NeilyWorld      Birding Ottawa - Rare Bird Summaries

         TUFTED TITMOUSE:   From Dec. 22, 2007 to at least Apr. 5, 2008, a Tufted Titmouse was seen at the feeders at 103 Manitou Street, Forest Park, Embrun, ON. The feeders can be seen from the road. Received via the OFNC RBA 3:00 PM, Dec. 22, 2007, thanks to Chris Lewis, Ottawa, ON.
Photo taken Dec. 23, 2007 on the left is courtesy Tony Beck.       Return to Main List

         TOWNSEND'S SOLITAIRE:   On Dec. 21, 2007, a Townsend's Solitaire was seen and photographed by Francine Streeting in the Fisher Heights area, Ottawa, ON. The sighting came to light on Dec. 27, when Tony Beck received the photos. The bird was relocated at 7 Millbrook Crescent, where it perched in prominent positions at the tops of trees but occasionally took berries in the small conifer at the front of the house (left-hand side), where it was much less conspicuous. Still present to at least Apr. 3, 2008. Directions: from Highway 417 (the Queensway), take exit 122 or Parkdale Avenue South. Go south on Parkdale 0.7 km to Carling AVenue, turn right or west on Carling and drive 0.3 km to Fisher Avenue. Turn south or left onto Fisher and travel 2.7 km to Deer Park Road. Turn right on Deer Park Road and go 0.4 km to Millbrook Crescent. Received via OFNC RBA 8:00 PM and ONTbirds 8:41 PM, Dec. 27, 2007, thanks to Gordon Pringle and Tony Beck, Ottawa, ON.
Photo taken Dec. 29, 2007 on the left is courtesy Tony Beck.       Return to Main List

         HARLEQUIN DUCK:   From Dec. 14 to at least Mar. 7, 2008, a female Harlequin Duck was seen near the Champlain Bridge on the Quebec side or from Bate Island. Directions for, and further information about, these sites can be found on the Champlain Bridge or Bate Island pages. Received via ONTbirds 2:40 PM, Dec. 14, 2007, thanks to Paul Matthews, Ottawa, ON. Found by Bob Cermak.
Photo taken Dec. 23, 2007 on the left is courtesy Heather Pickard.      Return to Main List

         HARLEQUIN DUCK:   From Dec. 9 to at least Jan. 12, 2008, a female Harlequin Duck was seen at the Deschênes Rapids, Aylmer, QC. It was first seen above the rapids on the Quebec side of the Ottawa River. The bird has also been seen near or below the shallow rocks on the Ottawa side. Directions for, and further information about, these sites can be found on the Deschênes Rapids - QC, Britannia Conservation Area, and Deschênes Rapids - ON pages. Received via ONTbirds 11:42 AM, Dec. 30, 2007, thanks to Marie Hélène Giguère, Gatineau, ON.       Return to Main List

         SLATY-BACKED GULL:   A 3rd winter Slaty-backed Gull was seen at the Ottawa Valley Waste Recovery Centre on County Road 56, also called Woito Station Road, south of Pembroke, ON on November 20 to at least November 27, 2007. This is the same location that a Slaty-backed Gull showed up around these dates in 2003. This year's bird was below the garbage on the lower flats, which is visible with a scope, and it was also on the recently dumped garbage. To enter the landfill as a guest, call ahead (613-735-7537) to the landfill and ask for Elizabeth Graham. She has some rules and wants everyone to check in at the entry office. You wait for the green light and then drive up on the scales to check in. The best time to visit is between 11 AM and 1 PM. You shouldn't leave your car unless you are wearing certified safety gear. It is also a good idea to stay in your car and use it as a blind, driving near the gulls very slowly. Scope from the window, although binoculars are sometimes enough. Other gulls (c. 300) at the landfill are Herring, Great Black-backed, Ring-billed and Glaucous. For those who'd like to see pictures of this bird, they are available for viewing on the Pembroke Field-Naturalists' website on the Slaty-backed Gull page. Directions: Drive north of Eganville staying on Highway 41 for about 14 km, then turn left onto B-Line Rd. Go about 2 km up the Line travelling around a curve to the left and at the end of the curve turn left onto County Road 56, also called Woito Station Road. The landfill is on your right about 3 km down County Road 56. The dump is closed Saturday afternoon (after Dec. 1st) and Sunday (all year). Received via ONTBirds 6:11 PM, Nov. 20, 2007, thanks to Chris Michener, Golden Lake. Discovered by Chris Michener and Manson Fleguel.      Return to Main List

         GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE:   On Nov. 18, 2007, a Greater White-fronted Goose was seen with the Canada Geese at the Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds, south of Ottawa, ON. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds page. Received via email OFNC BSL 4:59 PM, Nov. 19, 2007, thanks to Gordon Pringle, Ottawa, ON.       Return to Main List

         NORTHERN GANNET:   At 1:50 PM and 2:15 PM on Nov. 15, 2007, an immature Northern Gannet was at the Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds, south of Ottawa, ON. Possibly the same bird as seen at Ottawa Beach earlier. It was resting on the water with 100's of Canada Geese and drifted into a small bay and disappeared from sight. At 3:30 PM it hadn't been relocated and was not seen in flight, so it is likely still on the pond just out of sight. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds page. Received via Ontbirds 1:53 PM, Nov. 15, 2007, thanks to Tony Beck, Ottawa, ON. Observed by Bob Cermak.       Return to Main List

         NORTHERN GANNET:   At 11 AM on Nov. 15, 2007, a first year Northern Gannet was observed flying low over Ottawa Beach, ON. It continued in a westerly direction. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Ottawa Beach page. Received via Ontbirds 1:37 PM, Nov. 15, 2007, thanks to Tony Beck, Ottawa, ON. Observed by Bob Cermak.      Return to Main List

         TUNDRA SWAN:   On Nov. 12 and 13, 2007, a Tundra Swan was seen in the Richmond Lagoons, Richmond, ON. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Richmond Lagoons page. Received via Ontbirds 9:39 AM, Nov. 14, 2007, thanks to Tony Beck, Ottawa, ON. First spotted by Rick Collins.
Photo taken Nov. 13, 2007 on the left is courtesy Tony Beck.      Return to Main List

         GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE:   On Nov. 12, 2007 three Greater White-fronted Geese (2 adults and an immature) were seen from Point Legault at Baie Noire Ouest, QC. Point Legault is situated about 2 km south of the parking area on Route 148. The birds were seen to the west of the point, toward Thurso. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Baie Noire Centre page. Received via email 11:51 AM, Nov. 13, 2007, thanks to Nicholas von Maltzahn, Ottawa, ON.       Return to Main List

         DARK-EYED "OREGON" JUNCO:   A Dark-eyed "Oregon" Junco was discovered on Nov. 12, 2007 at the Fletcher Wildlife Garden. The same or another bird was seen again from Nov. 21 to at least Jan. 6, 2008. Photographs indicate two birds are likely. It, or they, seem to be moving around in the general vicinity of the Fletcher Wildlife Garden, and sometimes the Arboretum, of the Central Experimental Farm; most consistent around the feeders at Fletcher, both at the HQ building and along the woodland trail. For a photo taken on Nov. 25, see Wilson Hum's golfpic web gallery. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Fletcher Wildlife Garden page. Received via OntBirds 8:36 PM, Nov. 12, 2007, thanks to Bev McBride, Ottawa, ON.       Return to Main List

         CAVE SWALLOW:   At 11:20 AM on Nov. 10, 2007, a Cave Swallow was reported from the Highway 30 overpass of Highway 401 at Brighton, ON. Directions for Brighton can be found on the Presqu'ile Provincial Park page. Received via Ontbirds 9:31 AM, Nov. 11, 2007, thanks to Michael Richardson, Brighton?, ON.       Return to Main List

         CALIFORNIA GULL:   On Nov. 6 and Nov. 8, 2007, both in mid-to-late afternoon, an adult nonbreeding California Gull was at the Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds, south of Ottawa, ON. Seen roosting at a distance with other gulls, then flying farther back toward the ponds deeper inside the quarry property. On Nov. 15, 2007 an adult winter plumaged bird, likely the same one, was seen off the boat launch at Shirleys Bay at 7:30 AM. Directions for, and further information about, these sites can be found on the Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds and Shirleys Bay Dyke pages. Received via Ontbirds 6:07 PM, Nov. 6, 2007, thanks to Tony Beck, Ottawa, ON (the finder); via the OFNC RBA 6:37 PM, Nov. 6, 2007, thanks to Roy John, Ottawa, ON; and via the OFNC email RBA 6:40 PM, Nov. 6, 2007, thanks to Chris Lewis, Ottawa, ON.       Return to Main List

         PACIFIC LOON:   A Pacific Loon was reported from Prince Edward Point, ON on the fall count on Nov. 4, 2007. Strangely, this rare bird does not seem to be considered too unusual at this location, being casually listed with the other species of loons seen there. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Prince Edward Point page. Received via Ontbirds 7:18 AM, Nov. 5, 2007, thanks to Heather Pickard, Ottawa, ON.      Return to Main List

         EARED GREBE:   An adult Eared Grebe was viewed from the lighthouse area at Prince Edward Point, ON between 2:00 and 2:15 PM on Nov. 3, 2007. It was faded but still in summer plumage. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Prince Edward Point page. Received via Ontbirds 7:18 AM, Nov. 5, 2007, thanks to Heather Pickard, Ottawa, ON. First spotted by Rick Collins.      Return to Main List

         EURASIAN WIGEON:   A male Eurasian Wigeon was seen in Cataraqui Bay at Kingston, ON from Oct. 29 to at least Nov. 21, 2007. It was found in Elevator Bay, which is on the south side of Front Road, just east of the Dupont (Invista) Plant. The wigeon was in the same location where one was found a year ago that stayed to the end of January. It was in among a large raft of waterfowl containing many American Wigeon. Directions: From Highway 401, take exit 615 (Sir John A. MacDonald) and proceed south to King Street West and turn right (west). Proceed west past Portsmouth Avenue to Cataraqui (Elevator) Bay where King Street becomes Front Road and where the Dupont (Invista) Plant property begins. The Dupont Pond is located by turning left (south) at the traffic lights and left again onto the road through the fence. Received via ONTbirds 1:42 PM, Oct. 29, 2007, thanks to Bruce Ripley, Amherstview, ON.       Return to Main List

         HARLEQUIN DUCK:   On the afternoon of Oct. 27, 2007, an adult male Harlequin Duck was seen at Île Morrison (Morrison Island) on the Ottawa River. It was feeding in the upper rapids along with 250+ Common Goldeneye, 6 Bufflehead and a Long-tailed Duck. This is the same location a male was present last winter. Since 1994, this site has been a "key location" for the Harlequin Duck, and Barrow's Goldeneye has been a regular visitor since the early 1970's. Directions: From Ottawa, take the Queensway West (417) toward Pembroke. Take the first exit to Pembroke on the right, and follow this Road #40 until you see a sign for the Province of Québec. Then turn right on Highway 148, drive across a big bridge over the Ottawa River to Île Morrison (Morrison Island), and keep driving toward the next bridge. The rapids are between Morrison and Allumettes Islands. Park east of bridge and walk back. Received via ONTbirds 6:49 AM, Oct. 29, 2007, thanks to Bruce Di Labio, Carp, ON.       Return to Main List

         CATTLE EGRET:   On Oct. 21, 2007 a Cattle Egret was seen with 30 Snow Geese on Perrault Road, east of Ottawa, ON. The location is on the north side of Perreault Road, between Milton and Trim Roads, in a farm field with a donkey and 10 horses. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Bear Brook at Trim Road page. Received via Ontbirds 6:16 AM, Oct. 22, 2007, thanks to Chris Lewis, Ottawa, ON. Originally found by Ron Bedford.       Return to Main List

         SABINE'S GULL:   On Oct. 16, 2007, an immature Sabine's Gull was found at Presqu'ile Provincial Park, Brighton, ON. It was seen again on Oct. 21 among the Bonaparte's Gulls on the gravel bar north of Gull Island. To reach Gull Island, which is at present not an island but a peninsula, walk from Owen Point, which is the "jumping off point" for the "island". Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Presqu'ile Provincial Park page. Received via Ontbirds 1:06 PM, October 21, 2007, thanks to Fred Helleiner, Brighton, ON.       Return to Main List

         ROSS'S GOOSE:   On Oct. 15, 2007 a juvenile white morph Ross's Goose was seen with 30 Snow Geese at the Alfred Sewage Lagoons, ON. It was found again on Oct. 16 in a field 10 km from the lagoons, with several Snow Geese and Canada Geese (no directions given). Access to the Alfred Sewage Lagoons viewing tower is free and no permit is needed. Entrance to the lagoons is prohibited unless in the possession of a valid Annual Permit. The permit can be purchased on week days from the Alfred town office just beside the fire station. Arrangements can also be made to receive the permit by fax by contacting Richard Villeneuve at (613) 679-2292. Photos of the birds taken by him can be seen on Jacques Bouvier's website. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Alfred Sewage Lagoons/Bog page. Received via Ontbirds 4:25 PM, Oct. 15, 2007, thanks to Jacques Bouvier, St-Isidore, ON.       Return to Main List

         ROSS'S GOOSE:   On Oct. 8, 2007 a Ross's Goose was seen with 50 Snow Geese over Lake Traverse at Algonquin Provincial Park, ON. It was the first park record. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Algonquin Provincial Park page. Received via Ontbirds 7:28 AM, Oct. 9, 2007, thanks to Jeff Skevington, Constance Bay, ON.       Return to Main List

         ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER (probable):   An Ash-throated Flycatcher was found on the morning of Oct. 8, 2007 at the Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory, at Prince Edward Point, ON. The bird is only feeding out in the open (from the telephone wires) and has not been seen in the woods, and it appears to be feeding on wasps. It has an all black bill with no obvious sign of a yellow base although there may be a small patch (<1mm) at the very base of the lower mandible and it appears smaller billed than a Great Crested Flycatcher's. The chin and throat are a very contrasting grayish-white and the bib is a pale grey almost washed with a silvery white, the belly is slightly darker than the picture in Sibley but much paler than any Great Crested, and the tail and wings do not show any obvious rufous patch. The bird was seen by at least four different people during the morning of Oct. 8 and the conclusion is that it is not a Great Crested Flycatcher but its exact ID remains to be decided. The bird is hanging about, but is moving around a lot around the observatory building and also along the northern edge of the woods (follow the John Rymes Memorial Trail to the right of the banding lab) and is perching often on the telephone wires, it does have a nasty habit of disappearing for half an hour or so at a time. Not seen thereafter. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Prince Edward Point page. Received via Ontbirds 7:55 PM, Oct. 9, 2007, thanks to David Okines, Prince Edward Point, ON.       Return to Main List

         LE CONTE'S SPARROW:   On Oct. 7, 2007, a Le Conte's Sparrow, along with 4 Nelson's Sharp-tailed Sparrows, were seen on Lake Traverse on the east side Algonquin Provincial Park, ON. The sparrows were in the wetland at the south-central end of the lake. Both species appear to be regular in there this time of year. On Oct. 12 another LeConte's Sparrow was in a marsh mid-way up the west side of the lake. Access by canoe. Boots are recommended but waders are not necessary this year because of low water. Take the Sand Lake Road to the access point for Lake Travsere, near the km 72 marker. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Algonquin Provincial Park page. Received via Ontbirds 7:28 AM, Oct. 9, 2007, thanks to Jeff Skevington, Constance Bay, ON.       Return to Main List

         NELSON'S SHARP-TAILED SPARROW:   On Oct. 7, 2007, 4 Nelson's Sharp-tailed Sparrows, along with a Le Conte's Sparrow, were seen on Lake Traverse on the east side Algonquin Provincial Park, ON. The sparrows are in the wetland at the south-central end of the lake. Both species appear to be regular in there this time of year. Boots are recommended but waders are not necessary this year because of low water. Take the Sand Lake Road to the access point for Lake Travsere, near the km 72 marker. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Algonquin Provincial Park page. Received via Ontbirds 7:28 AM, Oct. 9, 2007, thanks to Jeff Skevington, Constance Bay, ON.       Return to Main List

         SABINE'S GULL:   On Oct. 2, 2007, a dead immature Sabine's Gull was found near the tip of Owen Point, Presqu'ile Provincial Park, Brighton, ON. It likely died the evening before or very early on the day it was found. It was likely the result of the ongoing botulism epidemic that now kills many hundreds of birds at Presqu'ile annually. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Presqu'ile Provincial Park page. Received via Ontbirds October 3, 2007, thanks to Doug McRae, Brighton, ON.       Return to Main List

         ROSS'S GOOSE:   On Oct. 1, 2007, a juvenile, white morph Ross's Goose was seen at both the Bruce Pit & the Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds, south of Ottawa, ON. It was relocated on Oct. 4 and 5 at the Richmond Lagoons. Directions for, and further information about, these sites can be found on the Bruce Pit Trails, Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds and Richmond Lagoons pages. Received via Ottawa email RBA 5:49 PM, Oct. 1, 2007, thanks to Chris Lewis, Ottawa, ON. Originally reported by Herve Tremblay.
Photo taken Oct. 4, 2007 on the left is courtesy Tony Beck.       Return to Main List

         NELSON'S SHARP-TAILED SPARROW:   On Sep. 30, 2007, in Westmeath Provincial Park along the Ottawa River in Renfrew County, large patches of vegetation in a 2 kilometer stretch of shoreline had 6 Nelson's Sharp-tailed Sparrows. Despite their skulking behaviour, pishing encouraged several out for excellent views. Westmeath Provincial Park is accessed via Sand Point Road off County Road 12, east of Pembroke. Walk east along the Ottawa River shoreline to enter the park. Received via Ontbirds 7:11 AM, Oct. 1, 2007, thanks to Bruce Di Labio, Carp, ON.       Return to Main List

         GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE:   On Sep. 30, 2007, a Greater White-fronted Goose was seen with the thousands of Canada Geese at the Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds, south of Ottawa, ON. Still visiting as of Oct. 2. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds page. Received via Ontbirds 7:11 AM, Oct. 1, 2007, thanks to Alex Stone, Ottawa, ON.       Return to Main List

         WESTERN SANDPIPER:   On Sep. 30, 2007, a juvenile Western Sandpiper was seen from 8:30 - 9:10 AM at the mouth of the Quyon River, west of the Quyon ferry dock, Quyon, QC. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Quyon page. Received via Ottawa email RBA 6:59 AM, Oct. 1, 2007, thanks to Chris Lewis, Ottawa, ON.       Return to Main List

         NELSON'S SHARP-TAILED SPARROW:   On Sep. 28, 2007, a Nelson's Sharp-tailed Sparrow was seen from 10:40 to at least 11:10 AM at Ottawa Beach, ON. It was feeding and skulking along the west edge of the dried mudflat. Follow the path at the opening to the edge of the dried mudflat and check to the left. It was moving around a lot and there were a variety of sparrows including White-crowned, Lincoln's, Swamp, Song and White-throated. The same or anyother of the same species was seen here on both Oct. 1 and 2. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Ottawa Beach page. Received via Ontbirds 12:34 PM, Sep. 28, 2007, thanks to Bruce Di Labio, Carp, ON.       Return to Main List

         EARED GREBE:   From Sep. 27 to at least Oct. 17, 2007, five to six Eared Grebes were being regularly seen from the viewing tower at the Alfred Sewage Lagoons, ON. At least three were still present on Oct. 26, and two Oct. 31. Access to the viewing tower is free and no permit is needed. Entrance to the lagoons is prohibited unless in the possession of a valid Annual Permit. The permit can be purchased on week days from the Alfred town office just beside the fire station. Arrangements can also be made to receive the permit by fax by contacting Richard Villeneuve at (613) 679-2292. Photos of the birds taken by him can be seen on Jacques Bouvier's website. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Alfred Sewage Lagoons/Bog page. Received via Ontbirds 10:34 AM, Oct. 9, 2007, thanks to Jacques Bouvier, St-Isidore, ON.       Return to Main List

         NORTHERN WHEATEAR:   From Sep. 13-15, 2007, a winterg plumaged Northern Wheatear has been seen at Wolfe Island, ON. It was located along 4th Line Road, about 65 metres north of Baseline Road. The bird was perching on fenceposts on the east side of the road and atop round hay bales. Subsequently seen on both sides of the road. Also, it spent some time walking in the road where it was somewhat reminiscent of a Louisiana Waterthrush with it's posterior bobbing habit. Directions: Wolfe Island can be reached from downtown Kingston by ferry. The ferry dock is on Ontario Street just north of the intersection with Queen Street. An album of five photographs can be viewed via this link: Photo 1. Received via Ontbirds 9:45 PM, Sep. 13, 2007, thanks to Peter Good, Kingston, ON. Originally reported by Chris Reidy and Gerry Smith from NY.       Return to Main List

         GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE:   On Sep. 13-14, 2007, a Greater White-fronted Goose was seen hanging out with some Canada Geese around the ponds in Andrew Haydon Park, Ottawa, ON. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Andrew Haydon Park page. Received via Ontbirds 10:20 PM, Sep. 13, 2007, thanks to Tony Beck, Ottawa, ON.
Photo taken Sep. 14, 2007 on the left is courtesy Tony Beck.       Return to Main List

         SABINE'S GULL:   On Sep. 12, 2007, a juvenile Sabine's Gull was seen just below the Deschênes Rapids, Aylmer, QC. It was seen between 6 and 7 PM circulating with the flock of Bonaparte's Gulls near the east end of the rapids and closer to the Quebec side of the river than the Ontario side. It was still present all day on Sep. 13 just below the Deschênes Rapids on the Ottawa River. It can be viewed successfully from several vantage points along the river from both the Ontario and Quebec sides, including Britannia Point, Britannia Yacht Club & Deschênes Lookout on the Ontario side and below the Deschênes Rapids on the Quebec side. For the benefit of provincial listers, it spent most of its time on the Quebec side of the river, but occasionally strayed across to the Ontario side. It spent most of its time near but not always associating with the small group of Bonaparte's Gulls, which were roosting at the east end of the bare rocks centrally located in the rapids. It made brief forays for food, sometimes with the Bonys, sometimes being chased by Ring-billed Gulls; but spent much of its time on the water just north of Bonaparte's roost (probably invisible from the Ontario side, but easily seen from below the rapids on the Quebec side of the river). While it was easily seen all day on the 13th, it was only reported by two of many observers on the 14th, once early in the morning and once late in the day. Many birders watched for hours in the morning and did not see it or the Bonaparte's Gulls with which it had been loosely associating. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Deschênes Rapids - QC page. To see the area below the rapids, start north on Vanier and take the first right turn (50 metres) onto Rue Martel. Follow it 0.3 km to where it turns left and becomes Rue Rosenes. At this corner you can walk over to the shore and along it to view below the rapids. Received via Ottawa RBA 7:50 PM, Sep. 12, 2007, thanks to Alan German, Ottawa, ON. Originally reported by Tony Beck. (Since Joseph Sabine (SAB-in) named this bird to honour his brother Sir Edward Sabine, I feel obliged to point out that other pronunciations, some commonly used, were not what he intended.)
Photo taken Sep. 13, 2007 from Deschênes Rapids, Aylmer, QC by Larry Neily.       Return to Main List

         GREAT EGRET:   On Aug. 24, 2007, a Great Egret was seen at Andrew Haydon Park, Ottawa, ON. On Sept. 3, 2007 three were seen here, while singles were seen Sep. 5, 10, 13 and again Sep. 16. Also seen on mid-September in nearby Britannia Conservation Area. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Andrew Haydon Park page. Received via Ontbirds 8:42 AM, Aug. 25, 2007, thanks to Michael Broughton, Ottawa, ON.       Return to Main List

         GREAT EGRET:   On Aug. 24 and Sep. 3 & 15, 2007, 3 Great Egrets were seen at the Bruce Pit, Ottawa, ON. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Bruce Pit Trails page. Received via Ontbirds 8:42 AM, Aug. 25, 2007, thanks to Michael Broughton, Ottawa, ON.       Return to Main List

         GREAT EGRET:   On Aug. 19, 2007, two Great Egrets were seen at Shirleys Bay, Ottawa, ON. Three were seen on Sep. 2 and 4 on Sep. 8. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Shirleys Bay Dyke page. Received via Ontbirds 4:26 PM, Aug. 31, 2007, thanks to Gordon Pringle, Ottawa, ON.       Return to Main List

         GREAT EGRET:   On Aug. 13, 2007, a Great Egret was at the Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds, south of Ottawa, ON. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds page. Received via Ontbirds 4:26 PM, Aug. 31, 2007, thanks to Gordon Pringle, Ottawa, ON.       Return to Main List

         LONG-TAILED JAEGER:   On Aug. 11-12, 2007, an adult Long-tailed Jaeger was seen along the Ottawa River between Dick Bell Park (Stillwater) and Britannia Pier, Ottawa, ON. It was first spotted on Aug. 11 by three photographers around 6:30 AM and was still present at 8 PM, when it was seen flying toward Shirleys Bay. It rested frequently on the water, where it was difficult to spot. Often it sat off Dick Bell and Andrew Haydon Parks. However, it was much easier to locate when it flew every so often patrolling the area and chasing gulls. The river end of Scrivens Road was used as an observation post by several birders, being centrally located and providing good visibility. The bird was still present on the morning, and at least until the mid-afternoon, of Aug. 12 in the same areas. Directions for, and further information about, the sites from which it could be seen can be found on the Dick Bell Park (Stillwater), Andrew Haydon Park, Ottawa Beach, and Britannia Pier pages. Received via Ottawa RBA 11:25 AM, Aug. 11, 2007, thanks to Gordon Pringle, Ottawa, ON. Originally reported by Daniel Cadieux, Wayne Wood and Stephen Stephen.
Photo taken August 11, 2007 is courtesy Wayne Wood.       Return to Main List

         AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN:   From Aug. 5 to at least Sep. 13, 2007, an American White Pelican was seen at, or in the general area of, Snake Island, Bay of Quinte, just SE of Belleville, ON; and has been seen as far west as the water filtration plant near Zwick's Park. After being absent for several days, it was found that it had returned to Snake Island Aug. 31. On Sep. 5 and 6, it showed up again, this time in Muscote Bay at Big Island, about 10 km southeast of Snake Island. The bird is associating with some 100 Double-crested Cormorants. On Sep. 11 it showed up once again at Muscote Bay, this time at the west end of Goose Island, where it was still present to at least Sep. 13 and easily spotted from County Road 14. Received via Ontbirds 7:45 PM, Aug. 16, 2007, thanks to Terry Sprague, Prince Edward County, ON.       Return to Main List

         AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN:   On Jul. 22, 2007, an American White Pelican was seen from "Les étangs" viewing area on Grand Presqu'île in the Plaisance Sector of Plaisance Provincial Park, QC. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Grand Presqu'ile page. Photo can be seen on Le club des ornithologues de l'Outaouais (COO) website's Observations page. Noted on Les Oiseaux rares du Québec (Rare Birds of Quebec) Aug. 7, 2007, thanks to Louise Simard, Montréal, QC.       Return to Main List

         AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN:   On Jul. 1, 2007, three American White Pelicans were seen at the Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary, ON. They were seen flying high over the sanctuary and towards the west. Photos were taken. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary page. Received via Ontbirds 6:43 PM, July 5, 2007, thanks to Sue Bishop. Reported by Sue Bishop, Judy Levitan and Ahmad Shah.       Return to Main List

         GLOSSY IBIS:   On Jun. 14-17 and again on July 26, 2007 a Glossy Ibis was seen in the southeast corner of the "constructed wetland", a wastewater treatment facility, also known as a polishing pond, Brighton, ON (corner of Harbour and Prince Edward Streets). Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Presqu'ile Provincial Park page. Received via Ontbirds 8:29 PM, Jun. 14, 2007, thanks to Fred Helleiner, Brighton, ON.       Return to Main List

         BLACK VULTURE:   On Jun. 14, 2007 a Black Vulture was seen along Highway 401 at the Joyceville Road, east of Kingston, ON. Received via Ontbirds 6:54 AM, Aug. 24, 2007, thanks to Peter Good, Kingston, ON.       Return to Main List

         AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN:   On Jun. 2, 2007, at 8:30 PM, an American White Pelican was seen at the mouth of the Gatineau River, Gatineau, QC. It circled just off the mouth of the river and then headed west upriver. This species has been reported from Saint-Étienne-de-Beauharnois (Jun. 2 and 3) and Bécancour (Jun. 1) to the east, as well as the 3 to 11 seen at Lake Nipissing (May 27 to Jun. 4 respectively) to the west. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Lac Leamy Ecological Park (East) page. Received via personal email 3:15 PM, June 4, 2007, thanks to Frédéric Bédard, Gatineau, QC. Reported by Michel Gosselin.       Return to Main List

         PROTHONOTARY WARBLER:   On May 28, 2007 a male Prothonotary Warbler was seen in Ottawa West, ON. It was in a small wooded area at the southeast corner of the intersection of Island Park Drive and the Western Parkway, bounded by those roads and Clearview and Patricia Avenues. More specifically, the bird was in the low thickets immediately behind the gardens of homes on the north side of Clearview Avenue. It was seen in the same general area all day May 29 and only early morning May 30. Received via Ontbirds 5:23 PM, May 28, 2007, thanks to Blyth Robertson, Ottawa, ON. Found by Blyth and Hilary Robertson.
Photo taken May 29, 2007 is courtesy Tony Beck.       Return to Main List

         WILLET:   On May 25, 2007, a Willet was seen along the east shore of the east cell from the viewing tower at the Alfred Sewage Lagoons, ON. Also seen on May 26. Access to the viewing tower is free and no permit is needed. Entrance to the lagoons is prohibited unless in the possession of a valid Annual Permit. The permit can be purchased on week days from the Alfred town office just beside the fire station. Arrangements can also be made to receive the permit by fax by contacting Richard Villeneuve at (613) 679-2292. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Alfred Sewage Lagoons/Bog page. Received via Ontbirds 6:39 AM, May 25, 2007, thanks to Jacques Bouvier, St-Isidore, ON.       Return to Main List

         MARBLED GODWIT:   On May 23, 2007 a Marbled Godwit was seen at the Alfred Sewage Lagoons, ON. This is quite possibly the same bird being seen at the St. Isidore Sewage Lagoons. Access to the viewing tower is free and no permit is needed. Entrance to the lagoons is prohibited unless in the possession of a valid Annual Permit. The permit can be purchased on week days from the Alfred town office just beside the fire station. Arrangements can also be made to receive the permit by fax by contacting Richard Villeneuve at (613) 679-2292. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Alfred Sewage Lagoons/Bog page. Received via Ontbirds (OFNC BSL) 9:38 AM, May 27, 2007, thanks to Gordon Pringle, Ottawa, ON.       Return to Main List

         GLOSSY IBIS:   On May 23, 2007 a Glossy Ibis was seen at the Winchester Sewage Lagoons, ON. Unfortunately the bird flew off and disappeared to the south at around 2:45 PM. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Winchester Sewage Lagoons page. Received via Ontbirds 7:36 AM, May 24, 2007, thanks to David Britton, Ottawa, ON.       Return to Main List

         GLOSSY IBIS:   On May 20, 2007 a Glossy Ibis was seen at the Casselman Sewage Lagoons, ON. The bird is wary and in the SE cell, that is the new cell. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Casselman Sewage Lagoons page. Received via Ontbirds (Ottawa RBA) 1:35 PM, May 20, 2007, thanks to Gordon Pringle, Ottawa, ON. Found by Bob Bracken, Chris Lewis and others.       Return to Main List

         MARBLED GODWIT:   A Marbled Godwit was seen at the St. Isidore, ON sewage lagoons on May 20 to 25, 2007. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the St. Isidore Sewage Lagoons page. Photos of the bird taken by him can be seen on Jacques Bouvier's website. Received via ONTbirds 8:15 AM, May 21, 2007, thanks to Jacques Bouvier, St. Isidore, ON.       Return to Main List

         KENTUCKY WARBLER:   A Kentucky Warbler was found on May 19, 2007 skulking along in some tangles beneath a grove of white cedars beside the Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory building, Prince Edward Point, ON. The same or a different bird was seen on May 9, near the wetland at the Point Traverse corner. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Prince Edward Point page. Received via Ontbirds 8:04 PM, May 24, 2007, thanks to Terry Sprague, Picton, ON.       Return to Main List

         GLOSSY IBIS:   On May 16, 2007, around 4:30 PM, a Glossy Ibis was seen on Corkstown Road, Nepean, ON. It landed in a marshy area west of the entrance to the Campground on Corkstown Road, at the crest of that road, right where the hydro towers are. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Corkstown Road page. Received via Ontbirds (Ottawa RBA) 6:10 PM, Mar. 26, 2007, thanks to Chris Lewis, Ottawa, ON. Found by Eve Ticknor.      Return to Main List

         WHOOPING CRANE:   On the morning of May 16, 2007, a banded Whooping Crane was found off Timm Road, three fields west of Moodie Drive in Nepean, ON. It was observed near the hydro pylons on the north side of the road. The banded and radio-tracked bird belongs to "Operation Migration" http://www.operationmigration.org/index.html, part of the population being introduced into a migratory route between Wisconsin and Florida. Operation Migration has confirmed that the bird is #309, a 4 year female with a reputation for independence. During previous spring migrations, she has come up from Florida through Ontario ending up in New York State. Operation Migration is eager to relocate her whereabouts and would appreciate any information. You can report actual or suspected sightings to Operation Migration at info@operationmigration.org or contact Christina (Chris) Danilko, P: 905-982-1096, F: 905-982-1097, Toll Free 1-800-675-2618. If possible, please include in your report: The precise date and time of the sighting; How many birds were spotted and what they were doing, ie, flying overhead, foraging; Whether you saw the bird(s) yourself, and if not, any contact information you might have for the individual that did; If leg bands were visible, advise the band colors (usually 2 or three) in order from top to bottom; Anything else of interest, including photos. Staff at Operation Migration are VERY concerned about birder/photographer harassment and issue the following guidelines: Please remember to keep 500 to 600 feet distant – about the length of two football fields away. Do not attempt to feed them or call to them. Please respect these guidelines. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Timm Drive & Trails page. Received via Ontbirds 11:08 AM, May 16, 2007, thanks to Tony Beck, Ottawa, ON. Found by George and Helen Spearman.
Photo taken May 16, 2007 is courtesy Tony Beck.      Return to Main List

         BLUE-WINGED WARBLER:   A Blue-winged Warbler was banded on May 15, 2007 at the Innis Point banding station, west of Ottawa, ON. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Innis Point page. Received via Ontbirds (Ottawa BSL) 7:43 AM, May 22, 2007, thanks to Gordon Pringle, Ottawa, ON.       Return to Main List

         WHITE-EYED VIREO:   A White-eyed Vireo was found on May 14 and seen again on May 16, 2007 in Presqu'ile Provincial Park, Brighton, ON. It was seen near the bird sighting board on May 14. Then on May 16 at 8 AM it was singing behind the bird sighting board, and at 9 AM it was located singing behind campsite 211 in the Lakeside campground. This was probably the same bird as it seemed to be working its way east. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Presqu'ile Provincial Park page. Received via Ontbirds 11:02 PM, May 16, 2007, thanks to David Bree, Brighton, ON.       Return to Main List

         LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH:   A pair of Louisiana Waterthrushes was found along the Waterfall Trail (Sentier de la Chute), Gatineau Park, QC on May 12 and 13, 2007. The male was not calling, but both the male and female were seen around the stream near the bridge above the falls. For the past three years, its territory seemed to extend along the stream, from below the falls to above the large rock (almost to the road). Last year there was a successful nesting. It is easily localized by its song, 3 or 4 clear whistles (teer, teer, teer) followed by a quick jumble of notes, though patience is necessary; but harder to actually see. It sang on territory until about mid-June. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Lauriault Falls and Mulvihill Lake Trail page. Received via phone message at 3:15 PM, May 12, 2007, thanks to John Dubois and Donald Dallaire, Gatineau.      Return to Main List

         KENTUCKY WARBLER:   A Kentucky Warbler was found on May 9, 2007 near the wetland at the Point Traverse corner, Prince Edward Point, ON. The same or a different bird was seen on May 19, skulking along in some tangles beneath a grove of white cedars beside the Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory building. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Prince Edward Point page. Received via Ontbirds 8:24 PM, May 10, 2007, thanks to Terry Sprague, Picton, ON.       Return to Main List

         ROSS'S GOOSE:   On May 7, 2007, two Ross's Geese were seen in a gathering of 2000 or more Snow Geese (150+ blue phase) at the Alfred Sewage Lagoons, ON. On May 9 the Ross's Geese were still present, but only 200+ Snow Geese remained. On May 12, at least 4 white morph Ross's Geese were among about 1500 Snow Geese (107 dark morph). The birds are best observed from the viewing tower. Access to the viewing tower is free and no permit is needed. Entrance to the lagoons is prohibited unless in the possession of a valid Annual Permit. The permit can be purchased on week days from the Alfred town office just beside the fire station. Arrangements can also be made to receive the permit by fax by contacting Richard Villeneuve at (613) 679-2292. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Alfred Sewage Lagoons/Bog page. Received via Ontbirds 6:49 AM, May 8, 2007, thanks to Jacques Bouvier, St-Isidore, ON.       Return to Main List

         MARBLED GODWIT:   A Marbled Godwit was seen on the KFN property at the southeast corner of Amherst Island, ON on May 1 to 5, 2007. It is in short grass at the south end of the pond behind the berm. Note: Because of liability issues, visitors to the KFN property at the east end of Amherst Island MUST be accompanied by a KFN member. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Amherst Island page. Received via ONTbirds 8:49 AM, May 1, 2007, thanks to Peter Good, Kingston, ON.       Return to Main List

         GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE:   On Apr. 26 and 27, 2007, a Greater White-fronted Goose, along with a Cackling Goose, was seen among the Canada Geese on the north side of Brownlee Road, between Shea and Eagleson Roads, north of Richmond, ON. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Shea & Akins Roads page. Received via Ontbirds 10:10 AM, Apr. 27, 2007, thanks to Tony Beck, Ottawa, ON.
Photo taken Apr. 26, 2007 on the left is courtesy Tony Beck.       Return to Main List

         EURASIAN WIGEON:   A male Eurasian Wigeon was seen at Amherst Island, ON on Apr. 23, 2007. It, or another, was seen with a half dozen American Wigeon on May 17, 2007 on the KFN land. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Amherst Island page. Received via ONTbirds 9:46 AM, Apr. 27, 2007, thanks to Peter Good, Kingston, ON.       Return to Main List

         ROSS'S GOOSE:   On Apr. 21, 2007, a Ross's Goose was seen in a gathering of 200 or more Snow Geese in a farm field beside the South Nation River on County Road 9, north of St. Isadore, ON. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the South Nation River north of Riceville page. Received via Ontbirds 8:09 AM, Apr. 23, 2007, thanks to Brian Young, Ottawa, ON.
Photo taken Apr. 21, 2007 on the left is courtesy Brian Young.       Return to Main List

         TUNDRA SWAN:   On Apr. 9 and 11, 2007, a Tundra Swan was seen resting & flying with a hundred or so Canada Geese, in the open fields south of St.Pascal, ON. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Cobbs Lake Creek at Du Lac Road page. Received via Ontbirds 6:13 AM, Apr. 12, 2007, thanks to Roger Clark, Ottawa, ON.       Return to Main List

         YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON:   On Apr. 9, 2007, an adult Yellow-crowned Night-Heron was seen at the edge of Dow's Lake opposite the Arboretum, Ottawa, ON. It was on the Rideau Canal below the Arboretum off Prince of Wales Drive, in the water very close to the western shore in the small bay or inlet. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Arboretum page. Received via Ottawa RBA 5:15 PM, Apr. 10, 2007, thanks to Garry McNulty, Aylmer, QC.       Return to Main List

         YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRD:   On Apr. 7, 2007, a male Yellow-headed Blackbird was seen at 23 Manitou Street, Forest Park, ON, east of Embrun. Still present to at least April 20. This is likely the same bird that wintered at this location last year. The residents were very kind last year to the many birders who came to see this bird, but there is no need to enter their property. Please be respectful, please be quiet, and please stay on the road. Directions for this site are: going east from Ottawa, take exit 79 from Highway 417, go south on Prescott-Russell 5 three km, turn left at the Petro Canada station on Route 500W (aka Prescott-Russell 3) and drive east to Manitou Street (the 4th street on the right past the Cambridge Public School). Received via Ontbirds (Ottawa BSL) 7:03 AM, Apr. 8, 2007, thanks to Chris Lewis, Ottawa, ON.       Return to Main List

         RED-BELLIED WOODPECKER:   A Red-bellied Woodpecker was reported (but as yet unconfirmed) as having been frequenting the Tanglewood area for some time up to and including Apr. 17, 2007. Can be viewed on Woodfield Drive (approximately the 400 block), directly across from Tanglewood Park. There is a birch tree in the gully along the townhouses which it seems to enjoy early in the day. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Crestview Greenspace page. Received via email 9:03 AM, Apr. 17, 2007, thanks to Karen Richard, Ottawa, ON.       Return to Main List

         GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE:   On Mar. 25, 2007, two Greater White-fronted Geese were seen among the Canada Geese on the north side of Russell Road, near Johnson Road, at Bourget, ON. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Cobbs Lake Creek at Russell Road (Bourget) page. Received via Ontbirds (Ottawa BSL) 11:01 AM, Mar. 26, 2007, thanks to Gordon Pringle, Ottawa, ON.       Return to Main List

         RED-BELLIED WOODPECKER:   On Mar. 13, 2007, a male Red-bellied Woodpecker was seen in the backyard of 47 Evergreen Drive, Bell's Corners, west of Ottawa, ON. On Mar. 11 perhaps the same male was seen at the Nortel Campus trails, c. 4 km away. A female was seen in this area from mid-December 2006 to at least Jan. 29, 2007. Received via email 11:14 AM, Mar. 23, 2007, thanks to Derek Hasler, Ottawa, ON.       Return to Main List

         RED-BELLIED WOODPECKER:   On Mar. 11, 2007, a male Red-bellied Woodpecker was seen at 2:30 PM at the Nortel Campus trails off parking lot P on the west side of the campus (located at Carling Avenue and Moodie Drive, west of Ottawa, ON. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Moodie Drive Marsh and Trails page. Received via ONTbirds 9:13 AM, Mar. 12, 2007, thanks to Ian Clark, Ottawa, ON.       Return to Main List

         HARRIS' SPARROW:   A Harris's Sparrow is coming to a feeder in Prince Edward County at 2800 County Road 1. The bird appeared at noon Feb. 25, 2007 while Terry Sprague was waiting at this address to co-lead a winter hike in a wooded swamp on this property. The bird fed on the ground beneath the feeders with a number of Dark-eyed Juncos and American Tree Sparrows and was in sight for about five minutes. The bird apparently first appeared two weeks ago, but the owners were not sure of its identity. It has been seen at least until Apr. 12, but is sometimes absent for many days (perhaps frequenting neighbouring feeders). The bird seems to enjoy the company of House Sparrows and American Tree Sparrows, and if these are at the feeders in good numbers, then the prospects of seeing it are much improved. Birders have received a warm welcome at this address from the Fox's. They have provided parking areas beside the driveway as you enter, or just west of the driveway a few metres where another area has been cleared. Feel free to view the feeders, which are located between the house and the highway, from the driveway. Please use reasonable caution. It is unknown at this time if the bird has any kind of regular feeding routine. The bird's larger size, decidedly pink bill, well defined streaking on its upper back, and considerable black in the facial area and upper chest set it apart from the other feeder guests. In the short time the bird was seen, it was believed it to be an adult bird in winter plumage as opposed to an immature which was first considered. Directions: If entering the county from the west, take the Wooler Road exit and follow Highway 33 south to Consecon, then take County Road 1 (Scoharie Road) east for about 15 km to Civic Address 2800. If coming from Picton, take Main Street (Highway 33) west out of Picton and turn right onto County Road 1 and follow to no. 2800, just a few kilometres west of Highway 62. Directions for, and further information about, this area can be found on the Prince Edward Point page. Received via Ontbirds 6:41 AM, February 26, 2007, thanks to Terry Sprague, Picton, ON.       Return to Main List

         TOWNSEND'S SOLITAIRE:   A Townsend's Solitaire was seen along County Road 13 on Feb. 27, 2007 in the vicinity of Little Bluff Conservation Area, at South Bay, Prince Edward County. This area bears watching, as it was in this area where one was seen in November of 2006. Whether it is the same individual is uncertain, but if you are on your way to Prince Edward Point anytime, just keep your eyes peeled for a robin that doesn't look quite right. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Prince Edward Point page. Received via Ontbirds 6:55 PM, March 8, 2007, thanks to Terry Sprague, Picton, ON.       Return to Main List

         HARLEQUIN DUCK:   A female Harlequin Duck was found swimming offshore from the Lighthouse at the eastern tip of Presqu'ile Provincial Park, Brighton, ON. A male Harlequin has been seen at the park for much of the winter. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Presqu'ile Provincial Park page. Received via Ontbirds 12:37 PM, February 20, 2007, thanks to Doug McRae, Brighton, ON.       Return to Main List

         GREAT GREY OWL:   A Great Grey Owl was found Feb. 6, 2007 between 2:30 and 3 PM, along March Valley Road, west of Klondike Road. It was first observed perched in a tree on the DND property on the north side of the road, then flew across the road towards the large houses on the south side. Directions for, and further information about, these sites can be found on the March Valley Road page. Received via ONTbirds 7:07 PM, Feb. 6, 2007, thanks to Chris Lewis, Ottawa, ON. Originally reported by Rosemary Anderson.       Return to Main List

         GREAT GREY OWL:   A Great Grey Owl was found along the Galetta Side Road near Fitzroy Harbour, ON Feb. 2, 2007. It was seen flying over the road and then perched in a tree. No specific directions available. Map for this general area can be found on the MacLaren's Landing page. Received via ONTbirds 6:41 PM, Feb. 5, 2007, thanks to Chris Lewis, Ottawa, ON.       Return to Main List

         GYRFALCON:   A white phase Gyrfalcon was found Jan. 24, 2007 on Wolfe Island, ON. Received via ONTbirds 9:25 AM, Jan. 26, 2007, thanks to Peter Good, Kingston, ON.       Return to Main List

         HARLEQUIN DUCK:   Two female Harlequin Ducks were found c. Jan. 7, 2007 at the Wicklow Boat Launch, west of Brighton, ON. Received via ONTbirds 7:13 PM, Jan. 11, 2007, thanks to Terry Sprague, Prince Edward County, ON.       Return to Main List

         HARLEQUIN DUCK:   A Harlequin Duck was spotted on Jan. 1, 2007 between Île Morrison and Île des Allumettes. Directions: From Ottawa, take the Queensway West (417) toward Pembroke. Take the first exit to Pembroke on the right, and follow this Road #40 until you see a sign for the Province of Québec. Then turn right on Highway 148, drive across a big bridge over the Ottawa River to Île Morrison (Morrison Island), and keep driving toward the next bridge. The Harlequin was sighted in the bay on the right just before the second bridge, which leads to Île des Allumettes (Allumettes Island). A spotting scope will be useful, as these birds are skittish. Received via ONTbirds 11:49 PM, Jan. 1, 2007, thanks to Christian Renault, Pembroke, ON.       Return to Main List

         NORTHERN HAWK-OWL:   On Dec. 31, 2006 a Northern Hawk-Owl was found along Chemin McDonald, around Chemins Murray, Legault, and Neely. These are 7 to 8 km west of Highway 105 at Brennan, QC, about 20 km north of Wakefield. It has remained until at least Mar. 9, 2007. Received via email 9:58 AM, Jan. 6, 2007, thanks to Langis Sirois, Ottawa, ON.
Photo taken Jan. 21, 2007 on the left is courtesy Tony Beck.      Return to Main List

         RED-BELLIED WOODPECKER:   From mid-December 2006 to at least Jan. 29, 2007, a female Red-bellied Woodpecker has been coming to a suet feeder in the backyard of 47 Evergreen Drive, Bell's Corners, west of Ottawa, ON. There is no need to enter the property as it backs onto a wooded area with a public trail which may be accessed by a public right-of-way at the left side of the house. The property owners are aware that this is a species of interest to local birders, but PLEASE be respectful of the owners as well as the bird. It has also been seen regularly at 11 Cherrywood Drive, adjacent and directly to the south of the former location. Received via ONTbirds 9:58 AM, Dec. 28, 2006, thanks to Tony Beck, Ottawa, ON.
Photo taken Jan. 18, 2007 is courtesy Derek Hasler.      Return to Main List

         BLACK-THROATED GRAY WARBLER:   A Black-throated Gray Warbler has been seen regularly at the south end of Île Sainte-Hélène in Parc Jean Drapeau, Montreal, QC from late Nov. to at least Jan. 16, 2007. It has been seen most often in the clumps of conifers near the Concorde Bridge, especially on the east side of the southern tip of Île Sainte-Hélène. It has also been seen ranging somewhat north of this towards the Metro station, and in the conifers along the pond. It often travels with a small flock of chickadees. The island can be reached from downtown Montreal via the Jacques Cartier Bridge or from the Port of Montreal area via the Concorde Bridge. Noted on Les Oiseaux rares du Québec (Rare Birds of Quebec) Dec. 4, 2006, thanks to Louise Simard, Montréal, QC.       Return to Main List

         HARLEQUIN DUCK:   A male Harlequin Duck was found feeding with goldeneyes to the north of Gull Island on Nov. 5, 2006. It was feeding along a submerged gravel ridge that runs parallel to the north shore of Gull, 300-400 m offshore, and which creates a white-water effect. On Dec. 7 two males were found off Sebastopol Island. Seen Dec. 27, 2006. Rediscovered Jan. 28 and 29, 2007. Directions for, and further information about, this site can be found on the Presqu'ile Provincial Park page. Received via Ontbirds 9:04 AM, November 6, 2006, thanks to Doug McRae, Brighton, ON.       Return to Main List

         EURASIAN WIGEON:   A male Eurasian Wigeon was seen at Kingston, ON from Oct. 10 to at least Jan. 31, 2007. It was found in Elevator Bay, which is on the south side of Front Road, just east of Dupont. The wigeon was located just north of the Dupont Pond. It was in among a large raft of waterfowl made up mostly of Greater Scaup, with some Redhead, American Wigeon and Ring-necked Duck along side. Received via ONTbirds 6:39 PM, Oct. 10, 2006, thanks to Bruce Ripley, Amherstview, ON.       Return to Main List