New arrivals this week included Green-winged Teal, Double-crested Cormorant, American Bittern, American Kestrel, Wilson's Snipe, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Horned Lark (Northern), Tree Swallow, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Hermit Thrush, Pine Warbler, Savannah Sparrow, Swamp Sparrow, and White-throated Sparrow.
NOTEWORTHY RECORDS Grasshopper Sparrow One was observed on the Old Airfield near the row of alders bordering Lake of Two Rivers on April 17 and 18. This was the seventh record for Algonquin Park. The previous earliest Park date was May 28 and the most recent observation had been in 1989. Le Conte's Sparrow Birders looking for the Grasshopper Sparrow on April 18 were surprised to discover this sparrow on the Old Airfield as well. The previous earliest date for Algonquin was April 28. BOREAL SPECIES Spruce Grouse On April 14, two males were along Arowhon Road near the Old Railway, two males and a female were near Wolf Howl Pond, and a male was along Opeongo Road north of the bridge. Boreal Chickadee Four were observed near West Rose Lake on April 13. Gray Jay Observed on Arowhon Road near the Old Railway, and along Opeongo Road at the Cameron Lake Road junction and north of the bridge on April 14. FINCHES Purple Finch Widespread and regular at the Visitor Centre feeders. Red Crossbill One at Lake Travers in the Park's East Side on April 14. White-winged Crossbill On April 14, one was observed at Wolf Howl Pond. Pine Siskin About 20 coming to the Visitor Centre feeder daily. Widespread elsewhere but not as obvious as earlier, and perhaps lower numbers. Evening Grosbeak Ten or more are still coming daily to 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. It is open on weekends from 9 am to 5 pm. 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 calend _______________________________________________ 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/
