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Red headed Woodpecker
Posted
on September 29, 2009 at 07:00:40 AM by janice house
Moira asked me to post this message. One of her co-workers from Smith's Country
Gardens was driving to a job site between Minett and Rosseau and watched the
woodpecker as it flew beside the truck under the hydro lines.
Coyote
Posted
on September 27, 2009 at 06:50:45 PM by J.
Gardner
We put a pile of scrub apples in the field, just off the lawn, to attract deer,
for photography purposes. Today, at High Noon, this fellow (lady?) turned up to
lunch. Thank heavens for the digital camera. June Gardner (Hurdville) photo
Birds, Bala
Posted
on September 27, 2009 at 05:14:13 PM by Eleanor
Kee Wellman
This morning at about 10 am I had a Blue-headed Vireo, Golden and Ruby-crowned
Kinglets, a family of Yellow-rumped Warblers and a family of White-throated
Sparrows on the SW side of the house.
Re(1): Monarch and Flower Flies
Posted
on September 27, 2009 at 04:59:25 PM by janice house
Yesterday while revamping one of my gardens I found a monarch chrysalis on a
dead day lily leaf laying in the earth. It was pale grey/green so I tied it to
the stem of a sedum where it would get some sun. The butterfly emerged 15
minutes ago. Hope she makes it south.
Monarch and Flower Flies
Posted
on September 26, 2009 at 09:40:29 AM by Barbara Taylor
Yesterday's warm sunshine brought out the bees and the flower flies, along with
this late male Monarch butterfly (note dark spot on each hindwing).
(Bracebridge) photo1
photo2
photo3
You can see a comparison of the male and female Monarchs at http://www.learner.org/jnorth/tm/monarch/MaleFemaleQA.html
and follow their migration at http://www.learner.org/jnorth/monarch/.
Wild Turkeys
Posted
on September 25, 2009 at 12:50:52 PM by Barbara Taylor
At noon today there were ten Wild Turkeys feeding in the field just north of
the Strawberry Bay trail parking area along Stephens Bay Rd., Bracebridge.
Vultures
Posted
on September 25, 2009 at 12:43:33 PM by J.
Gardner
Tis autumn and the Turkey Vultures are gathering again. Jim took this picture
yesterday in Carling Township near Killbear Park. There were actually 8
vultures at the site. - June Gardner photo
Columbine Borer...photo
Posted
on September 24, 2009 at 03:44:37 PM by Al
Sinclair
Photographed here night before last. Seems like every plant species has a
lepidoptera species that feeds on it. No wild columbine near us but Joan has
some in her flower gardens. 8km east of Bracebridge on Hwy 118E.
Columbine Borer Moth - Papaipema leucostigma - Hodges list #9478 photo
Sparrows - Lincoln, white-crowned
Posted
on September 21, 2009 at 01:27:12 PM by Goodyear
On the weekend we had a single Lincoln's Sparrow near the viewing stand at Kerr
Park, along with returning White-crowned Sparrows. At Henry Marsh there were
several species of warblers including Black-throated Blue, Wilson's,
Yellow-rumped, Palm, and Chestnut-sided, as well as a Philadelphia Vireo and a
Blue-headed Vireo.
Re(1): White Moth, Bala
Posted
on September 24, 2009 at 03:58:10 PM by Al
Sinclair
Here's a topside photo. This moth is much more common this year. I've had about
6 recently, first year recorded here at the house. I have seen them before on
the west side of Muskoka. The books say they can sometimes be a pest, they eat
almost everything so there is no shortage of food for them.
Chain-dotted Geometer photo
White Moth, Bala
Posted
on September 20, 2009 at 03:17:29 PM by Eleanor
Kee Wellman
Yesterday morning, when out on my lake at sunrise, I saw dozens of white moths
flying over the mats of sphagnum moss. They didn't seem to light much but kept
flying around. This morning I managed to find one to photograph before
the sun had reached it. I believe it is a Chain-dotted Geometer, Cingilia
catenaria. It is approximately the size of a Spring Azure. photo
Winter Finch Forecast
Posted
on September 19, 2009 at 10:20:31 PM by Barbara Taylor
Ron Pittaway has posted his winter finch forecast on Ontbirds.
You can read it at: http://mailman.hwcn.org/pipermail/ontbirds/Week-of-Mon-20090914/022299.html
It sounds like it will be a very "quiet" winter of birding. I've
already noticed fewer Blue Jays in our neighbourhood as many have decided to
head south. The tree seed crops in the Bracebridge area do seem to be very poor
overall.
Yellow-Billed Cuckoo
Posted
on September 18, 2009 at 06:54:57 AM by janice house
Last weekend Moira added a lifer to her list, she was vising her sister at
their Gloucester Pool cottage on Deer Island and everyone got to watch the
cuckoo for a few minutes.
Re(1): Barred Owl...still in the
area
Posted
on September 26, 2009 at 08:38:40 PM by Doug
Smith
Al -- had a Barred calling on last Wednesday night, (actually Thursday
morning)at about 3am. It called almost continuously for about 5 minutes from
somehwere in our backyard -- great to hear it. We are about 2 km south of the
Sinclairs, in Uffington proper. Al is on the outskirts.
Barred Owl...still in the area
Posted
on September 14, 2009 at 10:06:15 PM by Al
Sinclair
A Barred Owl was in our backyard again Sep. 10 (photo below). We assume it is
one of the pair that nests nearby, we hear hoots occasionally throughout the
summer. There was a good maple seed crop this spring, the deer mouse population
seems to be increasing again with more coming into the house. Maybe we will see
more owls here this winter. Our location is 8km east of Bracebridge. photo
Re(1): Shadow Darner...photos
Posted
on September 15, 2009 at 09:43:13 PM by Peter Mills
Shadow Darners were much more common in Algonquin Park this summer as opposed
to last year, and Canadas were less common. A fairly wide trend perhaps?
Shadow Darner...photos
Posted
on September 14, 2009 at 09:54:05 PM by Al
Sinclair
Shadow Darner has been the most common darner here this year for the first
time. In other years Canada Darner was by far more common, this year have seen
none.
Aeshna umbrosa (male) photo
Wide paddle shaped upper clasper photo
Front side stripe has straight sides, handle on the top photo
No prominent dark cross stripe on the face photo
Bala Birds
Posted
on September 14, 2009 at 09:42:34 PM by Eleanor
Kee Wellman
My hummers disappeared Friday night along with allbut a couple of goldfinches.
I haven't any Purple Finches left either. A few warbler species seen today.
The last two days I haven't had to fill my feeder. The birds were eating 1-2
lbs of seed per day. Can't be much for them in the bush!
Mushrooms...photos
Posted
on September 14, 2009 at 09:14:55 PM by Al
Sinclair
This has been a good year for fungi, wet and cool. These photos were taken on
September 5 in Harcourt Township, Haliburton Co.
Chlorociboria aeruginascens - Blue-stain Fungus
Stains wood blue, rarely seen with fruitbodies shown here. photo
Leucopaxillus albissimus
David Arora (in Mushrooms Demystified) says throw it against a wall, if it
stays in one piece it's Leucopaxillus, if it breaks it's a Clitocybe. photo
Psathyrella candolleana
Purple black spore print, cap fades to white when dry photo
Volvariella bombycina
Grows from wounds in trees, large sac at the base, rare mushroom here, only
second time I have found it. photo
Sharp Shinned Hawk
Posted
on September 9, 2009 at 06:08:29 PM by janice house
This weekend we had a sharp shinned hawk in our yard, the blue jays chased it
out of our basswood tree to a white pine across the Laycox Rd and would not
leave it alone.
Pine Imperial Moth (Eacles
imperialis pini) Caterpillar
Posted
on September 9, 2009 at 06:05:14 PM by janice house
I found a dead caterpillar on the Laycox Road just now, unfortunately I was too
late to help it across the road (Doe Lake Rd Gravenhurst)
Huntsville news
Posted
on September 7, 2009 at 07:08:39 PM by mmcanally
Saw a flock of 14 wild turkeys on Port Sydney Road No. 10 just before West
Point Sands Road yesterday.
Also yesterday, heard a Ruffed Grouse drumming in my back woods and today the
tree frogs were very vocal.
Blackpoll, Philadelphia Vireo,
Nighthawks
Posted
on September 6, 2009 at 08:46:39 PM by Barbara Taylor
A mixed flock of warblers and vireos were feeding in our birch trees this
afternoon. They didn't stay very long, but here's what I managed to see:
Nashville
Bay-breasted
Yellow-rumped
Blackpoll
Black-throated Green
Black-and-white
Philadelphia Vireo
Red-eyed Vireo
Several Common Nighthawks passed overhead tonight on their way south around
7:30 p.m. (Bracebridge)
Re(1): Bald Eagle
Posted
on September 15, 2009 at 06:55:59 PM by Barbara Taylor
Could of been a Bald Eagle since it would have appeared black up high in the
sky and would have resembled a turkey vulture but larger. It would also have a
white tail as well as a white head at the full adult plumage stage. The Bald
Eagle population has recovered nicely so the chances of seeing one in your area
has improved, especially during their migration period which is happening now.
Breeding Bird survey (choose species Bald Eagle to view map):
http://www.birdsontario.org/atlas/maps.jsp?lang=en
Bald Eagle fact sheet:
http://www.hww.ca/hww2.asp?id=27
Bald Eagle Populations in the Great Lakes Region:
http://www.on.ec.gc.ca/wildlife/factsheets/fs_bald-eagle-e.html
Southern Ontario Bald Eagle Monitoring Project:
http://www.bsc-eoc.org/research/speciesatrisk/baea/index.jsp?targetpg=index〈=EN
Bald Eagle
Posted
on September 6, 2009 at 11:59:38 AM by MarjnKen
My husband was out fishing on Lake Nosbonsing (Astorville- Just south east of North
Bay) this morning and believes he seen a BALD EAGLE flying overhead. It was the
size of a turkey vulture, but had a white head, and was black in colour. Are
they in this area? Could that have been what he seen?
Bird Activity, Bala
Posted
on September 6, 2009 at 08:30:14 AM by Eleanor
Kee Wellman
Yesterday was extremely birdy around my place. A couple of flickers spent
several hours around the bird-feeder side of the house. Three or four adult and
juvenile American Redstarts, a couple of Nashvilles, juvenile Chestnut-sided,
Yellow-rumped, an Ovenbird, Blue-headed and Red-eyed Vireo. All were feeding
and going both south and north.
This morning I've seen Nashville, Wilson's and Black & White so far.
Re(1): Nighthawks
Posted
on September 3, 2009 at 07:26:30 PM by DBurton
Jon Rae reported a huge flock of Nighthawks at the Rama elementary school the
same night.
Nighthawks
Posted
on September 3, 2009 at 05:02:46 PM by GayleCarlyle
Last night at about 7:00pm we watched a flock of about 18 nighthawks fly over
our house in Washago.
Sadly it looks like the birds were flying south. Guess that's a sure sign of
autumn approaching.
Merlin/Blue Bird Boxes
Posted
on September 2, 2009 at 06:32:23 PM by janice house
Monday morning a merlin sat on our tv antenna for at least 30 mins, the blue
jays were really vocal but the purple finches, gold finches and jays kept
feeding. The bird was very interested in what I was doing and kept a close eye
on the dog. Near dusk on Sunday evening I returned from a dog walk and tapped
on my bluebird boxes in the front yard, a downy woodpecker flew from one and a
hairy woodpecker flew from the other. I assume they have found there winter
homes. (Doe Lake Rd., Gravenhurst)
Muskoka Field Naturalists - next
meeting Sept. 3
Posted
on September 2, 2009 at 09:01:36 AM by Barbara Taylor
***Note location is at Bracebridge...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.***
Thursday, September 3 - Meeting 7:30 p.m. BRACEBRIDGE
Todd Carlson, Assistant Editor of Sky News Magazine, will open the skies for us
with his Astronomy program. It's a hobby for many people ... and it's free!!
Anyone can go outside and look at the night sky! Using images taken mostly by
backyard astronomers, the audience will learn what can be seen using only the
naked eye as well as the binoculars or telescope!!
chilly mornings
Posted
on September 1, 2009 at 03:06:58 PM by John
Challis
Hate to say it, but there was frost on our roof this morning. Hand me those wax
wings, Icarus, I'm heading south with the geese. (Washago)
Re(1): sightings of sandhill cranes
Posted
on August 30, 2009 at 10:59:01 AM by Wayne
Bridge
There are gray jays breeding in the area around Kearney - 25 minutes N-E of
Huntsville. I also caught a quick glimpse of 4 sandhill cranes in the Sand Lake
area last spring.
Re(1): sightings of sandhill cranes
Posted on
August 30, 2009 at 10:59:01 AM by Wayne
Bridge
There are gray jays breeding in the area around Kearney - 25 minutes N-E of
Huntsville. I also caught a quick glimpse of 4 sandhill cranes in the Sand Lake
area last spring.
Re(1): sightings of sandhill cranes
Posted
on August 29, 2009 at 10:06:24 AM by Al
Sinclair
Gray Jays are still breeding in Muskoka east of Hwy 11 where there are more
spruce forests. They have been reported around Fraserburg and Vankoughnet
recently. There was a pair here near Uffington about 10 years ago but we
haven't seen any recently since the neighbors stopped feeding them. If you pull
up the map from the latest Breeding Bird Atlas you will see that they are still
breeding south to the edge of the shield in the Peterborough area. The link
below connects to the map page where you can select a species to view.
http://www.birdsontario.org/atlas/maps.jsp?lang=en
Re(1): sightings of sandhill cranes
Posted
on August 29, 2009 at 06:30:38 AM by Eleanor
Kee Wellman
The Sandhill Crane sighting sounds like they were in the same field where I
photographed two birds on June 15, 2008. I posted pictures of the cranes and
turkey but the crane image has been removed from the archives.
Did it look like one of the three was a juvenile - no red on the head?
sightings of sandhill cranes
Posted
on August 28, 2009 at 07:59:17 PM by Peterwukasch
Today at approximately 8:00 am I saw three Sandhill Cranes along Hwy. 169 west
of Gravenhurst in the pasture on the north side of the highway east of the
Narrows Rd. I have birded at a cottage on Narrows Rd. for many years and this
is the first sighting I've had of cranes in this area. Considering the amount
of suitable habitat in the area and the recent population increases of Sandhill
Cranes, this did not surprise me. I also have a question for local birders.
Many years ago, I spent a summer holiday at a cottage near Prospect and Wood
Lakes. I was out birding in the area every day and was pleasantly surpised to
discover an adult and two juvenile Gray Jays in a dense spruce grove.What is
the current status of Gray Jays in Muskoka at present. This seemed to be a
little farther south than I would have expected in July. Are they still
breeding in the southern part of Muskoka? If anyone has information about this
I would be interested to know.
Peter Wukasch
Bradford, Ontario
Re(1): scarlet tanager
Posted
on August 25, 2009 at 08:38:34 AM by Eleanor
Kee Wellman
I had a male here yesterday and a female and juvenile last week so am assuming
that they nested in the area. They weren't migrating as they went both South
and then back North around the house.
scarlet tanager
Posted
on August 19, 2009 at 09:25:35 PM by John
Challis
We didn't actually see it but at dusk tonight a scarlet tanager spent about 20
minutes calling beside our house on Green River Drive, Washago -- several chips
and then it characteristic chick-burr. I wondered if it might already be
working its way south, since we haven't had one around our place this summer.
Monarch Migration
Posted
on August 19, 2009 at 09:25:40 AM by Eleanor
Kee Wellman
Are the Monarch Butterflies that are emergin now the ones that will migrate or
is there another generation to come?
Re(2): Lark Bunting
Posted
on August 19, 2009 at 10:46:50 PM by Ted Gardner
Did not have the white on the back or yellow on the back of the head
Re(1): Lark Bunting
Posted
on August 19, 2009 at 02:44:56 PM by LMacDonald
A Bobolink has white should patches and is about the size of a Starling.
Lark Bunting
Posted on
August 18, 2009 at 11:13:20 PM by Ted Gardner
Sorry for the late post...My wife Robyne spotted a starling sized blackbird
hopping around the backyard early in the morning. She went inside and got
glasses to be sure. This bird was all black besides white from the shoulder to
mid wing...she thought maybe an aberhant black bird but when it flew the white
was on bouth shoulders, she was pretty sure it did not have a long slim
bill...the only thing i can find close is the Lark Bunting Male. apparently
this time of year they are known to be in groups, but vagrants in the east are
solitary?
Any thoughts and if not keep an eye out!
(Meadow Heights Dr., Bracebridge)
Re(1): chipmunk & raccoon
Posted
on August 17, 2009 at 06:00:12 AM by Eleanor
Kee Wellman
I have seen racoons swimming in lakes a few times. One used to swim out to an
island where I fed corn to Wood Ducks. I stopped doing that when the racoons
and Canada Geese were eating all the corn.
One used to swim across a bay, where I lived, on Lake Joseph. The nesting loons
would go crazy when a Wood Duck was in their area but paid no attention to the
racoons swimming. It was the racoons that ate their eggs!
I would love to have a video of the chipmunk with the beetle!
Re(1): chipmunk & raccoon
Posted
on August 17, 2009 at 09:16:24 AM by Kip
Daynard
This summer while camping on O.S.A. Lake in Killarney P.P. we watched a raccoon
swim across quite a wide section of the lake to reach the island we were
camping on. Judging from the direction it had come I'd guess it swam 500m or
more. It was so tired when it arrived at the island it exited the water right
where we were standing. It hissed at us briefly when it came out of the water
and proceeded to climb the nearest tree. We figured it must've been attracted
by the site of our tent as I think campsites are a pretty reliable source of
food. We hung our packs at night, of course, but with 4 young kids in our group
there were plenty of dropped food items to keep the smaller critters happy
(like the brazen Red Squirrel, who would dash into our food packs at every
possible occasion and then scold us loudly when we dared to chase him away!)
chipmunk & raccoon
Posted on
August 16, 2009 at 12:10:38 PM by ann
hansen
Last night while out at the family cottage on Spence Lake, we observed a
raccoon swimming in the river.
We also observed a chipmunk with a large beetle in its mouth. The chipmunk was
holding the live beetle in its mouth, the beetles legs were moving both inside
the chipmunks mouth and outside. We could see the chipmunks cheeks moving with
each movement of the beetles legs. It looked as if the chipmunk didn't know
what to do with his prize. It rather looked as if the chipmunk opened his
mouth, he would either drop the beetle, or the beetle would go further into his
mouth.
Has anyone observed either of these behaviours before?
Re(1): Junco
Posted
on August 17, 2009 at 12:55:04 PM by CatMacLean
I saw one at the cottage east of South River on Saturday
Junco
Posted
on August 16, 2009 at 09:20:50 AM by mmcanally
I had a Junco in my yard in Huntsville on Friday, August 14.
Lyre-tipped Spreadwing
Posted
on August 14, 2009 at 04:50:20 PM by DiannaWolfe
Found this specimen just north of the Severn River and just west of Hwy 11 (on
Southwood Road) earlier today. There were several other pairs of spreadwings in
wheels that could have been Lyre-tipped as well, but I didn't want to interrupt
them to find out. Lyre-tipped Spreadwings are uncommon around here and on the
Shield, although very common in Southern Ontario. photo photo2
Peregrine Falcon
Posted
on August 14, 2009 at 10:46:07 AM by janice house
Janet Fraser just called from Bala, she was walking at the corner of Bala Falls
Rd and Walker Rd (near the Kee to Bala) before 9am this morning and saw the
bird sitting on a light post.
Swift departure
Posted
on August 13, 2009 at 08:58:19 AM by Jim
Griffin
Since the beginning of June, Dawn Sherman and I have been monitoring the
chimney in Huntsville that was a chimney swift roosting site. We were seeing
about a 100 birds on our once a week counts up to the end of july. Dawn counted
on Aug 5 and saw all of 2 swifts, I counted on Aug 12 and there were none.
Re(1): Oriole
Posted
on August 13, 2009 at 09:35:08 AM by GayleCarlyle
In Washago we have a couple of orioles around early in the spring but they
disappear after a couple of days.
Several nights ago we were at someone's home on Rama Road and they have an
oriole feeder up right now and there are several "families" of
orioles fighting over the feeder. the homeowner said she has to fill the feeder
up every day.
I was shocked because our feeder sat empty so I took it down. And no oriole has
been near our two hummer feeders this summer.
Oriole
Posted
on August 13, 2009 at 06:50:17 AM by J.
Gardner
Had a juvenile Baltimore Oriole on the hummer feeder last night. First time in
18 years we have seen an oriole outside the month of June. Hurdville. June
Gardner.
Green Heron, Northern Harrier
Posted
on August 11, 2009 at 12:03:18 PM by Barbara
Taylor
This morning a male Northern Harrier was flying low over the south end of Henry
Marsh. Water level still quite low, but no mud flats.
A Green Heron was hunting at the edge of the frog pond at Kerr Park. The earth
moving operations at the Bracebridge Ponds continues and there is now a sign at
the entrance from Kerr Park saying something to the effect of "no
unauthorized entry by order of the owner, the District of Muskoka". The
gate remains open wide enough for hikers to get through, but the sign is new. I
thought we were supposed to be able to keep using the Trans Canada Trail during
construction...but perhaps not?
directions:
From traffic lights at Eccelstone Dr./Wellington St. in Bracebridge, take
Beaumont Dr. along the Muskoka River to the Kerr Park entrance to access the
Bracebridge Ponds. Or continue along Beaumont Dr. to Henry Rd to access Henry
Marsh. There is a parking area at the end of Henry Rd. by the trailhead. Turn
right (west) at the "T" in the trail to view the marsh.
Loons
Posted
on August 10, 2009 at 09:54:50 AM by CatMacLean
This weekend at the cottage we saw a flock(?raft) of six adult loons. We know
of two nesting pairs on the lake so it was unusual to see so many together.
Also saw the bald eagle a couple of times. He is a new addition to the lake.
(east of South River)
Re(1): Yellow-bellied sapsucker
Posted
on August 16, 2009 at 10:07:11 AM by janice house
this morning 3 juveniles were in our basswood tree and on our clothes line pole
Yellow-bellied sapsucker
Posted
on August 9, 2009 at 04:26:37 PM by janice house
Today a juvenile sapsucker has been on our peanut feeder (Doe Lake Rd.,
Gravenhurst)
MFN meeting reminder
Posted
on August 6, 2009 at 11:05:20 AM by Al
Sinclair
This afternoon (Thur Aug.6) there is a Muskoka Field Naturalists outing
followed by a picnic lunch and monthly meeting this evening. Norman Yan is the
speaker. For more details check the this web page: http://muskokafieldnaturalists.com/WebMeetings.htm
Re(1): baltimore orioles
Posted
on August 10, 2009 at 10:08:52 AM by Barbara
Taylor
Mike, I believe they've already begun their movement south from our area, but
since they don't all go together, you might still see one around. I haven't
seen any since July.
Here are some websites about orioles that you might find interesting:
http://www.learner.org/jnorth/fall1997/97september29.html
http://www.learner.org/jnorth/search/Oriole.html
http://www.learner.org/jnorth/oriole/
baltimore orioles
Posted
on August 6, 2009 at 10:06:21 AM by MikeWeiss
Hello All,,, As far as i know,,, the oriloes come to our area and visit the sugar
water to built up enery that has been spent getting here,,, once the babies
hatch,, they are fed insects and dont need the sugar water as much,,,,then I
believe the parents and babies will get the sugar water and fly south,,, is
this correct,,,also what date approx will the leave us,,, thank you
Re(1): Osprey, Nighthawks - N.
Muldrew Lake
Posted
on August 6, 2009 at 09:18:47 PM by Kip
Daynard
Whip-poor-will calling again tonight so it seems to still be around.
Osprey, Nighthawks - N. Muldrew Lake
Posted
on August 5, 2009 at 02:32:04 PM by Kip
Daynard
On Monday evening a pair of Common Nighthawks were flying and calling over our
house. One of the birds did a partial 'booming' dive. We've heard Nighthawks
here on several occasions this summer. The Whip-poor-will sang nightly well
into mid July but hasn't been heard for a couple of weeks now.
On Monday evening an Osprey flew up from its perch across from our dock and
flew toward the SE end of the lake.
The Chipping Sparrows nested a second time in the same small Spruce as earlier
in the spring, producing five eggs in the second nest.
Pine Warblers, Redstarts, Black-throated Greens & Blues, Magnolia, Yellow-Rumped,
Ovenbird, Black-and-White and Chestnut-Sided, Yellow Warbler and -Throat were
common at various times around the house this summer but all are quiet now.
Northern Parula & Waterthrush, Canada Warbler and Cape May, Siskins passed
through but did not stick around. Other nice summer residents were
Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Scarlet Tanager, Wild Turkey (numerous toms-i'd guess
4-5 and hens with chicks), Kingfisher occasionally heard, Pileated Woodpecker
is regular, Loons calling nightly.
Ragged Rapids Report and SaCr
in-flight
Posted
on August 5, 2009 at 11:22:26 AM by eric
clough
Hello Muskoka bird board. I am visiting family here in Bala for a week or so
and have been birding a bit along Ragged Rapids Road. It has been a bit slower
bird-wise than I remember from previous years, maybe because the weather has
been so unsettled. I usually have prety good luck with mixed flocks of
chickadees and warblers and others. here are some of my observations so far:
flushed a barred owl from its roost on the South side of hwy 38 under the tree
canopy;
tracked down a family of broad-winged hawks (adult and two young?);
hermit thrush perched on a power line out in the open (I went out one evening
hoping to hear all the HeTh but none were singing!);
BC chickadees
RE vireos and BH vireos
chestnut sided warbler feeding young
black & white warbler
black-throated green warblers
blakburnian warbler (female)
a male nashville warbler
yellowthroats (but not as many as in previous years
american redstarts
molting male scarlet tanager
eastern phoebe wood peewees
song sparrows
chipping sparrow
downy and hairy woodpeckers,northern flicker, pileateds including a brownish
looking juvenile that puzzled me for a while
RT hummers
GB heron
turkey vultures
blue jays
cedar waxwings
WB nuthatches
what I think was a house wren but might have been some other kind of
long-tailed wren(?)
and probably a few others regulars I have forgotten about.
also just this morning I heard a small group of sandhill cranes flying high
overhead - it sounded like they were headed southeast
can anyone offer me some suggestions for finding wood thrush in our area? It is
a species that has eluded me all these years of visiting Muskoka.
Eric Clough (from Pat Davies computer)
Reporting banded shorebirds
Posted
on August 4, 2009 at 01:07:23 PM by wilf
yusek
I received the following which may be of interest to those who see and record
banded shorebirds, and also see immediately where they were banded etc.
I'd also like to take this opportunity to tell you that we have recently
launched an online shorebird resightings database-- www.bandedbirds.org. You
can go directly to the website with any future resightings. Once you have
entered your resightings, you can check out where your birds were banded and
where else they have been seen in the flyway!
Bent River Butterflies
Posted
on August 3, 2009 at 03:58:10 PM by janice house
Yesterday my brother popped into his lot in Bent River and had to stay in his
truck because the deer flies were so bad but counted 21 monarchs which were
mostly feeding on the orange hawkweed "Devil's paint-brush". The
field is full of dog bane, clover, milkweed, crown vetch and black-eyed susan.
We stopped in today for a walk but with the weather only 2 monarchs were about
and one of the eyed browns.
Monarch Pupates
Posted
on August 3, 2009 at 03:53:59 PM by Barbara
Taylor
Eleanor Kee Wellman has captured a wonderful series of photos of a Monarch
caterpillar changing into a chrysalis. You can view the photos on her blog at http://keewellman.wordpress.com/.
If you scroll down the page, there is another series of photos of the
caterpillar emerging from its egg.
Bluebirds, Green Heron
Posted
on August 3, 2009 at 12:28:51 PM by Barbara
Taylor
This morning there was a male Eastern Bluebird with at least one juvenile near
the viewing stand at Kerr Park. They kept being chased by a family of Yellow
Warblers for some reason. A Green Heron was at the edge of the frog pond near
the parking lot. No shorebirds seen at the Bracebridge Ponds.
Nothing much at Henry Marsh except for a Great Blue Heron. The beavers are back
so no mudflats for shorebirds. The newly constructed beaver dam is already
holding back a lot of water...at least a foot higher than the overflow out of
the culverts by the bridge. (Bracebridge)
Feeding Flock, Bala
Posted
on August 3, 2009 at 07:49:43 AM by Eleanor
Kee Wellman
Over the last week or so I have noticed a number of birds around the house in a
small feeding flock. This has ocurred every year but last after breeding ends
and goes on into September.
So far, Solitary Vireo, A couple of Chestnut-sided Warblers, a Black &
White and a female Common Yellowthroat. A juvenile female Yellow-bellied
Sapsucker has been in a few times.
Shrews
Posted
on August 2, 2009 at 08:50:56 AM by Barbara
Taylor
The shrew population has been growing steadily this summer judging from all the
new tunnels in our back yard. Finally this morning we had an exterminator show
up and after only five minutes he managed to catch three of them! This service
was free courtesy of Mr. Red Fox. Wonder if he took one home to share with the
kits. He was followed back into the woods by a large number of screaming jays
and crows...they probably were hoping he'd drop one. (Bracebridge)
Sandhill Cranes
Posted
on August 2, 2009 at 07:16:27 AM by janice house
Geoff saw at least 6 cranes Friday morning at 8am in the back of the field at
the old Dinsmore Sheep Farm (first farm on the right on Doe Lake Rd Gravenhurst
from hwy 11)
Song Sparrows
Posted
on July 28, 2009 at 11:57:58 AM by CatMacLean
The latest picture of a nest of three song sparrow
babies that I discovered by accident while picking raspberries. On July 19 only
one had hatched. Amazing to see how fast they grow. I assume this is a second
nesting. photo
Also the Bonaparte gulls have been at our cottage on the NW corner of the park
for the last week or so. As well as a Bald Eagle.I am still hearing the thrush
in our bush and the Indigo Bunting in our field. Many noisy families of
grackles and Blue jays at the feeders.
Re(2): flying squirrel
Posted
on July 29, 2009 at 10:24:29 AM by MikeWeiss
Excellent information about the RED eye... I first say flying squirrels about 6
years ago when filling the feeder at night in fall or winter,,, then had 3 of
them for a couple of years,,,,then none for over a year ( just like you....
very odd ) until last night,,, we have a very big tree that they go up and down
to get to the feeder so i beleve they live in the tree....I saw one fly to the
ground by the wood shed,,,,(which is far from the tree and feeders) about 12
years ago.....ps.. he was at the feeder last night again,, 23:45 pm....
Re(1): flying squirrel
Posted
on July 29, 2009 at 09:26:52 AM by Wayne
Bridge
Beautiful creatures, yes, but be careful. Three, and two, years ago we had them
nesting between the walls of our house. What a smell! I live-trapped 8 of them
(fairly certain it wasn't the same one 8 times!) Last year they weren't a
problem and this year I've yet to see one (although my problem might be similar
to Eleanor's). [Kearney, 25 mins N-E of Huntsville]
Re(1): flying squirrel
Posted
on July 28, 2009 at 07:39:19 PM by Eleanor
Kee Wellman
After telling Janet Fraser on Saturday that I hadn't had any flying squirrels
for more than a year, four of them appeared at my feeders that night. Probably,
they have been there all along but I just don't stay up late enough! Three
young ones and one adult.
They are eating both peanuts and sunflower seeds.
They have black eyes but when a light or flash is shined in the eyes the light
reflects off the back of the retina and shows red. I am pretty sure that isn't
the correct explanation but it gives you the idea. Some animals have
"green" eye,like fishers, some have "red" eye, like humans,
and others have "yellow" eye.
Barred and Great-horned Owls love them!
Re(1): flying squirrel
Posted
on July 28, 2009 at 11:36:42 AM by GayleCarlyle
We haven't seen a flying squirrel in years.
About 8 years ago at our former home in Bracebridge, we had nightly visits by
four flying squirrels. This was in the middle of winter when our silo feeder
was filled with sunflower seeds.
The squirrels would climb up a wooden trellis, shimmy along the icicle lights
and leap onto the feeder. It was great entertainment!
I tried putting out peanuts but the squirrels preferred the black oil sunflower
seeds.
I was so thrilled to have one of the squirrels sit in my hand one night and
gobble down mouthfuls of seeds. Such beautiful creatures. Good luck with your
visitors.
flying squirrel
Posted
on July 28, 2009 at 09:54:00 AM by MikeWeiss
Well I happy to report I saw my flying squirrel last night at the bird
feeder....( He or She is colored like a chipmunk minus the stripes...the eyes
are red,,,, SO does anyone have this exciting animal as well,
and if so what do u feed them....thanks Mike
Common Nighthawks
Posted
on July 26, 2009 at 08:51:09 PM by Bob Burt
Four Common Nighthawks were circling over the Bracebridge Ponds around 8 p.m.
tonight. One Greater Yellowlegs and four Lesser Yellowlegs were in cell 3.
Re(1): Henry Marsh - Dowitcher sp.
Posted
on July 26, 2009 at 11:59:58 AM by Barbara
Taylor
We checked out the marsh this morning between rain showers but couldn't find
the Dowitcher...only saw 2 Least Sandpipers, 1 Solitary Sandpiper, and 1
Killdeer. The three inches of rain we've had in the past two days have flooded
the marsh so no mudflats right now. The marsh acts as a drainage basin for a
large surrounding area so it might take another day or so to get the mudflats
back.
Henry Marsh - Dowitcher sp.
Posted
on July 25, 2009 at 02:35:05 PM by Goodyear
Around noon today we saw a single Dowitcher (Short-billed ??)feeding at Henry
Marsh. It was well towards the back of the marsh. Unfortunately we didn't have
our scope with us!! A small flock of Least Sandpipers and several Killdeer were
also present.
Common Terns
Posted
on July 25, 2009 at 08:10:14 AM by sylviaandjim
The Common Tern colony on the Severn River successfully fledged est. 9
juveniles with est 18 adult Common Tern.
The colony is located between The Lantern Marina and The Swift on a 'whaleback'
island right near our Island 32. The feeding small fish supply appears to be
abundant in the location mainly in front of Island 32. We surmise that this new
Common Tern colony is a remnant of the failed Common Tern colony on Sparrow
Lake on Long Island.
Last year there was CT activity at the whaleback rock island but no nesting in
2008 or 2007.
Henry Marsh shorebirds
Posted
on July 24, 2009 at 01:23:10 PM by Barbara
Taylor
This morning there were a few shorebirds feeding on the now well-drained marsh.
We counted 14 Killdeer, 3 Least Sandpipers, 1 Greater Yellowlegs, and 3
Solitary Sandpipers. The birds were feeding, flying, and calling, and came in
close enough to the walking trail that we had very good looks. There were also
3 Green Herons and 2 Great Blue Herons.
Eastern Phoebe
Posted
on July 23, 2009 at 12:09:36 PM by MaryWillmott
Nested & fledged from the side of our house at Beaumaris photo
Re(1): Northern Harriers -
Bracebridge Ponds
Posted
on July 23, 2009 at 09:59:52 AM by Al
Sinclair
We saw a male Northern Harrier circling high over the field behind the Sleep
Inn in Bracebridge a couple of weeks ago, not that far from the ponds. There
has been a pair just west of town for as long as I can remember. They are often
seen hunting over the fields on South Monk Drive. Wonder what they were doing
over at the ponds?
Northern Harriers - Bracebridge
Ponds
Posted
on July 22, 2009 at 08:52:59 PM by Barbara
Taylor
We went to check on the juvenile Green Herons tonight, but didn't see any. Our
viewing spot on the hill SW of cell 4 was already taken...by a very large Black
Bear. We had noticed a few ripe raspberries there on our last visit so I guess
the bear had noticed them too. Needless to say, we reversed course.
Turned out for the best as we then saw a female Northern Harrier flying
overhead...she seemed to be in the midst of an extreme molt with lots of
missing wing feathers. Another Harrier appeared flying low along the ditch
north of cell 4. This one showed no sign of molt so perhaps was a juvenile (we
couldn't see its underside).
No shorebirds seen. The mudflats in cell 3 are quickly drying out, but maybe
we'll get some rain tomorrow. (note that the noisy dusty earth moving
preparations for the new plant are still continuing on weekdays but so far work
stops on weekends)
Moths last night...some photos
Posted
on July 22, 2009 at 05:06:04 PM by Al
Sinclair
Warm nights are bringing out some moths finally. Last night was one of the best
this year with about 30 species at the moth light. Below are some photos taken
this morning.
8904 Chrysanympha formosa - Formosa Looper Moth photo
9548 Conservula anodonta - Sharp Angle Shades photo
8942 Syngrapha rectangula - Salt-and-pepper Looper photo
Re(2): Broad-winged Hawk
Posted
on August 3, 2009 at 04:03:11 PM by janice house
I found the baby again today, he was sitting on an exposed perch calling and
was quite interested in Casey as she sniffed her way along the edge of the
road. He seems to be staying close to the original nest site.
Re(1): Broad-winged Hawk
Posted
on July 30, 2009 at 07:54:01 AM by janice house
Yesterday my brother saw an adult fly past the cottage roof (he was stripping
the shingles) with a mouse. When I got there about 6:30 I heard one of the
birds calling close by.
Broad-winged Hawk
Posted
on July 22, 2009 at 04:40:59 PM by janice house
I was at the cottage at Skeleton Lake last night and the juvenile has fledged.
I heard it calling and found it about 12 feet up a tree and managed to get
within 40 feet. He sat calling for a few minutes and one of the parents flew
off into the tree tops quite a distance away.
Re(2): Red-headed Woodpecker photo
Posted
on July 22, 2009 at 10:27:58 PM by Eleanor
Kee Wellman
Although the birds left before I got to Janet's there were two adults and
another bird that sounds like a juvenile.
Nice clear shot, Janet!
Re(1): Red-headed Woodpecker photo
Posted
on July 22, 2009 at 10:06:18 PM by Barbara Taylor
Here is Janet Fraser's photo.
Red Headed Woodpecker
Posted
on July 22, 2009 at 12:03:08 PM by janice house
Janet Fraser just called from Bala, she got a photo of the woodpecker at their
home, she lives close to Eleanor Kee Wellman
Bracebridge Ponds and Henry Marsh
Posted
on July 19, 2009 at 05:35:32 PM by Barbara
Taylor
At noon today there were lots of Swallows flying low over cell 1, mostly Bank
and Barn but also a few Tree and Cliff. In cell 3 there were some Killdeer and
Least Sandpipers. In cell 4 there was a Bufflehead, and one of the juvenile
Green Herons flew up out of the SE corner. Three male Indigo Buntings were
singing from different locations around cell 4 - interesting that all were in
dead trees, which seems to be the favourite spot they will sing from.
At Henry Marsh there were a few Killdeer on the expansive mudflats. Also two
shorebirds that appeared to be Solitary Sandpipers but too far away to be sure.
A Green Heron was at the west edge of the "marsh". There is no
evidence of any beaver activity so the marsh remains drained.
Bluebirds
Posted
on July 19, 2009 at 04:09:28 PM by janice house
Saturday morning while walking the dog I watched 4 bluebirds feeding at a
neighbours farm, this morning I only saw 3 birds. When I got home there was a
bluebird on our tv antenna and it flew to one of our bluebird boxes, hopefully
it will nest again. (Doe Lake Rd., Gravenhurst)
MFN canoe outing...some photos
Posted
on July 19, 2009 at 11:19:39 AM by Al
Sinclair
The Muskoka Field Naturalists paddled the South Branch of the Muskoka River
from Bracebridge to South Falls on July 18, 2009.
Some photos from the trip below.
RIVER JEWELWING - Calopteryx aequabilis photo
MARSH WATER-STARWORT - Callitriche palustris photo
TURKEY VULTURE - Cathartes aura photo
SOUTH FALLS photo
Green Heron - photo
Posted
on July 18, 2009 at 08:39:30 PM by J.
Gardner
Jim got this shot of a Green Heron in the little bog pond beside Walmart and
behind McDonalds in Parry Sound. A chunk of the pond has already been filled in
during construction of these businesses. Last year he was able to get a good
shot of a Blandings Turtle in the same pond. photo
June Gardner
Re(1): Monarch Butterfly Egg Hatches
Posted
on July 20, 2009 at 12:18:01 PM by GayleCarlyle
Eleanor;
Amazing shot!
Hard to imagine that they grew so huge in such a short time. We are watching
about half a dozen caterpillars of various ages on the milkweed plants around
our house.
Wonderful to see the monarchs thriving.
Monarch Butterfly Egg Hatches
Posted
on July 17, 2009 at 09:43:30 AM by Eleanor
Kee Wellman
I have been photographing the hatching of a Monarch Butterfly egg and thought
some might be interested in seeing how big the caterpillar is 24 hours after
emerging.
That is the tip of a ball point pen for comparison! It
looks like a pencil line on paper about 3 1/2 mm long with the naked eye!
It is on the top side of a milkweed leaf after crawling through one of the
holes it chewed. When it hatched it had no stripes at all.
This image is uncropped. Canon 40D, 180mm Macro lens + 2X converter + 36mm
tube, Flash. photo
Indigo Bunting
Posted
on July 16, 2009 at 11:57:12 AM by Dawn
Sherman
I saw an Indigo Bunting (male) on the Hunter's Bay Trail this morning.
bear activity
Posted
on July 15, 2009 at 10:40:57 PM by John
Challis
A bear has been making its presence known along our street -- Green River Dr.,
Washago -- but has been very polite so far. Gayle met up with it eye-to-eye
last week while working in the yard. This afternoon we came home from work to
find it had rolled out a log in a raised garden bed to dine on the ant larvae
inside. The log was so hollow it wouldn't have lasted much longer as a support
for the raised garden, so I suppose we should thank him/her.
Re(1): Green Herons on the wing...
Posted
on July 18, 2009 at 02:50:12 PM by Barbara
Taylor
This morning the five young Green Herons were in the same area west of cell 4.
One still needed some practice coming in for a landing, but all seemed to be
flying quite well.
No shorebirds seen.
Re(1): Green Herons on the
wing...Jul 6 photo
Posted
on July 15, 2009 at 11:00:40 AM by Al
Sinclair
Here's one taken by Wilf Yusek on July 6, a few days before they fledged. Looks
a bit crowded! photo
Green Herons on the wing...
Posted
on July 15, 2009 at 09:44:11 AM by Barbara
Taylor
Just an update for those interested in the Green Heron nest at the Bracebridge
Ponds...a great success! The five chicks have fledged. Last evening they seemed
to be playing a game of tag, as they flew around and around the flooded area
west of cell 4. Eventually the whole family settled in for the night close to
the nest tree. There is a photo taken by Wilf Yusek when the chicks were still
quite young in this June 22 post. - photo
Re(3): Chimney Swifts Gravenhurst
Posted
on July 23, 2009 at 04:59:19 PM by DBurton
I saw them in flight near Gravenhurst Town Hall. I don't know where they roost.
Re(2): Chimney Swifts Gravenhurst
Posted
on July 20, 2009 at 09:36:32 PM by janice house
Dan, where did you see them? Did you see them roosting?
Re(1): Chimney Swifts Gravenhurst
Posted
on July 19, 2009 at 04:34:08 PM by Dburton
I have seen as many as 13 this month.
Chimney Swifts Gravenhurst
Posted
on July 14, 2009 at 04:04:53 PM by janice house
I went into town on Sunday night and last night and managed to see 3 swifts
flying about. Two went down the chimney of Trinity United Church (across from
Stedman's)at 8:50 when it was still light. The third swift called later but I
did not see where it went.
Spotting Scope For Sale
Posted
on July 14, 2009 at 10:57:01 AM by B.
Korol
Hi All,
The following ad was approved by the message board manager.
For Sale:
Bausch and Lomb Discoverer Spotting Scope
* 15-60X zoom lens
* good condition
* model 78-1600
* 60 mm objective lens
* tripod mount
* supporting paperwork
* asking $250
If interested please do not respond to the bird board. Contact me directly -
daytime 705-789-6822 or 6-9 pm 705-689-0243
Burke Korol
Re(4): Henry Marsh
Posted on
July 15, 2009 at 12:04:09 PM by Al Sinclair
We don't have many options here as the pond is on private land. Since last fall
when the pond was first drained, newspaper stories, letters to the editor,
calls to our politicians, government agencies and the landowner have been
unsuccessful. Not much left except civil disobedience, maybe a clothes optional
march downtown (just kidding). But maybe we shouldn't get too upset about the
loss of this pond. It was rich in wildlife and easy to access, very sad to see
it go, but there are some positive things happening here. The pond was about 25
years old and nearing the end of this stage in the normal beaver pond cycle.
Eventually beaver leave and their pond disappears. A fertile meadow is left
that after 50 years or more returns to a forest, the beavers return and the
cycle starts again. All the wildlife in North America evolved with the beaver,
much of it depends on the habitat they create. These temporary warm shallow
ponds created by beaver are crucial to biodiversity and a healthy environment,
a fact that few people realize.
I think we should look at the bigger picture, step back and think about what
will happen there in the long term, think in terms of generations not years. We
need to educate our politicians and civil servants on why these wetlands are so
important and why we need to protect them from development. Henry Marsh is
located on a deep cut in the bedrock filled with clay that was once an outflow
channel of a large glacial lake. Our goal here should be to have this whole
area, from the Bracebridge Ponds to Lake Muskoka, protected from development.
And more than this we should be protecting all wetlands in Muskoka including
all stream valleys where beaver ponds are created and disappear in a cycle that
often exceeds a human generation.
Re(3): Henry Marsh
Posted
on July 14, 2009 at 11:31:40 AM by Eleanor
Kee Wellman
I am very sorry to hear this, Al!!
I thought it sounded like there might be something workable to save it through
Muskoka Heritage and that the owner was co-operating.
Anything we can do?
Re(2): Henry Marsh
Posted
on July 14, 2009 at 11:17:31 AM by Al
Sinclair
The public works engineer at the Town of Bracebridge says they did not do any
work on the dam or culverts. We believe it was most likely done by someone
working for the property owner but can't confirm it. Henry Marsh is on part of
a larger property that is designated for development on the Bracebridge
Official Plan. Currently the owner has put any development on hold and we were
told a few months ago that the owner is looking for another developer to buy
the whole property, approx 800 acres. The asking price is likely in the 10s of
millions. One could speculate that the owner believes he can get more for the
property by removing the pond. Another possibility is that he has been advised
to remove the pond before the upcoming Muskoka Official Plan review. A
Provincial Policy Statement (2005) requires that municipalities include a
Natural Heritage Strategy (NHS) in their Official Plans. As part of a NHS they
must do "Potential Species At Risk Habitat Mapping" and an
"Urban Centres Natural Heritage Review". Urban areas that are found
to be significant wildlife habitat will be have to be protected. This process
could remove some areas previously zoned for development from the town plans of
all the major urban centres of the District. Henry Marsh was one of the best
wildlife habitats in any of the towns, looks like we are going to lose it.
Re(1): Henry Marsh
Posted
on July 14, 2009 at 06:05:09 AM by Eleanor
Kee Wellman
What is going on, Barb???
Why are they still taking out the beaver dams??? I guess I was being optimistic
in thinking the town had learned something over the past year.
Henry Marsh
Posted
on July 13, 2009 at 02:59:47 PM by Barbara
Taylor
A Green Heron was flying across the back edge of the marsh this morning, but no
ducks and no shorebirds were seen. Since the beaver dam was removed a few weeks
ago, the marsh has been steadily drying out. There was a nice selection of
dragonflies and damselflies:
Widow Skimmer
Twelve-spotted Skimmer
Chalk-fronted Corporal
Common Whitetail
Dot-tailed Whiteface
Four-spotted Skimmer
Ebony Jewelwing
Bluets (sp.?)
Least Sandpipers
Posted
on July 12, 2009 at 07:28:28 PM by Barbara
Taylor
This afternoon there were a few Least Sandpipers and a Killdeer in cell 3 at
the Bracebridge Ponds. A Broad-winged Hawk and two Turkey Vultures were soaring
above the ridge south of cell 4. Several Bank Swallows were flying over cell 2.
We finally saw our first Clouded Sulphur butterfly of the year near the SW
corner of cell 4.
Re(1): Broad-winged Hawk Nest
Posted
on July 19, 2009 at 04:06:31 PM by janice house
I went to the cottage today to have a visit with Dad and as I got out of the
car an adult left the nest. The baby stood on the edge and watched me for a few
minutes. He/she is really growing, no sign of any other siblings.
Broad-winged Hawk Nest
Posted
on July 12, 2009 at 05:10:39 PM by janice house
Today Moira and I checked on the nest at our cottage at Skeleton Lake and set
up the scope so everyone could have a close-up look. An adult was on the nest
for a few minutes and we got a good look at the baby because he was interested
in everyone walking up and down the path to the parking lot. We were there for
an hour and a half and saw the parents fly out across the bay to catch the
thermals by the cliffs
Bala Butterfly Count...results
posted
Posted
on July 11, 2009 at 10:12:48 AM by Al
Sinclair
The Bala butterfly count results are now up on the Muskoka Field Naturalists
website.
http://muskokafieldnaturalists.com/Butterfly Count.html
Prince Baskettail Bala...photo
Posted
on July 10, 2009 at 07:23:24 PM by Al
Sinclair
Below is a photo of a Prince Baskettail taken by Rick Snider during the Bala Butterfly
Count on July 4. It was found at Ragged Rapids west of Bala. This species is
hard to photograph and harder to catch, usually seen gliding too high to reach
with a net. Rick was lucky to find this one perched in the sun, maybe warming
up after the cold night. photo
Re(1): Amber-winged Spreadwing
Posted
on July 10, 2009 at 07:07:34 PM by Al
Sinclair
We found an Amber-winged Spreadwing (Lestes eurinus) here east of Bracebridge
on June 26, 2006. It was the first record in Muskoka since the 1920's. We now
have another record, good find.
Amber-winged Spreadwing
Posted
on July 10, 2009 at 05:10:23 PM by DiannaWolfe
Another interesting odonate: an Amber-winged Spreadwing. This individual was
found in a wet field just north of the Severn River and west of Hwy 11.
Amber-winged Spreadwings are ranked S3 (Vulnerable) by NHIC in Ontario.
Also found was an elm sawfly (Cimbex americana). This large (~2.5 cm), rather
intimidating waspy-looking insect is apparently relatively common, although
rarely seen. The larvae of the elm sawfly are known to defoliate ornamental
trees, and the adult is harmless, despite its appearance.
Amber-winged Spreadwing: photo1
photo2 photo3
Elm sawfly (Cimbex americana): photo
Virginia Rails
Posted
on July 9, 2009 at 12:59:21 PM by Barbara
Taylor
This morning we were lucky to see a family of Virginia Rails at the Bracebridge
Ponds. We think there were at least two, possibly three very tiny chicks...at
first glance they looked like black voles. One of the parents accompanied a
chick out into the open, and suddenly a Green Heron that had been perched
nearby swooped down right at them. It missed - so was the heron really after
the wee chick or just a frog we hadn't noticed? The Rails didn't come back out
after running for cover. There was a Sora calling but we didn't see it. A
Belted Kingfisher flew past, and a Broad-winged Hawk soared overhead. No
shorebirds seen. There is now heavy equipment operating at the south side of
cell 3 moving earth near the Lagoon Lane entrance. With construction of the new
plant imminent, please avoid that area, and enter via Kerr Park so we can
retain access to the Ponds.
RB Nuthatches, Bala
Posted
on July 8, 2009 at 07:28:36 AM by Eleanor
Kee Wellman
I am very pleased to see two adults and four fledgling Red-breasted Nuthatches
here this morning.
Last evening a single one sat in a tree for 30 minutes and I wasn't sure if it
was a youngster sent away from home for the first time or an overworked female!
photo
Re(1): Access to Bracebridge Ponds during
construction
Posted
on July 10, 2009 at 12:41:18 PM by Barbara
Taylor
This morning there was a continual dusty stream of fast moving dump trucks
around cell 3 and over to north of cell 4 where they were dumping their loads.
Very noisy too. We turned back at the Kerr Park gate as it looked hopeless to
try and enjoy a bird walk. Hopefully they will not be working on the weekends
so some shorebirds may find their way onto the mudflats in cell 3.
Access to Bracebridge Ponds during
construction
Posted
on July 7, 2009 at 11:55:15 AM by Al
Sinclair
In a post below Steve asks if the Bracebridge Ponds have always been open to
the public. The Bracebridge Sewage Treatment Ponds aka the Bracebridge Ponds
have been open to the public from the start thanks to the cooperation of the
managers at the district, in particular Don Currie who was the water and sewage
manager back in the late 1970s when we first recognized the importance of ponds
to local and migrating birds and other wildlife.
It is important that we maintain this good relationship especially in the next
year during the construction of the new treatment plant that is expected to
start any day now. We will have to respect any restrictions that limit access
to certain areas of the ponds without question.
Representatives of the Muskoka Field Naturalists recently met with the District
engineers to discuss the work they will be doing and how it will affect access.
Cells 1 and 2 will still be accessible from Kerr Park and the road on the west
side will be open allowing access to cell 4. All areas around the construction
site on the south side of cell 3 will be closed and access via Lagoon Lane
should not be used.
They also informed us that they do not plan on fencing off the entire lagoon
area in the future as other municipalities have done to limit their liability.
This is important because fencing would restrict access to wildlife as well as
birders. We must all behave responsibly so they will have no excuse to increase
security.
Re(1): Juvenile Song Sparrow
Posted
on July 6, 2009 at 08:09:45 PM by Al
Sinclair
Think it's a juvenile Chipping Sparrow. Saw a lot of these while doing the
butterfly count on Saturday.
Juvenile Song Sparrow
Posted
on July 6, 2009 at 07:53:41 PM by SteveAbouldahab
Hi Folks,
Is this a juvenile song sparrow? photo
19 Whip-poor-wills
Posted
on July 6, 2009 at 04:07:25 PM by George
Bryant
Last evening with the warmth and full moon we tallied 19 Whips (18 heard, one
seen) along a 7 km. stretch of Muskoka Road 13 centering on the barrens ~6kms.
s.e. of Torrance (Hwy. 169). Also noted were several Common Nighthawk, abundant
Gray Tree Frog, many fireflies and 1 Fisher.
On the hiking trail north of the road July evensong consisted of Veery, Hermit
Thrush, Eastern Towhee, Swamp Sparrow and Common Yellowthroat. We often note
Massassaugas on the road here at night but none last night.
Wear boots.
Black-crowned Night-Heron
Posted
on July 6, 2009 at 09:44:54 AM by J.
Gardner
I got this picture of 2 Black-crowned Night Herons yesterday near Georgian Bay.
There were five altogether, l adult and 4 one year-old birds. photo
Jim Gardner
Re(4): Huntsville Lagoons?
Posted
on July 7, 2009 at 03:02:26 PM by SteveAbouldahab
Thanks for the info and the backgrounder Al, I really appreciate it.
Steve
Re(3): Huntsville Lagoons?
Posted
on July 7, 2009 at 11:41:43 AM by Al
Sinclair
There are no birding spots like the Bracebridge Ponds in the Huntsville area
that I know of, let us know if you find any. The Huntsville Nature Club usually
comes down to Bracebridge for an outing every year. There are wetlands like
Henry Marsh for sure but not as easy to access. In fact there are few public
places that cater to wildlife watchers something that is severely lacking in
Muskoka, no conservation areas with ponds and trails and an interpretive
program. We often receive inquiries from visitors as to where to go birding, we
send them up to Algonquin or to the Torrance Barrens. I think Muskoka is
missing an opportunity here to promote ecotourism and appreciation of our local
wildlife and the environment.
Here is a link to another aerial view map of the Huntsville lagoon area (don't
click it if you don't have high speed), you can zoom in and see that these
lagoons are likely lined with black plastic sheeting, can be seen around the
edges, no good for birds, insects, plants or anything. Also note the big
aggregate pits around there, hadn't realized this before, not a pretty sight.
http://www.bing.com/maps/default.aspx?v=2&FORM=LMLTCP&cp=45.29437~-79.27906&style=h&lvl=16&tilt=-90&dir=0&alt=-1000&phx=0&phy=0&phscl=1&encType=1
Re(2): Huntsville Lagoons?
Posted
on July 6, 2009 at 03:55:13 PM by SteveAbouldahab
It looks to me like there are about 7 cells. I tried exploring them yesterday,
but I didn't want to jump the gate. Have the Bracebridge Lagoons always been
open to the public? Are there any spots in Huntsville that are as good as the
Lagoons and Henry Marsh? photo
Re(1): Huntsville Lagoons?
Posted
on July 6, 2009 at 12:11:35 PM by Al
Sinclair
I have not been to that site. How many cells? If they are lined with plastic,
the norm in Muskoka, they are not usually very productive because there is no
muddy shore and fewer plants and insects. The Bracebridge ponds are special
because they are lined with clay. You might check them out just to be sure.
Huntsville Lagoons?
Posted
on July 5, 2009 at 06:31:43 PM by SteveAbouldahab
Has anyone ever explored the Huntsville Lagoons off of Madill Church Rd? Are we
allowed to access them? They don't seem as inviting as the Bracebridge Lagoons.
Steve
Re(1): Black Bears
Posted
on July 5, 2009 at 08:15:47 PM by Eleanor
Kee Wellman
I should have pointed out that this was taken from my kayak and the lens used
was a 100-400 @ 390mm. The female bear image is full frame.
Re(1): Black Bears
Posted
on July 5, 2009 at 08:33:00 PM by janice house
I spoke with Moira tonight, her cats woke her up at 5:30 this morning because a
250-300 pound bear was walking on her deck railing. She yelled and banged on
her sliding door which caused the bear to do a back flip off the deck to land
12 feet below dragging some of her planters with it. ( Houston Rd off
Falkenburg Rd north of Bracebridge)
Black Bears
Posted
on July 5, 2009 at 06:11:15 PM by Eleanor
Kee Wellman
Yesterday, as part of the Bala Butterfly Count, George Bryant and Rick Sneider
came to my place to check out a bit of bog for Bog Coppers. Right on the
shoreline there was a smallish pile of bear scat. The opinion was that it was
old and the bear was long gone!
I went out for an early morning kayak and one of my goals was to check out the
scat from the lakeside. As I walked down the side of the house a small female
bear and cub ran in front of me along the path. The scat was very fresh and
probably deposited not long before we searched for Bog Coppers. Another
eventful morning! bear
photo cub photo
Re(3): Arrowhead Spiketail
Posted
on July 11, 2009 at 03:09:02 PM by Brent
To round it up, I spotted on Thursday, July 8, many Twin-Spotted Spiketails in
Balsam Creek (not the town, the creek). It was my first bit of luck using my
chest waders this year. Also I spotted a male Ocellated Emerald along the same
creek.
Where in North Bay did you find the Delta-Spotted Spiketail?
Re(2): Arrowhead Spiketail
Posted
on July 5, 2009 at 06:55:54 PM by DiannaWolfe
Thanks, Al! I will be submitting a record to NHIC of the sighting. Here also is
a photo of the Delta-spotted Spiketail seen last weekend in North Bay. photo
Re(1): Arrowhead Spiketail
Posted
on July 5, 2009 at 05:45:53 PM by Al
Sinclair
Good find! This species was not recorded in Muskoka before this year. The first
record was from a small creek near Six Mile Lake, recently emerged on May 31,
found by Anne Lewis and Bruce Ripley. Yours is the second record for the
district. Nice photos to confirm it! BTW S2 rank is Very Rare in Ontario,
usually 5 to 20 occurrences.
Arrowhead Spiketail
Posted
on July 5, 2009 at 01:42:53 PM by DiannaWolfe
Not to one-up Al or anything... but while out at a wetland between Bracebridge
and Port Carling yesterday, we found an Arrowhead Spiketail. This female had
apparently been ovipositing recently as her lower abdomen was quite muddy.
Arrowhead Spiketails are ranked S2 by NHIC within Ontario.
Regarding Delta-spotted Spiketails, we also found a specimen while at a wetland
in North Bay last weekend.
Arrowhead Spiketail: photo1
photo2 photo3
Delta-spotted Spiketail...Port
Carling
Posted
on July 5, 2009 at 11:56:07 AM by Al
Sinclair
On the butterfly count July 4, 2009, we found a rare Muskoka dragonfly near
Port Carling, the Delta-spotted Spiketail. This species is found around spring
fed sandy-bottomed streams. The only other recent location I know of for this
species is east of Muskoka Airport. We took the photos below to document the
find. photo1
photo2
photo3
photo4
Bala Butterfly Count
Posted
on July 5, 2009 at 11:28:58 AM by Al
Sinclair
The 13th annual Bala Butterfly Count was held on Saturday July 4, 2009. 26
species were found, about average. Weather was partly cloudy in the morning,
sunny in the afternoon, wind about 20km/hr a bit breezy for ideal conditions.
Bog Coppers were flying, found in 2 locations. We had 1 Acadian Hairstreak, 1
Gray Comma. Indian, Long Dash, Northern Broken Dash, Tawny-edged, Hobomok, Dun,
European, and Northern Clowdywing Skippers. 14 Monarchs and numerous larvae
were found. A complete list will be published soon on the MFN website: http://www.muskokafieldnaturalists.com
The count is sponsored by The Muskoka Field Naturalists, count compiler is Ron
Stager.
Re(1): Birding Recommendations
Posted
on July 4, 2009 at 01:58:05 PM by Barrypeyton
I suggest you find Robin Tapley the naturalist at the resort, he knows all the
hot birding spots in the area. The Torrance Barrens is not too far away and
there are lots of great wetlands on the way. Good birding, Barry
Birding Recommendations
Posted
on July 3, 2009 at 02:01:53 PM by asgjr
I've just arrived at the J.W. Marriott on Lake Rosseau and would love to get
some local knowledge on the best places in the area to go bird watching.
Today is Fri 7/3. Don't know if there are any guides for hire or anyone going
out over the next 5 days.
Also any input on O'Donnell Pt. Prov Nature Reserve?
Thanks!
Gary Robinson
Pennsylvania
Hermit Thrush nest
Posted
on July 2, 2009 at 04:21:28 PM by DiannaWolfe
While hiking a rock barren near Gravenhurst on Tuesday, I watched a pair of
Hermit Thrushes foraging. With a little patience I was able to locate their
nest of youngsters (see pics below). The Breeding Bird Atlas comments that
although the Hermit Thrush range is increasing across Ontario, it is often
difficult to locate nests to confirm breeding (only 11% of breeding records
were confirmed for the atlas). Given the rarity of sighting a nest, I thought I
would share my photos. photo1
photo2
As per the Breeding Bird Atlas, Hermit Thrush nests are built on the ground or
near the ground and are bulky and well concealed. This one was located on a
slope at the edge of a rock barren under a small raspberry cane with other
vegetation surrounding it. The nest was formed of moss, twigs, pine needles,
and leaves and was relatively deep and cup shaped. There were four nearly
naked, blind offspring, which is consistent with the 3-5 young per brood as
stated in the Stokes Field Guide to Birds.
While I was watching the nest, one of the adults reappeared and posed for
pictures brooding the chicks.
Enjoy!
Dianna
Re(2): red eft ...Bracebridge
Posted on
July 6, 2009 at 07:27:46 AM by dbritton
About ten years ago I did some herp surveys along in Georgian Bay Township and
found adults in a number of locations in beaver ponds. I suspect that they're
pretty widespread, you can sometimes find them sunning themselves in shallows
around the pond edges. I was using minnow traps to sample tadpoles and
occasionally the adults would end up in the traps.
Re(1): red eft ...Bracebridge
Posted on
July 4, 2009 at 02:02:56 PM by Barrypeyton
I know of two ponds with adult red spotted newts present. One pond is the pond
south of Snow Valley Ski club that provides water to the Barrie Hill Farms and
the second is off Oro line 10 just east of the tracks and north off Line 10.
Its been a few years since I have been back there but I am sure they are
probably still around.
Re(1): red eft ...Bracebridge
Posted
on July 3, 2009 at 09:56:49 PM by Doug
Smith
Al -- several years ago I was with the kids at Kerr Park in Bracebridge and we
saw a number of adults swimming in the pond near the parking lot. It might be
worth checking.
red eft ...Bracebridge
Posted
on July 1, 2009 at 06:59:23 PM by Al
Sinclair
Last weekend we found a red eft under a woodpile (photo). They
are the juvenile stage of the Red-spotted Newt an aquatic salamander. I have
see many newts but have yet to see an adult. Anyone know how to find one?
Clay Coloured Sparrow
Posted
on July 1, 2009 at 07:25:04 AM by janice house
I woke up to the call of the sparrow this morning, he is in the small trees
under the hydro line across from our house (Doe Lake Rd Gravenhurst).
