I took a long lunch from work today to look for the Ruff at Marais des Grenouillettes, but I did not see it. By no means, however, would I assume that the bird is gone, as the shorebirds were relatively hard to observe. They were on the small "islands" of vegetation in the main basin of the marsh, i.e. on the south side of the embankment. An individual bird could easily escape detection in this kind of habitat. In addition, I did not have enough itme to search as thoroughly as I would have liked. Species observed included both yellowlegs, killdeer, unidentified peeps (too hidden in the vegetation) and a fly-by of what I assume were 6 dunlin.
Paul Matthews, Ottawa Directions (from Chris Lewis's post): From Ottawa, cross into Quebec and take Hwy 50 east to the exit for the Gatineau Airport. Go south to Maloney Blvd., left on Maloney - it becomes Hwy 148. Watch for the brown & white signs to the various marshes on your right (Warning ! The Marais des Grenouillettes sign is immediately at the driveway that goes down to the parking lot -- and the potholes are wicked!) Note: potholes are large but are readily avoided. Also, I was encouraged to see that the fearsome drop from the 148 to the gravel access road has been fixed by a resurfacing of the 148. After leaving your vehicle in the parking area, take the path/old track on the east side to the marsh (5 to 10 minute walk). Rubber boots are recommended. _______________________________________________ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to ONTBIRDS mailing list [email protected] For information about ONTBIRDS visit http://www.ofo.ca/
