GREAT GRAY OWL BOHEMIAN WAXWING HOARY REDPOLL At this time last year, we were in an unprecedented warm spell that ultimately resulted in the record early arrival of 14 species in the Park during March. To learn which 14 birds were involved, see updates to Birds of Algonquin Park at: http://www.algonquinpark.on.ca/bap
There will not be a repeat this year! Below average temperatures, some new snow almost daily, deep snow on the ground, and very little open water may result in later than average arrivals this spring. Despite the influx of new arrivals elsewhere in southern Ontario this week, none were reported in Algonquin. There were only two reports of Great Gray Owls. Locations this week were: -March 17: one at km 38 at 8 am. -March 20: one photographed at km 50.5 at 3 pm. Fourteen Bohemian Waxwings observed at the Visitor Centre on March 18 were likely birds moving back to the breeding range. BOREAL SPECIALTIES: Spruce Grouse: No reports. Try Spruce Bog Boardwalk. Black-backed Woodpecker: One was at the Spruce Bog Boardwalk parking lot on March 16. Gray Jay: Regular at Spruce Bog Boardwalk and Opeongo Road. Boreal Chickadee: Up to three are being seen regularly around the suet feeder near the trail register book on Spruce Bog Boardwalk. Three were heard along Opeongo Road on March 20. WINTER FINCHES: Pine Grosbeak: Three were still at the Visitor Centre feeders, and a few small flocks were noted along the highway. Most will head north when milder temperatures next occur. White-winged Crossbill: One was reported at the Visitor Centre on March 17. Common Redpoll: Up to 60 are at the Visitor Centre feeders regularly. Hoary Redpoll: One or two of the "Southern" subspecies (exilipes) were still at the Visitor Centre feeders today. CONDITIONS IN ALGONQUIN Snow depth is now about 32 cm. See: http://tinyurl.com/algonquin-snow To learn more about Winter in Algonquin Park, see: http://tinyurl.com/algonquin-winter 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 is open on weekends from 9 am to 5 pm. It is usually possible to access the building on weekdays as well. The Visitor Centre has recent bird sightings, feeders and information. Visitors are welcome to bring a packed lunch and use the restaurant seating area. Hot and cold beverages, and light snacks are available to purchase, as well as the use of a microwave. For more information see Algonquin Park events calendar at: http://www.algonquinpark.on.ca/involved/calendar/ Good Birding! Please let us know what you see. Ron Tozer _______________________________________________ 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/
