Pre-occupation with other seasonal activities has meant that very few
birders have been active in Presqu'ile Provincial Park during the past
week. Nevertheless, a few interesting birds have been spotted, mostly
in or around the water, which remains atypically totally unfrozen, even
in the marsh.
A few Redheads have been accompanying an unseasonably large flock of
Greater Scaup off Gull Island, and a few have also been in Presqu'ile
Bay. Four probable Ring-necked Ducks and a Lesser Scaup flew over the
bay on December 28. The Harlequin Duck at the west end of High Bluff
campground has been seen each time anyone has gone looking for it,
according to my information. Several dozen White-winged Scoters are
apparently going to spend the winter off the lighthouse. Red-breasted
Mergansers, usually scarce at this time of year, are easy to find off
Owen Point and elsewhere. The 20 American Coots off 38 Bayshore Road
will likely stay until the bay freezes over (if that ever happens
again!). Another species that is usually gone long before this date is
Bonaparte's Gull, of which at least one is still present over Presqu'ile
Bay.
A Northern Shrike can often be found around the calf pasture. American
Robins are also there from time to time, but move around in adjacent
areas. Snow Buntings are usually present on Gull Island. Up to five
Common Grackles are wintering at 83 Bayshore Road.
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. Gull Island is once again an island,
the connection to the mainland having been severed during a recent
storm. Visitors to Gull Island should be prepared to wade through
knee-deep water in which there is often a swift current and a substrate
that is somewhat uneven. Hip waders are essential, even when the water
is calm, and are inadequate when the water is rough. The surrounding
shoreline can be very slippery.
Questions and comments about bird sightings at Presqu'ile may be
directed to: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
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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.
