this year, our ability
to detect birds was significantly compromised by the weather conditions
(snow squalls, often heavy, until late morning; and gusty winds all day).
Despite this, I think that the results are a fairly accurate indicator of
the impressive scarcity of birds (away from feeders) in central Ontario
this winter. I would like to thank the 67 observers for their great effort,
and all the people who helped to organize and run the count.
Total Species: 23 (average is 28)
Total Individuals: 1,300 (average is 5,028)
Birds Per Party Hour: 6 (lowest: 4 in 1983; highest: 91 in 1984)
Total Observers: 67 (highest ever was 68)
Temperature Range: minus 1 to plus 1 degrees C.
Snow depth: 15 to 60 cm
Below is the complete list. Please stop reading and delete now if you don't
want to know the details!
Ruffed Grouse: 80 (high, but much lower than record high of 149)
Spruce Grouse: 1
Rock Pigeon: 6 (in MTO sand dome at East Gate, as usual)
Barred Owl: 2
Downy Woodpecker: 23
Hairy Woodpecker: 39
Black-backed Woodpecker: 9
Pileated Woodpecker: 9
Northern Shrike: 1
Gray Jay: 33
Blue Jay: 37 (essentially absent away from feeders)
American Crow: 1 (heard calling; rare here in winter)
Common Raven: 92
Black-capped Chickadee: 672 (scarce away from feeders)
Boreal Chickadee: 13
Red-breasted Nuthatch: 121 (most left this fall)
White-breasted Nuthatch: 12
Brown Creeper: 14
Golden-crowned Kinglet: 37
Dark-eyed Junco:1 (at Visitor Centre feeder)
Snow Bunting: 1
Pine Grosbeak: 68
Common Redpoll: 23
Unidentified birds: 5
Ron Tozer
Algonquin Park CBC Compiler
Dwight, Ontario
Muskoka Field Naturalists - next
meeting Jan. 3
Posted
on December 28, 2007 at 10:00:03 PM by Barbara Taylor
MFN meeting Thursday, Jan. 3 at 7:30 p.m., Bracebridge
From the Wakerobin, newsletter of the Muskoka Field Naturalists:
Ken Morrison on Raptors
Ken Morrison, a member of the Huntsville Nature Club and formerly with the
Ministry of Natural Resources, is an avid birder, excellent photographer and
taxidermist. He will share his knowledge of raptors in a lecture and slide
presentation and perhaps bring along some of his fine taxidermy specimens.
September through January meetings will be at the Latter Day Saints Church
located at 705 Cedar Lane, Bracebridge (corner of Taylor Rd. & Cedar Lane
near Home Depot). Visitors welcome to attend.
Algonquin Park Update: 27 December
Posted
on December 27, 2007 at 05:16:23 PM by Ontbirds
*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (Dec. 27, 2007) and
is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.
The good news for birders here this week was that the rain
on December 23 has resulted in compaction of the deep snow
and some formation of a crust. This has made getting around
on snowshoes much better.
The Visitor Centre (km 43) will be open daily on December
27 to 30, from 10 am to 4 pm.
The following summary outlines observations made during
the last week for birds often sought by visiting birders here.
IT IS UNCHANGED FROM LAST WEEK.
FINCHES:
Pine Grosbeak: About 20-50 daily at the Visitor Centre feeder,
with a large number of adult males.
Common Redpoll: About five at the Visitor Centre feeder,
regularly.
No other finch species reported.
RESIDENT BOREAL SPECIES:
Spruce Grouse: Try Spruce Bog Boardwalk and Opeongo Road
(which is plowed to the gate at Cameron Lake Road junction).
Black-backed Woodpecker: No reports.
Gray Jay: Try Spruce Bog Boardwalk and Opeongo Road.
Boreal Chickadee: No reports.
BIRDERS:
Please let us know the date, number and location of birds you observe
when you visit Algonquin Park. This information is stored in the
Algonquin Visitor Centre database, and will help us to assist other
birders here.
Should anyone plan to visit the East Side of Algonquin, please note
that the Barron Canyon Road will not be plowed from December 21
to January 2.
Good birding.
Ron Tozer
Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired)
Dwight, Ontario
Belted Kingfisher
Posted
on December 27, 2007 at 11:46:09 AM by dbritton
This morning at 10:00 am there was a Belted Kingfisher on the Dee River at the
Rostrevor Rd. Bridge, just north of Windermere Road about 2 km east of the
village of Windermere. The bird appeared active and healthy and was last seen
flying downriver, to the west of bridge. The Dee River, is almost completely
open, as it is in all but the coldest weather.
Re(2): Wild Turkeys
Posted
on December 31, 2007 at 02:26:47 PM by janice house
Moira Payne had 3 turkeys in her front yard this weekend. (Houston Rd north of
Bracebridge)
Re(1): Wild Turkeys
Posted
on December 26, 2007 at 05:19:43 PM by Terry
& Marion Whittam
7 Wild Turkeys crossed the lake and walked up our driveway 10km east of
Washago.
Other birds include about 25 redpolls and 1 Red winged crossbill who hangs with
the redpolls.
Re(1): Wild Turkeys
Posted
on December 26, 2007 at 03:03:27 PM by Barbara Taylor
Around 2 p.m. today there were fifteen of them on Beaumont Dr. near
#240...looked like they were heading for the river. (Bracebridge)
Wild Turkeys
Posted
on December 26, 2007 at 12:11:21 PM by janice house
Yesterday afternoon we watched 10 turkeys march across the farm field opposite
our house (1206 Doe Lake Rd). The 3 horses feeding at the barn were very
interested too.
Re(1): Snow Buntings
Posted
on December 26, 2007 at 09:17:53 PM by Marilyn
Kisser
wow! I have never seen a snow bunting at the feeders here, just outside
Rosseau! lucky you!
Snow Buntings
Posted
on December 24, 2007 at 09:41:46 PM by J. Gardner
Our bunting population continues to grow, back to somewhat normal proportions.
We have something over 30 coming to the feeders now. I think you can count 28
in this picture.
June Gardner (Hurdville)
Barred Owl, Red-tailed Hawk
Posted
on December 23, 2007 at 01:45:56 PM by marywillmott
Dec 22 In Bracebridge flying over zellers toward Bracebridge Villa, a Red
-Tailed Hawk. Dec 21 a Barred Owl on the trail at Covered Bridge (house #70)
Seen by Gerald Willmott
Northern Shrike - Huntsville
Posted
on December 21, 2007 at 10:48:14 AM by Kip
Daynard
Yesterday (Thursday) at 4pm I saw a Northern Shrike perched on the top of a
Spruce at the Ravenscliffe Rd. exit off Hwy 11 on the SE corner (opposite the
Tim Horton's).
Algonquin Park Update: 20 December
Posted
on December 21, 2007 at 09:08:15 AM by Ontbirds
*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (Dec. 21, 2007) and
is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.
Snow continues to pile up in Algonquin Park. As is usual at
this busy time, there were no reports from visiting birders
this week.
The Visitor Centre (km 43) will be open daily on December
27 to 30, from 10 am to 4 pm.
The following summary outlines observations made during
the last week for birds often sought by visiting birders here.
FINCHES:
Pine Grosbeak: About 20-50 daily at the Visitor Centre feeder,
with a large number of adult males.
Common Redpoll: About five at the Visitor Centre feeder,
regularly.
No other finch species reported.
RESIDENT BOREAL SPECIES:
Spruce Grouse: Try Spruce Bog Boardwalk and Opeongo Road
(which is plowed to the gate at Cameron Lake Road junction).
Black-backed Woodpecker: No reports.
Gray Jay: Try Spruce Bog Boardwalk and Opeongo Road.
Boreal Chickadee: No reports.
BIRDERS:
Please let us know the date, number and location of birds you observe
when you visit Algonquin Park. This information is stored in the
Algonquin Visitor Centre database, and will help us to assist other
birders here.
Should anyone plan to visit the East Side of Algonquin, please note
that the Barron Canyon Road will not be plowed from December 21
to January 2.
Good birding.
Ron Tozer
Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired)
Dwight, Ontario
GRAVENHURST-BRACEBRIDGE CHRISTMAS
BIRD COUNT 2007...full report
Posted
on December 20, 2007 at 08:57:10 PM by Al
Sinclair
GRAVENHURST-BRACEBRIDGE CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT 2007
The 28th Gravenhurst-Bracebridge Christmas Bird Count was held on December 16,
2006 with 22 observers in 7 groups covering the 24 km diameter circle centred
between the towns. We started the day with a winter storm warning in effect and
predictions that this could be the worst storm in 60 years. It wasn’t quite
that bad but we had more than 20 cm of snow fall during the count. The
conditions reminded us of counts in the 1980s with cold weather for several
weeks leading up to the count and cold and snowy conditions on count day. All
lakes and rivers were frozen except for the centre of Lake Muskoka that we
really couldn’t see because visibility was only about half a kilometer due to
heavy snow. The birds were mostly gathered at feeders and very few birds were
observed flying in the rural areas. Later in the day many of the back roads
were not passable because of snow accumulation. A total of 1241 birds of 30
species were found, well below the last 10 years average of 2710 birds and 35
species, but similar to numbers counted in the 1980s.
Since the lakes and rivers were all frozen we found no ducks or gulls. The snow
was deep, up to 60 cm in most areas, leaving few weed seeds visible so only one
Snow bunting and 2 Tree Sparrows were found However there were some unusual
birds in the area. This year the seed crop in the boreal forest was poor so
some species that normally stay farther north were moving south through Muskoka
and visiting feeders and trees with fruit, mostly crabapples. A flock of 25
Bohemian Waxwings was in Bracebridge behind the Post Office and 4 more were in
the south end of Gravenhurst. Pine Grosbeaks and Common Redpolls were
widespread, two species that we often don’t see for several years. Other finch
species were absent or in very low numbers.
Some of the good birds found were Boreal Chickadee(1), White-throated
Sparrow(1), and Cooper’s Hawk (1), all at feeders in Bracebridge. Hoary
Redpolls (3) were found in flocks of Common Redpolls in Gravenhurst. 15
Northern Cardinals were found this year a new count high. The usual feeder
birds, Black-capped Chickadee, Hairy and Downy Woodpeckers, Nuthatches and Blue
Jays were in normal numbers. 81 European Starlings and 49 Rock Pigeons were
lower numbers than normal. The 4 species with the highest counts were
Black-capped Chickadee (315), Common Redpoll (201), BlueJay (115), and Mourning
Dove (118).
Following the count the results were tallied at a potluck supper in Bracebridge.
Thanks to Karen Love, Ingrid Schultz and Mary Ann & Terry Johnson for
organizing the meal. And finally the results of the Team competition:
Gravenhurst led by Dan Burton had 24 species and Bracebridge led by Al Sinclair
had 24 species, like last year another tie….wait… an email just came in,
Goodyears had a Ruffed Grouse on Sunday, Bracebridge has 25. BRACEBRIDGE
WINS!!!
GRAVENHURST TEAM
G1- Janice House, Moira Payne, Heather Harris
G2- Dan Burton, Allan Aubin
G3- Pauline & Jim Goodfellow, Cyril & Marion Fry
G4- Rosemarie Hinzmann, Ron Stager,
species seen = 24
individuals counted = 823
BRACEBRIDGE TEAM
B6&10-Sam & Earle Robinson, Ernie Giles, Al Sinclair
B7- Heather Coupland, Stephanie Lehman
B8- Tom & Mary Smith, Bill Dickinson
B9- Joan Paget, Bob Burton
species seen = 25
individuals counted = 418
WEATHER: cloudy, steady snow, -12/-12 C, SNOW COVER 57 cm, WIND 11 to 15 km/hr
Boreal Chickadee...Bracebridge
Posted
on December 20, 2007 at 07:38:30 PM by Al
Sinclair
Today I was able to relocate the Boreal Chickadee that was seen on the
Christmas Bird Count. At around 2pm this afternoon it was with a group of
Black-capped Chickadees in a large spruce tree at the corner of Aubrey Street
and Woodland Drive.
Directions: Go north on the main street(Manitoba) to Ann Street turn right
towards the hospital, go past the hospital to Aubrey St, turn left and go 1
block to Woodland Drive.
Huntsville CBC (December 18)
Posted
on December 20, 2007 at 09:47:39 AM by Ontbirds
*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (Dec. 19, 2007) and
is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.
The 14th annual Huntsville Christmas Bird Count was held on
Tuesday, December 18. After some early morning very light
freezing drizzle, it was cloudy, calm and not too cold for the
rest of the day, providing good conditions for birding. The
only open water was in some sections of the Muskoka River.
Knee-deep powdery snow made off-road travel challenging.
Forty species were observed, two above the count average.
Record highs were set for 10 species. Previous highs are
shown in parentheses.
Red-tailed Hawk: 4 (2)
Wild Turkey: 55 (18)
Barred Owl: 5 (4)
Hairy Woodpecker: 102 (62)
Pileated Woodpecker: 13 (10)
Northern Shrike: 6 (3)
Black-capped Chickadee: 1456 (1367)
White-breasted Nuthatch: 165 (105)
Pine Grosbeak: 211 (208)
Common Redpoll: 581 (242)
New Species for the Count:
Northern Saw-whet Owl: 1 (observed roosting during the day)
Hoary Redpoll: 3
Unusual Species for the Count:
Gray Jay: 2 (not recorded since 2003)
Boreal Chickadee: 1 (not recorded since 2001)
White-throated Sparrow: 1 (at a feeder)
European Goldfinch: 1 (an escape photographed near a feeder,
and not included in the species total)
Finches:
Pine Grosbeak: 211
Purple Finch: 6 (at one feeder)
Common Redpoll: 581
Hoary Redpoll: 3
American Goldfinch: 62
Evening Grosbeak: 14 (at two feeders)
I appreciate the great effort by our 20 field observers, and
several feeder watchers. Thanks to Kevin Clute for organizing
the electronic tally, and to Lyn Griffin and Pat Tozer for
preparing the great post-count supper.
Ron Tozer
Huntsville CBC Compiler
Re(3): Hairy woodpecker
Posted
on December 20, 2007 at 11:29:25 AM by Barbara Taylor
It's the female Hairy Woodpecker that tosses the seed in our yard, but only in the
fall. The male behaves himself. At this time of year they concentrate on the
suet and rarely visit the seed feeders. The goldfinches seem to be the worst
for throwing sunflower seeds out of the hanging feeder...maybe they're looking
for nyger seed. ;)
Re(2): Hairy woodpecker
Posted
on December 20, 2007 at 07:28:41 AM by ron
tozer
Birds, and especially Blue Jays, throw sunflower seeds out of feeders as they
sort through them for larger, higher quality seeds. The birds may sense larger
kernels by weight, as well as girth and appearance. Black sunflower seed is
very attractive to woodpeckers, as well. I suspect the apparent difference in
seed-handling between the male and female Hairy Woodpeckers you observed is a
coincidence or individual variation, rather than an actual sex-related
behavioural difference. However, another possibility might be that the male
dominates the female at the feeder, and so she selects a seed quickly and
departs, rather than taking time to sort through for a higher quality seed.
That might be something to watch for.
Re(1): Hairy woodpecker
Posted
on December 19, 2007 at 08:10:02 PM by Eleanor
Kee Wellman
Hi Dennis,
I don't know why they do it either but I had some sunflower seed that, on
inspection, did not seem to be of very high quality and few of the hulls had
nuts in them. I have since got seed that looks to be fuller and they are no
longer throwing all the seed on the ground.
A lot of the other birds were throwing the seed as well- Nuthatches and blue
jays, for example
Hairy woodpecker
Posted
on December 19, 2007 at 06:56:32 PM by Dennis
Wilks
Can someone explain?
I noted last year and again this year that the male bird lands on my bird
feeder and scoops out the black oiled sunflower seeds, emptying the feeder onto
the ground in short order. Rarely does it take a single seed. ( my feeder
contains only black oiled sunflower seed ) I have also noted that the female
will land on the feeder, pick up a single seed, take it over to a tree, ram it
into an opening in the bark, proceed to eat it and then return for a single
seed. She does not scoop them out. Why?
Barred owl
Posted
on December 19, 2007 at 06:39:31 PM by Dennis
Wilks
A Barred owl is back at my place, sitting atop the bird feeder. Just arrived
today. I had one here 2 years ago.
Location-S. Portage Rd & Brunel Rd, Huntsville
Northern Flicker
Posted
on December 18, 2007 at 08:58:10 AM by marywillmott
At Beaumaris Hwy 118 West , I had a Northern Flicker at the fat feeder.
Gravenhurst-Bracebridge Christmas
Bird Count...species list
Posted
on December 17, 2007 at 09:54:02 PM by Al
Sinclair
Premlim. list of species seen on count day Dec 16. Full report to follow in a
couple of days.
COOPER'S HAWK 1
WILD TURKEY 28
ROCK DOVE 49
MOURNING DOVE 118
DOWNY WOODPECKER 19
HAIRY WOODPECKER 28
PILEATED WOODPECKER 2
BLUE JAY 152
AMERICAN CROW 4
COMMON RAVEN 14
BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEE 315
BOREAL CHICKADEE 1
RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH 11
WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCH 23
BROWN CREEPER 1
BOHEMIAN WAXWING 29
EUROPEAN STARLING 81
NORTHERN CARDINAL 15
AMERICAN TREE SPARROW 2
WHITE-THROATED SPARROW 1
DARK-EYED JUNCO 25
SNOW BUNTING 1
PINE GROSBEAK 69
COMMON REDPOLL 201
HOARY REDPOLL 3
PINE SISKIN 1
AMERICAN GOLDFINCH 27
EVENING GROSBEAK 3
HOUSE SPARROW 16
Total Species 29
Gravenhurst Team 24 species
Bracebridge Team 24 species
Lone Pine Siskin
Posted
on December 17, 2007 at 08:45:55 PM by RichardCorcelli
The lone Pine Siskin observed near Muskoka Bay during CBC 2007. photo
Re(1): Strange question
Posted
on December 18, 2007 at 01:04:59 PM by Barbara Taylor
Wow! Five hawks together like that outside of migration would seem quite rare.
Perhaps your feeders were bringing in even more birds than usual after the big
snowstorm. The abundance of easy prey may have attracted more hawks from around
the neighbourhood. We've seen both Cooper's and Sharp-shinned hunting in our
yard over the past few weeks, and we are close to where you live. There also
may be a Northern Goshawk doing fly-overs, judging from the reaction of some of
the squirrels in the yard, although we haven't seen it.
Monday morning the birds at our feeders seemed more relaxed than
usual...probably because the hawks had all congregated over at your place Ted.
:)
Re(2): Strange question
Posted
on December 18, 2007 at 05:40:00 PM by Ted Gardner
Thats my Mamma! Question is 5 in a group??
Re(1): Strange question
Posted
on December 18, 2007 at 11:42:45 AM by Al
Johnston
Not that rare, Ted. Check out J. Gardner's post and great pics of Dec. 4.
Strange question
Posted
on December 17, 2007 at 06:27:22 PM by Ted
Gardner
On Monday morning my wife and her sister witnessed something very
different....The birds at our feeders quickly dispersed and in the trees were 5
in total
either Sharpshined Hawks or Coopers...ID'd with binocs!
they spent anywhere from 1 hour to 1 and a half hours in the maples behind the
house. Did anyone else see anything close?...the ladies are positive they were
hawks! Seems very rare to me??
Re(1): Gravenhurst-Bracebridge
Christmas Bird Count
Posted
on December 16, 2007 at 03:03:38 PM by Ted
Gardner
Here is our list from 120 meadow hieghts Bracebridge.
14 blue jays
5 mourning doves
2 hairy woodpeckers
1 downey woodpecker
4 Black capped Chickadees
2 white breasted nuthatches
3 slate coloured juncos
6 Pine Grosbeaks
2 Evening Grosbeaks
1 Pileated Woodpecker
and 7 Pigeons who were quickly dispatched by a ....
1 Coopers Hawk (positive ID)
none of our fairly regular Goldfinches , starlings, Redpolls and Red Breasted
Nuthatches
Gravenhurst-Bracebridge Christmas
Bird Count
Posted
on December 16, 2007 at 02:39:48 PM by Barbara Taylor
Here is today's count for our yard at 96 Glendale Rd., Bracebridge:
Northern Cardinal (2 - M&F)
Dark-eyed Junco (6)
Hairy Woodpecker (4)
Downy Woodpecker (3)
Red-breasted Nuthatch (2)
White-breasted Nuthatch (3)
Black-capped Chickadee (10)
Blue Jay (5)
Mourning Dove (27) - a record for our yard!
Re(1): Northern Shrike Breakfast
Posted
on December 17, 2007 at 08:22:12 PM by Marilyn
Kisser
wow! you really have your share of predators this month! this is an amazing
shot - hard to believe that the shrike is not that much larger than the
grosbeak!
Northern Shrike Breakfast
Posted
on December 16, 2007 at 12:35:47 PM by J. Gardner
Here is a photo of a Northern Shrike taken through the bedroom window. The shrike
nailed a Pine Grosbeak against the door on our deck. He then took it down to
the snow and posed with his trophy. June Gardner (Hurdville) photo
Re(1): Five Bald Eagles
Posted
on December 20, 2007 at 08:32:12 PM by Marilyn
Kisser
a lone bald eagle flew over our place today - heading towards highway 141 in
Rosseau! awesome!
Five Bald Eagles
Posted
on December 16, 2007 at 10:03:59 AM by Alex
Mills
I participated in the Burk's Falls CBC on Friday Dec. 14. I was unable to go to
the wrap-up after to see what all five groups got, but Chris Evans and I spent an
enjoyable day around Magnetawan.
We found a white-throated sparrow at a feeder (no juncoes or tree sparrows). At
dusk, we watched a Barred Owl hunting in an ash lowland woods.
At the mouth of the Magnetawan River (where it flows into Ahmic Lake), there
was something dead on the ice that was big enough to attract five Bald Eagles
(3 adults and 2 immatures).
Gravenhurst-Bracebridge Christmas
Bird Count - This Sunday Dec 16
Posted
on December 15, 2007 at 12:39:17 PM by Al
Sinclair
The Gravenhurst-Bracebridge Audubon CBC is happening tomorrow. We can always
use more counters so everyone is welcome to join us for the day, have some fun
with other birders and make a contribution to bird studies. We divide into
groups and cover a 24 km (15 mile) diameter circle counting every bird we see.
Our circle is centered between Gravenhurst and Bracebridge a bit east of Hwy 11
and is just large enough to include both the Gravenhurst and Bracebridge
Landfill sites. After the count we join to tally the results and enjoy a
potluck dinner. For more information or if you see a "GOOD BIRD" in
the circle on count day please send me an email.
Re(1): Common Redpolls
Posted
on December 31, 2007 at 04:54:50 PM by janice house
I bought a niger seed sock several weeks ago, yesterday a lone redpoll was
feeding. A hairy woodpecker was the first to investigate the day I put it up
(Doe Lake Rd Gravenhurst)
Common Redpolls
Posted
on December 14, 2007 at 08:07:36 PM by RichardCorcelli
Common Redpolls from a flock of 50+ at our Nyger Seed Sock on Muskoka Bay. photo
Algonquin Park Update: 13 December
Posted
on December 14, 2007 at 09:57:44 AM by Ontbirds
*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (Dec. 13, 2007) and
is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.
All lakes along Highway 60 are now ice-covered, and snow
is knee-deep in the woods. Should anyone plan to visit the
East Side of Algonquin, please note that the Barron Canyon
Road will not be plowed from December 21 to January 2.
The following summary outlines observations received during
the last week for birds often sought by visiting birders here.
FINCHES:
Pine Grosbeak: Up to 40 daily at the Visitor Centre feeder,
with a large number of adult males.
Common Redpoll: Small flock at the Visitor Centre feeder
on December 13, after several days with none.
No other finch species reported.
RESIDENT BOREAL SPECIES:
Spruce Grouse: Try Spruce Bog Boardwalk and Opeongo Road
(which is plowed to the gate at Cameron Lake Road junction).
Black-backed Woodpecker: No reports.
Gray Jay: Try Spruce Bog Boardwalk and Opeongo Road.
Boreal Chickadee: No reports.
BIRDERS:
Please let us know the date, number and location of birds you observe
when you visit Algonquin Park. This information is stored in the
Algonquin Visitor Centre database, and will help us to assist other
birders here. Thanks.
Good birding.
Ron Tozer
Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired)
Dwight, Ontario
Redpolls
Posted
on December 13, 2007 at 12:34:43 PM by janice house
Moira has a niger sock, just counted 25 redpolls feeding on the sock. (Houston
Rd north of Bracebridge) Lots more in her trees and other feeders
Pine Grosbeaks
Posted
on December 13, 2007 at 09:36:00 AM by mmcanally
I have a flock of 10 Pine Grosbeaks and a flock of 20 Redpolls coming to my
feeders at Britannia Road in Huntsville.
Re(1): Brown Creeper
Posted
on December 21, 2007 at 10:45:28 AM by Kip
Daynard
Today we had a Brown Creeper on a dead cedar in our yard. First I've seen here
since the spring.
1380 Bay Lake Rd.
RR1 Emsdale
Brown Creeper
Posted
on December 13, 2007 at 08:42:16 AM by Barbara Taylor
This morning there was a Brown Creeper working the pine trees in our yard -
hadn't seen one here since October. (Bracebridge)
Red-necked Grebe on Fairy Lake,
Huntsville
Posted
on December 12, 2007 at 02:08:45 PM by ron
tozer
There was a Red-necked Grebe on Fairy Lake, off the river mouth, in Huntsville
this morning. It was visible from behind the LCBO.
Re(2): Northern Shrike - Huntsville
Posted
on December 13, 2007 at 09:32:47 AM by mmcanally
Just got to posting this now, but on Friday, December 7, saw a Northern Shrike
right outside my window at Ward Edmonds GM, and it landed and caught a small
mammal and flew back across Highway 11. We are located beside Swiss Chalet in
Huntsville on Hanes Road.
Re(1): Northern Shrike - Huntsville
Posted
on December 12, 2007 at 10:41:38 AM by janice house
Moira has had shrikes at her home for about a month, they have been trying to attack
her budgies through her sliding door (Houston Rd north of Bracebridge)
Northern Shrike - Huntsville
Posted
on December 10, 2007 at 12:31:38 PM by Barbara Taylor
This morning around 11:30 a.m. there was a Northern Shrike perched in a small
tree at the left side of the on-ramp loop from Aspdin Rd. to Hwy. 11 south.
Snow Buntings
Posted
on December 9, 2007 at 03:42:17 PM by J. Gardner
An observation. Over the last 16 years we have had from 300 (during the eastern
ice storm) buntings down to just 3 last winter. The warmer winters saw a
tremendous drop off from our normal 50 birds. With the return of real winter
this year, the snow buntings are back. We have several visits a day from 12
(hoping for more) buntings. The photo is of one, on the deck feeder. June
Gardner (Hurdville) photo
Fisher
Posted
on December 9, 2007 at 10:51:28 AM by JoanPaget
Bob, Ruth and I watched a fisher maraud our compost bin for about an hour on
Friday morning. It was a large male who seemed to enjoy grapefruit skins and
tomatoes. He carried off goodies to a stash somewhere nearby. We are located on
Partridge Lane, about 5 minutes west of Bracebridge.
Oops! one less scaup
Posted
on December 9, 2007 at 08:57:54 AM by jim
griffin
I scoped that "scaup" in better light this morning and after many
looks, have realized that the white ring around the tip of the bill( couldn't
see it in fading light) as well as at the base of the bill make this one a male
Ring Necked Duck. I guess I'm the "scaup goat" on this one.
Hairy Woodpecker
Posted
on December 8, 2007 at 06:00:21 PM by RichardCorcelli
Not particularly noteworthy but a very nice Hairy Woodpecker at our suet log
near Muskoka Bay. [rotated 90 degrees to fill the frame] photo
Re(1): 2 Birds !!
Posted
on December 8, 2007 at 07:46:45 PM by Marilyn
Kisser
I am going to have to take a drive past 120 Meadow Heights just to see all the
action!
2 Birds !!
Posted
on December 8, 2007 at 05:29:42 PM by Ted
Gardner
Its not a great picture but it may be rare as you have
a Pileated Woodpecker and a wild Turkey in the same shot!
We had 6 wild turkeys and a pair of Pileated woodpeckers arrive mid
afternoon....never boring here at 120 Meadow Hieghts Bracebridge. photo
Lesser Scaup
Posted
on December 8, 2007 at 05:00:41 PM by jim
griffin
I have been watching a solitary female Lesser Scaup on the river at Port
Sydney; south of the road 10 bridge.
Re(2): Weasel in da House!
Posted
on December 7, 2007 at 10:53:18 PM by B.
Korol
Good news......around 8:30 p.m on Friday, I managed to shoo my little white
friend out the door, where I am sure he's feasting on mice in the yard!!!!
Re(3): Weasel in da House!
Posted
on December 8, 2007 at 04:42:53 PM by Ted Gardner
Home Hardware in Gravenhurst has every size available.
Re(1): Weasel in da House!
Posted
on December 7, 2007 at 03:19:28 PM by Al
Johnston
You could get a live-trap at Ellwood Epps on hwy 11 near Orillia but you could
probably get one closer. A squirrel trap would do and bait it with meat. Wear
gloves when you open the trap to release it. Good luck.
Weasel in da House!
Posted
on December 7, 2007 at 12:11:41 PM by B.
Korol
Last night I didn't get much sleep. I kept on getting woken up by mysterious
noises in my kitchen. After several searches I finally found the source. I am
pretty sure this is an Ermine (Short-tailed Weasel), that probably came in
through my dryer vent. I think I've got it contained in a smaller part of my
basement, but am still trying to track down some live-traps. Anybody have any
suggestions as to how to safely capture and release it?
I live in Ravenscliffe, NW of Huntsville. photo
Algonquin Park Update: 6 December
Posted
on December 7, 2007 at 09:43:17 AM by Ontbirds
*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (Dec. 7, 2007) and
is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.
Of all the lakes along Highway 60, only Smoke Lake has any
open water now. At least one Northern Shrike has appeared
almost daily this week at the Visitor Centre feeders. Two
sightings of Northern Goshawk suggest that many stayed north,
likely feeding on the large Ruffed Grouse population.
The following summary outlines observations received during
the last week for birds often sought by visiting birders here.
FINCHES:
Pine Grosbeak: Up to 30 daily at the Visitor Centre feeder.
A few seen elsewhere.
Common Redpoll: A few, irregularly, at Visitor Centre feeder.
No other finch species reported.
RESIDENT BOREAL SPECIES:
Spruce Grouse: Try Spruce Bog Boardwalk and Opeongo Road
(which may not be plowed, and is gated at Cameron Lake Road
junction).
Black-backed Woodpecker: No reports.
Gray Jay: Try Spruce Bog Boardwalk and Opeongo Road.
Boreal Chickadee: No reports.
OTHER SIGHTINGS OF NOTE:
Great Gray Owl: One perched on the telephone cable at km 1.5
on Highway 60 at 8 a.m. on December 3, was not observed later
that morning, or since.
BIRDERS:
Please let us know the date, number and location of birds you observe
when you visit Algonquin Park. This information is stored in the
Algonquin Visitor Centre database, and will help us to assist other
birders here. Thanks.
Good birding.
Ron Tozer
Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired)
Dwight, Ontario
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 the East Gate (km 56). Permits and information are
available daily at both gates throughout the winter, including the
Algonquin Information Guide showing locations discussed here.
The Visitor Centre (km 43) is open on weekends (10 to 4) through the
winter. Recent bird sightings and information, plus feeders, can be found
there. Birders visiting during the week are welcome to contact staff for
birding information via the service entrance (right end of the building
as you face it from the parking lot).
Re(2): Pine Grosbeaks...anybody?
Posted
on December 6, 2007 at 11:23:47 PM by Marilyn
Kisser
we have a male and female visiting our feeders daily - sure wish there were
more! just outside of Rosseau
Re(1): Pine Grosbeaks...anybody?
Posted
on December 7, 2007 at 08:23:02 AM by Ron Stager
GBA (Greater Barkway Area)
We have a group of 12-18 pine grosbeaks visiting our feeder for the last week
and a half. Also a small group of redpolls (need to get the binoculars on the
light coloured one). One tree sparrow now and then.
Ron
Re(1): Pine Grosbeaks...anybody?
Posted
on December 6, 2007 at 03:43:02 PM by Ted
Gardner
aprox 15 in this afternoon as well as 3 evenings
120 meadow hieghts Bracebridge
Re(1): Pine Grosbeaks...anybody?
Posted
on December 6, 2007 at 02:36:13 PM by J.
Gardner
We have up to 26 Pines coming in each day, despite our marauding Cooper's Hawk.
Actually, the hawk hasn't made an appearance today. We are in Hurdville, near
Lake Manitouwabing.
Pine Grosbeaks...anybody?
Posted
on December 6, 2007 at 12:58:31 PM by Al
Sinclair
With the Gravenhurst-Bracebridge Christmas Bird Count less than 2 weeks away
(Dec 16) I am wondering how many Pine Grosbeaks are still in Muskoka. Here we
have around a dozen regulars at the feeder that I have been pampering, hoping
they stay for the count. Today with the snow flurries we had a bigger group,
18. Are there any others out there?
Evening Grosbeaks
Posted
on December 6, 2007 at 09:45:42 AM by RichardCorcelli
Evening Grosbeaks arrived at our feeders on Muskoka Bay this morning among the
Common Redpolls and Pine Siskins. photo
Re(1): Coyote
Posted
on December 5, 2007 at 07:59:59 PM by ann
hansen
We live up at the top of Lankin Ave near the golf course in the Covered Bridge
subdivision. We frequently hear coyotes at night, especially in the spring and
fall. Sometimes they sound like they are right outside the house, other times I
know they are out in the golf course. I've never seen one up here though.
Coyote
Posted
on December 5, 2007 at 10:43:18 AM by Barbara Taylor
A first for our back yard! This morning a coyote came to the edge of the wooded
area behind our house, but got startled by something and retreated out of view
before I was able to grab my camera. It was following an established deer trail
that has been used for several years. We've never seen a coyote in the
neighbourhood, but heard some howling/yipping one evening west of here, near
the new part of Covered Bridge Trail. (Bracebridge)
Barred Owl
Posted
on December 4, 2007 at 10:02:07 PM by Marilyn
Kisser
this barred owl has been hunting in the mornings here - I think he prefers the
squirrels, but he did make a stop at the small bird feeder today! all the
chickadees headed off quickly! (just outside of Rosseau) photo
Re(2): Red-shouldered Hawk -
Huntsville
Posted
on December 10, 2007 at 01:57:24 PM by Kip
Daynard
How big is the juvenile Red-tail you've been seeing and is it a typical eastern
specimen or is there anything unusual about it? The one I saw was quite a small
buteo. I know Red-tails can vary a lot in size (and judging size can be
unreliable), but I don't recall ever seeing one this small. My first impression
was that it was not much more than the size of a Broad-wing and I don't recall
ever having this impression from a bird seen this close up which turned out to
be a Red-tail. It was seen on a very good migration day - there was quite a lot
of movement in the skies. I had just seen a Bald Eagle about 2 kms north. This
bird also showed no patagial marks, nor black leading edge to wing, nor belly
band.
Kip
Re(1): Red-shouldered Hawk -
Huntsville
Posted
on December 7, 2007 at 11:50:30 AM by B.
Korol
Hi Kip,
For what its worth, we see a juvenile Red-tailed Hawk almost daily around our
office here in Arrowhead, which is less than 1 km from your sighting.
Red-shouldered Hawk - Huntsville
Posted
on December 4, 2007 at 12:45:45 PM by Kip
Daynard
On Sat. Dec. 1st I saw what I believe to be an immature Red-shouldered Hawk
flying southwards over Hwy 11 in Huntsville south of the Arrowhead exit. I understand
this is a bit late for adult Red-shoulders and quite late for immatures. My
look was short but I am pretty certain of the id as I got a decent look at the
underside. It was clearly a buteo by shape, smaller than a Rough-leg and
completely lacking the dark wrist marks and belly band expected of that
species. Seen against a blue sky it was quite evenly pale (light barring?)
underneath except for a prominent bright slash across the inner primaries
contrasting strongly with black wing tips.
Kip Daynard
RR1 Emsdale
Re(5): this morning's photo
Posted
on December 6, 2007 at 02:11:43 PM by Nigel
Apologies!!!!! closer scrutiny and an email, have corrected my ID! they are
both Sharp-shinned hawks. The size of the prey on the first bird is more in
keeping with a Cooper's but a closer look shows the jay isn't much smaller than
the hawk!! gutsy bird!
Re(4): this morning's photo
Posted
on December 5, 2007 at 09:32:56 PM by Nigel
These are actually two different birds.......both females judging from the prey
size. The one with the blue jay is an adult Cooper's hawk and the one with the
woodpecker is a sharp-shinned hawk......excellent photos!
Re(5): this morning's photo
Posted
on December 6, 2007 at 00:15:06 AM by Ted
Gardner
YES....this is nature...enough said.
Re(4): this morning's photo
Posted
on December 5, 2007 at 02:32:31 PM by Al
Johnston
First of all, June and Jim, great pics! Secondly, if you really want to
discourage the "highly efficient hunter", take down your bird feeders
which create a schmorgasbord of sorts for most raptors. Personally, I'd leave
them up and let nature take it's course. Just my 2 cents.
Re(3): this morning's photo
Posted
on December 5, 2007 at 09:41:30 AM by Barbara Taylor
Here's an update from June & Jim Gardner:
Getting to be too much of a good thing. Here is the Cooper's Hawk with this morning's
breakfast, what appears to be a Hairy Woodpecker. Does anybody know how to
discourage this highly efficient hunter. June Gardner photo
Re(2): Jim's photos
Posted
on December 4, 2007 at 01:13:29 PM by Barbara Taylor
Jim's photos taken through the window this morning: photo1
photo2
photo3
Re(1): Cooper's Hawk
Posted
on December 4, 2007 at 08:01:28 AM by J.
Gardner
We just saw the same horrible story repeated on the front lawn. The take down
was much closer to the house this time, so we could see the struggle of the
jay. Jim was able to get a couple of shots again.
Cooper's Hawk
Posted
on December 4, 2007 at 07:40:42 AM by J.
Gardner
Yesterday we were lucky enough to see a Cooper's Hawk take a Blue Jay. He took
it to ground plucked out the breast feathers. He sat long enough for Jim to get
out and get a couple of pictures. He then lifted off carrying the carcass of
the jay through a thicket and out of sight. All this on the front lawn. In
Hurdville, near Lake Manitouwabing.
Re(1): Great Gray Owl in Algonquin
Park
Posted
on December 3, 2007 at 11:47:28 AM by ron
tozer
The Great Gray Owl in Algonquin was not found by an observer searching the area
later this morning. These irrupting owls frequently keep moving until they
encounter an area with a significant number of small mammals, so subsequent
sightings of this bird may be unlikely. I will post if it is seen again.
Great Gray Owl in Algonquin Park
Posted
on December 3, 2007 at 09:44:41 AM by Ontbirds
*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (Dec. 3, 2007) and
is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.
Kevin Clute and Lee Pauzé just phoned to report a Great Gray
Owl on the utility wires at km 1.5 along Highway 60 in Algonquin
Park at 8 am this morning.
As with the Northern Hawk Owl at Port Weller on Saturday, the
appearance here of this boreal forest owl is likely indicative of an
expected southward irruption of these birds due to a crash of the
vole population on the breeding grounds, as reported earlier by
Ron Pittaway.
Ron Tozer
Dwight, Ontario
Re(1): Bald Eagle
Posted
on December 3, 2007 at 10:18:33 AM by Kip
Daynard
My wife and I saw an adult Bald Eagle on Sat. Dec. 1st fly over Hwy 11 just a
few kilometers north of Huntsville near Arrowhead Provincial Park. It was
flying towards town.
Kip Daynard
RR1 Emsdale
Bald Eagle
Posted
on December 3, 2007 at 09:15:37 AM by Dawn
Sherman
We had a mature Bald Eagle fly over our house this morning on Main Street in
Huntsville.
There is a reason for Pigeons!
Posted
on December 2, 2007 at 02:36:01 PM by jim
griffin
my feeders are regularly covered by about a dozen pigeons and I sometimes
wonder why I bother; I got my answer today: about 9 am, what I'm sure was a
juvenile Northern Goshawk took an aggressive run at a feeder load of pigeons
but flew off empty "handed" and then this afternoon as the pigeons
gradually got up the courage to return, a Red Tailed Hawk cruised by close to
rattle them again. I guess I'll just keep them around as useful links in the
food chain.
Turkeys
Posted on
December 1, 2007 at 03:22:39 PM by janice house
Driving home from Toronto today we saw at least 4 dozen turkeys in a field on
the north east side of Udney.
Pine Siskins
Posted
on November 30, 2007 at 08:12:14 PM by RichardCorcelli
In reply to Barbara Taylor's question, we have quite a few Pine Siskins amongst
a large flock of Common Redpolls at our feeders on Muskoka Bay, just opposite
the Segwun/Wenonah.
Algonquin Park Update: 29 November
Posted
on November 30, 2007 at 08:58:30 AM by Ontbirds
*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (Nov. 30, 2007) and
is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.
All small lakes and ponds are frozen now, and there is nearly
30 cm of snow (and counting!) in most areas of the Park.
The bigger lakes are open, so a few ducks may still be
lingering, although there were no reports this week.
The winter gate is now closed on Opeongo Road, and the
road is irregularly plowed.
The following summary outlines observations received during
the last week for birds often sought by visiting birders here.
FINCHES:
Pine Grosbeak: Up to 30 regularly at the Visitor Centre feeder.
A few seen elsewhere.
Purple Finch: No reports.
Red Crossbill: No reports.
White-winged Crossbill: No reports.
Common Redpoll: Up to 20 regularly at the Visitor Centre feeder.
A few observed elsewhere.
Pine Siskin: Four at the Visitor Centre (November 29).
American Goldfinch: No reports.
Evening Grosbeak: No reports. (Correction of last week's update:
this species was last seen at the Visitor Centre on November 18.)
REGULAR BOREAL SPECIES:
Spruce Grouse: Try Spruce Bog Boardwalk and Opeongo Road.
Black-backed Woodpecker: four seen from the chain across the old
railway to West Rose Lake (November 26).
Gray Jay: reported along Opeongo Road, at Visitor Centre, and
at Wolf Howl Pond area.
Boreal Chickadee: reported on Arowhon Road (3.8 km from Highway
60), and along old railway near chain gate, Wolf Howl Pond and West
Rose Lake (November 26).
OTHER SIGHTINGS OF NOTE:
Sharp-shinned Hawk: young female stalking birds at the Visitor Centre
feeder on November 23. Late for this species in Algonquin.
American Three-toed Woodpecker: a female was photographed (sent
to me) on Spruce Bog Boardwalk on November 25. If walking
backwards on the trail, the location was described as about 325 m before
reaching the open bog. It was not found by others later, but may be
still in the area. This bird may be the forerunner of a possible "echo
flight" of this boreal forest woodpecker, following last winter's
major irruption.
BIRDERS:
Please let us know the date, number and location of birds you observe
when you visit Algonquin Park. This information is stored in the
Algonquin Visitor Centre database, and will help us to assist other
birders here. Thanks.
Good birding.
Ron Tozer
Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired)
Dwight, Ontario
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 the East Gate (km 56). Permits and information are
available daily at both gates throughout the winter, including the
Algonquin Information Guide showing locations discussed here.
The Visitor Centre (km 43) is open on weekends (10 to 4) through the
winter. Recent bird sightings and information, plus feeders, can be found
there. Birders visiting during the week are welcome to contact staff for
birding information via the service entrance (right end of the building
as you face it from the parking lot).
------------------------------------------------
*ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists - the provincial
birding organization.
For instructions to join or leave ONTBIRDS visit http://www.ofo.ca/information/ontbirdssetup.php
ONTBIRDS Guidelines may be viewed at
http://www.ofo.ca/information/ontbirdsguide.php
Re(4): Dove ID?
Posted
on December 1, 2007 at 01:42:51 PM by Marilyn
Kisser
we tried this morning but no luck - it is hanging around with the mourning
doves - it comes to the feeders and seems to have no problem eating the black
oil sunflower seeds - it seems to have survived all that snow we got the past
few days - we will continue to monitor it
Re(3): Dove ID?
Posted
on December 1, 2007 at 12:08:38 PM by Al
Johnston
They're native to Africa so you're probably right about it not surviving the
winter. Good luck in trying to capture it, Marilyn and please keep us posted.
Re(2): Dove ID?
Posted
on November 30, 2007 at 07:34:50 PM by Marilyn Kisser
I have been told it is a ring necked dove - a tangerine variety and is a
domestic bird - I may try to catch it and bring it somewhere safe - apparantly
it will not survive this harsh winter
Re(1): Dove ID?
Posted
on November 30, 2007 at 03:40:26 PM by Al
Johnston
My guess would be a colour-variant of a rock pigeon. Any other thoughts?
Dove ID?
Posted
on November 29, 2007 at 10:12:33 PM by Marilyn
Kisser
this dove has been around the feeders the past couple of days - anyone know
what it is? just outside of Rosseau
Pine Siskin
Posted
on November 28, 2007 at 10:39:59 AM by Barbara Taylor
This morning a lone Pine Siskin visited our feeder. Has anyone else seen
Siskins recently?
We had six Woodpeckers come in to feed at the same time so I had to put out a second suet cage. They were getting very aggressive towards each other as they impatiently waited their turn. There are two females of each species (Hairy and Downy) and one male of each. A pair of Pileateds also stop by once in a while but they weren't part of the traffic jam this morning. The number of Mourning Doves has increased to sixteen now. Other regulars are Dark-eyed Juncos, White-breasted and Red-breasted Nuthatches, Blue Jays, and Black-capped Chickadees. The resident pair of Northern Cardinals are infrequent visitors now that many other birdfeeders are well stocked around the neighbourhood. (Bracebridge)
(addendum...as of 3 p.m., make that 23 Mourning Doves!)
Goldeneye
Posted
on November 27, 2007 at 02:59:38 PM by MaryWillmott
Two male Common Goldeneyes and one female Bufflehead today on Milford Bay at
Beaumaris. My flock of Redpolls at Beaumaris has grown to 50 to 60 birds (fill
three feeders every 2nd day (yips) Any easy way of finding a Hoary?
Redpolls
Posted
on November 26, 2007 at 03:17:33 PM by J.
Gardner
Our flock of redpolls, anywhere from 5 to 15, appears to be a mixed group of
Commons and Hoary Redpolls. (Hurdville)
Re(1): White-throated
Sparrow...Bracebridge
Posted
on December 1, 2007 at 03:14:11 PM by janice house
I just returned from a week in Toronto and have a juvenile feeding on the
ground under the feeders beside our cedar hedge. (Doe Lake Rd., Gravenhurst)
White-throated Sparrow...Bracebridge
Posted
on November 25, 2007 at 11:06:31 AM by Al
Sinclair
We have had a White-throated Sparrow in our yard for the past three days. It
has not been seen eating at the feeders yet even though there is food on the ground.
It is foraging on the ground in the flower garden near the feeder. This species
should be south of here by now but there has been a few records of them
spending the winter in Muskoka near a feeder.
Algonquin Park - Pine Grosbeak,
Northern Shrike
Posted
on November 24, 2007 at 08:02:28 PM by Ontbirds
*This report was originally posted by Lev Frid on ONTBIRDS (Nov. 24, 2007) and
is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.
Today I was birding the West Side of Algonquin Park. First on the list
was the Spruce Bog Boardwalk, which produced one GRAY JAY at the end
of the trail. At the Visitor Centre, two PINE GROSBEAKS, a male and a
female, were observed below the feeders from the Upper observation
deck, and a few RED-BREASTED NUTHATCHES and COMMON REDPOLLS at the
feeders. At Opeongo road, I observed 10 PINE GROSBEAKS fly overhead
and land in a White Pine. A NORTHERN SHRIKE was also observed at the
entrance of Opeongo Road. BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEES were also present in
all three locations in decent numbers.
Re(2): Common Redpolls
Posted
on December 1, 2007 at 03:19:25 PM by janice house
We have half a dozen at our feeders, Doe Lake Rd Gravenhurst
Re(1): Common Redpolls
Posted
on November 25, 2007 at 10:46:39 AM by Eleanor
Kee Wellman
I have one in Bala!
Re(1): Common Redpolls
Posted
on November 24, 2007 at 08:01:10 PM by Terry
& Marion Whittam
We saw about 25 Redpolls eating grit on Winhara Rd half way between Bracebridge
and Gravenhurst today.
Common Redpolls
Posted
on November 24, 2007 at 07:48:38 PM by Barbara Taylor
This morning there were about 30 Common Redpolls eating grit on the road by
#105 Meadow Heights Dr. in Bracebridge. There were also several smaller flocks
of just 5-7 birds scattered around the neighbourhood.
Costa Rica Bird Tour
Posted
on November 23, 2007 at 10:40:19 AM by nickbartok
Hello Muskoka Birders,
I wanted to inform you of a new business venture offering bird tours. We are
offering our fist trip to Costa Rica this winter in February and are looking
for 10 eager participants to enjoy the sun, track birds and do some bird
banding. The cost is only $1000 + flight and some food. Much cheaper than most
tour agencies.
Please check out our website at: www.asioadventures.ca
Some of you know the name Asio; it is the genus name for short-eared owls and
our mascot, as it is world renouned.
We are also birding Amherst Island on December 22 and 23, and invite people to
come along. If you are interested please contact me.
Nick Bartok
ps. I cleared this posting with Barbara, as it is advertising, but for a local
birder.
Algonquin Park Update: 22 November
Posted
on November 22, 2007 at 09:29:03 PM by Ontbirds
*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (Nov. 22, 2007) and
is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.
The arrival of significant snow cover in the Park provided another indicator
of the current scarcity of birds. Typically, winter finches are attracted to
sand and salt on the highway in Algonquin. However, it was possible to drive
the entire 56 km through the Park this week and not see even one bird on the
road.
More evidence of the apparent departure of finches from this area included
the absence of Evening Grosbeaks at the Visitor Centre feeder (none since
November 15), after they had been regular in small numbers earlier.
The following summary outlines reports received during the last week for
birds often sought by visiting birders here.
FINCHES:
Pine Grosbeak: About 15 regularly at the Visitor Centre feeder. A few seen
elsewhere.
Purple Finch: No reports.
Red Crossbill: No reports.
White-winged Crossbill: No reports.
Common Redpoll: A few regularly at the Visitor Centre and West Gate feeders.
Very few observed elsewhere.
Pine Siskin: No reports.
American Goldfinch: one at Visitor Centre (November 20).
Evening Grosbeak: No reports.
BOREAL SPECIES:
Spruce Grouse: Try Spruce Bog Boardwalk and Opeongo Road.
Black-backed Woodpecker: One at Wolf Howl Pond on November 8. No reports
since, but there were very few birders here this week.
Gray Jay: reported recently at Spruce Bog Boardwalk, Opeongo Road, Visitor
Centre, and Wolf Howl Pond.
Boreal Chickadee: reported at Wolf Howl Pond.
OTHER SIGHTINGS OF NOTE:
Hoary Redpoll: One reported at the Visitor Centre on November 7. Only report
so far this fall.
Marten and Fisher: At least one of each of these large weasels has been
visiting the Visitor Centre suet feeders irregularly this past week.
BIRDERS:
Please let us know the date, number and location of birds you observe when
you visit Algonquin Park. This information is stored in the Algonquin
Visitor Centre database, and will help us to assist other birders here.
Thanks.
Good birding.
Ron Tozer
Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired)
Dwight, Ontario
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 the East Gate (km 56). Permits and information are
available daily at both gates throughout the winter, including the
Algonquin Information Guide showing locations discussed here.
The Visitor Centre (km 43) is open on weekends (10 to 4) through the
winter. Recent bird sightings and information, plus feeders, can be found
there. Birders visiting during the week are welcome to contact staff for
birding information via the service entrance (right end of the building
as you face it from the parking lot).
Boreal Birds
Posted
on November 22, 2007 at 08:59:06 AM by Barbara Taylor
Ron Pittaway has posted a very interesting update on Ontbirds about the
movement of various boreal bird species, including owls and redpolls. You can
read his report at: http://mailman.hwcn.org/pipermail/ontbirds/Week-of-Mon-20071119/016991.html
Port Sydney birds
Posted
on November 21, 2007 at 07:05:59 PM by jim griffin
Red Tailed Hawk sited today perched near hwy 11 east side just south of
Stephenson rd #1 about 12:30 pm.
Belted kingfisher (male) on the river at Port Sydney bridge (north side)approx.
4:00 pm
Hooded Mergansers (2 pairs)on the river at Port Sydney, south of bridge along
with a couple of pairs of Common Golden eye.
Re(1): Pine Grosbeaks
Posted
on November 22, 2007 at 06:47:27 PM by janice house
I counted 8 in our neighbourhood flock this morning as I was brushing off the
car. Geoff took a picture of a lone bird that was feeding most of today beside
our cedar hedge. The flock are feeding at 1026 Laycox Rd most mornings when I
walk by with the dogs.
Re(2): Pine Grosbeaks
Posted
on November 21, 2007 at 03:06:15 PM by J.
Gardner
Here in Hurdville, near Lake Manitouwabing, we have had Pine Grosbeaks for
several weeks now. We have a collection of 6 or 8 that arrives with the
Bluejays in the morning, and can be seen at any time of the day. We also have a
small collection of 3 and 4 beautiful males that comes sporadically through the
day. They will use the feeders, but seem to prefer to pick over the leavings on
the ground.
Re(1): Pine Grosbeaks
Posted
on November 21, 2007 at 09:10:02 AM by Wayne
Bridge
I have had pine grosbeaks (at least 1 male & 2 females)
"investigating" my feeders since Nov. 1, off and on (Kearney). They
don't seem to be able to negotiate the squirrel-proof feeder - maybe it's
grosbeak-proof too? Our spruce and pines have no cones and same story for
berries on the cherries and viburnums.
Re(1): Pine Grosbeaks
Posted
on November 21, 2007 at 08:34:15 AM by MaryWillmott
There has been three Pine Grosbeaks around my feeder and the red berries in the
marsh at Beaumaris for the last week.
Re(1): Pine Grosbeaks
Posted
on November 20, 2007 at 09:49:27 PM by Al
Sinclair
We had 5 Pine Grosbeaks at our feeder here today, 8 km east of Bracebridge.
2m,2f,1 im male
Pine Grosbeaks
Posted
on November 20, 2007 at 03:23:42 PM by Barbara Taylor
Don Bailey reports there were several Pine Grosbeaks feeding in the crabapple
tree at 117 Meadow Heights Dr. earlier today. This morning we saw a small flock
of them in a maple tree by #103 Glendale Rd. So far none have visited our
nearby feeders. (Bracebridge)
Re(1): Sunday Birds
Posted
on November 20, 2007 at 07:40:31 PM by Dave Wright
We returned home (3 Queen St Bracebridge) after 4 days away and this morning we
had 20 to 30 redpolls at the feeders. Dave W
Sunday Birds
Posted
on November 18, 2007 at 10:43:38 PM by MaryWillmott
I enjoyed seeing a Red Tail Hawk at Center Milford Bay Rd. Highway 118 West. At
Milford Bay, Beaumaris there were several Buffleheads and one Loon. At
Butterfly Lake Glen Orchard , I saw Hooded Mergansers. At my feeder at Beaumaris
I have 8 to 10 Common Redpolls along with the usual crowd. Every morning I have
a pair of Mallards come in for corn.
Snow Goose at Grandview Resort
Posted
on November 18, 2007 at 03:34:49 PM by ron
tozer
At 2 p.m. today, we saw a blue morph adult Snow Goose among about 300 Canada
Geese grazing on the Grandview Resort golf course along Highway 60, east of
Huntsville.
Red-necked Grebes at Port Sydney
Posted
on November 18, 2007 at 03:31:02 PM by ron
tozer
There were two Red-necked Grebes visible from the dock on Mary Lake at Port
Sydney around noon today. One bird was near the southern-most island, and the
other was near shore in the southwest corner of the lake.
Re(2): Barrow's Goldeneye
Posted
on November 18, 2007 at 03:27:54 PM by ron
tozer
See Di Labio, B., R. Pittaway, and P. Burke. 1997. Bill colour and
identification of female Barrow's Goldeneye. Ontario Birds 15(2): 81-85. They
note: The most important field marks differentiating female Common and Barrow's
goldeneyes are head shape and bill size, not bill colour. They reported having
seen female Common Goldeneyes with extensive yellow-orange or even all
yellow-orange bills on many occasions.
We also failed to locate any goldeneyes other than Commons (about 4) on the
river below the bridge at Port Sydney this morning. However, we met Janice and
Moira and they advised that there were more goldeneyes there yesterday, so this
section of river should be watched.
Re(1): Barrow's Goldeneye
Posted
on November 18, 2007 at 01:47:32 PM by Barbara Taylor
We tried to find the Port Sydney Goldeneyes late this morning but only managed to
see one male Common Goldeneye downstream from the bridge.
Do female Common Goldeneyes ever have a completely yellow bill or does that
indicate a Barrow's? This morning there were two female Goldeneyes on the
Muskoka River by #1447 Beaumont Dr. (across from Santa's Village) in
Bracebridge. They were constantly diving so it was difficult to get a good look
at their head shape. One had a completely yellow bill. The other had a mostly
yellow bill with just a bit of black.
Barrow's Goldeneye
Posted
on November 17, 2007 at 09:28:27 PM by janice house
Moira and I went to Huntsville today via South Mary Lake Rd - # 10 - Brunel
Road. We spotted several Common Goldeneye pairs and we believe there was a pair
of Barrow's Goldeneye with them; #751 on S Mary Lake Rd just before the bridge
in Port Sydney. If anyone is in the area, please confirm the sighting. A Brown
Creeper was working the White Pine at # 751 while we watched the Goldeneye's.
We saw a Hooded Merganser pair at Goodwin Park, five pairs of Hooded Mergansers/one
female Common Merganser at the pond at Heritage Park. Geoff was hunting north
of Wier Lake in Bent River today and saw a Great Grey Owl.
Common Redpolls
Posted
on November 17, 2007 at 11:44:23 AM by Barbara Taylor
This morning there have been small flocks of Redpolls feeding in the birch
trees along Glendale Rd. in front of #86 and #96. (Bracebridge)
Earlier today at the frozen Bracebridge Ponds we only found a few Mallards at
the north edge of cell 2 where there was still a small patch of open water.
About 120 Canada Geese flew in from the river and decided to land on the ice in
cell 1. Every once in a while a goose would stumble and break through the ice -
quite comical to watch.
Algonquin Park Update: 17 November
Posted
on November 17, 2007 at 11:31:07 AM by Ontbirds
*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (Nov. 17, 2007) and
is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.
As expected in this non-seed crop year, the forest in Algonquin
Park seems to be getting ever quieter. Many finches, Black-capped
Chickadees and Red-breasted Nuthatches appear to have moved out.
Also in response to the poor to non-existent natural food situation,
feeders in Algonquin and nearby Muskoka have been reporting
good numbers of these birds. However, at least the finches often
appear to be moving through, with frequent changes in numbers
and species at feeders.
The following summary outlines reports received during the last
week for birds often sought by visiting birders here.
FINCHES:
Pine Grosbeak: regular at Visitor Centre feeder. Small numbers
away from feeders.
Purple Finch: two flying over (November 13). Most are gone.
Red Crossbill: one undocumented report.
White-winged Crossbill: no reports.
Common Redpoll: widespread in small numbers; regular at
the Visitor Centre and West Gate feeders. Often seen feeding
in weed patches.
Pine Siskin: two at Visitor Centre feeder (November 13).
American Goldfinch: one at Visitor Centre feeder, irregularly.
Evening Grosbeak: up to 20 at the Visitor Centre feeder;
occasional flyovers elsewhere.
BOREAL SPECIES:
Spruce Grouse: seen at Spruce Bog Boardwalk and Opeongo
Road, including displaying males apparently responding to
spring-like day length.
Black-backed Woodpecker: no reports.
Gray Jay: reported at Spruce Bog Boardwalk, Opeongo Road,
Visitor Centre, and Wolf Howl Pond.
Boreal Chickadee: reported at Spruce Bog Boardwalk. Try
Opeongo Road as well.
OTHER BIRDS OF NOTE:
Golden Eagle: single migrating adults were observed on
November 11 and 16.
Bohemian Waxwing: a few reported; most may have already
passed through.
BIRDERS:
Please let us know the date, number and location of birds you
observe when you visit Algonquin Park. This information is stored
in the Algonquin Visitor Centre database, and will help us to assist
other birders here. Thanks.
BIRDERS FROM THE BRANTFORD AREA: PLEASE SEND
ME THE DATE, LOCATION AND NUMBERS FOR YOUR
WOODPECKER, REDPOLL, AND CROSSBILL SIGHTINGS
FROM LAST WEEK IN ALGONQUIN.
Good birding.
Ron Tozer
Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired)
Dwight, Ontario
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 the East Gate (km 56). Permits and information are
available daily at both gates throughout the winter, including the
Algonquin Information Guide showing locations discussed here.
The Visitor Centre (km 43) is open on weekends (10 to 4) through the
winter. Recent bird sightings and information, plus feeders, can be found
there. Birders visiting during the week are welcome to contact staff for
birding information via the service entrance (right end of the building
as you face it from the parking lot).
------------------------------------------------
*ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists - the provincial
birding organization.
For instructions to join or leave ONTBIRDS visit http://www.ofo.ca/information/ontbirdssetup.php
ONTBIRDS Guidelines may be viewed at
http://www.ofo.ca/information/ontbirdsguide.php
Boreal Chickadees - Algonquin Park
Posted
on November 14, 2007 at 04:59:40 PM by Ontbirds
*This report was originally posted by Bruce Ripley on ONTBIRDS (Nov. 14, 2007)
and is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.
On Tuesday 13th en route to Bracebridge to visit some friends, I did some
"hurry up" birding in Algonquin Park. My first significant sighting
was a flock of 8 BOHEMIAN WAXWINGS in someones frontyard just north of Bancroft
which gave me my 400th ABA species for the year. In the town of Whitney I
located 3 PINE GROSBEAKS at a feeder and a PINE SISKIN and AMERICAN GOLDFINCH.
At the Visitor Centre in Algonquin Park there were 2 more BOHEMIAN WAXWINGS as
well as a flock of 15 COMMON REDPOLLS and another AMERICAN GOLDFINCH. On the
Spruce Bog Boardwalk I came across a male SPRUCE GROUSE courting a female
SPRUCE GROUSE in the middle of the path just before the boardwalk. I have seen
this event before but never in November. They must have thought it was April. I
slowly approached to within four metres and watched the courtship ritual for
about five minutes. As I backed away the male flew just over my head and landed
on a branch about two metres away. I almost always bring my camera along, but
as this wasn't really a birding trip, I left my camera at home. How
unfortunate!
At Wolf Howl Pond I came across 4 GRAY JAYS which landed right beside me for
another perfect photo opportunity. I noticed some peanut shells on the ground
from a previous birder which is probably why they came so close. At this same
location I heard then observed 2 BOREAL CHICKADEES. I also saw a GREAT BLUE
HERON in the park. Although it wasn't overly birdy in the park, Algonquin
always has something good to see. In Bracebridge there were 3 PINE GROSBEAKS
and 20 COMMON REDPOLLS along Curling Road.
Cheers
Bruce Ripley
Algonquin Park is located on Hwy. 60, east of Huntsville. Hunstville can be
reached from Toronto by taking Highways 400 and 11, north.
Km. 43 Visitor Centre feeders. There are two feeders; one below the
observation deck and one north of the main building.
Km. 42.5 Spruce Bog Boardwalk
Km. 15.4 Arowhon Road
Take Arowhon road north off of Hwy 60 for about 5 km. Where the
road branches in three (old rail line) at the large Arowhon Resort sign, take
the right
branch and drive about 100m along the old rail bed until you reach the chain
across the road and park there. The rail bed can then be walked. After
about 15 minutes it joins up with the upper part of the Mizzy Lake trail
and passes by Wolf Howl Pond and West Rose Lake. Return on same route from West
Rose Lake.
Bracebridge is about 30 minutes south of Huntsville. Curling Road is located
beside the South Muskoka Golf Course.
Common Redpolls, Bala - photos
Posted
on November 14, 2007 at 04:34:34 PM by Barbara Taylor
Eleanor Kee Wellman sent the following report for Nov. 12 along with some of
her photos from that morning:
This morning about 11 am I looked out to see a couple of Common Red Polls on a
tree. They came in for a look at the goldenrod and flew off. Soon after more
than 100 of the dear little things came in and took over the local goldenrod,
the Stiff Goldenrod and the Monarda Fistulosa seed heads. Some of the plants
had fourteen birds on them. It was an amazing invasion!
The Stiff Goldenrod is one of the seed included in the Septic Bed Meadow Mix
put together by the Wildflower Farm and meant to be sown on the sand of a new
septic bed. The birds spent most of their time on the prairie species.
After about an hour of flying in and out they discovered the bird feeders then
disappeared!
It was just the thing to brighten an otherwise dull day.
Regards,
Eleanor
(Bala)
Buffleheads & Hooded Mergansers
Posted
on November 13, 2007 at 12:06:49 PM by JenniferHoare
There are three Hooded Mergansers (2 males and 1 female) lingering along the
South Branch of the Muskoka River between the Baysville Dam and Fairy Falls.
There was also a female Bufflehead seen just above the Baysville Dam.
Pine Grosbeaks
Posted
on November 13, 2007 at 12:02:50 PM by JenniferHoare
There were about 1/2 a dozen Pine Grosbeaks hanging out on the Baysville
Waterfront Walkway, by the hwy 117 bridge. They seemed eager to watch me as
well and I was able to get a good look at these lovely ladies and lads.
Common Redpolls
Posted
on November 13, 2007 at 10:36:40 AM by janice house
Just came back from Bracebridge, small flock of redpolls in the birch tree at
106 Meadow Heights.
Pine Grosbeak
Posted
on November 12, 2007 at 01:51:24 PM by janice house
My neighbour had a female/immature hit their window this morning, she carried
it around for a while in the house then it sat on her shoulder. When I went by
with the dogs around noon it was sitting on the door frame of their truck, they
picked it up and brought it over for me to get a closer look and it flew to a
nearby pine tree. They have a crab apple tree in their front yard where the
birds usually feed. (Doe Lake Rd. Gravenhurst)
Bracebridge Ponds
Posted
on November 11, 2007 at 12:06:41 PM by Barbara Taylor
There were no new ducks at the Ponds this morning. The western half of each
cell was covered in ice. There were six Snow Buntings inside the fenced area
around the dumping ponds (between cells 3 and 4). There was a female Northern
Pintail in cell 1 and a male in cell 4. The pair of Gadwall were still in cell
3. A few Green-winged Teal were in cell 3. Scattered about were American Black
Ducks, Buffleheads, Lesser Scaup, and Mallards.
Ponds Map
- (north is approx. towards the top of the map, west is towards the pipeline)
Pine Grosbeaks, Bohemian Waxwings,
Red-tailed Hawks
Posted
on November 11, 2007 at 08:29:22 AM by Goodyear
Pine Grosbeaks and Bohemian Waxwings continue to visit our crabapple tree at
117 Meadow Heights this morning. Yesterday morning (11:40) as we were leaving
the Lagoons we scanned the skies and found a kettle of 4 Red-tailed Hawks
slowly circling in a SW direction. We continued to watch and then saw another
kettle of 12 Red-tailed Hawks and one Red-shouldered Hawk.
Re(1): Northern Shrike
Posted
on November 11, 2007 at 08:41:57 AM by Wayne
Bridge
We have had a northern shrike perching around our Kearney property for a week
and a friend living near Lake Waseosa has had one in her rural yard also.
Northern Shrike
Posted
on November 9, 2007 at 09:20:40 PM by SueSpeck
A Northern Shrike? Earlier this evening my husband was re-filling the feeders.
It was a heavier feeding going on at the time than normal, so much so that the
chickadees were landing on his hat! A few minutes later, once indoors he
glanced outside and noticed that all of the feeding birds were gone. BUT...
there was a bird the size of a robin on the ground stabbing at something dark
in colour. In watching, this bird then clutched it's prize and then flew off
with it into the boggy field. In checking our books for reference, we believe
that it was a Northern Shrike that claimed a Dark-Eyed Junco (of which were
feeding below). What a sight to see!
Re(2): Pine grosbeaks
Posted
on November 11, 2007 at 12:37:13 PM by Dave Wright
Four Pine grosbeaks arrived at our feeder this am. Dave W
(Bracebridge)
Re(3): Pine grosbeaks
Posted
on November 10, 2007 at 08:51:26 PM by Al
Sinclair
We have had Pine Grosbeaks flying over here east of Bracebridge for a couple of
weeks. Today the first one, a female, came into our feeder and was eating black
sunflower seeds. We also had the first Redpoll at our feeder today.
Re(2): Pine grosbeaks
Posted
on November 10, 2007 at 04:42:26 PM by janice house
I watched 2 from our deck this afternoon, I have heard them all week while
walking the dogs (Doe Lake Rd Gravenhurst). Just came back from a walk in Annie
Williams Park in Bracebridge and I heard them in the tops of the big pines
along the east side.
Re(1): Pine grosbeaks
Posted
on November 10, 2007 at 04:08:56 PM by Barbara Taylor
Just got back from a walk along Meadow Heights Dr. in Bracebridge. There were
six Pine Grosbeaks in a crabapple tree in front of #117 and two more feeding on
crabapples by #85.
Pine grosbeaks
Posted
on November 9, 2007 at 04:05:12 PM by apearse
Six males and a female at our feeder area this afternoon. All feeding on seed
on the ground under feeders. Unusual. Location is 71 Bonnell Rd Bracebridge
Re(1): Algonquin Park Boreal
Chickadees
Posted
on November 11, 2007 at 01:33:18 PM by Ontbirds
*This report was originally posted by Maureen Smith on ONTBIRDS (Nov. 11, 2007)
and is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.
Sorry for not posting but last Sunday I had an excellent sighting of two BOREAL
CHICKADEES on the Spruce Bog Trail right where there is a bench dedicated to
Arthur Despard. I did not realize that there had been no other sightings of
them reported last week. Maureen Smith
Algonquin Park Update: 9 November
Posted
on November 9, 2007 at 01:22:26 PM by Ontbirds
*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (Nov. 9, 2007) and
is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.
The following summary outlines reports received during the last
ten days for birds often sought by visiting birders here.
FINCHES:
Pine Grosbeak: widespread in small numbers; regular at Visitor
Centre feeder.
Purple Finch: no reports; all may have departed.
Red Crossbill: no reports from Highway 60; one sighting from
Lake Travers on the East Side, where the pine-type is regular.
White-winged Crossbill: no reports.
Common Redpoll: widespread in small numbers; regular at
the Visitor Centre feeder.
Pine Siskin: most appear to have departed; one or two irregularly
at the Visitor Centre feeder.
American Goldfinch: same status as Pine Siskin.
Evening Grosbeak: a few regularly at the Visitor Centre feeder;
occasional flyovers elsewhere.
BOREAL SPECIES:
Spruce Grouse: seen at Spruce Bog Boardwalk, Opeongo Road
(near winter gate and 1 km north of there), and Wolf Howl Pond.
Black-backed Woodpecker: one reported at Western Uplands
Backpacking Trail entrance (km 3 on Highway 60).
Gray Jay: reported at Spruce Bog Boardwalk, Opeongo Road, and
Visitor Centre feeders.
Boreal Chickadee: no reports; best locations to try are Spruce Bog
Boardwalk, Opeongo Road, and Wolf Howl Pond. Usually detected
by hearing vocalizations.
OTHER BIRDS OF NOTE:
Bohemian Waxwing: occasional small flocks noted, but less
frequently in last few days.
Northern Cardinal: a male flying south across Highway 60 at
km 25.3 on November 5, and another male that visited a feeder
at Site 26 in Mew Lake Campground for about two weeks during
late October/early November (but went unreported until after it
had disappeared), were typical of dispersing birds of this species
that occasionally show up in Algonquin during the period from
late October to late November.
BIRDERS:
Please let us know the date, number and location of birds you observe
when you visit Algonquin Park. This information is stored in the
Algonquin Visitor Centre database, and will help us to assist other
birders here. Thanks.
Good birding.
Ron Tozer
Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired)
Dwight, Ontario
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 the East Gate (km 56). Permits and information are
available daily at both gates throughout the winter, including the Algonquin
Information Guide showing locations discussed here.
The Visitor Centre (km 43) is open on weekends (10 to 4) through the
winter. Recent bird sightings and information, plus feeders, can be found
there. Birders visiting during the week are welcome to contact staff for
birding information via the service entrance (right end of the building
as you face it from the parking lot).
----------------------------------------------------------
*ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists - the provincial
birding organization.
For instructions to join or leave ONTBIRDS visit http://www.ofo.ca/information/ontbirdssetup.php
ONTBIRDS Guidelines may be viewed at
http://www.ofo.ca/information/ontbirdsguide.php
Re(1): Unusual feeder bird
Posted
on November 9, 2007 at 03:42:44 PM by Marilyn
Kisser
I would love a pileated to come to my feeder - a friend of mine in Washington
State has them come to her suet feeders daily!
Unusual feeder bird
Posted
on November 9, 2007 at 01:02:59 PM by Barbara Taylor
Eleanor Kee Wellman sent this photo of a new species for her feeder list.
Pileated
Woodpecker, Bala
Snow Buntings
Posted
on November 9, 2007 at 12:25:50 PM by janice house
Moira reported seeing 8-9 snow buntings flying over the field behind McDonalds
in Bracebridge yesterday
Re(1): Winter Finch irruption
Posted
on November 8, 2007 at 09:11:44 AM by Wayne
Bridge
Up here in Kearney - Muskoka suburbs - I have 6 chickadees and 4 red-breasted
nuthatches constantly at my feeders. A pair of pine grosbeaks come
occasionally. There were 12 goldfinches at one time yesterday. I've seen no
siskins or redpolls yet; the occasional junco, and 1 tree sparrow.
Re(1): Winter Finch irruption
Posted
on November 7, 2007 at 11:54:29 PM by Marilyn
Kisser
my feeders near the house and in the woods are very busy with chickadees and
nuthatches - I guess the lack of seed cones is why - just outside of Rosseau
Winter Finch irruption
Posted
on November 7, 2007 at 07:54:42 PM by Barbara Taylor
Ron Pittaway has posted an update on Ontbirds about the Winter Finch irruption
currently underway. You can find the report here.
His earlier Winter Finch Forecast is here.
A few days ago we walked east of Henry marsh in Bracebridge looking for Pine
Grosbeaks since they had been there in the 2005 irruption - but no luck. There
seemed to be fewer numbers of chickadees and nuthatches than other years as
well. When we looked at the tops of the firs and spruces, we realized why -
absolutely no seed cones visible anywhere!
Re(1): Common Redpolls, Bala
Posted
on November 7, 2007 at 11:52:11 PM by Marilyn
Kisser
I've had a couple at the finch feeders the past couple of days - just outside
of Rosseau
Common Redpolls, Bala
Posted
on November 7, 2007 at 07:03:48 PM by Eleanor
Kee Wellman
I had about a dozen Common Redpolls here this afternoon. They didn't stay and
didn't come into the feeders even though I had niger out.
Pine Grosbeaks at Bay Lake today
Posted
on November 7, 2007 at 10:52:28 AM by Kip
Daynard
A pair was calling back and forth from the trees around our house. First I've
heard (but haven't been out much lately).
Gray Jays
Posted
on November 6, 2007 at 12:41:54 PM by janice house
Geoff was in Bent River on Monday and saw 2 jays in the woods in the south/west
side of the field at the end of Neil Bethune Rd.
Re(1): Bohemian Waxwings
Posted
on November 5, 2007 at 11:53:17 AM by Barbara Taylor
At 11:30 a.m. today we found 15 Bohemian Waxwings in an ornamental crabapple
tree by 35 Meadow Heights Dr., just west of Kevin Cres. There was a female
Northern Cardinal in the Goodyear's crabapple tree but no Waxwings. About
thirty Common Redpolls were feeding in the birch trees at 106 Meadow Heights.
(Bracebridge)
directions: From Hwy. 11 take Taylor Rd. west into Bracebridge. Turn right at Manitoba St. Turn left onto Meadow Heights Dr. (zoom in on green arrow on map)
Re(1): Bohemian Waxwings
Posted
on November 4, 2007 at 04:22:36 PM by ron tozer
Small flocks of Bohemian Waxwings have been reported almost daily for the past
week along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park, and so observers should be on the
lookout for them in Muskoka. A flight of this species had been predicted for
this fall by Ron Pittaway in his winter finch forecast (see www.ofo.ca), due to
the poor crop of native mountain-ash berries in northern Ontario.
Bohemian Waxwings
Posted
on November 4, 2007 at 04:00:31 PM by Goodyear
At 3:45 we had a flock of approximately 30 Bohemian Waxwings feeding in our
Miniature Crab tree in our front yard (117 MeadowHeights Drive Bracebridge).
The birds stayed for about five minutes and now seem to be making a tour of the
neighbourhood.
Mergansers
Posted
on November 4, 2007 at 12:00:30 PM by Barbara Taylor
This morning there were some Common Mergansers on the Muskoka River by the
entrance to Kerr Park. Further along Beaumont Dr., there were two pairs of Hooded
Mergansers in the pond behind the new house just west of Stephens Bay Rd. There
weren't any Canada Geese on the river today, but we found over 300 of them at
the Muskoka Highlands driving range on South Monck Dr. (Bracebridge)
Cardinals/Woodcock
Posted
on November 4, 2007 at 07:26:32 AM by janice house
We have had 3 cardinals here all week, male, female and a juvenile male, Geoff
managed to get some pictures. A lone woodcock was calling Thursday night about
6:30 from the farm field across from the house (Doe Lake Rd)
Northern Shrike - Kearney
Posted
on November 3, 2007 at 05:29:50 PM by Wayne
Bridge
I was blessed with a wonderful view, from only a few meters away, of a Northern
Shrike perched in a tree near our deck. I watched as it made a strike.
Unsuccessful. I was kind of glad; it was near where a most handsome Gapper's
red-backed vole lives. The vole is really an attractive little creature that
gives me great enjoyment watching it through the binoculars.
Bracebridge Ponds - ducks and
finches
Posted
on November 3, 2007 at 01:00:44 PM by dbritton
Spent an hour and a half birding the Ponds today, good selection of ducks and
the clear calm weather was perfect for hearing he overflying finches - of note:
Northern Pintail- male (cell 4) and female (cell 1)
Gadwall - pair (cell 3)
Green-winged Teal - 15 (cells 2,3,4)
Lesser Scaup - 35 (cells 1 and 2)
Bufflehead - 90 (cells 1,2,4)
Snow Buntings - flock of 30 on the ground between cells 3 & 4
Pine Grosbeak - 1 flew over calling south of cell 4
Common Redpoll - a few flyovers and a flock of about 15 feeding on birch
catkins at the NW corner of cell 4
American Goldfinch - a few flyovers
Evening Grosbeak - flock of 30 flew over cell 4
Belted Kingfisher
Posted
on November 3, 2007 at 12:26:36 PM by Barbara Taylor
This morning at the Bracebridge Ponds there was a Belted Kingfisher chattering
away from atop a dead tree east of cell 4. A male Northern Pintail was in cell
4 and a male Gadwall was in cell 3. About two hundred Canada Geese came in
from the north and landed on the Muskoka River by Annie Williams Park - I
didn't see any Snow Geese with them.
Red Tailed Hawk
Posted
on November 1, 2007 at 07:12:46 AM by janice house
Twice I have seen a hawk perched in the trees at the Hwy 141 exit at Hwy 11. I
assume the bird is hunting the rock doves that live under the overpass.
Finches on the move
Posted
on October 31, 2007 at 06:03:20 PM by Al
Sinclair
Today we had Pine Grosbeak, Evening Grosbeak and Redpolls flying over our yard
east of Bracebridge on Hwy 118E. Also Siskins and Goldfinches at the feeders.
Re(1): porcupine advice
Posted
on October 31, 2007 at 01:10:08 PM by Barbara Taylor
Do you know anyone who could lend you a Fisher? ;)
You could try encircling the trunks of your favourite trees with 30 inch wide
bands of aluminum flashing. We had to attach metal flashing to the plywood
walls of our shed to keep them from chewing it.
P.S. - If you have a salt lick for the deer, you are also attracting
porcupines.
porcupine advice
Posted
on October 30, 2007 at 12:41:44 PM by John
Challis
On our property on the northern suburbs of Washago, we have a resident
porcupine who took to an oak for much of last winter, denuding much of the
upper branches. This morning, he appeared in the top of a mature oak on another
spot. This tree's a really nice mast tree, and I'd hate to see it weakened by
being turned into a winter banquet hall. I'm also a little leery about the
plywood on the canoe shed I'm just finishing now.
Pogo, our goofball dog, would gladly help us; she's been to the vet seven times
for quill removal and has yet to really get the point.
And so, to advance an oft-repeated query: If anyone has successfully
discouraged a porcupine from their lot -- short of using a bullet -- I'd be
pleased to know the technique.
Re(1): evening grosbeaks
Posted
on November 2, 2007 at 02:55:48 PM by Barbara Taylor
Don Bailey reports that yesterday there were about sixty Evening Grosbeaks
sitting in a tree on Meadow Heights Dr., Bracebridge. A Sharp-shinned Hawk flew
in and started hunting them.
evening grosbeaks and great blue
heron
Posted
on October 29, 2007 at 08:42:44 PM by Marilyn
Kisser
a great blue flew up out of the pond on Saturday evening - today, while I was
at work, my husband reported that there were at least 20 evening grosbeaks at
the feeders - of course I missed it! just outside of Rosseau
Re(1): Great Blue Herons, Mourning
Cloak
Posted
on October 30, 2007 at 12:44:36 PM by John
Challis
We had a painted lady on our cosmos late last week. (Washago)
Great Blue Herons, Mourning Cloak
Posted
on October 29, 2007 at 12:55:29 PM by Don Clement
A pair of Great Blue Herons were at one of our beaver ponds here near Germania
on Saturday. Also, a Mourning Cloak Butterfly on a rock near the house one day
last week.
Re(2): Snow Buntings
Posted
on November 1, 2007 at 07:01:50 AM by janice house
yesterday morning I heard the snow buntings in the farm field across from my
home (Doe Lake Rd)
Re(1): Snow Buntings
Posted
on October 31, 2007 at 12:25:53 PM by Barbara Taylor
This morning there were about twenty Snow Buntings feeding by the dumping ponds
between cell 3 & 4. The male Gadwall is still in cell 3. Nothing else of
note.
Horned Lark, Snow Buntings
Posted
on October 29, 2007 at 12:37:57 PM by Barbara Taylor
Don Bailey reports there was a Horned Lark and Snow Buntings between cell 1 and
2 this morning at the Bracebridge Ponds. A Northern Shrike flew into the trees
east of cell 1.
Algonquin Park Birds
Posted
on October 28, 2007 at 08:40:54 PM by Ontbirds
*This report was originally posted by Bruce Di Labio on ONTBIRDS (Oct. 28,
2007) and is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.
Hi Everyone
Spent the day birding various trails along Hwy. 60 in Algonquin Park.
The weather varied from sun to heavy overcast with snow flurries and windy.
The highlight of the outing was a small flight of raptors between 11:00 a.m.
and 12:30 p.m. at the Old Airfield. A total of 37 individuals were observed
migrating south including 3 Bald Eagle, 1 Golden Eagle, 27 Red-tailed Hawk,
5 Rough-legged Hawk and 1 Northern Harrier. Winter finches were scarce and
we observed 4 Pine Grosbeak, 3 Red Crossbill, 11 Common Redpoll, 7 Pine
Siskin and 1 Evening Grosbeak. We also had 2 Northern Shrike and a single
Bohemian Waxwing at the Old Airfield. A total of 9 Gray Jays were seen at
Wolf Howl Pond, Spruce Bog Trail and Opeongo Lake Road. Boreal Chickadees
were heard at Wolf Howl Pond and Opeongo Lake Road. No luck with Spruce
Grouse or Black-backed Woodpecker.
good birding, Bruce
Algonquin Park bird update: 27
October
Posted
on October 27, 2007 at 04:57:13 PM by Ontbirds
*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (Oct. 27, 2007) and
is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.
Some winter finches, although still scarce, showed increasing
numbers this past week in Algonquin Park, and nearby areas in
Muskoka. The species and number of individuals at feeders
seemed to be changing regularly, perhaps suggestive of birds
moving through in search of seed crops (almost totally lacking
here).
Reports of finches this week along Highway 60 in Algonquin
Park were:
Pine Grosbeak: scarce, but more numerous and widespread.
Purple Finch: most seem to have departed.
Red Crossbill: no reports.
White-winged Crossbill: one small flock.
Common Redpoll: a few at feeders, and feeding on White Birch.
Pine Siskin: small numbers regular at Visitor Centre feeder.
American Goldfinch: a few at Visitor Centre feeder; most seem to
have departed.
Evening Grosbeak: small numbers at Visitor Centre feeder.
Reports of northern species included:
Spruce Grouse: Spruce Bog Boardwalk and Opeongo Road.
Black-backed Woodpecker: Spruce Bog Boardwalk.
Gray Jay: Visitor Centre, Spruce Bog Boardwalk, Opeongo Road,
Wolf Howl Pond on Mizzy Lake Trail.
Boreal Chickadee: Spruce Bog Boardwalk, Wolf Howl Pond.
A Bohemian Waxwing, briefly near the Visitor Centre feeder on
October 26, may have been the first here of the predicted movement
this fall.
The Visitor Centre Red-bellied Woodpecker was last seen October 20.
A late Eastern Bluebird at the Old Airfield (October 21), and Red-
necked Grebe (October 21-23) and Horned Grebe (October 21) on
Lake of Two Rivers, were noteworthy sightings.
Please let us know the date, number and location of birds you observe
when you visit Algonquin Park. This information is stored in the
Algonquin Visitor Centre database, and will help us to assist other
birders here. Thanks.
Good birding.
Ron Tozer
Dwight, Ontario
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 on Highway 60 in the Park go from the West
Gate (km 0) to the East Gate (km 56). Permits and information are
available daily at both gates throughout the fall and winter, including
the Algonquin Information Guide showing locations discussed here.
The Visitor Centre (km 43) is open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., until
October 28, and will be open on weekends (10 to 4) through the winter.
Recent bird sightings and information, plus feeders, can be found there.
Yellow-rumped Warblers and N. Shrike
Posted
on October 27, 2007 at 10:49:57 AM by Goodyear
This morning at the lagoons on the west side of cell 4 we saw 3 Yellow-rumped
Warblers and a 1st winter Northern Shrike. No new ducks since Barbara's last
post. (Bracebridge)
pine grosbeak
Posted
on October 26, 2007 at 10:01:37 PM by Marilyn
Kisser
this male pine grosbeak was at the feeders this morning - what a sight to see!
we didn't get one pine grosbeak all of last winter - hope this is a sign of
good things to come! (just outside Rosseau) photo
Re(2): trumpeter swan #903
Posted
on October 29, 2007 at 08:23:02 PM by Marilyn
Kisser
how nice to get this info - hope she and her family winter well
Re(1): trumpeter swan #903
Posted
on October 29, 2007 at 10:36:01 AM by Barbara Taylor
I just received the following from Harry Lumsden (founder of the Ontario
Trumpeter Swan Reintroduction Program):
#903 is a female, hatched in 2004. On 17 Dec 2004 she was at Wye Marsh. She was
rebanded on 12 Jan 2007 at LaSalle Park Burlington where she wintered. She left
in April. Thank you for reporting this band number.
Cheers, Harry Lumsden
Re(2): trumpeter swan family
Posted
on October 27, 2007 at 07:08:27 PM by Marilyn
Kisser
Al, I did report them to the wyemarsh on line last evening - I will foreward a
photo now also - and Samantha, I should have know this would be called Macs
pond - after Mac Dixon!
Re(1): trumpeter swan family
Posted
on October 27, 2007 at 02:51:42 PM by Samantha
Hi there, that pond is called Mac's pond, and you are so lucky to have seen
those birds! They are not hard to miss, but I did! I went this morning to see
them because I heard they were there, but they had already left, perhaps to fly
south. Shame, but hopefully there will be more. I do most of my birding in
B.C's Okanagan valley and Iam only home for 1 week, so its great to hear what
else has been spotted!
cheers,
sam
Re(1): trumpeter swan family
Posted
on October 27, 2007 at 02:04:27 PM by Al
Sinclair
Very nice photo and confirmation of successful breeding. I expect the Trumpeter
Swan Restoration project would be interested in this sighting. You can send
reports with the date, location and tag numbers seen to swans@wyemarsh.com. I
would include a link to the photo.
trumpeter swan family
Posted
on October 26, 2007 at 09:55:34 PM by Marilyn
Kisser
we saw this trumpeter swan family in a swamp on hiway 141 west of Rosseau -
opposite if the turn off to Turtle Lake Road - one of the adults had a yellow
tag #903 - I amsume they are from the Wye Marsh! what a treat! photo
rufous-sided towhee
Posted
on October 25, 2007 at 10:23:24 PM by Marilyn
Kisser
this male rufous-sided towhee was on the ground under the feeders most of the
day yesterday! sorry the photo is not that great, but it was dull and raining,
and the towhee decided to turn his back to me! (just outside of Rosseau) photo
Redpolls
Posted
on October 25, 2007 at 11:37:45 AM by Barbara Taylor
This morning at the Bracebridge Ponds there was a small flock of Common
Redpolls feeding in the birch trees west of cell 3. The Gadwalls, Northern
Pintails, and at least one American Wigeon were still in cell 3. By the time I
left the Gadwalls had moved onto the little island and were almost completely
hidden from view by the weeds/reeds. Still several Scaup in cells 1 & 2,
but no Redheads. Buffleheads, American Black Ducks, Green-winged Teal, and
Mallards were also present.
Re(1): cardinal
Posted
on October 27, 2007 at 03:32:30 PM by Samantha
Hi there, just wanted to attempt to answer your question about Cardinals in
Muskoka. I have only been birding for almost 1 year and most of it has been
done in the Okanagan Valley in B.C, but hopefully some of my knowledge helps
you out with understanding this beautiful bird! Cardinals have almost always
been present in high numbers throughout southern Ontario, and Muskoka is
technically in the South-eastern portion of Ontario, so for them to be seen in
the area isn't uncommon. The natural habitat of a Cardinal includes woodland,
suburbs, gardens, swamps and thickets. They are usually permanent residents
throughout their ranges but may relocate to avoid harsh weather or scarce food
sources. Therefor, if you have a bird feeder, you might be attracting more
birds in general this year, compared to other years if you didnt have a feeder.
Cardinals are abundant across Eastern U.S from Maine to Texas, and in Canada-
Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia. The habitat extends as far west in the U.S as
the border with Mexico, and as far south as Guatemala and northern Belize.
Cardinals are also very territorial birds, therefor a male may not allow
another male to enter his territory which means you wont seem as many around
your home. However, if you have that feeder full, there may be more than usual
in one area in order to stock up on food for the winter. Cardinals are
seed-eating birds, mostly weed-seed, grains and some fruits. So, hopefully
Cardinals are on the rise in the Muskoka area, but I do know that I usually see
them every winter and fall when Iam home, so they are not entirely rare either.
It could just be that the Cardinals you are seeing really enjoy your bird
feeder! hope this helps somewhat...
cheers,
sam
cardinal
Posted
on October 24, 2007 at 10:07:36 AM by Nancy
Have a young male cardinal at my bird feeder yesterday and today. (Bent River)
First one I have seen in the 12 years we have lived here. Are they becoming
more common in Muskoka?
Re(1): Common Buckeye
Posted
on October 22, 2007 at 09:23:58 PM by Al
Sinclair
Buckeye is very rare here, great find. It is on the Muskoka checklist, I can
recall two previous sightings, both from Georgian Bay shoreline.
Common Buckeye
Posted
on October 22, 2007 at 01:20:44 PM by Ron
Stager
Hi
I was working in the pasture field during lunch hour break and saw a Common
Buckeye butterfly. This might be a new species for Muskoka: I suspect he blew
up from down south during the last couple of days. These guys like open areas
and along roads/power lines.
There are orange sulfurs and some of the hibernating species (Mourning Cloak,
Compton Tortoiseshell)flying as well but it might be good to look for some
other rare or new species. Little Yellow is one example and there might be
more.
See ya
Ron
(Barkway)
Gadwalls, Wigeon - Bracebridge Ponds
Posted
on October 21, 2007 at 11:55:55 AM by Barbara Taylor
At the Bracebridge Ponds 11 a.m. this morning...
Cell 3:
American Wigeon (3)
Gadwall (pair)
Northern Pintail (6)
Cell 4: Northern Pintail (pair)
Cell 2: Redhead (4) ,
Ring-necked Duck (1)
Many Bufflehead in cell 4 and several Lesser Scaup in cells 1 and 2.
Green-winged Teal, Mallards, and American Black Ducks in all cells. A Monarch
was at the south end of cell 4 and an American Lady was on some Butter-and-Eggs
flowers south of cell 2. Bracebridge
Ponds Map
Re(2): Algonquin Park bird update:
19 October
Posted
on October 27, 2007 at 04:59:08 PM by Barbara Taylor
The Red-bellied Woodpecker was last seen Oct. 20. See the Algonquin Park update
for Oct. 27 just posted at top of Bird Board. I don't think the Visitor Centre
will be open on weekdays when you plan to go, but you will still be able to see
the feeder at the front.
Algonquin Park Visitor Centre: (613) 637-2828
Algonquin Park Information: (705) 633-5572
Re(1): Algonquin Park bird update:
19 October
Posted
on October 27, 2007 at 03:40:17 PM by Samantha
Hi Ron,
I was just wondering if any of those birds you mentioned were still hanging
around the feeder, especailly the Red-bellied Woodpecker? Iam only around for 1
week, home from the Okanagan Valley in B.C, where I have done most of my
birding. I would be ready to drive into the park on Monday, especailly if there
have been some good recent sightings. There were 3 Trumpeter Swans in Mac's
Pond yesterday, near Rosseau where I live.
cheers,
Sam.
Algonquin Park bird update: 19
October
Posted
on October 19, 2007 at 03:59:07 PM by Ontbirds
*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (Oct. 19, 2007) and
is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.
The Red-bellied Woodpecker which showed up at the feeder at the
Algonquin Visitor Centre (km 43 on Highway 60) on Monday
(October 15) is still coming for black sunflower seeds there today.
Other species frequenting this feeder, which is located on the parking
lot side of the building, included Rusty Blackbird, Purple Finch, Pine
Siskin, and Evening Grosbeak.
A three-hour boat tour of Lake Opeongo on October 17 tallied a
minimum count of 154 Common Loons, including one adult still
feeding a young. Other interesting sightings on this Opeongo trip
were: four adult Bald Eagles; a total of 29 Double-crested Cormorants
(lingering very late for Algonquin due to the mild weather); and a
female House Sparrow at the Access Point dock. The House Sparrow
is very rare in Algonquin Park now, this being only the third record
since 2002.
During the past ten days, there have been first observations this fall
in Algonquin for Rough-legged Hawk, Northern Shrike, American
Tree Sparrow, Snow Bunting, Pine Grosbeak, and Common Redpoll.
Red Crossbills (Type 2, with larger-sized bills, that feed on White Pine
cones) continue to be seen on the East Side of Algonquin Park (e.g.,
Barron Canyon Road), but there have been no recent reports from
Highway 60. White-winged Crossbills were unreported recently.
As expected, most finch numbers are low due to the lack of cones.
Finally, an interesting sighting at the Old Airfield on October 16
involved an apparent Hoyt's Horned Lark, with an adjacent Northern
Horned Lark for direct comparison. The Northern subspecies of the
Horned Lark passes through Algonquin from mid-September to early
November, and very rarely an individual of the Hoyt's race is seen
with them.
Please let us know the date, number and location of birds you observe
when you visit Algonquin Park. This information is stored in the
Algonquin Visitor Centre database, and will help us to assist other
birders here. Thanks.
Good birding.
Ron Tozer
Dwight, Ontario
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 on Highway 60 in the Park go from the West
Gate (km 0) to the East Gate (km 56). Permits and information are
available daily at both gates throughout the fall and winter, including
the Algonquin Information Guide showing locations discussed here.
The Visitor Centre (km 43) is open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., until
October 28, and will be open on weekends through the winter. Recent
bird sightings and information, plus feeders, can be found there.
Re(1): Pine Siskins and Evening
Grosbeaks galore!! (PICS)
Posted
on October 24, 2007 at 10:09:41 AM by Nancy
Wonderful. We have a few evening grosbeaks and siskins but not nearly as many
as you.
I feed striped sunflower seeds ~ cracked corn for the doves and grouse. (Bent
River)
Re(1): Pine Siskins and Evening
Grosbeaks galore!! (PICS)
Posted
on October 22, 2007 at 07:48:27 PM by Marilyn
Kisser
I have lots of siskins here, but only the odd evening grosbeak! they are
probably my favourite bird!
(just outside Rosseau)
Pine Siskins and Evening Grosbeaks
galore!! (PICS)
Posted
on October 19, 2007 at 02:13:32 PM by willowbeachbirding
On the weekend we had hundreds of Pine Siskins arrive and this morning about 40
Evening Grosbeaks have arrived and are still hanging around eating my Safflower
seeds!! The Grosbeaks are a lifer for me!! Lorena, Willow Beach (Lake Simcoe) photo1
photo2
photo3
photo4
Re(1): Brants at Bracebridge Ponds
Posted
on October 18, 2007 at 03:42:20 PM by Barbara Taylor
The Brants could not be found this afternoon. In case they return, if anyone
sees them please post a report or send me an email. Thanks.
Brants at Bracebridge Ponds
Posted
on October 18, 2007 at 11:21:55 AM by Barbara Taylor
Around 10:30 a.m. this morning there were 24 Brants in cell 1 at the
Bracebridge Ponds. Redheads, Lesser Scaup, and Northern Pintails were in cell 2
(now 2 male Pintails). Four Hooded Mergansers in cell 2. Many Bufflehead
scattered about. Large flock of American Tree Sparrows by the dumping ponds
between cell 3 & 4.
Algonquin Park
Posted
on October 18, 2007 at 08:22:10 AM by Wayne
Bridge
I took a drive along Hwy. 60 yesterday. There was a loon on Lake of Two Rivers
near Killarney Lodge. At Opeongo where Costello Creek flows in there was a
great blue heron, a pair of black ducks, and 5 redhead ducks. The most exciting
was a great view, through the binoculars, of a fisher right on the highway
(near Beaver Pond Trail).
Woodcocks
Posted
on October 18, 2007 at 08:18:10 AM by janice house
at approximately 7:10 this morning a woodcock flew in front of me as I took the dogs for their morning walk, a second one could be heard across road. (Doe Lake Rd Gravenhurst)
Re(1): Red-bellied Woodpecker in
Algonquin Park
Posted
on October 17, 2007 at 11:37:28 AM by BonnieDeVillers
Hi, We have a few pairs of Red-bellied Woodpeckers since 2006. We moved in this
area ( Tiny beachs in Lafontaine) since l986 and these birds are now
established and breeding here. The birds come to my feeder almost every day.
They love popcorn. They bring their babies here and feed them popcorn. Very
beautiful bird.
Red-bellied Woodpecker in Algonquin
Park
Posted
on October 16, 2007 at 09:33:02 AM by Ontbirds
*This report was originally posted by Kevin Clute on ONTBIRDS (Oct. 16, 2007)
and is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.
Algonquin Park's second-ever Red-bellied Woodpecker appeared at the
Visitor Centre feeder (at km 43) yesterday (Monday, October 15), and
is present again this morning. It may hang around for awhile, since it
is eating and storing black sunflower seeds. Other birds coming to the
feeder include: Purple Finch, Pine Siskin, Evening Grosbeak and Rusty
Blackbird. The feeder is located in front of the building, viewable
from the driveway to the service entrance.
Please let us know the date, number and location of birds you observe
when you visit Algonquin Park. This information is stored in the
Algonquin Visitor Centre database, and will help us to assist other
birders here. Thanks.
Good luck.
Kevin Clute and Ron Tozer
Dwight, Ontario
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 on Highway 60 in the park go from the West
Gate (km 0) to the East Gate (km 56). Permits and information are
available daily at both gates throughout the fall and winter.
The Visitor Centre (km 43) is open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., until
October 28, and will be open on weekends through the winter. Recent
bird sightings and information, plus feeders, can be found there.
Bluebirds
Posted
on October 16, 2007 at 08:23:02 AM by janice house
Moira informed me that 3 bluebirds have been at the farm at the end of the
Houston Rd for the past 5 days. (off Falconburg Rd north of Bracebridge)
Winter? Evening Grosbeaks and Common
Redpoll
Posted
on October 14, 2007 at 05:58:24 PM by Goodyear
We had two Evening Grosbeaks visit our feeders late yesterday afternoon, and
this afternoon we saw one Common Redpoll in the thickets on the west side of
cell 4. We also have 12 Siskins coming to our feeders. (Bracebridge)
"Weeping Widow"... a
mushroom...photos
Posted
on October 13, 2007 at 06:49:54 PM by Al
Sinclair
This mushroom was fruiting in the grass at our place this week. This is a hard
one to key out, tried but failed because the mottled and white edged gills and
black spore print led to the wrong genus, Panaeolus. I eventually found it by
flipping through a book (often the quickest and easiest method). It is called
Weeping Widow because of the water droplets that form on the black gills. Also
called the Velvet Psathyrella because of hairs on the cap. After I found it I
realized that I had seen it before, a fairly common mushroom that fruits in
grass along paths or roads. One reference says often near nettles; interesting
because we have nettles growing only about 30 feet from them.
scientific name: Lacrymaria velutina (aka Psathyrella velutina). I posted 3
photos below, the first one shows what it looks like when wet, the second one
was taken the next day in dry weather, the third shows the spore print I took.
The caps are about 5cm (2 in) in diameter. photo1
photo2
photo3
Saving Endangered Species...story
from Muskoka in the Star
Posted
on October 13, 2007 at 01:04:52 PM by Al
Sinclair
This article appeared in today's Toronto Star (Oct,13/07). The Anne mentioned
in the story is Anne Lewis from Six Mile Lake. http://www.thestar.com/sciencetech/article/266334
Algonquin Park
Posted
on October 12, 2007 at 10:42:04 PM by Ontbirds
*This report was originally posted by Jeff Skevington on ONTBIRDS (Oct. 12,
2007) and is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.
Hello Ontbirders,
I was birding Lake Traverse on the east side of
Algonquin Park again today. The first of the northern
finches are starting and it appears that it could be a
Northern Goshawk migration year. I had 4 of the
latter, including an adult female eating an American
Black Duck it had caught. Finches included: 2 Pine
Grosbeaks, 4 Common Redpolls, 11 Red Crossbills, 1
Purple Finch and 2 Pine Siskins. Highlight of the day
was watching a LeConte's Sparrow from 3 m away as snow
fell around it at dawn.
There was a modest raptor movement (good for
Algonquin) today: 4 Turkey Vultures, 2 Osprey, 8 Bald
Eagles, 5 Northern Harriers, 2 Sharp-shinned Hawks, 22
Red-tailed Hawks, 1 Rough-legged Hawk, 1 American
Kestrel, 1 Merlin and of course the 4 Northern
Goshawks.
Other highlights included 2 Red-necked Grebes, 2
Lapland Longspur, and 1 Black-backed Woodpecker.
Lake Traverse is at the end of Sand Lake Road (nearest
towns are Petawawa and Pembroke). Access is primarily
by canoe. The raptors were mostly moving down the east
side of the lake. The LeConte's Sparrow was in a marsh
mid-way up the west side of the lake.
Good birding,
Jeff
wood thrush
Posted
on October 12, 2007 at 09:51:16 PM by Marilyn
Kisser
There was a wood thrush feeding under the bird feeders late yesterday afternoon
(just outside of Rosseau)
Fox Sparrows
Posted
on October 12, 2007 at 03:38:24 PM by Bob Burt
There were three Fox Sparrows at Henry Marsh today in the shrubbery where the
Henry Rd. trail leaves the forest. As well, we saw two otters frolicking in the
water near the back of the marsh.
directions: In Bracebridge, from traffic lights at Eccelstone Dr. and Wellington St., follow Beaumont Dr. to Henry Rd.
Re(1): Bracebridge Ponds...update
Posted
on October 14, 2007 at 01:07:15 PM by Barbara Taylor
Highlights this morning:
cell 4: Northern Pintail (1 male & 1 female)
cell 3: Northern Pintail (5 female)
cell 2:
Redhead (3 male & 2 female)
Ring-necked Duck (1 male & 2 female)
Bufflehead (2 female)
Also Mallards, Lesser Scaup, Green-winged Teal, Wood Ducks, American Black
Ducks. There were a few American Tree Sparrows scattered about - first we've
seen this fall.
Bracebridge Ponds
Posted
on October 12, 2007 at 12:15:34 PM by Barbara Taylor
Highlights this morning:
cell 4: Northern Pintail (male)
cell 3: Northern Pintail (4 female)
cell 2:
Redheads (3 male & 2 female)
Common Goldeneye (male)
Double-crested Cormorant
Ring-necked Duck (male)
Buffleheads (2 female)
Also Mallards, Lesser Scaup, Green-winged Teal, Blue-winged Teal, Wood Ducks,
American Black Ducks.
Wilson's Snipe
Posted
on October 11, 2007 at 12:01:42 PM by Barbara Taylor
This morning at the Bracebridge Ponds a Wilson's Snipe flew up from the south
bank of cell 2, and after briefly landing on the road, it went into hiding at
the NW corner of cell 3. Also, there are now three male Redheads in cell 2. (Bracebridge
Ponds map - south is approx. towards bottom of map and west is towards the
pipeline)
Blue-headed vireo at Bracebridge
ponds
Posted
on October 9, 2007 at 03:10:51 PM by Doug
Smith
Went to see the pintails and redheads and the golden plover at the ponds at
around noon today and was not disappointed. Also saw a very pale (leucistic?)
mallard with other mallards in cell 2. And there was a blue-headed vireo with a
flock of both species of kinglets along the road near cell 3.
Trumpeter Swan, Ross's Goose and
others - Algonquin Park
Posted
on October 9, 2007 at 09:08:35 AM by Ontbirds
*This report was originally posted by Jeff Skevington on ONTBIRDS (Oct. 8,
2007) and is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.
Angela, Alexander and I are just back from two
excellent days canoeing and birding on Lake Traverse
in Algonquin Park. Highlights are as follows:
Sunday October 7th:
Cackling Goose (3 ~ 3rd park record), Bald Eagle (1),
Merlin (1), Peregrine Falcon (1 adult chasing
Ring-necked Duck), Le Conte's Sparrow (1), Nelson's
Sharp-tailed Sparrow (4) and Red Crossbill (2). The
sparrows are in the wetland at the south-central end
of the lake. Both species appear to be regular in
there this time of year. Boots are recommended but
waders are not necessary this year because of low
water.
Today (Monday October 8th):
Snow Goose (50 - both Greater and Lessers), Ross's
Goose (1 - first park record), Trumpeter Swan (2 -
first park record), Northern Shoveler (1),
Green-winged Teal (57), Surf Scoter (1), White-winged
Scoter (4), Red-breasted Merganser (11), Horned Grebe
(1), Greater Yellowlegs (1), Pectoral Sandpiper (1),
Dunlin (2) and an early Snow Bunting (1). Most of the
birds were at the south end of the lake either in or
near the marsh. The Geese flew over in one flock.
Lake Traverse is on the east side of Algonquin. The
nearest towns are Petawawa and Pembroke. Take the Sand
Lake Road to the access point for Travsere. It is near
km marker 72 (about an hour in from the highway).
Autumn birding at Traverse is typically best on rainy
or overcast days although species like Nelson's
Sharp-tailed Sparrow are likely possible most days
right now. Typical northern birds like Gray Jays, and
Black-backed Woodpecker were also seen. There were few
finches (a few siskins and the Red Crossbills).
Good birding,
Jeff
Bracebridge Ponds
Posted
on October 8, 2007 at 06:28:39 PM by janice house
I met Moira at the ponds today at 1:30, male pintail was in cell 2, redhead
male in cell 2, 3 black ducks in cell 1,
2 black ducks in cell 4, a male bufflehead in cell 2, at least 12 green-winged
teal in 1 & 2, several greater scaup in cell 2, lots of lesser scaup in 1
and 2, lots of mallards and a few wood ducks in cell 1 and 2, 2 canada geese in
cell 1, at least 6 ring-necked ducks in cell 1. We also spotted a beautiful
coyote on the road at the north end of cell 4, it was sniffing horse droppings,
it made its way slowly to the path towards the pipeline doing a lot of
sniffing, we stood very still and it came back towards us at least half way
along the cell. We watched it for at least 15 minutes, it even pounced into the
grass after a mouse? just like a fox would. Lots of sparrows around and a few
gold finch. At Henry Marsh we spotted 7 ring-necked ducks.
Re(1): rusty blackbird
Posted
on October 8, 2007 at 09:47:11 PM by Grace Taylor
Hi John,
We had 4 rusty blackbirds here this am. (Kirk Line)
thanks for the photo, even with all the mishaps it is
good.
Heard of a nesting pair at Rowanwood this summer.
Grace
rusty blackbird
Posted
on October 8, 2007 at 01:15:22 PM by John
Challis
Had one rusty blackbird rummaging in our backyard this
afternoon. There might have been one or two others around, but couldn't confirm
them. We've had purple finches at the feeders for about a week now, too.
I apologize for the image quality; it was done at max. digital zoom (48x) and
through glass ... on one leg, leaning over the bed ... on my tiptoes ...
various other excuses. (Washago) photo
Re(1): Pine Siskins
Posted
on October 10, 2007 at 09:28:15 PM by Marilyn
Kisser
I have a flock of at least 20 hitting the finch feeders here - just outside of
Rosseau
Pine Siskins
Posted
on October 8, 2007 at 12:04:33 PM by Wilf
Yusek
I have at least 6 Pine Siskins coming to my feeders this morning. I am on
Prospect Lake.
Bracebridge Ponds - American
Golden-Plover, Redhead
Posted
on October 7, 2007 at 11:33:44 AM by dbritton
This morning, I had an American Golden-Plover in flight and calling at the
Bracebridge Ponds. It appeared to fly up out of Cell 1, circled several times
over Cell 2 and then flew off to to the south.
The male Redhead previously reported was still in Cell 1 along with two female
Redheads amongst a flock of about 20 Lesser Scaup. Other ducks of note were a
male and female Northern Pintail in Cell 1 and a female Hooded Merganser in
Cell 4.
Notable landbirds included many sparrows (White-crowned, White-throated, Song,
Swamp and Savannah), a flyby American Pipit and a flock of about 15 Rusty
Blackbirds in the swamp at the NE corner of Cell 4.
American Pipit
Posted
on October 6, 2007 at 05:20:07 PM by MarleneWalker
Saw American Pipit yesterday while biking on Limberlost Road, northeast of
Huntsville
Re(1): Turkey Vultures on the move
Posted
on October 6, 2007 at 08:56:33 PM by J.
Gardner
October 5, Jim Gardner was delighted to see 45 to 50 plus turkey vultures using
the thermals over the MacDougall Township dump on the MacDougall Road,
obviously in migration mode. Earlier in the morning, I saw a dozen or so
vultures sitting in snaggy trees near the same road with their wings spread to
the morning sun.
Turkey Vultures on the move
Posted
on October 6, 2007 at 05:00:01 PM by Barbara
Taylor
This afternoon eleven Turkey Vultures took advantage of the stop in the rain to
continue their migration. They were spiralling far up into the clouds above
Dura, and then soared away to the south. (Bracebridge)
Re(1): 2 Great Horned Owls calling
Posted
on October 8, 2007 at 08:17:19 PM by ghall45
Beautiful birds! I raised 2 chicks about 20 years ago, when I lived in the
Niagara area, I have a few pictures I could send you...live just north of
Huntsville now. I've have never seen/heard any in this area.
I recently shot some video of a Barred owl not far from my cabin.
2 Great Horned Owls calling
Posted
on October 4, 2007 at 11:08:41 PM by LesleeTassie
We frequently hear a great horned owl calling at night by our place,
occassionally two.
We haven't heard it through much of the summer though, which is unusual.
It was nice to once again hear them last night. One called in a lower pitch
than the other, and they called back and forth well into the night.
We are located on Santa's Village Road in Bracebridge, just the town side of
the small bridge at the pipeline. We have perfect habitat for owls around our
place and Beaver Creek runs behind our house.
Leslee
Re(1): Redhead
Posted
on October 5, 2007 at 01:20:15 PM by Wilf
Yusek
The Redhead was in cell 2 this morning with all the Scaup
Re(2): Wilf's photos...Pintail
Posted
on October 6, 2007 at 11:53:06 AM by Barbara
Taylor
Here is Wilf Yusek's photo
of one of the two female Northern Pintails that were still in cell 1 yesterday.
Re(1): Wilf's photos...and update
Posted
on October 4, 2007 at 04:04:03 PM by Barbara
Taylor
Here are Wilf's photos of the Redhead
and the Horned
Lark. As of 3 p.m. the Redhead was still in cell 1 as well as two female
Northern Pintails. A male Northern Pintail was still in cell 2. (Bracebridge
Ponds map)
Redhead
Posted
on October 4, 2007 at 02:37:35 PM by Wilf
Yusek
At the Bracebridge Lagoons this morning I saw a male Redhead in cell 1, mixed
in with all the Mallards. I also saw 1 Horned Lark on the road between cell 1
& 3
Bald eagle
Posted
on October 4, 2007 at 02:11:29 PM by Doug
Smith
An immature bald eagle passed over Port Carling earlier this morning, flying up
the Indian River and crossing over the town to Lake Rosseau.
Rusty Blackbird - Almaguin Highlands
Golf Course
Posted
on October 4, 2007 at 08:20:29 AM by Kip
Daynard
Yesterday evening around 6pm I came across a female Rusty Blackbird, still in
breeding plumage, on the tees to hole #3. She was quite unconcerned with my
presence, sharing the white tees with me and permitting me to tee off without
interrupting her foraging in the grass!
The Almaguin Highlands Golf Course is on Three Mile Lake Rd. just off Hwy 11
near Katrine.
Re(1): Late butterflies & male
Pintail
Posted
on October 5, 2007 at 08:02:10 AM by janice house
Oct 4th a Monarch flew over my car in the Independant parking lot at 1pm in
Bracebridge
Late butterflies & male Pintail
Posted
on October 3, 2007 at 03:26:17 PM by Barbara
Taylor
This afternoon at the Bracebridge Ponds we found a Clouded Sulphur butterfly
and also one Monarch. Both were at the west side of cell 2 where they were
sheltered from the strong wind.
There is once again a male Northern Pintail in cell 2. He was staying at the
north end, while a female Pintail was at the south end. The lone American
Wigeon is still in cell 1. There were several Lesser Scaup in cell 2. Five
Turkey Vultures soared overhead and a Merlin flew low towards cell 4.
Re(5): Northern Goshawk - Bay Lake
Posted
on October 18, 2007 at 01:25:54 PM by Marilyn
Kisser
thanks Garth - Al Sinclair also has pointed out the differences - so now I will
have to make it my mission to actually get to see a Goshawk - and maybe even
snap a shot!
Re(4): Northern Goshawk - Bay Lake
Posted
on October 16, 2007 at 10:59:35 PM by Garth
N. Baker
Hi Marilyn;
I feel that this is a Red-tail account the Tail on a Goshawk normally is 5 or 6
distinct Barsedged in white. The Supercillum(eyebrow) is white and has no White
around the Bill and Chin. Although the Goshawk is often confused in Flight with
a Buteo, the longer Tail and White undertail Coverts are very distinguishing Features.
If I had the Computor Smarts I would post a photo of a Juvie Goshawk and
Red-tail for a Comparison.
Cheer's Garth
I was at Turtle Lake at Thanksgiving, but the weather wasn't the greatest for
Birding!
Re(3): Northern Goshawk - Bay Lake
Posted on
October 13, 2007 at 08:10:43 PM by Marilyn
Kisser
I have had some other "bird" people identify it as a Goshawk - I just
know it was not a Coopers or Sharpie due to his larger size - thanks for your ID
- and yes, he has top spot so far on my backyard list!
Re(2): Northern Goshawk - Bay Lake
Posted
on October 13, 2007 at 04:05:48 PM by Garth
N. Baker
Hi Marilyn;
I believe your Hawk is a Juvie Red-tail. Although not as common as a Coopers or
Sharpie at the Feeders,they make an occasional appearance.Very Cool Bird for
anyones Backyard List.
Garth
Re(1): Northern Goshawk - Bay Lake
Posted
on October 10, 2007 at 10:00:09 PM by Marilyn
Kisser
took this shot of an immature at the big bird feeder last week - beautiful bird
- just outside Rosseau
Northern Goshawk - Bay Lake
Posted
on October 2, 2007 at 08:46:09 PM by Kip
Daynard
Yesterday morning around 8am I saw a 1st year Goshawk in an area of open canopy
hardwoods to the south of King Side Rd.. My dog, a mid-sized Border
Collie/German Shepherd cross was on the trail in front of me when I saw a
largish raptor fly up to a perch about 60ft away. I did not have my binoculars,
but I could see well enough to make out a large, barrel-chested accipiter,
perched in an alert manner looking very intently in our direction. I gave a
small squeak to see if I could draw it closer and it instantly thrust itself
into the air and swooped low directly over my dog at which point it began a
sequence of powerful flaps and veered left within 15 feet or so of me. What a great
look... and for a second I had the distinct impression that it had sized up my
dog for its breakfast!
Bird Board Update
Posted
on October 2, 2007 at 06:58:49 PM by Barbara
Taylor
Thanks to everyone for all your reports. All posts for July thru September are
now available in the Archived Reports. I try to monitor the Bird Board on a
regular basis. If you want to bring something to my attention, just send me an
email and I'll get back to you as soon as possible.
Barbara Taylor
muskoka_birder@hotmail.com
Muskoka Field Naturalists - next
meeting Oct. 4
Posted
on October 2, 2007 at 08:59:54 AM by Barbara
Taylor
MFN meeting Thursday, Oct. 4, 7:30 p.m., Bracebridge
from the Wakerobin, newsletter of the Muskoka Field Naturalists:
How Healthy Is Our Watershed And What Can You Do About It?
MNR's Judi Brouse will report on the health of our watershed. Judi is the Director
of Water Programs for the District of Muskoka.
September through January meetings will be at the Latter Day Saints Church
located at 705 Cedar Lane, Bracebridge (corner of Taylor Rd. & Cedar Lane
near Home Depot). Visitors welcome to attend.
Shoo-fly Plant
Posted
on October 1, 2007 at 08:10:23 PM by Al
Sinclair
This years "strange plant under the bird feeder" is The Shoo-fly
Plant (Nicandra physalodes), also known as the Apple of Peru. We found this unusual
plant a few weeks ago growing on the compost pile where we dumped the sunflower
hulls that collected under the bird feeder. See photos below I took today. Also
below is some information we found on different web sites.
"Shoo-fly Plant is an annual plant native to Peru. It is the only species
in the genus Nicandra. They are known for their property of repelling insects.
Nicandra physalodes is a weedy annual plant that was introduced from South
America as an ornamental gardening plant. In Illinois it can be found growing
wild in various counties except in the NW area of the state. This plant grows
to a height of 2-5 feet tall, the foliage and stems are reported to be
poisonous to mammals and untouched by deer. This member of the Nightshade
Family grows well in moist soils in full or partial sun.
'Shoo-fly Plant', as it is commonly called, is reported to be a natural insect
repellent. One website I found explained that juices from the stems and leaves
were added to milk and set out for flies. When flies drank from this concoction
they supposedly died shortly after. It is also called 'Apple of Peru' because
it is native to that area and produces a small fruit similar to tomatillos the
fruit is dry and inedible."
Re(1): birdfeeders with photo
Posted
on October 2, 2007 at 11:33:41 AM by willowbeachbirding
EEEKKKKKKK, that would certainly be a sight!!!! Lucky you, I think!!!! Lorena
birdfeeders with photo
Posted
on October 1, 2007 at 01:27:22 PM by Wayne
Bridge
This was a great morning for watching the birdfeeders: 2 blue jays, 2 crows, 2
red-breasted nuthatches, several chickadees, a flock of 10 chipping sparrows, 4
white-crowned sparrows (2 adult & 2 immature), 2 red squirrels and a few
chippies plus...8 of these on our back deck!! (Kearney) photo
