Inspired by Jeff Skevington's amazing report of 29 Nelson's Sparrows on October 6, and knowing that the timing was perfect for the relatively short fall migration periods of these sparrows through Algonquin Park (Nelson's: September 30 to October 14; Le Conte's: September 19 to October 20), four of us made the long drive to Lake Travers today.
The lack of wind aided spotting the movements of sparrows in the marsh vegetation, and pishing appeared to encourage them to perch briefly for great views. After about an hour of wading the sedge marsh we had seen a minimum of 12 to 15 Nelson's Sparrows and 2 to 4 Le Conte's Sparrows. Directions (as per Jeff Skevington): Lake Travers is the last access point (~km 77) on the Barron Canyon (Sand Lake) Road. Closest access is via Highway 17 near Petawawa. You can walk the shoreline from the Lake Travers parking lot. The wetland is midway along the south shore. Boots are recommended. A short cut to the centre of the south shore is from the orange flashing light at the intersection to the radio observatory (the only such light on the road). Walk north at the light (do not block the gate) until you get to a staff house. Follow the road to the right of the staff house down to the lake, turn right and you are at the wetland. Ron Tozer Dwight, ON _______________________________________________ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to [email protected] For information about ONTBIRDS including how to unsubscribe visit http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup
