I wouldn't normally post a record of a nesting raptor but in this particular case I think that there are a couple of good reasons to do so. First the nest is easily visible without having to either disturb the birds or cause any traffic or trespass problems. Secondly, I am hoping, by giving this nest a high public profile, that the birds will be left to complete their nesting without being turfed out by anybody who might perhaps prefer them not to be there. My concern may be completely misplaced, but the nest is at the top of the "cell-phone" tower on the east side of Yonge at the junction of Jefferson Sdrd and Yonge. From below the tower I can make out some "chicken wire" netting at the top of the tower and I am unsure whether this has been installed by the owners of the tower so as to deter or to faciilitate nesting. I'm hoping that it would be the latter, but if it was actually the former then perhaps if the nest is frequently watched by local birders there may be less chance of any further deterrent being used.
There is a parking lot next to the church at Jeff and Yonge but I am unsure of the actual status of that lot. I imagine there is some alternative parking nearby. There is a building almot directly below the tower which seems to house a kiddie daycare - when I was at the site this morning, there was a constant stream of vehicles coming and going, dropping off toddlers, and the Ospreys just carried on bringing sticks to the nest regardless. Excellent photograph opportunities in the right light! Regardless of the seemingly easy access and the apparent nonchalance of these birds, please exercise all appropriate care, caution and courtesy in the vicinity of the nest. I haven't approached any of the people who live and work nearby since the area seems so public, but it is likely that visiting birders will indeed create more interest, hopefully positive. Directions: as stated above. Drive north on Yonge St. out of Toronto (!!) until you reach the traffic lights at the junction with Jefferson Sideroad. This is just south of the town of Oak Ridges (exit west at Stouffville Rd. off the 404). The "cell phone" tower is very obvious, on the east side of the road, set back a hundred metres or so. _______________________________________________ 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/
