The warm temperatures, extensive areas of bare ground, and some open water developing in creeks encouraged the arrival of more migrants by week's end. There is still lots of snow in shaded woods, however.
Arrivals this week included: Canada Goose, Hooded Merganser, Herring Gull, American Robin, American Tree Sparrow, Snow Bunting, Red-winged Blackbird, Common Grackle and Brown-headed Cowbird. An adult Bald Eagle was perched in a tree near Long Lake between the West Gate and the Boundary on March 14 and 15. Spruce Grouse, Gray Jay and Boreal Chickadee have been seen at Spruce Bog Boardwalk. The White-throated Sparrow that spent the winter at the Visitor Centre, but had not been observed since late February, was seen again there this week. A male Evening Grosbeak was at the Visitor Centre feeders on March 16 and 17. At least one Marten continues to be fairly regular at the Visitor Centre feeders. THE VISITOR CENTRE IS OPEN DAILY FROM 10 AM TO 5 PM UNTIL MARCH 21. We would appreciate receiving your bird observations for our Visitor Centre records. Ron Tozer Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired) Dwight, ON Directions: Algonquin Park is three hours north of Toronto, via Highways 400, 11 and 60. Follow the signs, which start in Toronto on Highway 400. From Ottawa, take Highway 17 to Renfrew, then follow Highway 60 to the park. Kilometre markers along Highway 60 in the Park go from the West Gate (km 0) to near the East Gate (km 56). Get your park permit and the park tabloid (with a map of birding locations mentioned here) at the gates. The Visitor Centre at km 43 has details on recent sightings, feeders, and park information. Hot and cold drinks and snacks are available in the restaurant this winter, but not full meal service. Birder access to the Visitor Centre through the service entrance to observe the feeders is usually possible on weekdays. Algonquin Park birding updates and information are also available at: www.algonquinpark.on.ca _______________________________________________ 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/
