Cool temperatures and frequent north winds appeared to continue to slow the arrival of new migrants. Fifteen species have now been observed this spring on earliest ever dates.
NOTEWORTHY REPORTS: Common Loon Following last week's comment on no reports, a photograph of one on Lake of Two Rivers on April 1 was submitted. This is a record-early date for Algonquin by two days. Broad-winged Hawk An experienced observer saw a very early individual soaring with a Red-tailed Hawk over Highway 60 just west of Mew Lake on April 7. This was four days earlier than this hawk has ever been recorded here before. Snowy Owl A report of one at km 38 along Highway 60 on April 9 is under review. It would be just the second spring record of this extremely rare owl in Algonquin. BOREAL SPECIES: Spruce Grouse: A male near the register box on Spruce Bog Boardwalk on the weekend amused itself by letting some birders see it and totally vanishing for others, including myself. Black-backed Woodpecker: A female was a little north of the bridge on Opeongo Road on April 7. Gray Jay: Reports from Spruce Bog Boardwalk and Opeongo Road. Boreal Chickadee: Observed at Spruce Bog Boardwalk and along Opeongo Road on the weekend. FINCHES: Purple Finch: Frequently heard singing. Red Crossbill: Two were seen near Lookout Trail on April 7. White-winged Crossbill: One was noted on Opeongo Road at the Cameron Lake Road on April 7. Pine Siskin: Still numerous. Evening Grosbeak: At least 20 continue at the Visitor Centre feeders. 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. Locations are also described at: www.algonquinpark.on.ca The Visitor Centre at km 43 has recent bird sightings, feeders and information. The Visitor Centre restaurant is not open but visitors are welcome to bring a packed lunch and use the seating area. Hot and cold beverages, and light snacks are available to purchase, as well as the use of a microwave. Birders visiting during the week are usually able to enter the Visitor Centre to view the feeders and exhibits. Check in with staff to find out what birds are being seen. For more information see Algonquin Park events calendar at: http://www.algonquinpark.on.ca/involved/calendar/ _______________________________________________ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to [email protected] For information about ONTBIRDS visit http://www.ofo.ca/
