Muskoka Bird Board - Archived Reports from January – March 2010
 
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March Butterflies
Posted on March 31, 2010 at 03:40:34 PM by Ron Stager

Optimistically ventured out on bicycle ride at noon to see if I could find a March spring azure butterfly ( a little blue one).  No luck but many Compton Tortoiseshells, a few Mourning Cloaks and several of a day-flying moth (the Infant)that looks like a butterfly on Lewisham Road. We have also found a Mourning Cloak and a Compton Tortoiseshell in the sap buckets: first year that I saw that. Haven't seen a comma yet this year.

 

 

Bala Sightings
Posted on March 31, 2010 at 12:32:52 PM by Eleanor Kee Wellman

Yesterday afternoon one Spring Peeper managed to peep along my lake shore a few times and then went silent.
This morning at approx. a single Sandhill Crane flew high over Ragged Rapids Rd. calling. I heard it for about 5 minutes before it came into view.
One Compton's Tortoiseshell along my road yesterday and today.

 

 

Spring peeper
Posted on March 31, 2010 at 08:59:47 AM by GayleCarlyle

I know it's not a bird but I'm still absolutely thrilled. I heard my first spring peeper last evening in the wetland behind our house in Washago.

 

 

American Bittern
Posted on March 30, 2010 at 08:10:15 PM by janice house

Geoff saw a bittern tonight in the swamp between Laycox Rd and Tomingas Rd (Doe Lake Rd Gravenhurst).

 

 

Matthiasville Rd. - Red-shouldered Hawk
Posted on March 30, 2010 at 12:31:52 PM by Barbara Taylor

At 11:15 a.m. this morning there was a Red-shouldered Hawk calling while it soared over its territory in the vicinity of #1210 Matthiasville Rd., accessed from Hwy.118E, east of Bracebridge. A Brown Creeper was singing nearby while we watched the hawk. The road follows the south branch of the Muskoka River where there were a few Wood Ducks, Hooded Mergansers, Mallards, and Canada Geese.

 

 

Re(1): Chimney Swift migration map
Posted on March 30, 2010 at 04:12:41 PM by Barbara Taylor

Follow the Chimney Swift migration northward at:
http://www.concentric.net/~dwa/page188.html

Other spring migration links of interest:
(Some of these websites include data from past years which will give you an idea of peak migration times, or you can check recent posts on regional email lists to see what's coming our way.)
Hummingbird Migration Map
Purple Martin Migration Map
Chimney Swift Migration Map
Daily reports of Hawks
Recent Posts from ONTBIRDS
Other Regional Email Lists (scroll down for list of Provinces/States)
Niagara Peninsula Hawkwatch (Beamer) -- (latest count data)
Tommy Thompson Park Bird Research Station (Toronto's Leslie St. Spit) (active in April)
Long Point Bird Observatory (active in April)
Canadian Migration Monitoring Network
Journey North
Migration of Birds

 

 

Muskoka Field Naturalists - next meeting April 1
Posted on March 30, 2010 at 04:10:11 PM by Barbara Taylor

Thursday, April 1, 7:30 p.m., Gravenhurst
CHIMNEY SWIFTS with Joe Nocera

Joe Nocera is a research scientist with MNR who works out of Trent University. He is part of a team studying species at risk including the Chimney Swift. The decline of the Chimney Swift population has been dramatic with a 95% reduction over the past forty years and 45% occurring in the past fifteen years. Joe will share what he has learned about this fascinating little bird. Very timely indeed as the Chimney Swifts will be returning from their wintering grounds in South America. The MFN Chimney Swift Tower on Entrance Drive in Bracebridge is ready for occupants.

Visitors welcome to attend. Meeting location is in Gravenhurst at Calvary Baptist Church, corner of First Street and Brock Street.
MFN website: http://muskokafieldnaturalists.com

 

 

Turkey Vulture, Walkers Point Rd
Posted on March 30, 2010 at 07:56:56 AM by Eleanor Kee Wellman

My first Turkey Vulture sighting was yesterday morning at about Walker's Point Rd and 169. A single bird.

 

 

Re(3): Trumpeter Swans at Muskoka Falls - background info
Posted on March 31, 2010 at 10:50:46 AM by Al Sinclair

I have submitted a sighting report, should get a reply with their recent locations, maybe where they spent last summer. Interesting that they have followed the same route this spring, also that they are males. I think some people in Muskoka Falls thought they might stay and nest.

 

 

Re(2): Trumpeter Swans at Muskoka Falls - background info
Posted on March 30, 2010 at 07:49:45 PM by Barbara Taylor

They were both at the Bracebridge Ponds last spring...found this post in the Bird Board Archives:
------------------------------------------------------
Bracebridge Ponds Trumpeter Swans...background info
Posted on May 5, 2009 at 01:53 PM by Barbara Taylor

I have just received the following background information from Harry Lumsden about the two tagged Trumpeters seen April 28 at the Bracebridge Ponds. (see Bob Healey's photos: E49 and H18)

E49 is a male, hatched in 2008 in the Gloucester Pool by 100 and 888. He was banded in Dec 2008 at LaSalle Park Burlington.
H18 is a male, hatched in 2008. He was banded at LaSalle Park in Apr 2009. He was last seen at Lambs Bay on the Severn River on 23 Apr 2009
-------------------------------------------------------

 

 

Re(1): Trumpeter Swans at Muskoka Falls...tag numbers?
Posted on March 30, 2010 at 05:58:03 PM by Al Sinclair

Got the numbers today: H18 and E49.

 

 

Trumpeter Swans at Muskoka Falls...tag numbers?
Posted on March 29, 2010 at 07:57:06 PM by Al Sinclair

We have received some phone calls about 2 swans on the river near Muskoka Falls. So far we only have partial numbers from their tags, 18 and 49. There should be a letter also. If anyone gets the full numbers please post it so we can send in a sighting report to the swan recovery team. The location is marked on this map:
http://maps.google.ca/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&msa=0&ll=44.99523,-79.296205&spn=0.008786,0.022316&t=h&z=16&msid=115553055033922709766.000482f9343f8f36e1107

Interesting Swan info, Ontario numbers pass 1000.
http://trumpeterswansociety.wordpress.com/2009/06/26/trumpeter-swan-society-ontario-trumpeter-population-tops-1000/

 

 

Winter Wren
Posted on March 29, 2010 at 09:21:03 AM by DiannaWolfe

While enjoying coffee and a walk in our woods this morning, we heard our first Winter Wren of the season (Kilworthy).

 

 

Red-shouldered Hawk, etc...
Posted on March 28, 2010 at 06:00:46 PM by Gerald

Sunday afternoon there was a Red-shouldered Hawk calling at the far end of the Hazlewood Trail in Port Carling, past the golf course that is. There was also an otter who hung out not 30 feet away for a really good, I mean really good, look.

Friday night on the way to Haliburton I saw two Ruffed Grouse in the very top of the same popular tree. There was also a pair of Hoodies in a pond, and at the intersection of 118 and 11 there was a Turkey Vulture.

Cheers,
Gerald Willmott.

 

 

song sparrow
Posted on March 28, 2010 at 04:58:04 PM by CatMacLean

Heard my first Song Sparrow of the year on the Fairy Vista Trail in Huntsville this morning.

 

 

Bracebridge Ponds
Posted on March 28, 2010 at 02:55:23 PM by Barbara Taylor

All the cells are ice-free but not much there this morning...only a few Buffleheads, Mallards and a Scaup in cell 2. A Fisher was loping along the far edge of the flooded area west of cell 4.

 

 

Yellow-rumped Warbler
Posted on March 28, 2010 at 01:57:02 PM by Ron Stager

Rose and I heard at least two singing while walking in our woods at noon (Merkley Rd east of Barkway).
Also kinglets and a small flock of wood ducks. First female blackbird in the backyard this morning.
See ya

 

 

Merlin , Port Sydney
Posted on March 28, 2010 at 10:53:15 AM by jim griffin

This is a week old, but Barbara reminded me. Last saturday morning I had a mature female Merlin take down a rock pigeon in our front yard, she had a good meal and Port Sydney has one less pigeon, a win-win event.

 

 

Cooper's Hawk
Posted on March 27, 2010 at 05:42:01 PM by Barbara Taylor

A few minutes ago I just happened to be looking out the window when a Cooper's Hawk swooped down on some Mourning Doves that had been sunning themselves amongst the leaves in our garden. The hawk missed what should have been an easy dinner and actually looked very upset about it, shaking its head and fluffing its feathers several times. (Bracebridge)

 

 

Coyote or Wolves calling
Posted on March 27, 2010 at 04:45:07 PM by Debbie Adams

Out here on Walker's Point, several neighbours have reported hearing either coyotes or wolves calling. One neighbour heard them late in the evening near the marina and another heard them in the wee hours of the morning, yesterday, by Renley Rd. which is near the Community Centre.

 

 

Trumpeter Swans
Posted on March 27, 2010 at 03:33:54 PM by Terry & Marion Whittam

2 Trumpeter swans visited the lake this morning. Just seemed to be cruising around. Ice went out Thursday 3/25/10 which must be one of the earliest years ever! 8km east of Washago. Cheers Terry

 

 

Fox!
Posted on March 27, 2010 at 12:56:45 PM by ann hansen

Last night while driving home around midnight, saw a fox crossing the road at McCrank and Patricia Pkwy. I wonder if he is the same fox we saw in our neighborhood last year.  (Bracebridge)

 

 

Wood Ducks
Posted on March 27, 2010 at 08:18:28 AM by MichaelHatton

8 a.m. Four wood ducks on the western side of Leonard Lake (near the outlet). They are mixing to some degree with a group of half a dozen or more mallards, just in the open water areas. Looking good!

 

 

Killdeer - Gravenhurst
Posted on March 26, 2010 at 12:30:24 PM by Kip Daynard

My first of the year, heard flying over the Canadian Tire parking lot on Thursday morning at 9am.

 

 

Algonquin Park Birding Update: 25 March
Posted on March 26, 2010 at 09:09:32 AM by Ontbirds

*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (March 25, 2010) and is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.

The extent of snow melt is now suggestive of
conditions typically two or three weeks later.
Some birds have responded to the earlier appearance
of bare ground. Ruffed Grouse usually start drumming
when their display logs become free of snow, with the
average date in Algonquin Park being April 9 (30 years).
The first drumming was detected on March 24 this year,
tying the earliest date on record.

Arrivals this week included: American Black Duck,
Common Merganser, Red-tailed Hawk, Northern Saw-whet
Owl, Dark-eyed Junco and Purple Finch.

Spruce Grouse usually begin flutter flight displays in April
here, but the first was noted on March 24 this year. Try
Spruce Bog Boardwalk.

A Black-backed Woodpecker was photographed at Wolf Howl
Pond on March 20.

Gray Jays are being seen regularly on Opeongo Road and
Spruce Bog Boardwalk.

Boreal Chickadees are calling more often now, making
them easier to locate. Try Opeongo Road and Spruce Bog
Boardwalk.

We would appreciate receiving your bird observations for
our Visitor Centre records.

Ron Tozer
Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired)

 

 

good bird day
Posted on March 25, 2010 at 11:07:30 PM by John Challis

First thing this morning, I watched two male song sparrows do an American Idol competition of their own while a third, presumably female, watched. On the way home from work, got a quick glimpse of a shrike -- likely northern --just south of Oro-Medonte Road 5, in a field across from the Shell station.
Off Cooper's Falls Road, saw our first hooded mergansers.
And around 8 pm, heard my first snipe of the season, outside the Washago Community Centre.
I'm sure all will be startled by the turn in the weather overnight.

 

 

Great Blue Heron
Posted on March 25, 2010 at 08:02:02 AM by janice house

Geoff saw his first heron of the season today flying over the house (Doe Lake Rd Gravenhurst)

 

 

Kingfisher
Posted on March 24, 2010 at 01:34:40 PM by Barbara Taylor

This morning there was a Belted Kingfisher chattering away at the back edge of Henry Marsh. There is a fair bit of open water now, if you don't count the thin skim of ice that formed during last night's freezing temps. The trail is still flooded by the "T", but the water level has gone down a lot...still have to deal with all the deep muddy ruts though.

Directions: from traffic lights at Eccelstone Dr. and Wellington St. in Bracebridge, head west on Beaumont Dr. to Henry Rd. There is a parking area by the pile of woodchips at the trailhead.

 

 

evening grosbeaks
Posted on March 24, 2010 at 09:41:47 AM by Wayne Bridge

We have two pair of evening grosbeaks coming to the feeders (Kearney). We did last year at this time also. The male ring-necked pheasant now has a harem of 7 hens. Tree sparrows are regular visitors now and there have been some robins in the woods behind our house.

 

  

Re(2): Salamander - Jefferson possibly
Posted on March 29, 2010 at 10:00:20 AM by GayleCarlyle

This is a female blue-spotted salamander with 1/4 Jefferson genes likely.

 

 

Re(1): Salamander - Jefferson possibly
Posted on March 25, 2010 at 11:04:09 PM by John Challis

 

As promised, here is a look at the salamander, while it was visiting our kitchen. It was shortly returned to the ephemeral stream by our yard. Note: the salamander was not handled with bare hands as this can apparently be damaging to their skin.  photo

 

 

Salamander - Jefferson possibly
Posted on March 23, 2010 at 11:22:34 AM by John Challis

Last night at about 10:30 while driving home the headlights caught a salamander crossing our road (Green River Rd., Washago). I stopped and picked up the monster - it was close to 30 cm across. Dark with a few bluish-grey mottled spots its sides, located closer to its back legs. The online guides say the Jefferson is larger than the blue-spotted salamander, but the hybrids of these two species are often even larger.
So I don't know what it was, but I put him in the little stream that runs by our front yard and he seemed happy with that. Males are the first to venture out, so I use the word "he" as an educated guess. I'll post a photo later today.

 

 

Snapping turtle
Posted on March 23, 2010 at 10:44:29 AM by GayleCarlyle

Fri. March 19th
I found (probably) the same snapping turtle basking in the cold water of a small pond on our property. This is the third year in a row I have seen a snapping turtle in this same pond. It seems to enjoy spending a quiet winter in the safety of this pond. Green River Drive Washago

 

 

Re(1): Barred Owl calling...Bracebridge
Posted on March 23, 2010 at 10:25:43 AM by Kip Daynard

Heard our first one calling at Muldrew Lake just before dawn on Mar. 19th.

 

 

Re(1): Barred Owl calling...Bracebridge
Posted on March 22, 2010 at 07:34:48 PM by Marilyn Kisser

we've had a male and female barred owl hunting most of the winter at the feeders again and now we are enjoying the calling in the evenings and early morning hours! just outside of Rosseau..

 

 

Barred Owl calling...Bracebridge
Posted on March 22, 2010 at 07:09:32 PM by Al Sinclair

We heard our Barred Owl calling this evening at 6:45, 1st time this year. There was no sign of the owls here all winter so we assume they must have moved somewhere else where rodents were more plentiful.

 

 

Heronry, 400 Extension
Posted on March 22, 2010 at 09:52:00 AM by Eleanor Kee Wellman

Last fall I was told about a heronry approx 21 km north of Muskoka Rd 38 on the West side of the 400 Extension. This morning about 8:30 I checked and did not see any returning residents. There are four nests.

 

 

Re(1): Fox Sparrow
Posted on March 23, 2010 at 10:09:14 AM by GayleCarlyle

This morning we had one fox sparrow scratching on the ground underneath our niger feeder at our home in Washago.
We also heard song sparrows yesterday morning.
And I think I saw a kestrel sitting on a wire along Hwy. 12 outside of Orillia this morning.

 

 

Fox Sparrow
Posted on March 22, 2010 at 08:54:44 AM by J. Gardner

A Fox Sparrow was scratching under the feeders this morning. Hurdville.

 

 

Re(1): Larder Beetle - photo
Posted on March 23, 2010 at 11:12:02 AM by John Challis

We had them as a frequent annoyance when we lived on Rocksborough Road. We called them two-tone beetles for want of a better term. I suspect they came in on the dog kibble, because they started showing up at our new house this year (Barb's Penn State link notes they are a pest of cured meats, mills and dry pet food).
It is difficult to get rid of them once they've gained a foothold in the house. Watch the little buggers don't get into your flour.

 

 

Larder Beetle - photo
Posted on March 21, 2010 at 08:31:58 PM by Barbara Taylor

I found this beetle today that I'd never seen before - apparently it's a Larder Beetle. Unlike a lot of insects which try to enter your house in the fall to overwinter, Larder Beetles overwinter outdoors but may try to enter your house in the spring.  photo

References:
http://www.extension.umn.edu/yardandgarden/ygbriefs/e607larderbeetle.html
http://ento.psu.edu/extension/factsheets/larder-beetle

 

 

Crows - nest building
Posted on March 21, 2010 at 08:08:20 PM by Barbara Taylor

Last week there was a pair of American Crows using their beaks to snap off small dead pine branches for their nest. Then yesterday one crow watched while another gathered some finer nesting material from our garden. Today they were back again, but instead of weedy stems and grasses, it was mud collecting day. At first I thought the crow was just trying to dig up a grub, but instead it stuffed its bill full and overflowing with clumps of dirt and flew off towards their nestsite. (Bracebridge)

I've never seen crows using mud in their nest building and can't find any reference that mentions it. However, Blue Jays are known to use mud and since they are in the Corvid family, I guess it makes sense.

 

 

Northern Goshawk - Muldrew Lake
Posted on March 21, 2010 at 07:52:58 PM by Kip Daynard

This afternoon, while out for a run around 4:30pm, I saw a first-year Northern Goshawk fly low in front of me across North Muldrew Lake Rd. Gravenhurst. Judging from the bird's immense size I'd guess it was a female. Juvenile plumage was easy to see without the aid of optics and it's massive, barrel-chested shape screamed Goshawk to me (the term "flying stove-pipe" I once heard regarding this species seemed apt). She landed in a tree overlooking the road and watched me for a moment, then flew low to another more secluded perch watching for a minute or two more, then repeated the process again before flying off low through the trees. I believe this is the 4th Goshawk I've seen in Muskoka/Parry Sound in the ~10 years I've lived in the area and the first in over 2 years.
Kip Daynard - Gravenhurst

 

 

Re(1): Sandhill Crane
Posted on March 27, 2010 at 08:15:29 AM by MichaelHatton

I saw the Sandhill (presumably the same one) on the 21st over the west and southern end of Leonard Lake. High, circling and calling. Very distinctive. Last one I saw was in the NWT, years ago.

 

 

Sandhill Crane
Posted on March 21, 2010 at 06:57:27 PM by DiannaWolfe

Today at the Torrance Barrens, a single Sandhill Crane vocalized loudly as it flew northward, high overhead. Other interesting birds included a male Bufflehead and a pair of Hooded Mergansers.

 

 

Re(1): Migrants on the Muskoka River south branch
Posted on March 22, 2010 at 04:59:05 PM by Barbara Taylor

Add two Wood Ducks to the list this morning. But no sign of the Matthiasville Red-shouldered Hawks yet even though several have been passing through Beamer in recent days.

 

 

Migrants on the Muskoka River south branch
Posted on March 21, 2010 at 02:05:26 PM by Al Sinclair

I drove along the river on Matthiasville Rd east of Bracebridge today looking for migrants. Found: Hooded Merganser, Mallard, Bufflehead, Canada Goose, Common Grackle.

 

 

Mergansers
Posted on March 21, 2010 at 12:03:40 PM by Chris

March 20- Lake of Bays - 8 Mergansers 2 female 6 male
note: some people mistake the male merganser for the Arctic Loon

 

 

Re(2): Turkey Vulture
Posted on March 21, 2010 at 01:31:03 PM by Al Sinclair

That is a Turkey Vulture in my opinion, the only vulture species on the Muskoka bird list. Turkey Vultures can be found here from March to November and are fairly common.

 

 

Re(1): Turkey Vulture
Posted on March 21, 2010 at 12:14:26 PM by iluvleafs

I took a picture on Narrows Road in Gravenhurst , looks like a vulture? Could it be a turkey vulture?
http://www.flickr.com/photos/25278835@N05/3679359192/

 

 

Turkey Vulture
Posted on March 20, 2010 at 07:49:06 PM by Bob Burt

Today, late in the morning, there was a Turkey Vulture soaring alongside Hwy 118 W. between Bracebridge and Port Carling. This is the first we have seen this Spring.

 

 

Song Sparrows...and conditions at The Ponds and Henry Marsh
Posted on March 20, 2010 at 09:41:13 AM by Barbara Taylor

Yesterday there was a Song Sparrow singing by the closed gate to the Bracebridge Ponds at the Kerr Park end. (Note that signs are still posted which ban access to the Ponds since construction of the new plant is ongoing.) There was a very small area of open water in cell 2 - no ducks, but three Canada Geese were standing on the ice. Several Canada Geese, a pair of Common Mergansers, and a few Mallards were on the Muskoka River.

Another Song Sparrow was singing at Henry Marsh along with several Red-winged Blackbirds. A Red-tailed Hawk flew overhead. The beaver pond was still frozen but the melt waters have overflowed the bank and flooded the area at the "T" in the trail. Also, because of late fall construction work by the bridge and eastward, the trail is now pretty much "destroyed" and is very muddy and deeply rutted.

 

 

American Woodcock
Posted on March 20, 2010 at 07:41:13 AM by janice house

Last night at dusk I heard the twittering in the farm field across from our house (Doe Lake Rd Gravenhurst). Moira spoke to a friend in Baysville and she heard woodcocks this week too.

 

 

arrival
Posted on March 19, 2010 at 06:53:17 PM by David Hatch

I saw my first American Robin today at Minett. Always a welcome sight.

 

 

Snowy Owl
Posted on March 19, 2010 at 03:45:56 PM by Barbara Taylor

Tom Smith asked me to post this sighting. He just got a call from Marion Haggart who was very excited to see a Snowy Owl this afternoon on S. Menominee Rd.

 

 

Algonquin Park Birding Update: 18 March
Posted on March 19, 2010 at 09:01:41 AM by Ontbirds

*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (March 19, 2010) and is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.

The warm temperatures, extensive areas of bare ground, and some open water
developing in creeks encouraged the arrival of more migrants by week's end.
There is still lots of snow in shaded woods, however.

Arrivals this week included: Canada Goose, Hooded Merganser, Herring Gull,
American Robin, American Tree Sparrow, Snow Bunting, Red-winged Blackbird,
Common Grackle and Brown-headed Cowbird.

An adult Bald Eagle was perched in a tree near Long Lake between the West
Gate and the Boundary on March 14 and 15.

Spruce Grouse, Gray Jay and Boreal Chickadee have been seen at Spruce Bog
Boardwalk.

The White-throated Sparrow that spent the winter at the Visitor Centre, but
had not been observed since late February, was seen again there this week.

A male Evening Grosbeak was at the Visitor Centre feeders on March 16 and
17.

At least one Marten continues to be fairly regular at the Visitor Centre
feeders.

THE VISITOR CENTRE IS OPEN DAILY FROM 10 AM TO 5 PM
UNTIL MARCH 21.
We would appreciate receiving your bird observations for our Visitor
Centre records.

Ron Tozer
Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired)
Dwight, ON

Directions:
Algonquin Park is three hours north of Toronto, via Highways 400, 11 and 60.
Follow the signs, which start in Toronto on Highway 400. From Ottawa, take
Highway 17 to Renfrew, then follow Highway 60 to the park. Kilometre markers
along Highway 60 in the Park go from the West Gate (km 0) to near the East
Gate (km 56). Get your park permit and the park tabloid (with a map of
birding locations mentioned here) at the gates.

The Visitor Centre at km 43 has details on recent sightings, feeders, and
park information. Hot and cold drinks and snacks are available in the
restaurant this winter, but not full meal service.

Birder access to the Visitor Centre through the service entrance to observe
the feeders is usually possible on weekdays.

Algonquin Park birding updates and information are also available at:
www.algonquinpark.on.ca

 

 

Flickers
Posted on March 19, 2010 at 06:28:13 AM by janice house

when Geoff arrived home after work yesterday there were 2 flickers in our yard (Doe Lake Rd Gravenhurst)

 

 

Re(1): Tree Sparrow
Posted on March 19, 2010 at 06:25:54 AM by janice house

we had 4 here yesterday morning feeding by the cedar hedge

 

 

Re(2): Tree Sparrow
Posted on March 18, 2010 at 04:31:37 PM by Barbara Taylor

This morning I heard my first Robin, a Grackle, and some Red-winged Blackbirds were singing at the south-west end of Meadow Heights Dr., Bracebridge.

 

 

Re(1): Tree Sparrow
Posted on March 18, 2010 at 03:48:04 PM by Wayne Bridge

Had 1 tree sparrow yesterday (Kearney). Today the redwings and grackles arrived in the yard.

 

 

Tree Sparrow
Posted on March 18, 2010 at 01:07:29 PM by GayleCarlyle

We just saw a tree sparrow at our feeders here at Grant's Woods outside of Orillia. At about 1:05pm.
Nice to see some of the spring birds are making their way back.

 

 

Re(2): Bats, Collingwood
Posted on March 18, 2010 at 09:15:31 AM by GayleCarlyle

Last evening at dusk we saw a bat flying over our backyard in search of food. Not sure if this is early for them.

 

 

Re(1): Bats, Collingwood
Posted on March 17, 2010 at 11:17:02 PM by Alex Mills

Daytime bat sightings have been widespread during this dramatic thaw (see the Simcoe Nature Board for additional sightings in central Ontario)

 

 

Re(2): Bats, Collingwood
Posted on March 20, 2010 at 09:25:20 AM by Barbara Taylor

Might be a Big Brown, but hard to tell relative size from the photo, and can't see the face. There is a photo gallery of bats at the Bats of Windsor & Essex County website: http://www.ojibway.ca/bats.htm and some descriptions at http://www.ont-woodlot-assoc.org/sw_bats.html

 

 

Re(1): Bats, Collingwood
Posted on March 18, 2010 at 00:11:48 AM by Eleanor Kee Wellman

Here is the image.  photo

Bob Bowles tells me that he saw Big Brown Bats at Duntroon 10 days ago. Is this the same species?

 

 

Bats, Collingwood
Posted on March 17, 2010 at 09:01:57 PM by Eleanor Kee Wellman

I am in Collingwood and saw at least 2 bats during the day. Twice I saw one drinking froma protected area of the harbour. I managed to get one image but won't be able to process it until I get home.

 

 

Painted turtle
Posted on March 17, 2010 at 04:09:32 PM by GayleCarlyle

This afternoon I saw a small painted turtle soaking up the sun just below the water's surface in one of the ponds on our property in Washago.
Also, one of our resident chipmunks has emerged and is busy searching for food under our feeders.

 

 

teal
Posted on March 17, 2010 at 03:54:18 PM by Gerry Lannan

While driving south on #11 this morning I saw a male blue- winged teal in Severn r. robins arrivedin Sundridge on Mar 15

 

 

Junco, merlins
Posted on March 17, 2010 at 10:02:48 AM by GayleCarlyle

This morning we had a junco hopping around our yard and a pair of merlins (same as last year probably) can be heard calling along our road, Green River Drive. Washago

 

 

Harris's Sparrow update
Posted on March 16, 2010 at 07:33:45 PM by Barbara Taylor

Bill Dickinson reports that the Harris's Sparrow was back briefly at 4:30 p.m. today, but it hasn't been visiting on a regular basis. It was first seen Jan. 18. (Bracebridge)

The feeder cannot be seen from the road so Bill asks that anyone who might still want to try for this bird should call first. For more information, send me an email: muskoka_birder@hotmail.com

 

 

Hoc Roc waterfowl
Posted on March 16, 2010 at 04:54:15 PM by Barbara Taylor

There is some open water at the mouth of the Hoc Roc River by Muskoka Beach Park. This morning there were a few Common Mergansers, Common Goldeneye, Hooded Mergansers, and Canada Geese. Also a lone Ring-billed Gull standing on the edge of the ice. (near Taboo, Gravenhurst)

 

 

Killdeer
Posted on March 16, 2010 at 04:29:57 PM by GayleCarlyle

mar 16 at about 4:10, heard a killdeer flying over our office here just outside of Orillia.

 

 

Arrivals
Posted on March 16, 2010 at 02:03:11 PM by J. Gardner

Canada geese turned up yesterday and today a Grackle and Kildeer arrived. Hurdville is slowly coming alive with Spring critters.

 

 

Brown Creeper
Posted on March 15, 2010 at 03:28:42 PM by Terry & Marion Whittam

Beautiful Brown Creeper singing and calling this morning. A sure sign of spring! 8km east of Washago! Cheers Terry

 

 

Re(2): Moth flying...Bracebridge
Posted on March 15, 2010 at 09:43:48 AM by Al Sinclair

Ron Stager reports seeing 5 different species last Friday in his sap buckets near Barkway. Sap buckets (aka moth traps) attract the early moths that nectar on sap. A sugar paste rubbed on tree trunks makes a good bait for attracting moths year round.

 

 

Re(1): Moth flying...Bracebridge
Posted on March 15, 2010 at 09:12:10 AM by GayleCarlyle

Last week, maybe Wed. or Thurs. I saw a moth fluttering in the water of a small pond on our property. I was going to go rescue it but the snow was too deep (I had running shoes on) so I don't know what species it was but it might have been the same one you saw.

 

 

Moth flying...Bracebridge
Posted on March 14, 2010 at 11:03:20 AM by Al Sinclair

We had our first moth here on Friday March 12, 2010. Grote's Pinion, Lithophane grotei, at an incandescent light. Large bodied moth, wings look like tree bark, overwinters as adult.
First moth last year was the same species but 2 weeks later on March 25.
8km east of Bracebridge.

 

 

Herring Gulls
Posted on March 13, 2010 at 04:40:19 PM by Terry & Marion Whittam

Our 2 resident Herring gulls have returned to their rock in the middle of the lake. Seems like they just left! (Dec 2009!) They are surrounded by thick lake ice in all directions! They seem happy to be back! Not sure there is a lot to eat yet! 10km east of Washago! Terry

 

 

Re(1): Common Grackle
Posted on March 13, 2010 at 07:00:26 PM by Marilyn Kisser

we've had a grackle here all winter hanging out with the mourning doves .. yesterday a friend finally joined him and today a red-winged blackbird was spotted with them .. just outside of Rosseau ...

 

 

Common Grackle
Posted on March 13, 2010 at 02:12:00 PM by janice house

A lone grackle has been here for a few hours (Doe Lake Rd Gravenhurst)

 

 

Migrants to Kearney
Posted on March 12, 2010 at 02:04:04 PM by Wayne Bridge

The crows arrived in Kearney March 4 and today, on open water on the Magnetawan, were 7 male common mergansers, 3 Canada geese, 2 black ducks and a pair of mallards.

 

 

Purple Finch/ Sharp Shinned Hawk
Posted on March 12, 2010 at 09:09:38 AM by janice house

We had our first purple finch this morning. A sharpy was hopping around the branches of one our mugo pines that are still stuck in some snow this morning; he also flew in a circle twice around the trees, chickadees frequent the two pines

 

 

Re(1): Redwings
Posted on March 13, 2010 at 10:52:53 AM by janice house

our first arrived this morning (Doe Lake Rd Gravenhurst)

 

 

Redwings
Posted on March 12, 2010 at 08:27:29 AM by J. Gardner

Finally. Two Redwinged Blackbirds reached our feeders this morning. A joyous occasion. (Hurdville) June Gardner

 

 

Algonquin Park Birding Update: 11 March
Posted on March 12, 2010 at 08:14:46 AM by Ontbirds

*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (March 11, 2010) and is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.

Temperatures were above normal and most days were sunny this week. Snow
cover was reduced and compacted, but there is still lots left. Crows arrived
on March 6 and became widespread immediately. A European Starling was at the
Visitor Centre today. These are the first migrants.

At least one Boreal Chickadee among Black-capped Chickadees was noted about
one kilometre north of the Costello Creek bridge on the Opeongo Road on
March 8.

Gray Jays were regularly seen along Opeongo Road.

The large flock of American Goldfinches persists at the Visitor Centre
feeders.

There were seven Evening Grosbeaks at the Visitor Centre today, and several
continue to be observed in Whitney near the junction of Ottawa and Second
streets.

THE VISITOR CENTRE WILL BE OPEN DAILY FROM 10 AM TO 5 PM
FROM MARCH 13 TO MARCH 21.

We would appreciate receiving your bird observations for our Visitor
Centre records.

Ron Tozer
Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired)
Dwight, ON

Directions:
Algonquin Park is three hours north of Toronto, via Highways 400, 11 and 60.
Follow the signs, which start in Toronto on Highway 400. From Ottawa, take
Highway 17 to Renfrew, then follow Highway 60 to the park. Kilometre markers
along Highway 60 in the Park go from the West Gate (km 0) to near the East
Gate (km 56). Get your park permit and the park tabloid (with a map of
birding locations mentioned here) at the gates.

The Visitor Centre at km 43 has details on recent sightings, feeders, and
park information. Hot and cold drinks and snacks are available in the
restaurant this winter, but not full meal service.

Birder access to the Visitor Centre through the service entrance to observe
the feeders is usually possible on weekdays.

Algonquin Park birding updates and information are also available at:
www.algonquinpark.on.ca

 

 

Cooper's Hawk
Posted on March 11, 2010 at 07:49:56 PM by DBurton

A Cooper's Hawk was perched in a tree at Mary and Wagner streets in Gravenhurst today.

 

 

Junco, Gravenhurst
Posted on March 11, 2010 at 06:52:40 PM by janice house

heard a junco trilling in our yard late this afternoon, not sure if it is the bird that has been here all winter (Doe Lake Rd)

 

 

Re(1): Robin
Posted on March 12, 2010 at 07:24:54 AM by janice house

saw our first robin this morning, Doe Lake Rd Gravenhurst

 

 

Robin
Posted on March 11, 2010 at 01:52:59 PM by GayleCarlyle

Thurs. March 11 7:25am
Saw and heard our first robin of the year on Green River Drive Washago.

 

 

Male Common Mergansers
Posted on March 11, 2010 at 08:10:30 AM by jim griffin

As is customary for march, a couple of male common mergansers have been on the river at Port Sydney,most of this week.

 

 

Unidentified Moth, Bala
Posted on March 11, 2010 at 07:16:27 AM by Eleanor Kee Wellman

I notice a moth flying around my outside light last night. It was 2-3 cm across.

 

 

Spring Arrivals East of Washago
Posted on March 10, 2010 at 05:51:03 PM by B. Korol

Like others on this bulletin board, I had some new spring arrivals in my yard over the past week:
American Crow
Blue Jay
Barred Owl
Mourning Dove
Purple Finch

Found a Horned Lark east of Lake Couchiching on 9 March.

 

 

Swans
Posted on March 10, 2010 at 01:20:49 PM by Barbara Taylor

This morning there were two Swans at the mouth of the Muskoka River. Judging from their large size and overall appearance, they were most likely adult Trumpeter Swans (without tags). A spotting scope would have come in handy since they were way out at the edge of the ice.

There were also several Common Goldeneyes, and some Canada Geese. Yesterday there were two male Hooded Mergansers, a male Ring-necked Duck, and two American Black Ducks, but these were all absent this morning...perhaps just out of sight behind McVittie island. (Bracebridge)

 

 

Re(1): Canada Goose
Posted on March 12, 2010 at 01:57:10 PM by Wayne Bridge

Three Canada geese landed in Kearney this morning. The Magnetawan has a lot of open water.

 

 

Re(1): Canada Goose
Posted on March 10, 2010 at 06:27:03 PM by Debbie Adams

Just heard a lone goose honking at Walker's Point.(6PM) It was flushed out by a passing air-boat. Maybe it was the same goose?

 

 

Canada Goose
Posted on March 10, 2010 at 08:58:29 AM by janice house

A lone goose flew over the house honking yesterday about 6pm heading towards Gravenhurst (Doe Lake Rd)

 

 

Pine Siskins
Posted on March 9, 2010 at 08:36:19 AM by GayleCarlyle

Tues. March 9,
We had a few pine siskins at our feeders this morning; Washago.
This is the first we've seen of them; mostly just goldfinches off and on throughout the winter. Figures, I bought a 50lb bag of niger seed and we've used very little of it so far. Also, lots of courting going on with the birds along our street. Nuthatches, crows, woodpeckers. Also heard the brown creeper singing this morning.

 

 

Flying squirrels
Posted on March 7, 2010 at 07:32:17 PM by Terry & Marion Whittam

3 Flying squirrels visited last night 8k east of Washago. ....eating niger seed! I notice they always arrive about 30-45min after sunset when it is quite dark. They eat for 30-45min then seem to disappear for an hour or so! to rest? Cute little guys! Cheers Terry  Flying squirrel

 

 

House Finch
Posted on March 7, 2010 at 05:29:03 PM by Goodyear

This afternoon we had a single female House Finch visit our feeders (Meadow Heights Bracebridge).

 

 

Stouffville Snow Geese
Posted on March 7, 2010 at 07:06:41 AM by janice house

My brother saw a flock of snow geese south of Stouffville on Friday, they were flying so low he could have touched them from the back of his truck with a hockey stick. Not much water open there but the corn fields are becoming bare of snow.

 

 

spring returns to Kearney
Posted on March 6, 2010 at 10:17:03 AM by Wayne Bridge

Finally!!! We were down to a few chickadees, one downy, and two hairies (plus pheasants & grouse and the occasional raven), but today we had our first pair of blue jays since December and this morning a chipmunk was out eating corn! Warms my soul.

 

 

Spring Migration 2010
Posted on March 5, 2010 at 08:21:03 PM by Barbara Taylor

Here are some websites that will be helpful in following the spring migration. The Beamer Hawkwatch has already had a few Red-tailed Hawks passing through, but expect much larger numbers and more species by the end of the month. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds have started to arrive along the Gulf Coast, Purple Martins have been seen as far north as Tennessee, and a Chimney Swift was just reported in Texas. Some of these websites include data from past years which will give you an idea of peak migration times, or you can check recent posts on regional email lists to see what's coming our way.

Hummingbird Migration Map

Purple Martin Migration Map

Chimney Swift Migration Map


Daily reports of Hawks

Recent Posts from ONTBIRDS

Other Regional Email Lists (scroll down for list of Provinces/States)


Niagara Peninsula Hawkwatch (Beamer) -- (latest count data)

Tommy Thompson Park Bird Research Station (Toronto's Leslie St. Spit) (active in April)

Long Point Bird Observatory (active in April)

Canadian Migration Monitoring Network

Journey North

Migration of Birds

 

 

Herring Gulls return to One Tree Island early
Posted on March 5, 2010 at 05:33:27 PM by Al Sinclair

Lou Spence reports that Herring Gulls started to arrive on One Tree Island today at 7:30 am, two hours later there was about a dozen. This is about 10 days earlier than their average arrival date of March 15. Herring Gulls nest on this small rocky island in Lake Muskoka near Port Carling.

 

 

Common Goldeneyes
Posted on March 5, 2010 at 01:37:35 PM by Barbara Taylor

This morning we drove out Beaumont Dr. to check the Muskoka River for ducks, but didn't see anything until we got to the end of Beaumont Farm Rd. Pvt. There at the mouth of the river were eight Common Goldeneye. (Bracebridge)

 

 

Algonquin Park Birding Update: 4 March
Posted on March 5, 2010 at 08:23:27 AM by Ontbirds

*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (March 4, 2010) and is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.

Beautiful spring-like weather often prevailed this week but
in the almost total absence of open water or bare ground there
was no indication of migrants on the Algonquin Highlands. That
should change in the next few days with the arrival of the first
American Crows.

Gray Jays continued to be seen at Spruce Bog Boardwalk, the
Visitor Centre and Opeongo Road at the gate. Researchers had
located at least 11 nests under construction by week's end

The White-throated Sparrow at the Visitor Centre feeder all winter
was last seen on February 25. Milder temperatures likely stimulated
it to move elsewhere.

What may be the last Pine Grosbeaks were two at the West Gate
on February 27. In winters of low numbers like this, the first pulse
of sustained warmer weather in late February or early March often
coincides with their disappearance northward.

The big flock of American Goldfinches persisted at the Visitor Centre
feeders.

Evening Grosbeaks are still present in Whitney, east of Algonquin.

American Marten: one or two are fairly regular at the Visitor
Centre feeders now and likely to be seen by anybody who stays
for awhile.

We would appreciate receiving your bird observations for our Visitor
Centre records.

Ron Tozer
Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired)
Dwight, ON

 

 

Chickadees' Song
Posted on March 5, 2010 at 06:37:16 AM by FrancesGualtieri

Do chickadees have a spring song? To me, the notes seem longer and softer - or is this just my imagination, as I stand in glorious warm sunshine?

 

 

Re(1): Doe Lake Rd Birds
Posted on March 6, 2010 at 07:02:45 AM by janice house

4 crows were feeding under one of our feeders this morning

 

 

Doe Lake Rd Birds
Posted on March 4, 2010 at 08:06:38 AM by janice house

I saw a raven yesterday flying with a twig in its beak, this morning a crow was calling from the top of a white pine and half a dozen goldfinch were flying around the neighbourhood

 

 

Early Butterfly
Posted on March 3, 2010 at 04:29:40 PM by B. Korol

I was shocked, but glad to see a Compton Tortoiseshell today (3 March) in Arrowhead Provincial Park while x.c. skiing!!

 

 

Goldfinches, Bala & Six Mile Lake
Posted on March 3, 2010 at 06:55:01 AM by Eleanor Kee Wellman

On Sunday I had two goldfinches stop in for all of a minute.
Anne Lewis on Six Mile Lake had 50 goldfinches last week and has 150 this week.

 

 

Bala Barred Owl
Posted on March 3, 2010 at 06:53:04 AM by Eleanor Kee Wellman

A Barred Owl sat near the bird feeders most of last night. I didn't see it catch anything, though.

 

 

Muskoka Field Naturalists - next meeting March 4
Posted on March 2, 2010 at 07:10:05 PM by Barbara Taylor

Thursday, March 4, 7:30 p.m., Gravenhurst
NESTING WATERBIRDS with Dave Moore

Dave Moore, a Population Assessment Biologist with the Canadian Wildlife Service, is one of Environment Canada’s authorities on waterbird programmes in the Great Lakes Basin. His topic will be colonial nesting waterbirds - gulls, terns, egrets, herons, pelicans and of course, cormorants.

Visitors welcome to attend. Meeting location is in Gravenhurst at Calvary Baptist Church, corner of First Street and Brock Street.
MFN website: http://muskokafieldnaturalists.com

 

 

Raymond Birds
Posted on March 1, 2010 at 07:53:43 PM by janice house

I spoke with Tim Mason today, (Luckey Rd in Raymond) he saw 6 pine grosbeaks on Saturday and has been seeing eagles soaring overhead. Windermere golf course had 3 eagles feeding on a deer recently, 2 adults 1 juvenile

 

 

Re(1): racoons awake!
Posted on March 2, 2010 at 08:45:01 PM by dinnymccraney

when do the bears wake up? Not keen on having my birdfeeders destroyed again

 

 

racoons awake!
Posted on March 1, 2010 at 07:01:29 PM by Marilyn Kisser

there were 3 racoon's out picking up the sunflower seeds under the feeder at 5 a.m. this morning .. spring has to be springing:-) just outside of Rosseau..

 

 

Re(1): Deer crossing...and Springtails
Posted on March 2, 2010 at 08:42:50 PM by dinnymccraney

Backing onto the 6th green of the South Muskoka Golf course..We have had deer eating out of the window feeders despite the presence of 2 big dogs.
They certainly seem to be more aggressive in the last few weeks.I am concerned that last spring's little ones are being pushed around!

 

 

Re(1): Deer crossing...and Springtails
Posted on March 2, 2010 at 08:34:13 PM by Terry & Marion Whittam

Hi Barbara, we have billions of Springtails all over the place 10km east of Washago. The snow fleas have been around for about 3 weeks. Usually we see them in pools of water on the road in mid March. They seem to have come in force about 1 month early! Cheers Terry

 

 

Deer crossing...and Springtails
Posted on March 1, 2010 at 06:21:52 PM by Barbara Taylor

Over the past few days the deer herds in our neighbourhood have been getting larger. For most of the winter we've only seen three or four of them at a time. But this morning nine ran across the road heading west, and just before 6 p.m. there were eleven heading east at a full gallop. They are out and about in broad daylight as well as at night, so take care driving along Glendale Rd. south of Kevin Cres. (Bracebridge)

We still haven't found any Springtails (aka Snow Fleas) in our yard this winter, but this morning they were everywhere we looked along the Henry Rd. trail and east from the marsh all the way over to the pipeline. There weren't any big swarms of them, so you had to look closely at the snow, but every time we stopped to look we could see many scattered on the surface.

 

 

Re(1): Sharp Shinned Hawk
Posted on March 1, 2010 at 09:35:39 AM by JennJilks

I saw a pair of hawks go by. I could hear the whup-whup of the feather of the one closer to me. Very beautiful.

 

 

Sharp Shinned Hawk
Posted on February 27, 2010 at 08:58:14 PM by Barb Staples

Today at 4:10 a Sharp-Shinned Hawk spent some time in the maple tree closest to the feeder. The chickadess feeding at the time froze, protected under the overhang (a Sontag feeder). The SS flew off eventually without displaying a disgruntled attitude. When I went outside a few minutes later almost had to shake the chickadees out of their stupour. (Gravenhurst)

 

 

Skunk
Posted on February 27, 2010 at 11:31:19 AM by janice house

Geoff quickly passed a skunk on the snowmobile trail on South Monk Drive today (west of Bracebridge)

 

 

Re(1): Barred Owl near Washago
Posted on February 27, 2010 at 10:14:10 AM by Debbie Adams

We just had our first Mourning Doves (2 of them) arrive at our feeder. The first since last fall.
Walker's Point

 

 

Barred Owl near Washago
Posted on February 27, 2010 at 08:31:18 AM by Burke Korol

I photographed a Barred Owl in my back yard on 25 February. Also had my first Mourning Dove of the year at my feeder today (27th).
Near Cooper's Falls Road on Housey's Rapids Road.

 

 

Algonquin Park Birding Update: 25 February
Posted on February 26, 2010 at 09:44:42 AM by Ontbirds

*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (February 25, 2010) and is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.

Good places to check this week were the feeders at the
West Gate and the Visitor Centre, and Opeongo Road at the
winter gate. Reports received included:

Spruce Grouse: A male at Spruce Bog Boardwalk.

Wild Turkey: 1 west of Lake of Two Rivers on the 20th.

Black-backed Woodpecker: A male at Post 6 on Mizzy
Lake Trail on the 22nd.

Gray Jays: seen at Spruce Bog Boardwalk, the Visitor
Centre and Opeongo Road at the gate.

Boreal Chickadee: seen near the entrance of Spruce Bog
Boardwalk.

White-throated Sparrow: one still coming to the Visitor
Centre feeder.

Pine Grosbeak: 10 at Wolf Howl Pond on the 22nd, and
two at the East Gate on the 24th.

American Goldfinch: the large flock continues to come
to the Visitor Centre feeders.

Evening Grosbeak: 20 reported in Whitney, east of Algonquin.

American Marten: seen irregularly at the Visitor Centre feeders
and Mew Lake Campground.

We would appreciate receiving your bird observations for our Visitor
Centre records.

Ron Tozer
Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired)
Dwight, ON

 

 

Pine Grosbeaks
Posted on February 24, 2010 at 10:31:26 AM by CatMacLean

I have seen a flock of 10 Pine Grosbeaks this week in Huntsville mostly feeding on Hemlocks and Balsam. Also had a small flock of Purple Finches at our feeder.
Has anyone else noticed an unusually large number of rabbits this winter?

 

 

Ermine
Posted on February 24, 2010 at 09:08:08 AM by GayleCarlyle

Tues. Feb. 23
At about 10:30 we had a visit from an ermine, still sporting his winter coat. Guess that means he thinks spring is a long way away. (Washago)

 

 

Porcupine
Posted on February 23, 2010 at 04:45:45 PM by janice house

Yesterday I saw the beastie at the top of one of the trees in the centre of the on ramp going north on hwy 11 at Doe Lake Rd Gravenhurst

 

 

Redpoll
Posted on February 23, 2010 at 11:21:03 AM by DiannaWolfe

A lone Common Redpoll is bossing the 50+ Goldfinches at the feeders today (Kilworthy).

 

 

chipmunk
Posted on February 22, 2010 at 08:19:39 AM by mjm

Saw a chipmunk out yesterday, Sunday Feb. 21 2010. It had burrowed through 43cm of snow to enjoy the sun. I took photo's and measured snow depth. Nice to see a hibernator out.
mikem Sprucedale

 

 

Re(1): Otters
Posted on February 20, 2010 at 03:32:01 PM by Barbara Taylor

This must be some sort of special day for mammals to congregate...we had eight Red Squirrels running around our yard this morning. (Bracebridge)

 

 

Otters
Posted on February 20, 2010 at 11:39:22 AM by jim griffin

At about 7:30 this morning I watched 6 otters playing?/wrestling?/something else? on the ice in the muskoka river at Port Sidney south of the road 10 bridge.

 

 

Algonquin Park area - Evening Grosbeaks
Posted on February 20, 2010 at 09:37:56 AM by Ontbirds

*This report was originally posted by Justin Peter on ONTBIRDS (February 20, 2010) and is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.

For anyone visiting Algonquin's Park's Highway 60 corridor and looking for winter birds, there were 20 Evening Grosbeaks at the boat launch in Whitney this morning at 8 AM (corner of 2nd Street and Ottawa Street). They have been semi-regulars in this area over the winter. Whitney is a 5 minute drive east of the East Gate.

Good birding,
Justin Peter

Park Naturalist / Interprète-naturaliste
Visitor Centre / Centre d'accueil
Algonquin Provincial Park / Parc provincial Algonquin
Ontario, Canada

613-637-2828 x. 223
justin.peter@ontario.ca
www.algonquinpark.on.ca

 

 

Re(1): Algonquin Park update - no wolves
Posted on February 19, 2010 at 01:07:46 PM by Ontbirds

*This report was originally posted by Rick Stronks on ONTBIRDS (February 19, 2010) and is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.

As reported by Ron Tozer yesterday, 7 wolves were seen in the Sunday
Creek valley below the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre.

Unfortunately, not only are the wolves not present today, but the
carcass is also gone! Staff watched the pack feeding on the carcass and
dragging pieces away. There was nothing left this morning.

 

 

Algonquin Park Birding Update: 18 February
Posted on February 18, 2010 at 09:18:29 PM by Ontbirds

*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (February 18, 2010) and is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.

Moderating temperatures this week and the first observation of Gray Jay nest
construction on February 14 were early signs of the eventual onset of spring
in Algonquin Park. Before then, however, there are still great opportunities
for experiencing the beautiful winter scenery.

A Golden Eagle was reported over Highway 60 at km 11 on February 14.

There was a Black-backed Woodpecker near the chain gate west of Wolf Howl
Pond on February 12, and another was heard in black spruce bog south of
Highway 60 opposite Spruce Bog Boardwalk on February 17.

Six Boreal Chickadees were at the start of Spruce Bog Boardwalk trail on
February 17.

Three Pine Grosbeaks were on Highway 60 at Cache Lake on February 15.


Mammals:
Two American martens were at the start of Spruce Bog Boardwalk trail on
February 17, and one was at the Visitor Centre feeders today.

Seven wolves were feeding on a road-killed deer carcass in the Sunday Creek
valley today, readily viewed with binoculars and telescopes from the Visitor
Centre viewing deck.

Watch for more updates on The Friends of Algonquin Park Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Friends-of-Algonquin-Park/169395331567

We would appreciate receiving your bird observations for our Visitor
Centre records.

Ron Tozer
Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired)
Dwight, ON

 

 

Mourning Doves...a new record
Posted on February 16, 2010 at 05:15:49 PM by Barbara Taylor

Yesterday the number of Mourning Doves in our yard set a new record at 31 birds. Apparently that is an unusually high number since my entry into the GBBC got red-flagged and isn't yet included in the summary of Bracebridge reports. On average we usually have about 20 Mourning Doves at this time of the winter.

And of course with all those doves milling about, the Cooper's Hawk showed up, looking to grab an easy meal. Needless to say, there weren't many birds in the yard today. This afternoon I managed to spy the hawk perched high in a pine tree, hoping to ambush any unwary visitors. (Bracebridge)

 

 

Re(5): snow fleas
Posted on March 1, 2010 at 09:34:32 AM by JennJilks

Let me tell you about Bala snow fleas!!! Better still... a picture = 1000 words:
http://mymuskoka.blogspot.com/2010/01/springs-in-my-tail.html
millions and billions of them! Everywhere!
springs in my tail

 

 

Re(2): snow fleas
Posted on February 17, 2010 at 02:11:12 PM by Dawn Sherman

I had noted an abundance of snow fleas at the Henry Marsh on January 24th. They were thickest at the parking lot but were visible for quite a distance down the trail as well.

 

 

Re(4): snow fleas
Posted on February 17, 2010 at 08:55:51 AM by DiannaWolfe

We have also noticed an abundance of springtails throughout the winter that I felt was unusual. (Kilworthy)

 

 

Re(3): snow fleas
Posted on February 17, 2010 at 06:54:55 AM by Eleanor Kee Wellman

I had springtails here sometime in January but don't remember exactly when. I thought it was unusual at the time. I don't have any lawn at all so they could be anywhere. (Bala)

 

 

Re(2): snow fleas
Posted on February 16, 2010 at 10:44:46 PM by John Challis

It was a wet and warm November, in the early going. So when the snow finally did arrive -- we were, thankfully, in Jamaica at the time -- they'd have had plenty of moist conditions.
And as for our lawn, we are more than happy to let it moulder. We prefer to keep the grass long at the end of the season, since it's supposed to help with the overall health of the lawn. So yeah, I'd guess their habitat conditions were right for some strong population. But the conditions have been pretty much the same for the five years we've been here, except maybe the wet fall.

 

 

Re(1): snow fleas
Posted on February 16, 2010 at 10:07:29 PM by Barbara Taylor

Have you allowed the natural leaf mulch to build up around your yard or was there an increase in fungi? Better habitat and ideal moisture conditions might have encouraged a growth in the Springtail population. An overpopulation might explain the "bubbling up" onto the snow according to one expert mentioned in the following article: http://www.curiousnature.info/A1-Springtail.htm

Might be worth a try contacting Ken Christiansen to ask what he thinks is happening with your springtails. The Department of Biology at Grinnell College lists his email: christak@grinnell.edu

We haven't noticed any Springtails swarming on the snow yet here in Bracebridge, but will keep a lookout.

 

 

snow fleas
Posted on February 15, 2010 at 09:33:18 PM by John Challis

We're taking the blame for the bird shortage around here, becuase this is the first year we bought a 50-lb bag of niger seed.
But one abundant species all winter long has been the snow flea, or springtails. We have seen them peppering the snow since after the first heavy snowstorms in December and they've been more or less omnipresent since, particularly when the sun has come out. Usually we don't see these little insects until the snow starts to warm a bit in early March, often congregating thickest in bootprints or the hollows around tree trunks.
Any theories about the abundance this year?

 

 

Birds (including swans) at Magnetawan
Posted on February 15, 2010 at 09:08:46 PM by Alex Mills

On February 14 at Magnetawan we found ten species of birds. Non-waterfowl were: Black-capped Chickadee, Blue Jay, Common Raven, Hairy Woodpecker, Evening Grosbeak, Brown Creeper, and Barred Owl. On the river in the village were 2 male Mallards, 3 (short-necked) Canada Geese, and 5 Trumpeter Swans.

The Swans were adult A72, adult A73, cygnet A75, cygnet A76, and an unmarked adult.

 

 

Algonquin Park Birding Update: 11 February
Posted on February 11, 2010 at 10:14:22 PM by Ontbirds

*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (February 11, 2010) and is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.

Algonquin Park continued to provide magnificent winter scenery this week,
but little change in the birds reported.

A pair of Red Crossbills on Barron Canyon Road just before Sand Lake Gate on
February 7 was noteworthy. These were likely Type 2 birds, a few of which
may be finding a a very small number of cones among the white pines and red
pines of Algonquin's East Side forests this winter.

The white-striped morph White-throated Sparrow continues to thrive at the
Visitor Centre feeders.

A Black-backed Woodpecker was reported on the Leaf Lake Ski Trail near
Junction B on February 6.

There were three Pine Grosbeaks on Highway 60 between the West Gate and the
West Boundary on February 8. Very few are being seen.

One hundred plus American Goldfinches are visiting the Visitor Centre
feeders on most days now. Such numbers in the absence of virtually all other
finch species this winter is unprecedented in Algonquin Park. However, very
few goldfinches are being seen away from feeders.

Martens have been less frequent at the Visitor Centre feeders this week.
Some are still being reported around campsites in Mew Lake Campground.

We would appreciate receiving your bird observations for our Visitor
Centre records.

Ron Tozer
Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired)

 

 

Huntsville Nature Club meeting on Feb. 22
Posted on February 11, 2010 at 02:01:01 PM by rick stronks

At the next Huntsville Nature Club meeting, Paul Gelok, the Assistant Park Planner in Algonquin Park, will present a talk entitled An Update on Algonquin Research; 70 years of counting.

This presentation will walk through some of the history of research in Algonquin Park, give an overview of the current projects, and highlight some of the important and interesting findings that have contributed to our understanding of Algonquin ecology. Research projects in the park range from studies on moose, bears, and wolves, to small mammals, salamanders, fish, birds and turtles.

The Huntsville Nature Club meets on the last Monday of every month at Club 55 in the Town Hall at 7 p.m. and guests are always welcome - a voluntary $2.00 donation is appreciated. For more information regarding the Huntsville Nature Club, contact Ken Morrison (789-1407) or Rick Stronks (635-3315). Interested in becoming a member? Single only $15.00, Family $25.00.

 

 

Re(1): Great Backyard Bird Count
Posted on February 18, 2010 at 11:00:01 AM by DiannaWolfe

Kilworthy

Feb 13:
Downy Woodpecker - 1
Hairy Woodpecker - 2
Black-capped Chickadee - 4
White-breasted Nuthatch - 4
American Goldfinch - 42

Feb 14:
Downy Woodpecker - 1
Hairy Woodpecker - 2
Black-capped Chickadee - 6
White-breasted Nuthatch - 4
American Goldfinch - 58
Red-tailed Hawk - 1 (flying over)

 

Re(1): Great Backyard Bird Count
Posted on February 15, 2010 at 04:57:56 PM by Eleanor Kee Wellman

Saturday, February 13, Bala

12 Chickadees
2 White-breasted Nuthatches
2 Hairy Woodpeckers, M & F
1 Downy
2 Blue Jays
1 Sharp-shinned Hawk

 

 

Re(1): Great Backyard Bird Count
Posted on February 15, 2010 at 03:27:26 PM by Ted Gardner

9 Blue jays
18 Mourning doves
4 Black capped chickadees
2 Hairy woodpeckers
1 Downey woodpecker
1 white breasted nuthatch
2 Dark eyed Juncos

pretty slow winter overall
(Bracebridge)

 

 

Re(1): Great Backyard Bird Count
Posted on February 15, 2010 at 12:50:14 PM by MichaelHatton

12 Chickadees, three WB Nuthatches, two Pileated Woodpeckers. Leonard Lake Road 2.

 

 

Re(1): Great Backyard Bird Count
Posted on February 14, 2010 at 07:14:30 PM by Terry & Marion Whittam

Feb 14th - Around Washago and east to Coopers Falls
Trumpeter swans 31 all around Washago
Chickadee 25+
Blue Jay 3
Snowbunting 10
Hairy WP 1
Common Mergansor 1 female
Crow 2
WB Nuthatch 1
Red Squirrel 2

 

 

Re(1): Great Backyard Bird Count
Posted on February 14, 2010 at 05:41:35 PM by janice house

Moira called me with her results, Houston Rd Bracebridge
1 barred owl
3 hairy woodpeckers
2 downy woodpeckers
2 white-breasted nuthatch's
12+ chickadees
2 blue jays
10 mourning doves

 

 

Re(1): Great Backyard Bird Count
Posted on February 14, 2010 at 11:53:24 AM by janice house

Doe Lake Rd Gravenhurst, did not see the junco today
5 blue jays
1 american tree sparrow
2 white-breasted nuthatch
1 red-breasted nuthatch
1 downy woodpecker
1 hairy woodpecker
2 mourning doves
12+ chickadees

 

 

Re(2): Great Backyard Bird Count
Posted on February 14, 2010 at 07:22:17 PM by Barbara Taylor

Our backyard...Bracebridge - Sunday, Feb. 14

A lot more Mourning Doves today and a first for our yard...two Wild Turkeys.

5 Black-capped Chickadee
2 Brown Creeper
2 Red-breasted Nuthatch
2 White-breasted Nuthatch
2 Pileated Woodpecker
3 Hairy Woodpecker
2 Downy Woodpecker
1 Blue Jay
1 American Crow
27 Mourning Dove
2 Wild Turkey

 

 

Re(1): Great Backyard Bird Count
Posted on February 14, 2010 at 11:29:58 AM by Barbara Taylor

Our backyard...Bracebridge - Saturday, Feb. 13
6 Black-capped Chickadee
1 Brown Creeper
2 Northern Cardinal
2 American Goldfinch
2 Red-breasted Nuthatch
2 White-breasted Nuthatch
2 Pileated Woodpecker
4 Hairy Woodpecker
3 Downy Woodpecker
2 Blue Jay
2 American Crow
16 Mourning Dove

The Hairy Woodpeckers have escalated their fighting over the territory and there is lots of drumming going on in the morning and mid-afternoons. Not much action yet today...the Cooper's Hawk must be on patrol again.

 

 

Re(1): Great Backyard Bird Count
Posted on February 14, 2010 at 09:57:12 AM by Terry & Marion Whittam

Feb 13, 2010 - Around Washago and east to Coopers falls
Black-capped chickadee 28
Blue-jay 7
Turkey 14
Snowbunting 60
White-breasted nuthatch 2
Red-breasted nuthatch 1
Trumpeter swan 14
Deer 14
Red Squirrel 2
Southern Flying Squirrel 2 (after dark)

 

 

Re(1): Great Backyard Bird Count
Posted on February 13, 2010 at 11:54:52 AM by Al Sinclair

Feb 13 8 km east of Bracebridge
Black-capped Chickadee 6
White-breasted Nuthatch 2
Hairy Woodpecker 1
Downy Woodpecker 1

Birds really scarce here as you can see. We are offering sunflower seed both black and stripped, mixed seed, and fat. Feeders have been filled since fall. Missing today were Mourning Doves, 1 to 3 seen here recently.

 

 

Great Backyard Bird Count
Posted on February 11, 2010 at 09:08:51 AM by Barbara Taylor

This year's Great Backyard Bird Count starts tomorrow, Friday, February 12, and continues through Monday, February 15. If you would like to participate in our own informal bird count for Muskoka and surrounding areas, just post your count results here on the Bird Board for any of those dates.

Excerpt from GBBC website:
"The Great Backyard Bird Count is an annual four-day event that engages bird watchers of all ages in counting birds to create a real-time snapshot of where the birds are across the continent. Anyone can participate, from beginning bird watchers to experts. It takes as little as 15 minutes on one day, or you can count for as long as you like each day of the event. Participants count birds anywhere for as little or as long as they wish during the four-day period. They tally the highest number of birds of each species seen together at any one time. To report their counts, they fill out an online checklist at the Great Backyard Bird Count website. As the count progresses, anyone with Internet access can explore what is being reported from their own towns or anywhere in the United States and Canada. They can also see how this year's numbers compare with those from previous years. Participants may also send in photographs of the birds they see. A selection of images is posted in the online photo gallery."

 

 

Pair of Eagles: Port Sydney
Posted on February 5, 2010 at 12:48:33 PM by jim griffin

just a few minutes ago I was treated to a display by two mature bald eagles hunting over the open water on the river just south of the Rd 10 bridge. They were cruising at low level, rising then hovering and swooping low over and over. I suppose if a fish was visible it would have been gone, but the real object of their attention seemed to be a lone female golden eye that had to keep diving to avoid being lunch.

 

 

Algonquin Park Birding Update: 4 February
Posted on February 4, 2010 at 09:53:22 PM by Ontbirds

*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (February 4, 2010) and is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.

Again this week, there was little change in the birds observed. The
white-striped White-throated Sparrow continues to come to the Visitor Centre
feeders.

Boreal Species:
Spruce Grouse: try Spruce Bog Boardwalk.

Black-backed Woodpecker: possible in black spruce areas along the highway
and along Opeongo Road.

Gray Jay: there were up to seven this week at the Visitor Centre feeders;
also present on Opeongo Road and on Spruce Bog Boardwalk.

Boreal Chickadee: no reports this week.

Winter Finches:
Pine Grosbeak: the lone female is still coming to the Visitor Centre
feeders.

American Goldfinch: from 70 to 100 daily at the Visitor Centre feeders.

Evening Grosbeak: some are likely still coming to feeders in Whitney on
Highway 60 east of Algonquin Park.

Mammals:
Pine martens continue to come to the Visitor Centre feeders daily, but at no
predictable time.

Moose are being observed regularly along Highway 60.

A road-killed deer from outside the Park that was placed in the Sunday Creek
bog, visible from the Visitor Centre viewing deck, had been largely consumed
by up to three wolves, eleven ravens and a fox as of last Tuesday. Another
road-killed deer has been placed there now, and ravens have started on it

We would appreciate receiving your bird observations for our Visitor
Centre records.

Ron Tozer
Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired)

 

 

Bald Eagle...Milford Bay
Posted on February 3, 2010 at 05:47:56 PM by Al Sinclair

Nick Bartok emailed today Feb 3 to report his brother-in-law had a good look at an adult Bald Eagle near Milford Bay. Below is what his brother-in-law wrote.
"It was on a carcass and took flight as I rounded the corner on 118 at Leonard lake rd 1 swooped in front of the windshield. I thought I was going to hit it so I got a good look."

 

 

Swans & Buffleheads
Posted on February 2, 2010 at 08:03:07 AM by Debbie Adams

Yesterday, we saw a least 10, (maybe as many as 14 it was hard to count quickly,) Swans on both sides of the river that runs under Hwy 11 at Washago. There were plenty of Buffleheads as well.

 

 

Muskoka Field Naturalists - next meeting Feb. 4
Posted on January 31, 2010 at 03:48:45 PM by Barbara Taylor

Please note: Meeting location February through June is in Gravenhurst at Calvary Baptist Church, corner of First Street and Brock Street.
February 4, 7:30 p.m., Gravenhurst
BAT "HOUSE & HOME" with Christy!

Bats are an invaluable natural resource and yet they are sometimes feared and persecuted. We will explore the fascinating world of bats and dispel the myths surrounding them. We will look at different bat house designs and show you how to build a house of your own, including tips to ensure their success. Christy MacDonald is the Senior Fish and Wildlife Technical Specialist for MNR in Bracebridge.

Visitors welcome to attend.
MFN website: http://muskokafieldnaturalists.com

 

 

Turkey dinner
Posted on January 31, 2010 at 02:04:44 PM by Goodyear

Yesterday afternoon the local flock of Turkeys came through our yard on Meadow Heights and stopped to eat seed that had fallen from our feeders. As we were watching them, the adult male in the flock suddenly lunged at the ground and grabbed what looked to be a mole. The Turkey started shaking its head to subdue the mole and then with a quick flick of its head it tossed the mole up and then gobbled it whole.  (Bracebridge)

 

 

Re(2): Feeder birds, etc.
Posted on February 1, 2010 at 06:23:20 PM by Barbara Taylor

If the squirrels aren't too distant and you have binoculars handy, when they either bend over or sit up on their hind legs, then the "male parts" are usually visible. The Cooper's Hawk was back again today, and tried to catch a Mourning Dove perched in a pine tree...but looked like it missed.

 

 

Re(1): Feeder birds, etc.
Posted on February 1, 2010 at 05:27:38 PM by FrancesGualtieri

How can you tell a female red squirrel from a male (at a distance)??

 

 

Re(1): Feeder birds, etc.
Posted on January 31, 2010 at 09:42:42 AM by janice house

we had a pileated woodpecker at our suet feeder yesterday, this is a first for our yard (Doe Lake Rd Gravenhurst)

 

 

Feeder birds, etc.
Posted on January 30, 2010 at 12:10:10 PM by Barbara Taylor

It was a busy morning at the feeders on this very cold day. Pileated, Hairy, and Downy Woodpeckers were taking turns at the suet cages, while a pair of Brown Creepers nibbled on the bits that fell to the ground below. The regulars were here too - about twenty Mourning Doves, a couple of Blue Jays, a Dark-eyed Junco, Red-breasted and White-breasted Nuthatches, a pair of Northern Cardinals, and several Black-capped Chickadees. A few American Goldfinches were nervously flitting about from feeder to feeder. And then it was over...a Cooper's Hawk came swooping in, missed a woodpecker, and ended up posed nicely atop our platform feeder. After a few minutes it headed off to the north to try for lunch somewhere else, and now the yard is still with no birds in sight. I had hoped the Carolina Wren would return with the colder weather, but it hasn't - last visit was Jan. 13.

A few Wild Turkeys have been visiting back yard feeders along Glendale Rd. on the west ravine side of the road. So far they haven't decided to cross the road to our yard and we hope they don't find us (they can be very "messy").

For the past week or so we had four Red Squirrels in the yard so I figured it must be mating season. Now we are back to just the usual two Red Squirrels and the female has begun eating the suet. They never seem to touch it until this time of year and it's always just the female squirrel. (Bracebridge)

 

 

Bald Eagle Port Sydney
Posted on January 29, 2010 at 06:30:53 PM by MaryannKosela

5 pm, while snowshoeing at Balsam Chutes. A bald eagle flew majestically over the falls and up the river. Beautiful site with the bright blue sky and sun!

 

 

Re(1): Algonquin Park Birding Update: ADDENDUM
Posted on January 29, 2010 at 01:43:44 PM by Ontbirds

*This report was originally posted by Justin Peter on ONTBIRDS (January 29, 2010) and is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.

Those trying for Evening Grosbeaks should check the town of Whitney, five minutes drive east of the Park's East Gate There was a flock near the corner of Second Street and Ottawa Street (near the boat launch) this morning.

Cheers,
Justin Peter

Park Naturalist / Interprète-naturaliste
Visitor Centre / Centre d'accueil
Algonquin Provincial Park / Parc provincial Algonquin
Ontario, Canada
613-637-2828 x. 223
justin.peter@ontario.ca

 

 

Algonquin Park Birding Update: 28 January
Posted on January 29, 2010 at 01:39:47 PM by Ontbirds

*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (January 29, 2010) and is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.

The week saw a few reports from birders, but little change in what is being
observed. New snow and colder temperatures prevailed by the end of the week
following the earlier mild weather.

Golden Eagle: an adult was photographed over km 8 on January 23.

Northern Shrike: one was at Wolf Howl Pond on January 23.

White-throated Sparrow: one is still at the Visitor Centre feeder.

Boreal Species:
Spruce Grouse: Try Spruce Bog Boardwalk.

Black-backed Woodpecker: a female was at Davies Bog on the Bat Lake Trail on
January 24.

Gray Jay: present this week at Visitor Centre feeder; on Opeongo Road at the
gate and at the bridge; at Wolf Howl Pond; and on Spruce Bog Boardwalk.

Boreal Chickadee: Three were at Wolf Howl Pond on the Mizzy Lake Trail on
Janaury 23. The species was noted in the middle section of the Bat Lake
Trail on January 24.

Winter Finches:
Pine Grosbeak: female still coming to the Visitor Centre feeder.

American Goldfinch: About 70 daily at the Visitor Centre feeders.

Mammals:
Pine martens continue to come to the Visitor Centre feeders daily.

Moose are being observed regularly along Highway 60.

The walking trails, closed for a couple of days this week due to slippery
conditions, are open again.

We would appreciate receiving your bird observations for our Visitor
Centre records.

Ron Tozer
Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired)
Dwight, ON

 

 

Re(1): evening grosbeaks in rosseau
Posted on February 1, 2010 at 08:30:29 PM by Marilyn Kisser

the flock was back this morning during a snow squall .. I counted 32 grosbeaks ... what a pleasure it was to hear their happy chatter!

 

 

evening grosbeaks in rosseau
Posted on January 29, 2010 at 11:46:25 AM by Marilyn Kisser

Yesterday morning we had a flock of about 20 evening grosbeaks at the feeders ...I think the males outnumbered the females by about 2:1 - this is the largest flock we've had in at least the last 5 years! this morning there are about 10 grosbeaks out there in the cold ...

 

 

Sightings in Huntsville
Posted on January 27, 2010 at 05:49:05 PM by CatMacLean

Yesterday I saw a couple of Golden Crowned Kinglets off Muskoka Rd. 10 and today we had a Northern shrike near our feeders. It moved too fast for me to get a picture.

 

 

Re(1): Great Horned Owl at Washago
Posted on January 28, 2010 at 07:59:53 AM by janice house

Geoff and I saw one in that area several years ago, it was just north of the overpass on the east side of hwy 11.

 

 

Great Horned Owl at Washago
Posted on January 25, 2010 at 08:38:08 PM by Burke Korol

In the failing evening light of 25 January 2010 I saw a GREAT HORNED OWL perched near the top of a deciduous tree on the west side of Hwy. 11, just S of the Washago overpass.  This location is in Simcoe County, but I'm too lazy to set up an account with the Simcoe Nature Board!

 

 

Re(1): Bald Eagle - Port Sydney
Posted on January 27, 2010 at 10:53:59 AM by ejongran

A bald eagle was patrolling the open waters of the Muskoka R. near the Port Sydney Muskoka Rd. 10 bridge at 10:30 today.

 

 

Bald Eagle - Port Sydney
Posted on January 24, 2010 at 05:04:03 PM by jim griffin

This morning at about 0830,from my living room window,I observed a mature Bald Eagle,fly low across the river, catch a fish then land on the ice and devour it.(there was not even a scrap left for the raven that was watching). the eagle flew up into a pine tree and sat for about 30 minutes before flying off upstream. Just south of the road 10 bridge at Port Sydney.

 

 

Re(1): Hawk Owl, Swans
Posted on January 25, 2010 at 01:40:22 PM by GayleCarlyle

The swans are regularly seen around the open waters in Washago.
This morning we saw about 11 "swans a swimming" on the west side of Hwy. 11 just south of the Canal Rd/Cooper's Falls Rd exit.
The other place to see the swans up close is to go to Washago Centennial Park on Quetton St. The water is open there at the top end of Lake Couchiching where it enters the Green River.
There are some ducks there as well. Maybe goldeneyes but they were too far away for us to tell.

 

 

Hawk Owl, Swans
Posted on January 24, 2010 at 11:50:28 AM by mmcanally

On January 23, 2010 I saw a Northern Hawk Owl sitting in a tree just off Hwy 11, Orillia at the Hwy 12 cutoff.
Also, I saw 4 Swans in the body of water just west of Hwy 11, just north of the Hwy 169 cutoff to Washago.

 

 

Harris's Sparrow update
Posted on January 22, 2010 at 03:53:28 PM by Al Sinclair

The Harris's Sparrow now being seen near Bracebridge is the first record of this species in Muskoka. It is the largest sparrow in North America and breeds in stunted boreal forest in the far north of Western Canada. It is not a mega-rarity in Ontario but this is the first one reported in the province this winter.

It has been seen daily since Jan 18 at a feeder, coming around noon, usually feeding on the ground, picks up a few seeds then flies back under cover in a large spruce or cedar tree nearby. It does this a few times then disappears until the next day. It was seen briefly Thursday afternoon around 4:30 but on other days only at noon.

The feeder cannot be seen from the road or lane-way because of the trees. The best viewing location is at a window inside the house so the owner is asking anyone who wants to try for this bird to call first. Email me at the address above to get more information.

 

 

Algonquin Park Birding Update: 21 January
Posted on January 22, 2010 at 09:02:15 AM by Ontbirds

*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (January 22, 2010) and is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.

After several weeks with virtually no change in the birds present, there
were a few different species observed this week. The only obvious change in
conditions was that milder temperatures prevailed. Perhaps this was a factor
in getting birds moving around?

A Sharp-shinned Hawk (very rare here in winter) buzzed the goldfinches at
the Visitor Centre feeders on January 17.

A Northern Shrike was near the feeders on January 18.

About eight Bohemian Waxwings (very rare here in winter) were along Highway
60 at the West Boundary on January 16.

White-throated Sparrow: one still at the Visitor Centre feeder.

Four Snow Buntings came to the Visitor Centre feeders on January 18 for the
first time this winter. There were seven by January 19, but none today.

Boreal Species:
Spruce Grouse: Try Spruce Bog Boardwalk.

Black-backed Woodpecker: a female was at Post 9 on Spruce Bog Boardwalk on
January 17; a female was in black spruce bog east of the bridge on Opeongo
Road on January 18; and a female was 150 m north of the gate on Opeongo Road
today. The latter bird responded to Barred Owl imitations by the observer.

Gray Jay: present this week at Visitor Centre feeder; on Opeongo Road at the
gate and at the bridge; and on Spruce Bog Boardwalk.

Boreal Chickadee: three plus in black spruce bog east of the bridge on
Opeongo Road on January 18; and three in black spruce along the Opeongo Road
north of the bridge today.


Winter Finches:
Pine Grosbeak: female still coming to the Visitor Centre feeder.

Pine Siskin: one heard on Opeongo Road today.

American Goldfinch: About 70 daily at the Visitor Centre feeders now.

Mammals:
At least six or seven different pine martens (including one with a radio
collar) are coming to the Visitor Centre feeders, although usually only two
or three are present at a time and not continuously.

Moose are being observed regularly along Highway 60, especially near dawn
and dusk.

We would appreciate receiving your bird observations for our Visitor
Centre records.

Ron Tozer
Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired)

 

 

Carolina Wren - gone?
Posted on January 21, 2010 at 01:37:47 PM by Barbara Taylor

We haven't seen the Wren since Jan. 13. Perhaps the milder weather encouraged it to move around the neighbourhood and do some exploring. Has anyone else seen it recently? (Meadow Heights area, Bracebridge)

 

 

Rosseau update
Posted on January 19, 2010 at 08:11:48 PM by Marilyn Kisser

we are missing the finches this year .. had 3 goldfinches pass through the other day but now are gone .. lot's of chickadees and white breasted nuthatches .. also quite a few hairy and downy woodpeckers .. about 10 bluejays .. one barred owl .. and a lonely grackle!

 

 

Re(2): Harris's Sparrow...Bracebridge
Posted on January 20, 2010 at 01:47:42 PM by Al Sinclair

It was back today Jan 20, 11:40 to 12:55. Very cautious, in and out quickly, uses large spruce trees around the feeder for cover.

 

 

Re(1): Harris's Sparrow...Bracebridge
Posted on January 19, 2010 at 04:31:35 PM by Al Sinclair

No luck this afternoon. Was seen yesterday and today during the lunch hour. Bill will call if it returns tomorrow. Photo below was taken today by Bill.  photo

 

 

Harris's Sparrow...Bracebridge
Posted on January 19, 2010 at 01:21:34 PM by Al Sinclair

Bill Dickinson just called, at his feeder, confirmed by photos. Heading in now to look for it.
 

 

Re(2): Snow Buntings at feeder ... Vankoughnet
Posted on January 21, 2010 at 01:22:33 PM by RosemarieHinzmann

We have two snowbuntings at our feeder today. Yesterday there was only one, that I could see. We're near Barkway. So nice to see these birds.

 

 

Re(1): Snow Buntings at feeder ... Vankoughnet
Posted on January 18, 2010 at 07:14:00 PM by J. Gardner

We had two buntings at our feeder today, the first buntings since mid-December when two were on the feeder. We are not seeing flocks of buntings this winter as we normally do. (Hurdville)

 

 

Snow Buntings at feeder ... Vankoughnet
Posted on January 18, 2010 at 03:50:25 PM by Al Sinclair

 

Stan Gragg emailed today with a photo of 1 of 2 Snow Buntings coming for a few days now to his feeders near Vankoughnet. Vankoughnet is east of Bracebridge off Hwy 118E. photo

 

 

Griff's Bird Photos
Posted on January 18, 2010 at 10:41:44 AM by Griff

I have started a photo blog on birds and would love to get some feedback. Thanks to this site for helping ID some of my birds
Griff's Bird Photos Blog

 

 

cardinal
Posted on January 17, 2010 at 09:34:55 PM by PatWelch

We saw a male cardinal at our feeder today just before noon.We are on the Aspdin Rd southwest of Huntsville.

 

 

Re(1): No Blue Jays?
Posted on January 20, 2010 at 09:36:30 AM by Barbara Taylor

If you are in the Muskoka area, most Blue Jays headed south in the fall because of a lack of natural food sources. We only have two regulars visiting our feeders here in Bracebridge this winter. Tree seed crops go in cycles so most likely next winter we will have a more "regular" number of Jays around...but it sure makes this winter a bit bleaker without their splash of colour in the yard.

 

 

No Blue Jays?
Posted on January 17, 2010 at 03:22:03 PM by EleanorThorel

I don't remember ever seeing the scarcity of blue jays. I have not seen any since the fall.

 

 

Re(1): finally a redpoll
Posted on January 17, 2010 at 06:03:56 PM by Terry & Marion Whittam

We also had a solitary redpoll in a group of Goldfinches at our feeders this weekend. Location is 10k east of Washago! Lots of Chickadees and WB nuthatches. Very few RB this year. 1 Hairy and 1 Downy. Also evidence of a Piliated woodpecker making a large hole in one of our red pines. Terry

 

 

finally a redpoll
Posted on January 16, 2010 at 01:01:18 PM by MichaelHatton

AT the Leonard Lake Rd 2 feeder, the usual 50 chickadees, 5 white breasted nuthatches, and the downy and hairy woodpeckers, were joined by a solitary redpoll! Where are his friends?

 

 

Re(1): Robins in Toronto?
Posted on January 16, 2010 at 01:48:54 PM by Al Johnston

Hi Frances, Sometimes robins will over-winter in Toronto, particularly if they're in an area where there are enough berries still on the trees to sustain them. Enjoy the rest of your stay.

 

 

Robins in Toronto?
Posted on January 15, 2010 at 04:44:09 PM by FrancesGualtieri

I'm in Toronto for a few days, and noticed a flock of robins yesterday. Don't they head south from here for the winter?

 

 

Algonquin Park Birding Update: 14 January
Posted on January 15, 2010 at 01:00:57 PM by Ontbirds

*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (January 15, 2010) and is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.

Reports this week included:
Spruce Grouse: One along Spruce Bog Boardwalk on January 9.

Black-backed Woodpecker: One along Spruce Bog Boardwalk on January 9.
Another was 300 m north of the bridge on Opeongo Road on January 12.

Gray Jay: present at Visitor Centre feeder, Opeongo Road at the gate and at
the bridge, and Spruce Bog Boardwalk.

Boreal Chickadee: three along Spruce Bog Boardwalk on January 9.

White-throated Sparrow: one still at the Visitor Centre feeder.

Pine Grosbeak: female last seen at the Visitor Centre feeder on January 11.

Pine Siskin: last seen at Visitor Centre feeders with goldfinches on January
11.

American Goldfinch: Numbers at Visitor Centre feeders still growing, with
100 plus on January 12.

Mammals:
Two martens continue to come to the Visitor Centre feeders, but with no
predictable timing. They eat suet and black sunflower seed.

Moose are being observed regularly along Highway 60, especially near dawn
and dusk. Some bulls have not shed their antlers yet.

We would appreciate receiving your bird observations for our Visitor
Centre records.

Ron Tozer
Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired)

 

 

Flying squirrels
Posted on January 13, 2010 at 06:43:38 PM by Debbie Adams

Two flying squirrels showed up at our feeder tonight. They dined side by side not bothered by our deck lights or barking dog.
Walker's Point

 

 

Bohemians...Bracebridge
Posted on January 12, 2010 at 04:03:20 PM by Al Sinclair

6 Bohemian Waxwings were feeding on crab-apples in front of the Band-shell in downtown Bracebridge today at 1:30pm. Lots of fruit left, roosted in the big maple trees when not feeding. Not shy, could have got some great photos if I had a camera.

 

 

Re(2): Barred Owl
Posted on January 14, 2010 at 07:11:52 PM by Marilyn Kisser

we had a barred owl hunting mice by the bird feeders today ..nice to see him again ... just outside of Rosseau ...

 

 

Re(1): Barred Owl
Posted on January 13, 2010 at 08:41:12 AM by Eleanor Kee Wellman

I, too, was visited last night for awhile.

 

 

Re(1): Barred Owl
Posted on January 11, 2010 at 08:41:41 AM by GayleCarlyle

We too had a barred owl visiting our yard about a week ago and he/she was across the road the week before. By coincidence, we haven't seen many squirrels around. I'm hoping the owl has been putting a dent in their numbers. There certainly were enough of the pesky rodents to go around.
We also had fox tracks through our yard near the feeders on Saturday.  (Washago)

 

 

Barred Owl
Posted on January 10, 2010 at 03:42:14 PM by Barbara Taylor

A Barred Owl visited our yard yesterday and this morning there were wide wing-prints in the snow near the birdfeeder. Hope he caught a mouse or shrew that had come up to nibble on the spilled seed. We had a population explosion of the rodents last summer so the owl should be finding lots to eat. He looked very healthy and alert. (Bracebridge)

 

 

Northern Shrike
Posted on January 10, 2010 at 01:09:20 PM by Goodyear

This morning we saw a single Northern Shrike at the "T" at Henry Marsh.

 

 

Eagle
Posted on January 10, 2010 at 07:32:41 AM by Alex Mills

I had a report of an adult Bald Eagle feeding with ravens and one crow at a carcass in central Parry Sound District on January 8th.

 

 

White Breasted Nuthatches and tons of Chickadees
Posted on January 9, 2010 at 08:52:30 PM by MichaelHatton

The usual suspects - nuthatches and chickadees - overwhelm the feeder on Leonard Lake Rd2.

 

 

American Goldeneyes
Posted on January 9, 2010 at 01:16:55 PM by JonGrandfield

There are 31 Goldeneyes in the open water below the Port Sydney dam and the Muskoka Road 10 bridge, or occasionally south of the bridge. They are around daily.
Directions: Exit 207 from Highway 11, east on Muskoka Rd 10 about 4 km to the bridge in Port Sydney over the Muskoka River.

 

 

Algonquin Park Birding Update: 7 January
Posted on January 8, 2010 at 09:56:05 AM by Ontbirds

*This report was originally posted by Ron Tozer on ONTBIRDS (January 8, 2010) and is provided here with the kind permission of the Ontario Field Ornithologists.

The results of the Algonquin Park Christmas Bird Count on January 2 were
posted to Ontbirds on January 4, and give a good overview of the birds
present here now.

Additional information:
Spruce Grouse: no reports. Try Spruce Bog Boardwalk and Opeongo Road in
black spruce areas.

Wild Turkey: one at Lake of Two Rivers on December 31.

Black-backed Woodpecker: one was calling from the black spruce bog east of
the bridge on Opeongo Road on January 7.

Gray Jay: present at Visitor Centre feeder and Opeongo Road at gate.

Boreal Chickadee: three along Spruce Bog Boardwalk on January 3.

White-throated Sparrow: one still at Visitor Centre feeder today.

Pine Grosbeak: female still coming fairly regularly to the Visitor Centre
feeder. Nine on Highway 60 between West Gate and west boundary on December
31.

Pine Siskin: two at Visitor Centre feeders with goldfinches on January 7.

American Goldfinch: flock of 85 plus coming daily to Visitor Centre feeder.

Evening Grosbeak: Group of three flying over old railway at East Boundary on
January 2. Birders looking for this species should check feeders in Whitney
(on Highway 60 east of Algonquin Park) and Oxtongue Lake (on Highway 60 west
of Algonquin Park).

Mammals:
Marten (at least two) and a Fisher continue to come to the Visitor Centre
feeders, but with no predictable timing. Moose are being observed regularly
along Highway 60, especially near dawn and dusk.

We would appreciate receiving your bird observations for our Visitor
Centre records.

Ron Tozer
Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired)
Dwight, ON

Directions:
Algonquin Park is three hours north of Toronto, via Highways 400, 11 and 60.
Follow the signs, which start in Toronto on Highway 400. From Ottawa, take
Highway 17 to Renfrew, then follow Highway 60 to the park. Kilometre markers
along Highway 60 in the Park go from the West Gate (km 0) to near the East
Gate (km 56). Get your park permit and the park tabloid (with a map of
birding locations mentioned here) at the gates.

The Visitor Centre at km 43 has recent bird sightings, feeders, and
information. The centre is open to the public on weekends only from 10 am to
4 pm until January 31. Birder access to the building through the service
entrance to observe the feeders is usually possible on weekdays. Hot and
cold drinks and snacks are available in the restaurant this winter on
weekends, but not full meal service.

 

 

Evening Grosbeaks
Posted on January 6, 2010 at 02:27:51 PM by J. Gardner

Our flock of Evening Grosbeaks cleaned out the remainder of dried cherries and moved onto the feeders. The flock increased by a few, and we are now reminded of the "good old days" when it was impossible to keep the trays full. Grosbeaks simply eat until nothing is left. But, they also bring colour and warmth to this lackluster birding winter. We are at Hurdville.

 

 

Carolina Wren update
Posted on January 5, 2010 at 01:31:56 PM by Barbara Taylor

The wren has survived the past few terribly cold days and is still coming to our feeders, but never on any predictable schedule. It usually doesn't stay in the open for long, preferring to grab a bit of peanut or suet, and then darts under our deck for cover while it eats. Perhaps it is also getting a bit of warmth since our furnace vent is nearby. The wren has wandered about the Meadow Heights neighbourhood ever since we first saw it in our yard on November 6. After Dec. 13 it began visiting our yard on a daily basis except for two days when there was evidently a Cooper's Hawk on patrol and Mourning Dove feathers under the feeder. (Bracebridge)

 

 

Purple Finch
Posted on January 5, 2010 at 10:12:03 AM by GayleCarlyle

We have a male and female Purple Finch here at our feeders at Grant's Woods in Orillia.
These are the first ones I've seen this year.

 

 

Muskoka Field Naturalists - next meeting Jan. 7
Posted on January 5, 2010 at 09:53:25 AM by Barbara Taylor

Thursday, January 7 - Meeting 7:30 p.m. Bracebridge
BIRDING, MAMMALS & ECOLOGY FROM ANTARCTICA with Burke Korol
“No ticket required” for this tour of the Southern Ocean Region with brief stops on Terra del Fuego and the Falkland Islands! Burke will also touch upon the flora, history and ecotourism of these areas. Burke is the Central Zone Ecologist for Ontario Parks working out of Arrowhead Park at Huntsville.

September through January meetings are held at the Latter Day Saints Church located on Cedar Lane, Bracebridge (corner of Taylor Road and Cedar Lane near Home Depot). Visitors welcome to attend. MFN website: http://muskokafieldnaturalists.com

 

 

Algonquin Park CBC
Posted on January 4, 2010 at 11:44:32 AM by ron tozer

The 36th Algonquin Park Christmas Bird Count was held on Saturday, 2 January 2010. This count is a good indicator of the species and their relative numbers present in contiguous forest of the southern Shield during early winter. There is minimal distortion caused by feeders (only about six in the circle) which unnaturally concentrate birds and support lingerers that would otherwise depart or perish. Due to the almost total lack of seed crops this winter, we expected very low numbers of birds but actually going for hours at times without seeing a single individual was still amazing. Cold conditions (minus 21 to minus 17 degrees C, with occasional NW wind gusts to 20 kph) made it challenging to be out there. All water was frozen. However, the mainly sunny day enhanced the spectacular scenery and our 84 stalwart observers made a valiant and much appreciated effort. Never have so many seen so little!

Below is the total list for your interest.

Total Observers: 84 (record high)
Total Party Hours: 338 (record high)
Birds per Party Hour: 3 (record low; previous lowest was 4)

Total Species: 23 (third lowest)
Total Individuals: 1,018 (fifth lowest)

Ruffed Grouse: 31
Spruce Grouse: 1
Wild Turkey: count week (1 at Lake of Two Rivers)
Rock Pigeon: 6 (East Gate MTO sand dome)
Barred Owl: 1
Downy Woodpecker: 16
Hairy Woodpecker: 26
Black-backed Woodpecker: 3
Pileated Woodpecker: 6
Gray Jay: 15
Blue Jay: 11 (mainly at feeders)
Common Raven: 79
Black-capped Chickadee: 584
Boreal Chickadee: 29
Red-breasted Nuthatch: 16
White-breasted Nuthatch: 7
Brown Creeper: 5
Golden-crowned Kinglet: 5
White-throated Sparrow: 1 (at Visitor Centre feeder for weeks)
Snow Bunting: 1
Pine Grosbeak: 23
Pine Siskin: 1
American Goldfinch: 143 (mainly at feeders)
Evening Grosbeak: 3

A big thank you to all those who participated in the count and those who
helped organize the tally and assisted with the catered dinner. There will
be more birds next year.

Ron Tozer
Algonquin Park CBC Compiler
Dwight, Ontario

 

 

Snow buntings
Posted on January 4, 2010 at 10:40:30 AM by GayleCarlyle

Mon. Jan 4, at about 8:25am
Saw my first flock of snow buntings this morning on Division Road near Orillia.
The flock was about 30 birds strong.

 

  

male pheasant - photo
Posted on January 3, 2010 at 09:17:32 AM by Wayne Bridge

[Kearney]: This fellow visits every morning before sunrise and scratches at the seed mix I put out for him, his 4 lady friends, and the pair of ruffed grouse (plus the occasional blue jay, crow, or raven). The escapees (from the previously-reported hunt camp) seem to be many, both sexes, and flourishing - I'm not the only one feeding them. If any of you are interested in the progress of these ring-necks thru the winter and into breeding season let me know and I'll provide updates on this Board.  photo

 

 

Pileated Woodpecker (photo)
Posted on January 3, 2010 at 08:19:48 AM by Debbie Adams

This Pileated Woodpecker is a regular at our suet feeder. Its become quite accustomed to seeing us move around inside that we were able to get this photo.
(Walker's Point) photo

 

 

Northern Shrike... Bracebridge
Posted on January 2, 2010 at 10:44:46 AM by Al Sinclair

We had a Northern Shrike here this morning checking out the feeder birds. It flew into a tree beside the feeders shortly after a dozen or so Goldfinches arrived, all the birds took off, it looked around for 10 seconds and left. No casualties were observed. 8km east of Bracebridge on Hwy 118E.

 

 

2009 Highlights
Posted on January 1, 2010 at 09:25:47 AM by Barbara Taylor

The year began with a sighting of White-winged Crossbills in Bracebridge. In early January large flocks of Bohemian Waxwings were on the move - one group of the birds could be watched comfortably with coffee in hand at the Bracebridge Tim Hortons. A Red-bellied Woodpecker visited a feeder in Rosseau and another in Dwight, while two Great Gray Owls were spotted in Bracebridge. In February a Gray Jay briefly visited a Port Sydney feeder, and a Boreal Owl made an appearance in Huntsville. In March a Townsend's Solitaire continued to visit a juniper bush in Parry Sound, making it three months in the same location. In late April several species rarely seen in Muskoka appeared all at once at the Bracebridge Ponds - Horned Grebes, Gadwalls, Northern Shovelers, and Trumpeter Swans. A Snowy Owl was spotted just north of Bracebridge and a Sandhill Crane was seen at the Torrance Barrens.

In May the Baillie Birdathon found a Wilson's Phalarope at the Bracebridge Ponds and a Yellow-throated Vireo at the Torrance Barrens. Also in May a Red-headed Woodpecker visited a feeder in Bracebridge. That species is very rare in Muskoka so quite remarkable that in July two adult birds were seen in Bala along with a possible juvenile. By mid-July five young Green Herons had taken their first flights from their nest at the Bracebridge Ponds. Through June and July a chimney in Huntsville was being used by a hundred or so Chimney Swifts. Perhaps when they return in the spring, some of the birds will try out the Muskoka Field Naturalists' new Chimney Swift tower in Bracebridge.

In September a Yellow-billed Cuckoo was observed on Deer Island, and in October a Black-backed Woodpecker was spotted near Washago. In November a Brant spent some time at Oxtongue Lake, and a Snowy Owl was seen south of Gravenhurst. In December there were sightings of a Northern Hawk Owl near Bracebridge, and the McDougall Landfill site offered up Glaucous Gulls, Iceland Gull, and a Bald Eagle. Local Christmas Bird Counts had record high numbers of Wild Turkey and Common Raven. There were new count birds too - Huntsville added Wood Duck, while Gravenhurst/Bracebridge had Carolina Wren for the first time. As the year came to a close, flocks of Evening Grosbeaks added some welcome colour to the snowy landscape at Kearney and Hurdville. We could sure use a little more colour this winter since most of the Blue Jays headed south due to poor tree seed crops...guess they didn't know I'd already bought a giant bag of sunflower seeds for them.

Other interesting bird sightings included Marsh Wren, Field Sparrow, Northern Shrike, Bonaparte's Gull, Orange-crowned Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, Lapland Longspur, Snow Goose, Common Tern, Black-bellied Plover, Redhead, Dunlin, Ruddy Duck, Black-crowned Night-Heron, Northern Harrier, Whip-poor-will, Upland Sandpiper, and Black-billed Cuckoo. Other nature sightings included Red Fox, Fisher, Otter, Coyote, Flying Squirrel, Black Bear, Turtles, Mushrooms, Moths (e.g. Rosy Maple Moth, Luna Moth), Butterflies (e.g. Gray Comma, Acadian Hairstreak), and Dragonflies (e.g. Arrowhead Spiketail, Delta-spotted Spiketail, Ebony Boghaunter, Prince Baskettail).

The complete set of posts for 2009 can soon be found in the Archived Reports. Thanks for all your reports.

Happy New Year,
Barbara