Ontbirders: There is little change in bird numbers or species composition here from earlier in the winter. Some may recall that 57 observers on the Algonquin Park Christmas Bird Count recorded only 6 birds per party hour. Now in late winter, there could be even fewer birds surviving here. An almost total lack of cones to attract finches, and the southward fall irruption of some species (e.g., Black-capped Chickadee), have contributed to this quiet winter for birds.
In the Highway 60 Corridor, small groups of PINE GROSBEAKS are occasionally seen on the road, especially after sanding following plowing. Pine Grosbeaks and COMMON REDPOLLS are regular at the Visitor Centre feeders (km 43). At least one PINE MARTEN visits the feeders there to eat black sunflower seeds and suet, almost daily. Birders seeking Algonquin's "boreal" species (Spruce Grouse, Black- back Woodpecker, Gray Jay, Boreal Chickadee) in the Highway 60 Corridor should concentrate on two traditional areas that sometimes produce good results: Spruce Bog Boardwalk (km 42.5), and Opeongo Road (km 46.3). You will have to walk beyond the locked gate on Opeongo Road, and plowing of the road south of the gate is sometimes irregular. CAUTION: LOG HAULING IS UNDERWAY ON AROWHON ROAD AND ROCK LAKE ROAD. Snow depths in many areas of the Park have reached 60 cm or more, and snowshoes are essential off packed trails. Visiting birders are asked to report their sightings (including locations, numbers and dates) to me ([EMAIL PROTECTED]). Information about recent sightings is available in the Bird Sightings binder in the Algonquin Visitor Centre lobby, and from staff. By the end of the month, the first migrants (American Crows) should be returning to Algonquin Park. Observers are requested to record arrival dates for spring migrants on the forms posted in the Visitor Centre lobby. This information will be added to our database (over 45 years of records). Some Gray Jay pairs should be starting nest construction this coming week in Algonquin Park. Think spring! Ron Tozer (former Algonquin Park Naturalist) Dwight, Ontario Directions: Algonquin Park is three hours north of Toronto, via Highways 400, 11 and 60. Follow the signs, which start in Toronto on Highway 400. From Ottawa, take Highway 17 to Renfrew, then follow Highway 60 to the park. Kilometre markers on Highway 60 in the park go from the West Gate (km 0) to the East Gate (km 56). Permits and information are available daily at both gates throughout the winter. The Visitor Centre (km 43) is open weekends, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. As well, birders are welcome to observe the Visitor Centre feeders and ask staff about recent sightings during the week.
