At Presqu'ile Provincial Park, as elsewhere, bird life in mid-summer is fairly static, as birds adhere to clearly defined territories. In contrast, daily changes in bird life are the norm during migration. This week there has been virtually no change from day to day, as stable weather conditions have not been conducive to the long-anticipated onset of migratory waves of birds.
The three Common Loons that were swimming near the lighthouse on August 6 and single individuals overhead and on the water were likely summering birds rather than newly arrived migrants. The shorebirds that can be found easily between beach 3 and Owen Point are remnants of the larger flocks that arrived near the end of July. One Short-billed Dowitcher that was there at least until August 5 was the most interesting species among the eight that were reported this week. Although not within the past week, a Black Tern sighted in Presqu'ile Bay on August 29 represents one of very few seen in this area in recent years. The only evidence of possible land bird migration this week was the discovery of a flycatcher of the Empidonax genus at the lighthouse on August 7. There is, however, a cool front in the forecast for this weekend, and that should coincide with the arrival of a few more southbound birds, warblers and others. To reach Presqu'ile Provincial Park, follow the signs from Brighton. Locations within the Park are shown on a map at the back of a tabloid that is available at the Park gate. Access to the offshore islands is restricted at this time of year to prevent disturbance to the colonial nesting birds there. Questions and comments about bird sightings at Presqu'ile may be directed to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] -- Fred Helleiner 186 Bayshore Road, R.R. #4, Brighton, Ontario, Canada, K0K 1H0 VOICE: (613) 475 5309 If visiting, access via Presqu'ile Provincial Park. Fred Helleiner <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Visit http://www.ofo.ca/ontbirdsguide.htm for information on leaving and joining the list. As well as general information and content guidelines.
