After last weekend's influx of Greater Snow Geese (50,000 +) the birds are spreading out in the southern portion of the region. The flooded fields along County Rd 34 near Green Valley have dried up quickly so this area is no longer the draw that it was although birds may periodically land near Riviere Beaudette (now a creek). Last evening, many of the birds moved from areas close to the St. Lawrence from Lancaster to the Quebec border into fields north of Lancaster. The largest single group was about 20,000 but the numbers changed as the flock gradually split up. If the pattern is repeated in the days ahead, early evening concentrations may be noteworthy. During the day, the birds are more likely to forage across a broad area both north and south of Hwy 401 from Lancaster to the Quebec border. As the St. Lawrence opens up in this area, there may be locations where flocks are also seen on the river itself. Check the pier at South Lancaster for a clear view, at Bainsville and the bay right at the Quebec border.
Cool daytime temperatures have kept ponds frozen longer this spring so traditional locations of interest are not currently being frequented by the geese. Brian Morin Cornwall Directions: Take Hwy 401 to Lancaster (exit 814). You can head north (left) for a few km out of town to see if any birds are along cty rd 34 or adjacent concessions. If not, head back over Hwy 401 and head south into South Lancaster, checking the river from the community dock. Backtrack to the lights and turn right on on South Service Rd. There are a few locations to check along the way. This will take you to the Quebec border. If you are remaining in Ontario, retrace your route a short distance from the border and cross over Hwy 401 to the North Service Rd. The birds could be along here or along other concessions a few km further north. _______________________________________________ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to birdalert@ontbirds.ca For information about ONTBIRDS visit http://www.ofo.ca/
