Birding Report

POSTED | March 29, 2013 - Fred Helleiner

Birding Report

Because of a computer problem, the report that was due on March 28 was not sent (even after it had been written). This is an abridged version. My apologies.

CANADA GEESE moved through in large numbers on March 25 and 26, but no SNOW GEESE were detected among them. (Six were seen on March 30, to be included in next week's report). A TRUMPETER SWAN was seen twice, and a few TUNDRA SWANS were present until at least March 25. There was an unconfirmed report of an early BLUE-WINGED TEAL. Three female HARLEQUIN DUCKS flew past in the open lake on March 23, and a male was at Salt Point on March 27. The first DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANTS appeared on March 26. GREAT BLUE HERONS are on their nests on High Bluff Island.

A TURKEY VULTURE flew over the Park on March 25. BALD EAGLES were seen on three different days, including one on a large stick nest on High Bluff Island. If that proves to be an active nest, it will be the first at Presqu'ile since the 1930's. A SNOWY OWL was at Owen Point on March 24.

A CAROLINA WREN sang behind 83 Bayshore Road on March 24. The long-staying SAVANNAH SPARROW at 186 Bayshore Road was still visiting the feeders at 186 Bayshore Road, albeit sporadically. COMMON REDPOLLS also continue to visit there.

To reach Presqu'ile Provincial Park, follow the signs from Brighton. Locations within the Park are shown on a map at the back of a tabloid that is available at the Park gate. Access to the offshore islands is restricted at this time of year to prevent disturbance to the colonial nesting birds there. Birders are encouraged to record their observations on the bird sightings board provided near the campground office by The Friends of Presqu'ile Park and to fill out a rare bird report for species not listed there.

Questions and comments about bird sightings at Presqu'ile may be directed to: FHELLEINER@TRENTU.CA.

Fred Helleiner

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