We observed two Boreal Owls on both days this past weekend, as well as a Great Grey on Sunday. On the east end of the island Sunday, we saw the Snowy Owl lurking on an Osprey(?) platform. Also noted was an immature Bald Eagle flying from east to west; an adult was spotted as we were driving south from the 401 to the ferry on Saturday morning flying in the same direction.
Most of the previous can be considered the "excuse" for the real message here: people planning a visit to the island should be aware that Owl Woods was something of a skating rink at times. Though it isn't a necessity (we survived fine), if conditions hold you may appreciate a pair of ice cleats or crampons for your footwear. We were quoted something like $10 at a Canadian Tire in Kingston but, strangely, they were sold out... (These directions to Amherst Island were copied from Bruce Ripley): Directions To Amherst Island - Ontario Road Atlas, MapArt Publishing [Pg. 36, E54 & E55] Located 18 km. west of Kingston. Exit off Hwy. 401 at exit 593 (County Road 4, Camden East) and drive south to the very end (Millhaven). Turn right on Hwy. 33 and drive 100 metres until you see the sign for the Amherst Island ferry. The ferry (20 minute trip) leaves the mainland on the half hour and leaves the island on the hour. Cost is $5.00 Canadian round trip. There are no gas stations on the island. The East End K.F.N. property is at the easternmost part of the island. To reach the Owl Woods, turn left (east) at the four-way stop sign by the general store and drive 3.4 kilometres along Front Road to the (seasonal) Marshall Forty-Foot Road. Marshall Forty-Foot Road is across the road from house #2320. Drive along Marshall Road to the mid-way point, where there is an "S" in the road (1.2 kilometres , look for the K.F.N. kiosk). Park in the gravel lane or off the road edge.
