12:00 noon: I saw the skies clearing and despite the wind took a drive to Whitby in search of the Snowy Owl, with no luck. Saw a few others looking around Thickson Rd and Victoria St behind Rona on the south side of the 401, they didn't stop I assume no luck either. A drive towards Lynde shores turned up a hunting Northern Harrier on Jeffery St and Victoria St. I was lucky enough to watch the hunt and successful catch, right next to the car as a matter of fact. I managed to get very nice views of this extraordinary bird of prey.
Directions: 401 East to Thickson Rd (Whitby), south one light to Victoria and turn Right on Victoria around Rona. Continue on Victoria (West). The Harrier was closer to Lynde Shores right behind the Petro Canada bordered by Gorden St and Jeffery St. Note: wild winds have Lake Ontario in a Frenzy, a drive west on Victoria to S Blair St will take you around to the Whitby Lake Park where you can see waves crashing the piers and take the few ducks brave enough to stay in the bay on wild roller rides. Blair turns to Water and then Brock St were you will see open water and a small bay, here there are many Ducks and Geese taking refuge from the wind, a good view from the car. Glenn Steplock www.flickr.com/steplock _______________________________________________ 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
