Peterborough Area Past Field Trips

PeterboroughTop

January 1 2010 (Friday) Peterborough

Leader: Dave Milsom.

Only 4 birders, James Smith (Dundas), Bill Logan (Cobourg), Maurice Sherman (Toronto) and myself attended the OFO New Year’s Day trip around Peterborough today.

We had snow most of the day but the roads were generally fine. Only 33 species were recorded but we found some “quality” species.

At Hall’s Glen on County Road 6 north of Lakefield were 56 Bohemian Waxwings. Just north of there at a feeder were 4 Evening Grosbeaks, 2 male, 2 female.

Along County Road 6 were 12 Northern Common Ravens. At Nephton a 1st‐year Golden Eagle flew overhead. We missed the Red Crossbills seen earlier in the day at Petroglyphs Provincial Park. but were satisfied with Black‐backed, Pileated, Hairy and Downy Woodpeckers, White and Red‐breasted Nuthatches, Golden‐crowned Kinglet and Brown Creeper.

Close to the Petroglyphs Park, a Barred Owl sat on the wires adjacent to the road. Near the highway, a 2nd‐year Bald Eagle was roosting in a Hemlock.

Along the Otonabee River near Lakefield were Common Mergansers, Common Goldeneyes, American Black Duck, Mallard and Canada Geese. We also saw 2 Sharp‐shinned Hawks, one at Lakefield and one at Young’s Point.

Animals included 2 Red Fox and a White‐tailed Deer.

1 January 2008 Peterborough & Area

Leader: Dave Milsom.

8 brave birders met at the Zoo parking lot at 8:30 am and, despite the driving snow for most of the day, managed to find 29 species in the Peterborough area before the worsening weather brought the outing to a close at 3 pm. Best finds were 3 flocks of Snow Buntings, 28 Evening Grosbeaks (Country road 6 South of Petroglyphs), 21 Pine Grosbeaks (zoo area), a Hoary Redpoll amongst a flock of over 60 Common Redpolls on Division Road, Northern Shrike, Pileated Woodpecker, Sharp‐shinned Hawk and 21 Wild Turkeys. We were unable to find the Barred Owl on Division Road or the flock of Bohemian Waxwings seen yesterday near the airport. Many thanks to Jerry Ball for his expertise and leadership on this trip.

Reported by Dave Milsom.

1 January 2007 Peterborough and Area

Leaders: Dave Milsom, Gerry Ball.

Ten intrepid birders enjoyed the eight degree temperatures and drove the environs of Peterborough and Apsley today. Despite only recording 34 species, some good finds were made. Raptors included two Cooper’s Hawks, an adult Bald Eagle, a dark‐morph Rough‐legged Hawk, and three Red‐tailed Hawks. The group also saw three Common Ravens, a Northern Shrike, five Purple Finches (on highway #6 south of the Petroglyphs), a Red Crossbill and twelve Pine Siskins (on Jack Lake Road, Apsley). Also on highway #6, we had a flock of about forty Cedar Waxwings including five Bohemian Waxwings. All were feeding on juniper berries. A Belted Kingfisher was seen on the Otonabee River near Trent University.

Reported by Dave Milsom.

1 January 2006 Peterborough and Area

Leader: Gerry Ball. Thirteen birders traversed the snowy roads north of Peterborough today in only four vehicles (good car‐pooling !) and found less than 30 species but some interesting ones.

Best find was a Gray Jay at a feeder at #945 Road 504, east of Apsley. On Jack Lake Road in Apsley, we could not locate the Pine Grosbeaks seen Friday but did discover a flock of Evening Grosbeaks and a group of Common Redpolls, both visiting feeders.

On Sandy Lake Road, two Bald Eagles and several Common Ravens were seen. A single Snow Bunting north of Apsley, five American American Robins, a Belted Kingfisher on the Otonabee River, and an adult Northern Goshawk on Division Road, were other good sightings. Waterbirds included many Common Goldeneye, two Mute Swans, and several Common Mergansers. We could not relocate the flock of 140 Bohemian Waxwings seen yesterday at the Indian River on Division Road.

Many thanks to Jerry Ball for his expert leadership on this trip.

Reported by Dave Milsom.

9 January 2005 Petroglyphs Provincial Park

Leader: Dave Milsom.

A successful outing today for the 21 birders present. 11 Pine Grosbeaks on Northey Road prior to our fairly unproductive walk into Petroglyphs Park, where Bald Eagle, six Red-breasted and one White-breasted Nuthatch, 2 Hairy Woodpeckers, Golden-crowned Kinglet, three Rock Pigeons were all of note.

On our drive along County Road 6 to Lakefield, we found a Great Gray Owl near Stoney Lake, 15 Evening Grosbeaks, two groups of Redpolls, a Northern Shrike and a flock of Snow Buntings.

After a coffee stop in Lakefield, a mixed flock of 50 Bohemian and Cedar Waxwings were well seen at Bridge Street and Caroline near the Otonabee River. Several birders then headed south to Port Hope and were successful in seeing the Northern Hawk Owl. The rest birded Division Road and County Road 4 back to Peterborough through Duoro. A Pileated Woodpecker, 50 Bohemian Waxwings, and five Great Gray Owls were the highlights.

Reported by Dave Milsom

Petroglyphs Provincial ParkTop

11 January 2004 Petroglyphs Provincial Park

Leader: Geoff Carpentier.

Sixteen OFO members attended the outing to Petroglyphs and were treated to great weather, and fine company .. but sadly almost no birds. The woods were surprisingly lifeless. Not a squirrel or rabbit could be found. In fact on the four km hike we saw one Ruffed Grouse [well actually only two observers got it] and heard one chickadee!!!! At the entrance to the park we did find Evening Grosbeak, Raven, Pileated Woodpecker and Red-breasted Nuthatch with several more chickadees.

We spent our time learning about the culture of the native community, why the turtle is the logo for the park, what types of trees are there and how to tell a dog track from a wolf track ... we did see tracks of the latter, as well as coyote, snowshoe hare, deer, red squirrel and possibly fisher tracks!

We continued on to the ridge on the Unimin Mine property. Sadly, we went to our viewing area and were treated to increasing winds, plummeting temperatures, wind chill and four ravens. For the first time since the walk began in the 80's we did not see an eagle!

Reported by Geoff Carpentier

12 January 2003 Petroglyphs Provincial Park

Leader: Geoff Carpentier:

Eleven birders hiked Petroglyphs Park and environs to search for winter birds. Pickings were a little slim, but all of us enjoyed the marvelous weather (well, at least until the blizzard hit and we couldn't see our shoes!). Purple Finch, Red-breasted Nuthatch, White-breasted Nuthatch, Brown Creeper, Ruffed Grouse, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Hairy Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, and Common Raven were seen well and in good numbers. Oh yeah! we had killer looks at two Bald Eagles - one of them on a kill right beside the road. One was a second winter and one a first winter bird.

Thanks to the owners of the Unimin Mine who continue to give us access to the "ridge" so we can see these birds.

Reported by Geoff Carpentier

13 January 2002 Petroglyphs Provincial Park

Leader: Geoff Carpentier:

Seventeen OFO members visited the Petroglyphs Provincial park and environs. The park was somewhat quiet but the weather was pleasant and snow cover minimal. Highlights included: Common Raven, Ruffed Grouse, Pine Siskin, Evening Grosbeak, and Barred Owl. There were lots of signs that Black-backed Woodpeckers were about, but we couldn't actually find a bird - hmpffff! From here, thanks to the kind cooperation of Unimin Corporation, we visited their private landfill on the "Ridge" and were treated to killer ... in your face .... why do I do this stuff? ..... winds and a wind chill of minus a lot!!- and two Bald Eagles - one adult and one juvenile (probably 2nd year).

Other birds seen on the way home included Pileated Woodpecker, Snow Buntings and two Northern Shrikes. The latter are significant as they are scarce this year.

Reported by Geoff Carpentier

14 January 2001 Petroglyphs Provincial Park

Led by Geoff Carpentier.

Twenty-four birders traveled to Petroglyphs Provincial Park, north of Peterborough, to enjoy the first OFO outing of the millennium. And they were not disappointed!

Not only was the weather spectacular, but the birding was equally great. Temperatures hovered around freezing as the arriving birders stopped by the road to watch a first year and an adult Bald Eagle perched on a tree near a carcass and blind being used by a Canadian Geographic photographer. We walked the three kilometers through the park and were treated to many small flocks of Golden-crowned Kinglets, Brown Creepers, Black-capped Chickadees and both nuthatches. Interspersed were small flocks of mixed American Goldfinches and Pine Siskins, Hairy and Downy Woodpeckers and the ubiquitous Blue Jay and one Red-tailed Hawk eating a Ruffed Grouse. Overhead, White-winged Crossbills and Common Ravens sang and chortled the advent of spring [maybe I'm too optimistic!?!]. We did have “killer” looks at a three White-winged Crossbills as they sat in a Hemlock tree above us and sang. Throughout the woods, Ruffed Grouse seemed very abundant, as did White-tailed Deer. All in all, this was a most enjoyable walk!

But we're not quite done - near the end of the walk, we saw three Bald Eagles sitting in a tree - two adult and one sub-adult! From here we went to the ridge, where Unimin Mines once again allowed us access to their private property and even plowed the road to the observation area for us. Our sincerest thanks go out to Scott Robinson and the rest of the Unimin staff for their continued co-operation. We didn't stay long on the ridge because it was quite foggy and visibility was limited and we had already been fortunate to see eagles "up close and personal" !! By the way, Tim Dyson, a local birder and raptor specialist, has been co-operating with the mine staff and Ministry of Natural Resources and is placing beaver carcasses out for the eagles in the park and mine area. This greatly enhances the chances of seeing the birds.

As a last minute bonus, Bob and Maxine Prentice advised that they had seen a Great Gray Owl nearby that morning, so off we went and yes, we were successful. Due to the amount of brown in the bird, it appears that it was an older individual. It looked healthy and alert as it sat beside the road. As we watched it, a Northern Shrike and an American Goldfinch put on an amazing cat and mouse act for several seconds - not sure who won as they finally disappeared behind some distant trees.

Reported by Geoff Carpentier

Presqu‘ile Provincial ParkTop

13 September 2009 Presqu’ile Provincial Park

Leaders: Don and Ian Shanahan.

Over thirty birders, old friends and new, gathered at the Presqu’ile lighthouse this morning for a good day of birding in beautiful late‐summer weather. Our first go‐round of the lighthouse was unproductive and songbirds proved to be challenging all day. However, the beach yielded twelve shorebird species and the number of water birds seen in various habitats continued to impress all day.

Probably our best shorebird, a Long‐billed Dowitcher, required two or three visits for everyone to get a good look. The dowitcher’s tertials received much scrutiny. American Golden and Black‐bellied Plovers were seen well in the same area and, at Owen Point, a number of Baird’s Sandpipers and a single White‐rumped Sandpiper offered good scope looks. A nice selection of rather nervous‐looking ducks patrolled the waters off Owen Point, as did two Horned Grebes.

A viewing lunch at the Gilmour’s produced four woodpecker species and, at various bird baths, Gray Catbirds, two Northern Parulas, a Common Yellowthroat and a Magnolia Warbler.

After leaving the park we visited the Brighton Water Polishing Ponds thanks to the generosity of Tiny Lee. Sora and Virginia Rails offered repeated, open‐water looks and both yellowlegs species as well as a pair of Stilt Sandpipers mingled with the Blue and Green‐winged Teal in the shallows. Above, a Sharp‐shinned Hawk was seen rising in a thermal and an Osprey “rode shotgun” on a passing immature Bald Eagle. Across the road, we saw Northern Shovelers, Wood Ducks, Hooded Mergansers and a couple of dozen Bonaparte’s Gulls.

Several group members had lifers, most had good looks at birds presenting identification challenges and everyone enjoyed the good companionship of the day. In total, the group saw 89 species. Many thanks for the help provided by my Presqu’ile friends, the hospitality of Bill and Margaret and Tiny Lee. Also, thanks to Terry for the check list.

7 September 2008 Presqu’ile Provincial Park

Leaders: Don and Ian Shanahan.

A large, eager group started the day at the Presqu’ile lighthouse on a beautiful, late‐summer morning. A circulating songbird flock proved challenging to observe but did offer good looks at Northern Parulas, Blackpoll and Blackburnian Warblers. We eventually tallied 13 warbler species. A couple of Philadelphia Vireos stood out among four vireo species seen in the same cluster of willows. After a couple of circuits of the foliage‐rich lighthouse area, we headed for Owen Point where numerous shorebirds were visible at close range and offered great looks for those wanting to compare and contrast the various species. All five “peep“ species were seen with the last being a dandy juvenile Western Sandpiper seen in the rain on our second visit to the point. The latter bird was a lifer for several group members. Throughout, a single juvenile Red Knot foraged amidst a squadron of earth‐moving Ruddy Turnstones, while juvenile Black‐bellied and American Golden‐Plovers occasionally offered brief glimpses as they foraged on the gravel bar and Gull Island.

The rains came after lunch and made songbird viewing more difficult. All was forgotten, however, when we visited “Tiny“ Lee at the Brighton water polishing ponds where six new shorebird species waded in close proximity to one another and brought our shorebird total up to 20 species. Good comparisons were again available including the three Tringa species (the yellowlegs as well as Solitary Sandpipers) in a single field of view and two Stilt Sandpipers feeding nearby Lesser Yellowlegs and Short‐billed Dowitchers. Marsh Wrens were calling in the cattails and several group members saw both Virginia Rail and Sora, thus bringing our species total to 90.

We would like to thank all group members for their enthusiasm and perseverance, particularly when the rains came. We hope to see you all next year.

Reported by Don and Ian Shanahan

9 September 2007 Presqu’ile Provincial Park

Leaders: Don and Ian Shanahan.

Threatening grey skies greeted the small group of birders who met at the Presqu’ile Lighthouse this morning. Initially action was good with nice looks at a singing Carolina Wren, glimpses at hummingbirds darting about jewel weed and quick looks at several warblers. Then the rain came and increased so that the group had to seek shelter beneath the front porch of the Lighthouse Interpretive Centre. While we waited, a Great Black‐backed Gull (now uncommon at Presqu’ile) was spotted off‐shore and a darting flock of warblers moved quickly through the lakeshore treeline. Then things slowed right down and it was hard to imagine that eventually warblers would win the species count fifteen to fourteen over shorebirds.

Most of the group travelled through the campgrounds to Chatterton Point where good numbers of shorebirds foraged at close range on the shaly shoreline. Good looks were had at various peeps and at Baird’s and White‐rumped Sandpipers, often in the same scope field of view. A warbler flock passing between us and the shorebirds contained a brightly coloured, portrait‐grade Red‐Breasted Nuthatch. Returning to the Lighthouse, we encountered a couple of Merlins that were harassing a crow and several Blue Jays. After lunch, with the rain persisting, we briefly picked up another warbler flock that contained a Northern Parula and a Bay‐breasted Warbler. A female Indigo Bunting flitted about a Dogwood bush with a couple of Nashville Warblers.

En route to Owen Point, we discovered several clusters of attractive Bottled Gentians. Besides a lot more rain, Owen Point offered several juvenile Black‐bellied Plovers, Semipalmated Plovers, a distant American Golden Plover and a Trumpeter Swan. A few Monarch Butterflies bounced around the area prior to their departure to the south. Again, wherever there was jewel weed there were zipping hummingbirds. After absorbing our quota of rainwater, the determined remnants of our group travelled out of the park to the Brighton water polishing ponds. These were made accessible thanks to the kindness of Keith Lee, manager of Brighton’s water treatment facilities.

A large dead tree next to the ponds was full of Cedar Waxwings and the ponds contained Lesser Yellowlegs, a Solitary Sandpiper and a colourful Short‐billed Dowitcher. Common Moorhens and a Marsh Wren sang in the cattails beside the ponds. Across the road in the sewage lagoons, we found good numbers of Wood Ducks, including a striking male, two female Common Goldeneyes and several Bonaparte’s Gulls. A Sora popped up in front of us to make a short flight along shoreline vegetation.

At wrap‐up time, our group had seen a hard‐earned eighty‐six species. Thanks to all who helped make this challenging day a success.

Reported by Don and Ian Shanahan.

10 September 2006 Presqu’ile Provincial Park

Over 40 well‐bundled‐up birders met at a chilly Presqu’ile Lighthouse. Warblers and Vireos were abundant but, possibly due to squadrons of Sharp‐shinned Hawks patrolling over the tree tops, remained nervous and very fast moving. It usually took a couple of tries to get a get a good look at any one species but eventually 14 were tallied. American Redstarts were abundant, several Northern Parulas highlighted morning sightings and the final warbler species seen was a Blackburnian. A couple of female Scarlet Tanagers were also spotted and zipping Ruby‐throated Hummingbirds were present near most patches of Jewel Weed.

Surprising for Presqu’ile, shorebirds were almost completely absent. The total number of shorebirds seen was exceeded by a single flock of American Pipits that flew past Owen Point. Three unexpected Whimbrels at least put a stamp of quality on the meagre shorebird list.

Some trip highlights included a young birder bagging several lifers, the astonishing antics of a very young Black Swallowtail (butterfly) and the presence of this trip’s youngest ever participant.

Thanks to everyone in the group who helped make the day so interesting.

Reported and led by Don and Ian Shanahan.

18 September 2005 Presqu‘ile Provincial Park, Fall migrants, shorebirds, hawks

Leaders: Don and Ian Shanahan.

A beautiful, late summer day unfolded for 34 birders at Presqu‘ile. The group began near the lighthouse where songbirds, and particularly, warblers, abounded. Most of the darting forms were Yellow-rumped Warblers; however, the circling flocks allowed most group members the opportunity to grab good looks at up to 12 warbler species. Highlights included a Northern Parula, a striking Black-throated Green Warbler and a Blackburnian Warbler. Near the warblers, a Philadelphia Vireo frequently foraged with a Red-eyed Vireo and a Scarlet Tanager or two could usually be found.

Though the beach and the marsh appeared to offer little throughout the afternoon, sharp-eyed group members continued to produce good birds. Two American Pipits were spotted on the beach and Redheads and both teal were located in Popham Bay. Later, a Great Egret, two American Bittern and a Common Moorhen were discovered amidst the marsh's thick cattail growth. Late-season shorebirding, not helped by marauding Merlins, offered mostly Sanderlings and Black-bellied Plovers with a smattering of peeps thrown in. Perhaps the day's most unique sighting was a large coyote on Gull Island which we observed as it decided how to avoid birders walking nearby. Among several dragonfly species seen were uncommonly high numbers of the normally uncommon Black Saddlebags.

Reported by Don and Ian Shanahan

7 September 2003 Presqu‘ile Provincial Park

Leaders: Don and Ian Shanahan.

A beautiful, late summer day greeted over 50 birders at Presqu‘ile today. A morning walk to Owen Point offered close-range looks at 12 shorebird species. Although marauding Merlins and Sharp-shinned Hawks kept the shorebirds on the move, most viewers saw individual species quite well. These included Baird's, White-rumped and Pectoral Sandpipers, Short-billed Dowitchers, Sanderlings and Red Knots. The latter were life birds for several group members and several more birders made good progress in sorting out the 'peeps'. Various dabbling ducks flocked about Gull Island and Caspian Terns and Bonaparte's Gulls flew frequently about the viewing area. The next stop included the Lighthouse and Paxton Drive where songbirds proved to be very elusive. This situation was probably made worse by the constant presence of soaring raptors. The group persisted, however, and eventually came up with ten species of warblers. Just before lunch the Gilmour garden yielded bathing Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, several abrasive Ruby-throated Hummingbirds and a manic Wilson's Warbler. Songbirds continued to be tough after lunch but a pair of Merlins compensated by putting on an exciting flight display over the Calf Pasture lagoon. Later, on the way back to Owen Point, a foraging male Northern Parula was well-seen by all. As usual, our second visit to Owen Point produced great looks at previously seen shorebirds and three new species including a poorly-seen Buff-breasted Sandpiper on Gull Island.

Throughout the group's travels good looks were had at 13 butterfly species. Also, a sphinx moth larva with pupation on its mind was seen tunneling into the earth by the side of Paxton Drive. The eight species of dragonflies seen featured three types of meadowhawks, several Black Saddlebags and an uncommon Rusty Snaketail. A very full day in the field produced 75 species of birds.

Reported by Don and Ian Shanahan Brighton

8 September 2002 Presqu‘ile Provincial Park

Leaders: Don and Ian Shanahan.

A large and enthusiastic group braved stifling temperatures while searching for various birds at Presqu‘ile today. A nice count of 15 shorebird species, mostly seen at close range, offered many informative studies of species that can be confusing. Most birds were juveniles and fresh specimens of Black-bellied and American Golden Plovers as well as Least and Semipalmated Sandpipers were seen side-by-side. Also present were good numbers of Pectoral Sandpipers and Sanderlings and several active Ruddy Turnstones. Many group members appreciated the chance to compare Baird's (juveniles) with White-rumped Sandpipers (adults). Much productive discussion followed these observations. An afternoon return to Owen Point turned up an immaculate Short-billed Dowitcher, again seen at very close range. Merlins were occasionally present but fortunately didn't scatter the shorebirds from the viewing areas. Gravel bars about Gull Island offered good numbers of both Common and Caspian Terns and Bonaparte's Gulls. The hoards of Mallards congregating about Gull Island also offered up American Black Ducks and Blue-winged and Green-winged Teal. Passerines were in short supply and, given the very hot conditions, those present showed little inclination to show themselves. As a result, coverage of several normally productive trails produced more anecdotes from group members than birds. An open area of the Presqu‘ile Marsh produced a Great Egret, several immature Wood Ducks and Common Moorhens and a soaring Northern Harrier.

Several dragonfly aficionados enhanced the group's experience by sharing their field knowledge of the challenging odonata group. As a result, everyone had good looks at Black Saddlebags and Yellow-legged Meadowhawks, dragonflies uncommon in the Presqu‘ile area. Amidst a mediocre season for butterflies, many Viceroys were seen along with both Crescents and several very fresh Question Marks.

Reported by Don and Ian Shanahan

9 September 2001 Presqu‘ile Provincial Park

Led by Don and Ian Shanahan.

Oppressively hot weather made birding extremely challenging today on the OFO Presqu‘ile Trip. Starting at beach four, the group had an introductory look at some "peeps" or small shorebirds and a handful of American Pipits.

En route to Owen Point several groups of agitated Black-capped Chickadees were seen, but, unfortunately, as was the case for most of the day, no warblers could be found with them. Owen Point offered good looks at a juvenile Red Knot, Black-bellied and American Golden Plovers, Baird's and Pectoral Sandpipers plus a worn adult White-rumped Sandpiper.

Close range studies allowed some group members to begin sorting out some of the smaller sandpipers. The reason for the general nervousness of all shorebirds was made clearer throughout the day by the appearances of a Merlin, an immature Northern Goshawk and a Peregrine Falcon. Ducks seen off Owen Point included Northern Pintails, American Wigeon and both kinds of teal. Later, an obliging quartet of immature Wood Ducks were seen in the Calf Pasture lagoon.

Despite much searching, few passerines could be found. Exceptions were provided by several Black and White Warblers, a male Cape May Warbler and a "green" Blackpoll Warbler. Very young Cedar Waxwings foraging in warbler territory provided a few puzzling moments.

One male Purple Finch was seen and, amazingly, no sparrows of any kind were observed.

Near the end of the day, the group had a close-up look at a flock of Red Admirals plus an Eastern Comma perched on a patch of goldenrod. An afternoon return to steaming Owen Point rewarded the group with a look at a juvenile Little Gull.

10 September 2000 Presqu‘ile Provincial Park

Led by Don Shanahan.

Members of OFO`s field trip to Presqu`ile were treated to the spectacle of a major shorebird staging area operating at full capacity. Hundreds of shorebirds fed, flocked and flew about Owen Point and nearby habitat rich Gull Island. Bonaparte`s Gulls mingled with the shorebirds and added to the cacophony of anxiously calling birds. Merlins and Sharp-shinned Hawks showed observers some of the perils faced in a "day in the life" of a shorebird. Fifteen of the eighteen shorebird species seen in the park on the weekend were seen by the group, usually at close range and in good light. Highlights were provided by side-by-side studies of both juveniles and adults of Black-bellied and American Golden Plovers. Juvenile Baird`s Sandpipers and adult White-rumped Sandpipers were frequently visible in the same field as numerous "peeps" and Sanderlings. Red Knots and Ruddy Turnstones regularly appeared and then were gone as they commuted to and from Gull Island. Caspian and Common Terns provided constant vocalizations and some amazing aeronautical stunts just off shore from the shorebird flocks.

Songbirds were less co-operative than the shorebirds; however, after covering many trails the group was able to find 14 warbler species, including Northern Parula, Bay-breasted, Yellow, and Blackburnian Warblers. En route to birding spots the group had good looks at a Red-bellied Snake, a Blue-spotted Salamander and the unique Bleeding Tooth Mushroom. As usual, a second look at the beach provided the last stop of the day. Back at Owen Point, many in the group took the opportunity to look at formerly problematic shorebirds, and most left with a greater appreciation for the lifestyles of these amazing nomads.

Reported by Don Shanahan

Prince Edward Point
National Wildlife AreaTop

4 May 2008 Prince Edward Point

Leader: Terry Sprague.

Thirteen OFO members from Toronto, Picton, Kingston, Napanee and Stratford birded Prince Edward Point today and found 78 species. Temperature was 10 degrees with partly cloudy skies and strong winds by early afternoon. Ten species of warblers were checked off, but missing were some obvious ones such as yellows. We did, however, manage to find Prairie, Blue‐winged, Northern Parula, Blackburnian, Nashville, and Palm Warblers, among the more notable ones, as well as a Yellow‐throated Vireo. Both White‐winged and Surf Scoters were present in Prince Edward Bay among the nine species of waterfowl spotted. A persistent Wilson’s snipe winnowed non‐stop all day and a flock of about 30 Rusty Blackbirds was present in the Point Traverse area for much of the day. One of the more unusual finds was a rather displaced Marsh Wren who chattered deep within a tangle of deciduous shrubs near the banding area, a long way from the nearest cattail marsh. A Bald Eagle floated lazily over us during lunch, and both Cooper’s and Sharp‐shinned Hawks were found, as well as a Broad‐winged Hawk. Despite the unsuitable habitat, several Bobolinks entertained us upon our arrival with their rollicking song. Both Hermit Thrush and Wood Thrush were seen. Baltimore Orioles were present, lots of White‐throated Sparrows, and a few White‐Crowned Sparrows, and a small flock of Purple Finches at the banding station.

Early buttercup, early saxifrage, spring beauties, fragrant sumac and Dutchman’s breeches were all in bloom. The bane of Prince Edward Point, dog strangling vine, was just beginning to peek through the ground, a plant so insidious and aggressive that it has caused garlic mustard to become something of a rarity.

Reported by Terry Sprague.

13 May 2007 Prince Edward Point National Wildlife Area

Leader: Terry Sprague.

Seventeen birders joined Terry Sprague today at the south‐east tip of Prince Edward County for a tour of the Price Edward Point Wildlife Area.

A total of 79 species including 17 warbler species were seen.

Highlights included excellent views of Cape May Warblers and Northern Parula Warblers. Blue‐gray Gnatcatchers were much in evidence including a pair tending a nest at eye level close to the road. Birders had an opportunity to compare Red‐shouldered Hawk and Red‐tailed Hawks which were circling together overhead.

An additional highlight was a visit to the banding station to see the banding activity.

OFO thanks Terry Sprague for once again leading an excellent trip.

Reported by Chester Gryski.

14 May 2006 Prince Edward Point National Wildlife Area

Eight OFO members and friends were not daunted by the weather forecast that called for rain and joined Terry Sprague at 7:00 a.m. at the Prince Edward Point Wildlife Area. 78 species were observed. The highlights included a very co‐operative Clay‐colored Sparrow, a less co‐operative Mourning Warbler, and also Northern Parula, Wilson’s Warbler, Bay‐breasted Warbler, Cape May Warbler, Wild Turkey, Green Heron, White‐winged Scoter, Wilson’s Snipe, Sharp‐shinned Hawk, Blue‐headed Vireo, Warbling Vireo, Philadelphia Vireo and Scarlet Tanager. Participants also had an opportunity to view the banding activities at the Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory (PEPtBo).

Reported by Chester Gryski and Terry Sprague.

15 May 2005 Prince Edward Point National Wildlife Area

Leader: Terry Sprague.

Sunny skies and a cacophony of bird song greeted the dozen or so OF members from Toronto, Ottawa, Kingston, and places in between, as they met at Prince Edward Point on May 15th to sample some spring birding at this remote corner of Prince Edward County. Quickly becoming known as the "Point Pelee of eastern Lake Ontario," Prince Edward Point has recorded well over 300 of the County's checklist of 340 confirmed species.

This south-eastern tip of Prince Edward County harbours phenomenal numbers of songbird migrants in May, and weather conditions were ideal for a successful day of birding. A light all night rain had brought in good numbers of migrants, and a visit to the Point Traverse Woods within the Prince Edward Point National Wildlife Area found trees and bushes seething with warblers. Northern Parulas were common enough that we soon lost interest in them after the first 30 minutes, and at least a half dozen Golden-winged Warblers were also found, among the 20 species of warblers ticked off on the day's checklist. Vireos included Blue-headed, Warbling and Red-eyed.

At the Prince Edward Point Lighthouse woods, Orchard orioles cavorted in the black willows with Baltimore Orioles and a Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher was also seen. A Yellow-billed Cuckoo was also present in the same area. The small colony of Clay-colored Sparrows were thoughtfully singing in their usual nesting area behind the banding station and all members had good looks at several individuals as they flew from one red cedar to another. Another single bird, discovered only two days earlier, was also singing in an open field west of the harbour, suggesting another colony starting up.

Other notable finds included Common Loon, Long-tailed Ducks (which left the area five days later), Pileated Woodpecker, Great Crested Flycatcher, Common Raven (a regularly encountered resident individual), Hermit and Wood Thrush, Scarlet Tanager, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, and Indigo Bunting.

As Osprey passing over the Point Traverse Woods, and a Merlin that posed obligingly at the top of an ash tree, rounded out a perfect day of birding for the members. Ninety-eight species were recorded by the group. Reported by Terry Sprague www.naturestuff.net By the end of the day, the group had recorded 39 species.

Reported by John Miles

16 May 2004 Prince Edward Point National Wildlife Area

Leader: Terry Sprague.

Approximately 15 OFO members turned up for our annual field trip to Prince Edward Point on Sunday, 16 May, under the leadership of Terry Sprague. The trip coincided with Bird Migration Awareness Week, an annual event held every year during this week to draw attention to the excellent birding opportunities at this south-eastern most tip of Prince Edward County.

The spring migration was in full swing and close to 30 species of warblers were present that weekend. Some 60 pairs of Cliff Swallows were nesting at the lighthouse and members also had a look at a Blue-gray Gnatcatcher's nest. Clay-colored Sparrows were in their traditional breeding area in the field behind the Bird Observatory at the tip, and there were still close to 100 Long-tailed Ducks out on Prince Edward Bay. Among the more interesting bird species seen during the day included Scarlet Tanager, Orchard Orioles, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Blackpoll Warblers, Bay-breasted Warbler, Wilson's Warbler, Northern Waterthrush, Philadelphia Vireo, and Black-billed Cuckoo. Approximately 80 species of birds were recorded during the day. Next spring's OFO trip for Prince Edward Point is scheduled for Sunday, 15 May.

Reported by Terry Sprague

17 May 2003 Prince Edward Point National Wildlife Area

Leader: Terry Sprague.

This trip, which has become an annual event now, was attended by 15 OFO members from Picton, Guelph, Warkworth, Campbellford, Brighton, Collingwood, Brooklin and Toronto. The trip tied in with Bird Migration Awareness Week, held each year to draw attention to the fine birding opportunities to be found at Prince Edward Point and surrounding area. However, migration during the week leading up to the OFO trip lacked the spectacular waves and fallouts that have made Prince Edward Point famous. Migration was steady, with all species typical for the season present, but pickings were particularly poor on 17 May. Members combed the entire Prince Edward Point/Point Traverse area as well as the wooded swamp two fields west of the lighthouse, coming up with a respectable count including Gadwall, Blue-headed Vireo, Wood Thrush, Brown Thrasher, Tennessee Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler, Scarlet Tanager, Clay-Colored Sparrows, and Indigo Bunting, along with other species normal for this time of year.

Reported by Terry Sprague

18 May 2002 Prince Edward Point National Wildlife Area

Leader: Terry Sprague.

Meet at 7 a.m. at the bird sightings board at the Ducks Dive Cottages & Charters, just outside the entrance to Prince Edward Point National Wildlife Area. From Picton, take County Road 10 (Lake Street at the LCBO) for 8 km to Cherry Valley, then left at the stop sign and follow for 6 km to Milford. At the post office, turn right and follow County Road 10 to the Mariner's Museum at South Bay. Turn right and follow County Road 13 for 17 km to Prince Edward Point. Spring migrants.

19 May 2001 Prince Edward Point

Led by Terry Sprague.

A total of 11 birders from Picton, Toronto, Peterborough, Warkworth, Campbellford and Alexandria turned up for the OFO birding trip to Prince Edward Point. The trip fell on the tail end of a very successful birding festival week in which close to 170 species of birds had been seen in Prince Edward County, most of them at Prince Edward Point. Approximately 80 species of birds were checked off on the OFO trip and we were in time to see some of the later migrants such as Mourning Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, Wilson's Warbler and Willow Flycatcher, but not so late as to miss any of the earlier migrants. Warbler and vireo activity in the Point Traverse woods was good and among the better finds were Philadelphia Vireo, several Tennessee Warblers (singing), Ovenbird, and a large migrating pocket of Bay-breasted Warblers and Chestnut-sided Warblers which seemed to descend on us at one point, then move off.

There was an abundance of birds including Sharp-shinned Hawk, Osprey, nesting Cliff Swallows, and a nice variety of warblers. There were still a few Long-tailed Ducks out on Prince Edward Bay where earlier in the week, long strings numbering 35,000 had been noisily feeding. A stop along Babylon Road, west of the Prince Edward National Wildlife Area produced Clay-colored Sparrows and an Upland Sandpiper.

The Prince Edward Point National Wildlife Area is 750 hectares in size and was purchased by the Canadian Wildlife Service in 1976 in recognition of its importance to bird migration. Over 300 species have been recorded there, with occasional spring concentrations and groundings that rival those found at Point Pelee.

Reported by Terry Sprague