We have camped at Wakami Lake six times in the last five years. We
noticed some changes this year and offer these observations for
consideration.
Bald Eagles were abundant on the lake this year. In over 3 dozen
sightings, in about 6 kayaking outings, we saw one pair of this year's
fledglings (lots of white) with parents. At least two pairs of first
year juveniles and lots of sightings of single mature birds. One or
two eagles patrol the northern boreal end of the lake and the rest are
concentrated in the south. None venture near the camping area so you
have to go out on the 76 km trail or preferably get out on the water
to see them.
Notable by their absence were Herons. In the previous four years there
have always been Great Blue Herons.
The Loon population was significant as well and rafting seemed to be
early this year. I thought this was an August activity. A couple years
ago in mid August we counted at least 32 birds in one group. The
largest group of cooperative fishing this year involved at least 18
birds. Only four babies were noted in three family groups.
The usual assortment of mergansers, golden-eye, mallards and black
ducks were all producing broods with up to a dozen young.
To add variety there a small population of Herring Gulls, Bonaparte
and Common Terns that stay close to the eastern shore of the lake.
In the warbler camp, there seemed to be an unusual concentration of
American Redstarts. Also observed were Black and White, Yellow-rumped,
Magnolia, and Blackburnian warblers. I am sure that there were many
more varieties that we were unable to identify. I am told that up to
twenty varieties can be found in the park.
At least two Wood Thrushes competed for the most varied song, nearly
continuously, most days from dawn to last light. Always heard, only
spotted briefly once. Amazing!
A single Osprey controlled the north end of the lake offered free
lessons in aerial fishing.
Finally of note were the Sandhill Cranes. The resident pair seem to
reside in an inaccessible marsh, though I tried hard to access it! On
the last morning however, they were on the day-use beach in the early
morning and I managed to catch them in flight as they returned to
their private sanctuary.
Wakami Lake Provincial Park is an under-appreciated jewel for birding
and kayaking. Lots of quiet bays provide the sense of wilderness
camping, but you can drive into it. It is a long drive - about 700 km
- from Burlington. The park is located off hwy 556, east of 129, about
60 km south east of Chapleau. It was about 25% occupied during our
stay and most of the occupied sites were in Brown's Bay where the
fisher folk congregate.
Eric and Barbara Harrison
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