Following Bruce Di Labio's report of Snow Geese yesterday on the Riceville floodplain north of St. Isidore, the number of Snows mushroomed today. I had about 125,000 in three flocks but all within a relatively close area. This is the largest 'inland' flock we've had and much larger than normal spring flocks. I think many of these birds were part of the massive flock on the St. Lawrence last week.
The first flock was along Cty Rd. 9 on the east side as soon as you enter the floodplain and before the bridge over the South Nation River. A second larger flock was towards the east end of what is now a large lake on the flooded fields. A third large flock was east of the small bridge on Cty Rd 15, immediately east of the other flocks 1/2 km. I had one Ross's Goose. The birds at this site were much closer than the other two flocks. There were additional thousands in fields to the north. We will be getting another significant rainfall over the next two days which will guarantee the area remaining flooded for a while. Unlike conditions on the St. Lawrence last week, this site is a destination that should remain popular until the waters subside, even if the numbers thin a bit. The birds are feeding on the site which they could not do on the St. Lawrence and can move one field north for corn if they choose. They should be present throughout the day so early arrival is not necessary. From Thursday on, including this weekend, should be excellent. Brian Morin Cornwall Directions: If coming from Ottawa on Hwy 417 take the St isidore exit and proceed on Cty Rd 9 about 5 minuutes north of St. isidore. If coming from the southwest take the Brookdale exit in Cornwall, head north a short distance, turn right then left onto Hwy 138. At Hwy 417 head east and get off at the next exit (St. Isidore). Head north through town and continue north about 5 minutes. Once you have checked the site on Cty Rd 9, backtrack to the top of the hill and head east on the first road. You'll see geese on the 'lake' below the hill. Continue into the centre of town and turn left. Outside town there is a curve in the road. Go straight on the dirt road a short distance (dead end) and check the geese from there. Finally, get back onto the paved road (Cty Rd 15) and go around the corner. Geese should be on the right. If the road is closed due to flooding just park and observe. It is OK now but may be out by Thursday. This area is roughly 45 minutes north of Cornwall. _______________________________________________ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) - 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 Posting guidelines can be found at http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdsguide Visit the OFO Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OntarioFieldOrnithologists
