The fall bird migration is slow to get under way at Presqu’ile Provincial Park.  Most of the birds being seen these days are local residents that have dispersed from their somewhat restricted breeding territories and are showing up in unusual parts of the Park.  It is perhaps too much to expect that the Rufous Hummingbird that was at Presqu’ile two years ago this month, or something equally rare might show up again.

AMERICAN BLACK DUCKS and REDHEADS are the only uncommon waterfowl seen in the past week.  COMMON LOONS have been a regular sight in Presqu’ile Bay all summer and can often be heard calling.  A LEAST BITTERN was flushed in the marsh, and single GREAT BLUE HERONS were also there.  A GREEN HERON flew over this morning.  The OSPREYS that nested at Salt Point are still in the neighbourhood.  Migrant shorebirds have been disappointingly slow to show up, with only SEMIPALMATED PLOVER and LEAST SANDPIPER having been seen. Excellent views of many CASPIAN TERNS can be had these days.  A BARRED OWL was found on the weekend.

RED-BELLIED WOODPECKERS were at 83 Bayshore Road on at least two recent days.  What may have been a MERLIN was seen near where the species nested a few years ago.  CEDAR WAXWINGS have been ubiquitous all week.  A WHITE-THROATED SPARROW was heard singing one evening.  ORCHARD ORIOLES continue to feed at 83 Bayshore Road.

 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