Winter continues unabated in Algonquin, but a few very early signs of spring are being noted. Barred Owls and Northern Saw-whet Owls are calling near the Park, and likely within it as well although unreported. Researchers have now found eight Gray Jay nests under construction.
Tomorrow (Friday, February 28), you will be able to watch live streaming video of the Visitor Centre bird feeders via the Algonquin Park Webcam at: http://www.algonquinpark.on.ca/virtual/webcam/index.php BOREAL SPECIALTIES: Spruce Grouse: One was observed feeding in a spruce at campsite #1 in Mew Lake Campground on February 22. Although infrequently seen in this campground, Spruce Grouse inhabit nearby spruce stands bordering the Madawaska River. Black-backed Woodpecker: Try the Wolf Howl Pond/West Rose Lake area on Mizzy Lake Trail. Gray Jay: Seen regularly along Opeongo Road and at Spruce Bog Boardwalk. Boreal Chickadee: The Wolf Howl Pond/West Rose Lake area on Mizzy Lake Trail and the black spruce section along Opeongo Road continue to produce sightings. WINTER FINCHES: Purple Finch: Regular at the Visitor Centre feeders, and elsewhere along Highway 60 such as the entrance to Mew Lake Campground where they are frequently seen feeding on ash seeds. Red Crossbill: A few are being seen and heard at various locations along Highway 60 and Opeongo Road. White-winged Crossbill: Good locations to observe this species include Spruce Bog Boardwalk and Opeongo Road. American Goldfinch: A few are regular at the Visitor Centre feeders. Evening Grosbeak: About 45 were at the Visitor Centre feeders this week, especially in the morning. Birders reporting records through eBird are encouraged to share their lists with the Algonquin Park Bird Records account (APPbirds). Good Birding! Ron Tozer Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired) Dwight, ON 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 Information Guide (with a map of birding locations mentioned here) at the East Gate or the West Gate. Locations are also described at: www.algonquinpark.on.ca The Visitor Centre and restaurant at km 43 are open on weekends from 9 am to 5 pm during winter. The Visitor Centre has recent bird sightings and information. It is usually possible to access the building on weekdays in winter from 9 am to 4 pm. Visitors are welcome to bring a packed lunch and use the restaurant seating area on weekdays. Hot and cold beverages, and light snacks are available to purchase then, as well as the use of a microwave. For more information see the 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 including how to unsubscribe visit http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup
