I was definitely quieter at the marsh for passerines at least (a heavy frost last night likely resulted in fewer insects at least early in the morning) in the surrounding woods with only a few Song Sparrows evident. The high vocal Pileated Woodpeckers continue to make an appearance anywhere between the upper bridge on Sheridan Creek to bottom of Bexhill ... and this morning was no exception. A few highlights on the marsh: a Great Egret (in spectacular breeding plumage), one Pied-billed Grebe, two Ring-necked Ducks, three Blue-winged Teal and 4 Green-winged Teal. There was at least one Common Loon on the lake off the marsh early in morning and Alex Gray saw a Tree Swallow sometime before 8:00 a.m. flying over the marsh. As in warms up this afternoon there may be more bird activity. The meadow trail continues to be very muddy but main trails are slowing drying out.
Directions: Go south down to the end Bexhill which runs south of Lakeshore about 5 long blocks east of Erin Mills Parkway. Park at the metal gate. The marsh and knoll trail start at the bottom of hill from the parking area. This gets you into, more or less, the middle of main area of the marsh. Mississauga has a map of the marsh and surrounding trails on their web site: http://www.creditvalleycons.com/recandleisure/maps/rattray.pdf'. Wayne Renaud _______________________________________________ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to ONTBIRDS mailing list [email protected] For instructions to join or leave ONTBIRDS visit http://www.ofo.ca/information/ontbirdssetup.php ONTBIRDS Guidelines may be viewed at http://www.ofo.ca/information/ontbirdsguide.php
