NORTHERN HAWK OWL Relatively few birders reported this week. Unusual for the date, all the snow has melted. The larger lakes are wide open.
A Northern Hawk Owl was observed in the Costello Creek Bog on the east side of Opeongo Road, north of the bridge, from at least December 1 to 3. It may still be in the area. BOREAL SPECIALTIES: Spruce Grouse: One was along the railway embankment between the chain gate and Wolf Howl Pond, accessed via Arowhon Road on December 1. Black-backed Woodpecker: No reports. Try Opeongo Road. Gray Jay: Regular at Wolf Howl Pond/West Rose Lake, Spruce Bog Boardwalk, and Opeongo Road. Two are coming to the Visitor Centre feeders. Boreal Chickadee: No reports. Try Opeongo Road and Wolf Howl Pond/West Rose Lake. WINTER FINCHES: Pine Grosbeak: A few are being seen regularly along Highway 60. Six or seven are coming to seed on the ground below the Visitor Centre feeders daily. Red Crossbill: Two were heard calling in flight over the Visitor Centre on December 4. Common Redpoll: A few were reported along Highway 60. Evening Grosbeak: Two were fairly regular at the Visitor Centre feeders again this week. DIRECTIONS: Algonquin Provincial 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 in winter 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. The Visitor Centre is open on weekends from 9 am to 5 pm. 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/ Good Birding! Ron Tozer Dwight, Ontario _______________________________________________ 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/
