-- 216.192.86.12
Attention birding enthusiasts! The New Year is nearly upon us and it's already time to be thinking about birding in the Spring of 2005. There is a fairly small window of opportunity to register for the Spring Edition of the Peel District School Board's Community Education Birding Class (the PBC) and that period begins now and ends on January 31st.
The first official outing is on March 26 and goes every Saturday until the end of May, 2005. Even though the course description indicates that it is eight weeks in duration, this time period covers 10 weekends and gives participants the chance to miss a few Saturdays and still get their money's worth. If you don't want to miss any Saturdays then this gives you two bonus days to learn more about birds and birding! The class dates coincide with the spring migration and will give us the opportunity to ID birds by sight in their breeding plumage and by song as well.
Last years version of the PBC recorded 247 species of birds observed on our Saturday outings to various places in Ontario in 2004. This winter is the year of the northern owl species irruption to southern Ontario and we will make special pre-class trips in both January and February to find them. You can now register online and find other registration information there as well by following the links on the PBC homepage at: http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/BreteGriffin/
If you have any questions about the registration process, birding itinerary, or wish to join us on any early year owl prowls, please e-mail me (breteg@yahoo.ca) for more information. The PBC also has a listserve for birding trip reports and other info at: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PBC/
It's primary purpose is to keep participants informed of any schedule changes and to record the birding highlights of our outings. Important news and information related to bird conservation and education is also periodically posted on the PBC listserve to help keep people up to date on both local, regional, and international issues of concern and/or interest to birders.
Be sure to get out now and enjoy the nothern owl "invasion" into southern Ontario, just please be careful not to disturb the birds by getting too close to them. Many are in a weakened state due to lack of food and are thus more vulnerable to any kind of stress. In the meantime, Happy New Year to all and enjoy the winter birding season! Sincerely, Brete
-- 152.163.100.198
In Reply to: Owls at Tommy Thompson Today posted by Andrew Don on December 30, 2004 at 12:32:22:
Hi,
I plan to go to Tommy Thompson on Sunday and I would love to be able to see the owls. Where exactly did you see them in the park? I would appreciate any information at all.
Thanks,
Kabir
-- 70.49.116.209
In Reply to: Re: great gray owl posted by mc² on December 30, 2004 at 08:13:15:
MC2
The Owl was on Brimley rd. about half way down the hill towards the lake. Today I saw the owl three different times, all on the west side of the road (what a site). I hope he-she is able to find lots of food and sticks around for awhile. This is the third owl that I have seen in the wild. I have seen hawks, deer, fox, beaver, anyway I just wanted to say that the wild life at bluffers Park is great and its in the city. Sorry for yapping so much. I am now a Gray fan. I will look for Mr gray tomorrow.
-- 64.231.46.52
Since the link is not working, try this URL http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/ONTB.html#1080348869, there is alot of good birding
-- 24.226.10.99
Just got back from birding at the spit this morning ,couldn't find the Boreal owl :( but 2 beautiful Great Gray owls ,1 was 10ft away in the open ,great photos and video i took of them ,also there were 2 Great Horned owls, 3 Nothern Goshawks hunting rabbits ,Rough-legged and Red-tailed hawks ,Winter Wren ,Lapland longspur, Snow buntings ,American pipit flew over ,all the usual winter ducks and usual winter songbirds like tree sparrows, chickadees, juncos, downy woodpeckers etc. Also in the mammal department there was a Beaver ,Coyote with a radio collar, Racoon sleeping in a tree by the entrance ,feral cat ,many rabbits including 2 that were splattered all over the ground where the goshawks had ripped them apart and a Deer carcass. Not bad morning ,the landfill is closed so you can go birding all this week ,think will go tomorrow and try for the Boreal again :)
-- 142.106.62.56
In Reply to: great gray owl posted by Eddy on December 29, 2004 at 20:50:49:
whereabouts was the owl?
-- 64.228.36.123
Yesterday afternoon at dusk. Here's a blow by blow description of the action: hawk grabs duck on the ice just at edge of open water in my pond, duck somehow gets to water pulling hawk with it, both birds flapping around in water, hawk flaps to edge of ice and then on to ice pulling duck with it, then hawk drags duck 20 feet or so away from edge of ice, duck appears to be finished, hawk stands on duck and appears to start plucking it, duck doesn't care for this procedure starts to struggle and manages to break free, flapping back to open water. Goshawk leaves area. Several splotches of blood on the ice are silent testimony to the encounter yesterday. Just nature at work. Al
-- 70.49.167.253
Inspired by the reports of owls from all over, I went for a walk this morning in Colonel Sam Smith Park. I didn't find any owls, but I did find a flock of 7 Snow Buntings. At 9:00 this morning, they were near the southern most headland.
There wasn't much else of note: 1 Red-necked Grebe, 5 or 6 Hooded Mergansers and a few Red-breasted Mergansers. Several hundred Greater Scaup flew by, heading east.
BB
-- 70.49.159.210
The last two day (Dec28-29) I have seen what I would think to be the same gray hanging out it the trees at Bluffers Park in Toronto. I have some great pics :).
-- 172.128.247.150
In Reply to: Re: Grey Jay?? posted by Al Johnston on December 29, 2004 at 13:16:09:
it came right up to our living room window... then fled as i went to investigate. I've seen grays in algonquin.. i think they are bigger..
i need to look up northern mocking birds and i'll get back to u.
lovely bird nevertheless..
r
-- 65.94.110.64
In Reply to: robins in High Park, Toronto posted by Charles Caty on December 29, 2004 at 09:53:36:
it is normal.
-- 64.228.47.13
In Reply to: Grey Jay?? posted by Rob on December 29, 2004 at 09:18:12:
Rob, at a quick glance a northern mockingbird might suggest a gray jay and on Dec. 19th. Tony Johnson started a thread that showed that the NOMO over-winter around Toronto. Gray jays are usually very tame. Did your bird demonstrate this characteristic? Al
-- 142.221.110.4
Was walking in High Park, Toronto yesterday (Tuesday) and saw lots of the usual chickadees, both red and white breasted nuthatches, downy woodpeckers, juncos - especially in the south end of the park. Also was surprised to see a large flock of at least 20 robins foraging in the snow near where the zoo animals live. I saw a flock of robins in the park last winter as well. Are other people seeing more robins in Toronto in the winter? Is this normal?
ps happy birding in 2005 to everyone!
-- 207.164.224.2
2 Great Grays are still at Cranberry this morning. In fact both were next to each other, one with worn tail feathers and one without.
There's at least 2 if not 3 Barred Owls, and Doug Lockrey also saw the Great Horned, Long-eared and Short-eared owls also this morning.
Be careful when going there, as there's getting to be a lot of traffic down Hall's road.
-- 172.150.38.217
Hello,
I live in the GTA in your typical suburban subdivision. I saw what appeared to be a Gray Jay in my backyard. Is this possible? What else could it have been?
Thanks!
R
-- 64.228.116.152
In Reply to: Yes It's Open posted by Kin Lau on December 27, 2004 at 17:29:56:
It is a shame that the only park that is dog free is treated in such a way by the dog walkers! we on the advisory comity to the park are trying to do something about this issue but it is a tuff one!!
Could you tell us wear you saw the waterfowl though ? I am hoping to go out tomorrow and wood love to see Blue wing teal ??
Craig
-- 66.11.164.150
In Reply to: RFI: Tommy Thompson open on Dec 27? posted by Kin Lau on December 25, 2004 at 15:18:43:
Spent 4 hrs there today, it was cold. The Landfill operations are closed Dec 27-31, so Tommy's open for birding.
1 Juv Bald Eagle, several Red Tails, 1 N Harrier, 1 Great Horned Owl, 1 Rough Legged Hawk, 1 N Shrike, lots of Long tailed ducks, Buffleheads, a few common Goldeneye, Blue-winged Teal, Lesser Scaup, Black backed gulls, the usual Mallards, Am Black Ducks and Chickadees. And 1 Beaver.
On bad note, I counted at least 6 dog owners with their dogs, all of whom were off-leash, and one black cat, very cold and up in a small tree.
-- 64.228.53.146
This raptor just flashed by the front of house, checking out the 45 0r 50 American black ducks and mallards in their little patch of open water in the pond out front. I guess he was hoping that one of them would make a break for it but they sat tight and he finally flew off. He'll probably be back. Al
-- 142.150.241.83
In Reply to: RFI: Tommy Thompson open on Dec 27? posted by Kin Lau on December 25, 2004 at 15:18:43:
The sign said closed Dec 27-31. Too bad. It was cold and quiet on
Boxing Day...3 beaver, a Northern Harrier, a Rough-legged Hawk and a
single Common Goldeneye. ...missed finding a sawwhet owl and
several Greathorned owls reported by others.
-- 69.158.108.202
In Reply to: Re: Peregrine in and near Toronto? posted by Al Johnston on December 24, 2004 at 13:42:47:
Thankyou for the information.
The reason I thought that bird number (2) two was a form of falcon is because in flight its wings were narrow and pointed "dove like". It was amazing to watch it soar just above the tree tops. It dissapeared over the houses at the end of the street "two hundred feet away" and all of a sudden 7 to 10 doves scattered. Since then I have seen no doves perched on the power lines as usual. Our area seems to have an extremly large dove population.
here is a link that I have been using.
http://www.mbr-pwrc.usgs.gov/id/idlist.html
victor
-- 69.158.161.81
We live in the Bathurst/Finch area, in Toronto. Today, my son noticed a bird running around in our neighbours' backyard. It was a Chukar. I remember this bird being mentioned in a previous posting to this board. Is this bird moving into Toronto?
-- 66.11.164.150
Does anyone know if Tommy Thompson park is open on Monday Dec 27? My guest, is that it isn't but if someone knows for sure can you please reply.
-- 64.228.47.30
In Reply to: Peregrin in and near Toronto? posted by Victor on December 24, 2004 at 12:04:58:
Victor, your first raptor could very well have been a peregrine and I'm guessing northern goshawk in the 2nd case. Cool sightings! Al
-- 69.158.117.185
Hello all
1) city: Toronto
This past Tuesday As I was waiting for my GO Bus at Keele and 401. I observed a Redtail Hawk crusing around the off ramp from the 401 west to Keele, I didn't think much of that because I see them all of the time at Downsview Airport were I work. The Hawk gained height is started to cross the 401 southbound direction over the Eastbound lanes.I was startled to hear a "Ka" "ka" "ka" sound and I said thats not a Redtail. Then from behind a sleek slim winged raptor with a long narrow tail chased and caught up to the hawk and made two lunges at it from directly above. I have never seen a Peregrin but from the sleek shape and the speed that it turned and swooped away makes me think it was one.
10 minutes later the same bird perched on top of the new cell tower at the MTO directly above the Go bus stop.
It had a tan or reddish chest and a dark blue-ish back. It was quite large but smaller and slimmer than the red tail. To big to be a Merlin.. Are there nesting Pairs in the area?
2) City: Milton
Today a similar bird cruised through the neigbourhood and all of the doves departed in a very quik manner similar in size and colour to (story 1) but white chested through to its striped tail .
thanx in advance
-- 32.102.136.64
In Reply to: Re: Toronto Christmas Bird Count results posted by Al Johnston on December 24, 2004 at 09:06:32:
Just goes to show how important a reliable food source is for birds! As another example, 200+ House Finches were reported from a single feeder in Weston, representing over half of all the House Finches counted throughout the 24-km diameter circle - most sectors reported relatively few, and were it not for that one productive feeder, we wold have had out lowest total for them in over a decade.
-- 64.228.53.74
In Reply to: Toronto Christmas Bird Count results posted by Marcel Gahbauer on December 23, 2004 at 16:33:12:
Marcel, once again, I've got almost half the number of American black ducks along with a couple dozen mallards here in Whitchurch -Stouffville. Twice a day they waddle up from their little patch of open water for their feeding of whole corn. Al
-- 24.42.69.180
In Reply to: Re: Nice Winter Walk Rosetta McClain posted by Scott on December 23, 2004 at 14:10:19:
It's on the south side of Kingston Rd, east of Birchmount in Scarborough. It's a very small parkette, but can be good for birds at all times of year. It's right on the lake. If you walk out of the west exit along a residential street, you'll find another parkette a couple of blocks away. This can be good too.
David
PS It's actually called Rosetta McClain Gardens -->
http://www.city.toronto.on.ca/parks/parks_gardens/rosettagdns.htm
-- 32.102.136.6
A brief report on the 80th Toronto Christmas Bird Count, held last Sunday, Dec 19, under extremely cold conditions:
Despite the wind chill never rising above -25, over 80 participants searched their various sectors of the city for birds, and came up with 89 species, just one short of the all-time record. An additional 8 species have been reported (so far) during count week, Dec 16 to 22 inclusive.
The highlight of the day was our first ever CBC White-eyed Vireo, at High Park (the other recent High Park stars, Wilson's & Black-throated Gray Warblers, were seen within the preceding two days).
Other great sightings included our count's third ever Purple Sandpiper (Toronto Island), third Pine Warbler (Lambton Woods), fourth King Eider (Leslie Spit), sixth Wilson's Snipe (East Don Valley, same location as last year!), and sixth Bonaparte's Gull (Humber Bay).
Record highs were reported for Double-crested Cormorant (10), American Wigeon (68), Ruddy Duck (24), Bald Eagle (3), Merlin (2), Hermit Thrush (7), White-throated Sparrow (53).
Species with unusually low numbers were American Black Duck (58, fewest since 1946), Herring Gull (237, fewest since 1977), Great Black-backed Gull (32, fewest since 1985), American Kestrel (6, fewest since 1959), Belted Kingfisher (1, fewest since 1973), Blue Jay (18, fewest since 1949), American Crow (26, fewest since 1959), and Song Sparrow (14, fewest since 1947).
Among the species we missed were Green-winged Teal, Canvasback, Rough-legged Hawk, Thayer's Gull, Ring-necked Pheasant, and Northern Saw-whet Owl. If you happen to have seen any of these in Toronto during count week (Dec 16-22), please let me know.
Thanks to all who participated for putting up with the weather to make this a very successful count!
Marcel Gahbauer, compiler
-- 69.158.34.41
In Reply to: Nice Winter Walk Rosetta McClain posted by BIGFRANK on December 22, 2004 at 10:35:48:
Sounds like a good location. Do you mind sharing the location with all of us here?
-- 67.43.137.108
In Reply to: Cardinal flying into window posted by Doreen London on October 25, 2004 at 11:35:05:
Place a construction paper silhouette of a Falcon with spread wings on the window. The right size from wingtip to wingtip should be at 18 inches to be effective. Another option would be to place a plastic owl nearby but with that option you run the risk of scaring other birds you may be trying to attract away. My experience is that no harm befalls male Cardinals from doing this and with time this behavior will eventually cease.
-- 67.70.122.225
In Reply to: Re: Northern Mockingbird posted by Jean-François on December 22, 2004 at 16:42:29:
Jean-Francois:
Send me your e-mail address!
Regards,
Robert Goulet
-- 24.141.212.245
In Reply to: Sandhill Cranes in Southern Ontario posted by Chris on November 19, 2004 at 19:22:30:
I saw some on Manitoulin Island this past August. I live near Hamilton and I've never heard of any down here. My husband and son were in Erin tonight for a hockey practice. They go every Wednesday. I will tell them to watch for these cranes.
-- 65.50.52.114
In Reply to: Re: Northern Mockingbird posted by Robert Goulet on December 19, 2004 at 16:15:07:
Dear Tony,
I'm interested in receiving the information you passed on to John regarding the message "E-mail me if you want a more detailed list of plants and feeder enticements". My name is Jean-François and I have a Northern Mockingbird in my backyard (Queensway & Islington). Thank you in advance. Regards,
Jean-François
-- 205.188.116.198
Decided before the great blizzard of 2004 hit to go for a quick walk to my neighborhood park/garden. I arrived to hear Chickadees calling and soon found them. Saw a few Juncos,Goldfinch and a Downy Woodpecker. From atop the bluffs I could see several hundred Long-tailed Ducks and loved hearing their yodelling calls. A few Common Goldeneye and a couple of Hooded Mergansers were mixed in as well. Something then caught my eye,about 30 Ring-billed Gulls took flight all at once off the lake. I scanned the sky having seen this happen once before,and out of the snowy sky into my view came NOOO not him thats the 25th,but an early Xmas present for me of a juevenile Bald Eagle,below eye-level such that I could only see its back at first.On an upbeat I could see much mottling underneath finally. Loved it! Later saw a Redtailed Hawk fly through and then as I was leaving took a seat on a bench for a rest,when I heard an odd noise,looked just to my right and spied a juvenile Coopers Hawk perched in a tree. Not exactly California Dreamin,but still a nice walk on a winters day.
-- 64.228.116.173
Excuse my spelling and Grammar, I am Dyslexic thank you.
Amazingly their are still some great birds around the GTA even after the cold night’s we have bin having.
I started off at Downsview park wear I re found the Short-eared Owl out near the landing strip then will driving a long Rutherford Rd. and waiting for the lights to change at the corner of hwy #27 I watched a B. Kingfisher fly up the Humber river.
I drove slowly up McGillivray Rd. and close to the end I saw a large flock of snow buntings with 2 Lapland Longspur’s and 12 Horned Larks.
Then down Hwy # 50 to the Clairville Field Centre, Wear it tuck some time but the E. Towhee did show up after a wile with 2 cardinals the birds around the feeder are skittish do to all the raptors in the area 1 RT Hawk, 1 sharp shin , 1 snow owl and a Shrike .also in with all the House finch wear 2 Purple Finch
I then tuck a chance and went down to the lakeshore to the Rhododendron Park wear I re found the Pine Warbler along with the Chickadees over on the south east side of the park along the stream also seen hear wear 4 C Waxwing , 3 Robins and a winter wren . Out in the lake wear 7 Trumpeter swans only 2 had tags and only one was readable # 748 .
Last I went over to the Lake side park which is found off lakeshore rd in with the large # of geese and ducks wear 1 Cackling Goose .
So it wood seem that the cold dint push ever thing south .
Craig
Craig & Bev McLauchlan Toronto, Ont, Canada the World
-- 65.48.98.233
In Reply to: Re: Wild poultry? downtown Toronto posted by john on December 13, 2004 at 05:29:14:
Please post your address, I could really use the early Christmas dinner :)
-- 64.229.233.29
In Reply to: Re: Northern Mockingbird posted by john on December 19, 2004 at 14:45:45:
Northern Mockingbirds are regular winter residents and in Toronto and farther north. They have become relatively common breeders here, and their population is increasing annually. It's the Northern Cardinal story all over again; the cardinal's first confirmed breeding in the province was in 1901.
The mockers defend winter territories, quite aggressively at times, as they are almost entirely frugivorous in during this season, and depend on rose hips, barberry fruit and other other tasty bits.
E-mail me if you want a more detailed list of plants and feeder enticements.
If you have the bird, or can find it, the ornithology department at ROM might be interested.
Regards,
RG
-- 65.94.109.99
In Reply to: Northern Mockingbird posted by Tony Johnson on December 19, 2004 at 14:27:09:
i've seen a few mockingbirds over the winter in the last couple of years.
-- 69.199.10.79
During a jog today (at -14ºC ??) I found a recently deceased Mockingbird in the Ford Drive/Royal Windsor Drive area of Oakville. I guess he left it a litle too late?
-- 65.94.109.99
the usual winter shrike near the pearse house was there today.
-- 64.228.47.120
In Reply to: Swans posted by Ed Boucher on December 18, 2004 at 07:16:09:
Ed, thanks for the report. These swans are part of the Ontario Trumpeter Swan Restoration Program. I'll pass on the information on # 701 to Harry Lumsden, founder of the program. Al
-- 69.194.59.218
There are a number of Trumpeter swans this morning in the marina basin at Sam Smith park.
One of them has two yellow plastic tags attached to its back.
One tag has the number 701 stenciled in black ink while the other was inverted and could not be read. This individual was "trumpeting" loudly enough to be heard from the perimiter of the park. What to make of the tags?
Colonel Samual Smith park fronts on Lake Ontario between 11th. Street and 23rd. Street in southern Etobicoke
-- 70.80.116.143
In Reply to: Re: bird of prey posted by john on December 16, 2004 at 13:15:10:
I'd guess Red-tailed Hawk as well, based on the cream/brown description and the fact that I've seen them in that neighbourhood previously. They're certainly much more likely to be hunting on/near the ground than peregrines, although I have seen them on the ground with prey occasionally too. That's pretty rare though, and (aside from fledglings just learning to fly) I've never seen any of the downtown Toronto peregrines down low.
-- 199.243.9.29
In Reply to: bird of prey posted by Joanne on December 16, 2004 at 07:16:22:
I don't know if the falcon actually snatched the pigeon off of the ground, as there was a small hedge blocking some of my view. It may have snagged it in the air, but close to the ground, or perhaps from the top of an item, such as a lawn chair, which was in the yard.
I went to the pergrine web site and looked at the photos, and I must say it certainly looks like the bird I saw.
-- 64.228.116.152
In Reply to: bird of prey posted by Joanne on December 16, 2004 at 07:16:22:
Hi I have spent years watching the Peregrines in the down town area and the one thing that thay do not do is pick up their pray from the ground! I do not no what the bird might be but I think you should rule out Peregrine .
Craig
-- 70.48.47.50
In Reply to: Re: bird of prey posted by Iain Fleming on December 16, 2004 at 07:42:50:
hmm. the location, prey, and description don't rule out red-tailed hawk, though. i have seen RTHAs enjoying pigeon on several occasions in the downtown area.
the wing-span is a bit short, but size estimation is usually quite wrong, anyway.
-- 65.50.141.28
In Reply to: bird of prey posted by Joanne on December 16, 2004 at 07:16:22:
Given your location, species of prey, and description, I would go with Peregrine Falcon. With nesting pairs using Toronto's skyscrapers as cliff ledges, Peregrine's feed happily on the city's abundance of pigeons. Try a google images search and see if what comes up looks like what you saw.
Good Birding,
Iain
-- 142.106.62.56
In Reply to: bird of prey posted by Joanne on December 16, 2004 at 07:16:22:
there are a pair of peregrine falcons at 18 king street east (king and victoria). when i walk around the area i often see signs of feeding (they don't seem to like wings).
here is a good link:
http://www.peregrine-foundation.ca/tops/torontod.html
-- 206.172.85.73
On December 12th, in the afternoon, I saw a huge bird of prey sweep down onto a neighbours front lawn and attack a pidgeon. He/she then flew off with a wee bloody drumstick. This was in the St. Lawrence market nieghbourhood, near Parliament and Front. Can anyone identify this bird for me? It was cream coloured with spots of various shades of brown and a wing span of about threee feet.
-- 64.228.116.29
Excuse my spelling and Grammar, I am Dyslexic thank you.
With the winter listing bug well bitten in to my skin I once again went out in search of birds today thinking that a good area to look in wood be the Durham area I was not let down .
First stop Thickson woods found at the end of Thickson rd south of the 401 in the town of Whitby , wear I was a ball to ree find the cat bird reported today’s ago and also watch a N Goshawk hunt the area , between the too of them I was their for quite some time . other highlights wear Pileated woodpecker , G.H.Owl and coopers hawk .
Then it was off to Lynde shores and Cranberry Marsh wear right of the bat I got to look eye to eye with the Sandhill Crane (with out being attacked like I was last year in B.C)I also saw 3 of my 4 owl speeches hear G.H.Owl 1, long e owl 2 , Barred Owl 1 , but the best bird was a Common Yellowthroat warbler giving me my third warbler speech for the winter Lynde shores is found on Victoria St in Whitby and Cranberry Marsh is found off Hall's Rd. from Victoria St .
I then drove to Col Sam park hear in Toronto wear the Snow Owl was seen out on the docks it wood seem that both the Snow Owls I have seen in the last week have bin females ??
I then did a quick stop in to High Park to look for the Varied Thrush with no luck I did see the W.E. Vero though but could not refined the BTGW seen earl in the day .
all and all a great day in the G.T.A
Craig
Craig & Bev McLauchlan Toronto, Ont, Canada the World
-- 67.70.85.226
In Reply to: Re: Wild poultry? downtown Toronto posted by john on December 13, 2004 at 05:29:14:
Please post your address. I could really use the eggs.
Lothar
-- 129.97.180.232
In Reply to: Barred Owl posted by Piers M. Perren on December 09, 2004 at 05:58:21:
I find it interesting that there have been all these recent sightings of Barred Owls - there must be somekind of movement going on. I've been looking for them, actively, in my own area for the past twelve years, and finally found one for the first time last month; but this one was in a relatively wild area (for a city) along the Grand River, and gave no indication at all of being weak or listless.
Peter Coo,
Kitchener
-- 67.70.98.22
In Reply to: Re: Wild poultry? downtown Toronto posted by Theresa Dobko on December 13, 2004 at 05:09:42:
that, or help yourself to an early christmas dinner.
-- 69.195.32.58
In Reply to: Wild poultry? downtown Toronto posted by paw on December 12, 2004 at 17:49:29:
Sounds like it might be an escapee from the nearby Riverdale Farm. You might want to give them a call and see if they have a runaway.
Good birding
-- 65.49.19.188
I live in the south riverdale area, and for the last two days along with the usual assortment of birds at my feeding post has been a fowl which I cannot identify. It was about 12 ins high, it had a red wattle hanging from the top of its head, its body was cream with dark underbody and tail feathers (which were long enough to brush the ground.) It looks like some sort of hen, but how did it get downtown and in particular into my yard?
-- 64.228.116.27
Excuse my spelling and Grammar, I am Dyslexic thank you. I tried to post this yesterday but it seemed that their was some holiday email gremlins playing computer games ! Yesterday Dec 11 2004 Carole Horner and I spent birding in the Toronto and Durham area we dint drive 100 K but saw some great birds . Starting with the Golden Crown sparrow at Cranberry march thanks to Doge for his keen eyes and his help with finding the bird , will we wear their we herd of a Snow Owl report Courtice rd and the 401 and we desired that this was to be our next stop . It tuck too pass to find the Owl ( only do to my miss ID of a large pigeon ) but we wear forts to stop do to my cell phone ringing and the Snow Owl was perched low on a fence post 50 yards from my car , the owl then flue down to the train tracks and was still there when we left . The reason my cell phone went off was yes to alert me to the refinding of the Black throated Gray warbler in High Park , thank you Gerry Guild ( you get my vote for Birder of the year ) before we left to drive like a Christmas shopper back to Toronto we did phone every one we could and look for others. When we arrived in High Park their was still a big grope looking for the Warbler But first Carole got some great looks at the Wight Eyed Vero vary low and actively feeding . When Ron Pittway yells did you hear that you must stop birthing and listen because their it was the BTGW flying around above our heads WOW my 5 life winter bird in 11 days !! What a blast as I have seed before "nothing beets birding in Ontario" !!! Cranberry march is found south of Victoria st off of Halls rd . in Whitby . Coutice rd is found east of Oshawa and is the turn off to Darlington P.Park And High Park is found hear in Toronto tack Colborne Loge dr north from the Queensway and park by the Colborne loge walk up the rood both the WEVO and the BTGW wear seen by the stars that lead down to the pond .
Craig & Bev McLauchlan , Toronto, Ont, Canada, World
-- 65.50.52.114
Seen today between 9:00 and 11:00:
Canada geese (unbelievable!!!)
1 Red-tailed hawk
1 Great blue heron (flying over)
1 Pileated woodpecker (at the entrance near the duck pond)
3 Hairy woodpecker
6 Downy woodpecker
2 Red-breasted nuthatch
1 White-breasted nuthatch
Rusty blackbird (1 female)
-- 69.194.59.218
In Reply to: Re: Snowy owl posted by Brian Bailey on December 11, 2004 at 12:42:20:
The Snowy has returned to its Friday location at the western entrance to the marina basin as of 7:30 A.M. Sunday.
Approaching from the park's west side at 23rd street and looking out to the south at the rocky spit forming the northern half of the entrance from the open lake.
There was a Red-tailed hawk working the fields between the boat storage yard and the old power plant building as well.
-- 70.49.170.182
In Reply to: Snowy owl posted by Ed Boucher on December 10, 2004 at 07:27:39:
At 1:00 Saturday afternoon, she (I think) was about halfway out the east dock sitting on an electrial outlet box.
Also present were a Red-necked Grebe and a female Hooded Merganser in the harbour. The rest of the waterfowl were pretty typical:
Mute Swan
Canada Goose
Mallard
Black Duck
Gadwall
Goldeneye
Bufflehead
Long-tailed Duck
and Red-breasted Merganser.
There were also 2 Kestrels (m & f).
BB
-- 66.11.164.150
In Reply to: Re: Barred Owl posted by Dave on December 10, 2004 at 15:23:25:
Strange... the Barred Owl of Nov 3 at Cranberry Marsh, which also stayed out in the open, and allowed us to get very close (we were only 6ft away taking pic's) also died a few days later on the beach. Perhaps the older/sick birds know that their time is up, and simply don't care/have_the_energy to hide any more.
There's a different Barred Owl now at Cranberry that I've seen for at least 3 weeks now. This one is also fairly friendly, but 15ft is the closest I've gotten. The resident Great Horned Owl refuses to even stay in sight.
-- 64.231.157.207
In Reply to: Barred Owl posted by Piers M. Perren on December 09, 2004 at 05:58:21:
Unfortunately the Barred Owl was found dead this morning by staff from the ROM where it was taken to be studied. Apart from seeming thin, the cause of death was unknown.
-- 69.194.59.218
Snowy owl sighted 8:00 A.M. Friday December 10th, in Sam Smith park. The owl was at rest on the rocky outcrop at the western entrance to the marina basin. Sam Smith is located at the foot
of Kipling Avenue beyond the Humber College property.
-- 209.167.234.36
This was yesterday...
There is a Barred Owl in the Trinity College Quadrangle at the University of Toronto. It has been there all day and there is a pellet and quite a lot of white wash under it.
Trinity College at the University of Toronto is located on Hoskin Ave between Queen's Park and St. George (near the ROM).
All the best,
Max Perren Upper Canada College
-- 206.172.136.162
With Starphone ending operations as of Dec.31, 2004, does anyone know what the new phone number
will be for the TOC hotline? I have looked for it with no luck.
-- 64.228.53.25
In Reply to: Mockingbird posted by François on December 05, 2004 at 12:06:12:
This species eats insects and fruit so you might try putting out some raisins, pieces of cut-up apple, berries etc. Good luck and, please keep us posted. Al
-- 65.50.52.114
I have been seeing regularly a mockingbird in my backyard (Queensway and Islington) for the last month and I don't know what kind of food he may need. Can you help me?
-- 128.100.72.138
In Reply to: Rouge Park Winter Bird Count posted by Michelle Closson on December 03, 2004 at 11:40:45:
Below is a link to the poster for the count.
-- 199.243.5.130
Whether you are a professional birder, nature enthusiast, or want to learn about Rouge Park and its birds, you are invited to volunteer in the Second Annual Rouge Park Winter Bird Count on Sunday January 9, 2005.
The count encompasses a large section of the Parks diverse and environmentally significant landscapes in the Rouge River watershed including portions of Markham and eastern Toronto.
**Experienced birders are needed to lead groups as captains**
Volunteers are also needed to count birds in the backyards of their own homes and report their findings.
For more info check out www.rougepark.com or to register contact Michelle Closson at Rouge Park, 905.713.7729 or e-mail michelle_closson@rougepark.com.
Thanks!
-- 64.228.116.192
A White Eyed Vireo was ree found by my self and seen by others to day at 12;15 and seen up until I left at 1:10 at the south end of High park
Thanks to Dave Beadle sharp eye's we both saw that this bird is banded on its right leg .
It was near the top of the wooden stars at the south east end of grenadier pond look for Golden crowned Kinglet's it was staying with them .
High park is found on the west side of Toronto off Parkside dr or Bloor st , to find this area you must go south throw the park along Colbourne lodge dr. And look for the stars near the stop sigh look for it in this area .
Craig & Bev McLauchlan
Toronto, Ont, Canada, World
-- 66.11.164.150
In Reply to: GTA winter birds 2004 posted by Craig McLauchlan on December 01, 2004 at 18:20:09:
Off the Scarborough Bluffs yesterday, there are Long-Tail Ducks, Buffleheads and one Red-Throated Loon in the area off Bluffers Park (end of Brimley Avenue in Scarborough).
The Northern Shrike was also at Cranberry yesterday.
-- 64.228.116.185
I desired to start my 2004 winter list off with the Golden Crown Sparrow out at Cranberry Marsh which after weating for a hour did come out for all to see around 12:30 to 1:00 , I was lucky to come up with 62 speeches of birds from Ashbridges bay in the mourning wear a com. Loon was seen to Cranberry Marsh / Lynde shores wear high lights wear 4 Geese species ,Greeter White-Fronted Goose , Snow Goose , Canada Goose and Cackling Goose also the Barred Owl was seen in Lynde shores. Over at Thickson woods wear I found a Little Gull out flying around with 30 or so Bonaparte's gulls.
Then back to Toronto to Humber bay to re find the Ruddy Ducks and the male adult Harlequin Duck all and all a good day of birding in the GTA
Cranberry Marsh / Lynde shores is found of Victoria st in Whitby , Thickson woods is found at the end of Thickson rd in Whitby and Humber bay is found at Lakeshore and Parklawn hear in Toronto
Craig McLauchlan
Craig & Bev McLauchlan
Toronto, Ont, Canada, World
-- 69.195.87.90
In Reply to: What bird posted by Chris on November 30, 2004 at 07:34:59:
Could it be a Peregrine Falcon? I found some pictures that are reminiscent of the colour pattern. they're almost big enough, and it might explain the flight?
I've never seen one in person.
-- 69.195.87.90
In Reply to: Re: What bird posted by Kin Lau on December 01, 2004 at 12:08:25:
the stripe(s) (it looked like one) were horizontal. We couldn't really see it fly, when it took flight it launched from its pirch with one or two wing beats and glided below the line of the fence where we lost sight of it. it was reminiscent of a large hawk or eagle taking flight from a high pirch (not a lunge after prey, just taking flight).
and I only saw it land out of the corner of my eye, but it was the size and the movement that caught my eye.
-- 207.164.224.2
In Reply to: Re: What bird posted by Chris on November 30, 2004 at 16:32:56:
A Black-Crown Night Heron gets the blue colour once they're adult, and that colour doesn't change with the seasons. As a Juvenile, they're quite brown, and the belly and neck is striped.
Were the stripes vertical or horizontal? How did it fly, fast wingbeats or slow?
-- 69.195.87.90
In Reply to: What bird posted by Chris on November 30, 2004 at 07:34:59:
I'm not wrong about the size, I spoke with my mom who also saw the bird and she compared it to the size of a large seagull.
-- 65.95.104.242
In Reply to: What bird posted by Chris on November 30, 2004 at 07:34:59:
Your description sounds like a belted Kingfisher to me, although they are much smaller than a raven.
-- 69.195.87.90
In Reply to: What bird posted by Chris on November 30, 2004 at 07:34:59:
thanks for all the suggestions I've looked each of them up to see what I could find. there are two large ponds in the neighborhood (within 5 minutes walk) so my first thought was actually that it looked like a King Fisher because of the coloring, but I'm positive about the size so that doesn't fit (unless it was a mutant). I looked up the Black Crowned Night Heron and the picture I saw looked close, however there was no mention of a reddish stripe on the front of the bird (another feature I'm sur of), and according to the information I found they only take on the bluish hue during mating season (is that in the fall?). as for the green heron and the coopers hawk neither of them fit the discription/coloring.
thanks for all the suggestions, guess I'll keep looking.
Chris
-- 24.42.69.180
In Reply to: What bird posted by Chris on November 30, 2004 at 07:34:59:
Green Heron?
http://www.christinevadai.com/GRHE.jpg
David
-- 64.228.48.9
In Reply to: What bird posted by Chris on November 30, 2004 at 07:34:59:
Chris, a raven is a very large bird; bigger than almost all our hawks and owls. Unless you saw your bird near water, I think you can safely rule out Black-crowned night heron and Kingfisher (with respect to Kin Lau and John). I'm going to go out on a limb and suggest Coopers hawk, particularly if there is a bird feeder in the yard where the Cooper's might have been hunting. Al
-- 207.164.224.2
In Reply to: What bird posted by Chris on November 30, 2004 at 07:34:59:
Look up a picture of a "Black Crown Night Heron", sounds like an immature/juvenile.
-- 70.48.45.140
In Reply to: What bird posted by Chris on November 30, 2004 at 07:34:59:
not raven-sized, but was it maybe a kingfisher?
-- 69.195.87.90
I was looking for some help identifying a bird I saw on the weekend. I've lived in the GTA for 20+ years and don't recall ever seeing a bird like this. On the weekend in Whitby I saw a large bird (about the size of a raven), it's back was coloured the same blue as a blue heron, with a white stomach and a stripe of what looked like a rusty brown/red stripe across the chest and up the throat. I didn't get a clear look at the head so I'm not sure about facial fetures (beak, colouring etc.) But it flew into the backyard, in a residential area, landed on the fence for a while and flew away. Any ideas?
-- 64.228.116.81
To day I went out on to Tommy Thompson Park ( aka the Leslie st spit ) all though I got their a little late , I was lucky to meet up with Big Frank and its always good to have a second pare of eyes ,
He had heard that a Snow Owl had bin seen out in the park last weekend but we could not refined it today , and we look ever wear that they had bi seen in the past ??
But we did come up with some good birds for the last weekend of Nov.
like Goshawk 1 , N Harrier 1, Kestrel 3 , Merlin 1 , Rough lag Hawk 1 , Red Tall hawk 1 , Pipit 1, Bonaparte gull 11 , Tundra swan 3 , Canada Goose 32 , Crackling Goose 1 , Great Horned Owl 1 .
A long with all the other winter water fowl, that can regular found a long the lake.
It is always worth the walk out on the spit!!
Craig McLauchlan
Tommy Thompson Park is found at the foot of Leslie st south of the lake shower boulevard and is only open on weekends and holidays.
-- 64.10.121.183
In Reply to: Re: Ducks posted by Pat Hodgson on November 19, 2004 at 07:16:42:
Ive been looking off the bluffs just abit further east of your location and Id say the large rafts of ducks are almost entirely Long-tailed Ducks, There are a number of Buffleheads mixed in and a good number of Common Goldeneye around too. I heard over 300000 Long-tailed Ducks make their winter home on Lake Ontario!
-- 69.197.100.77
In Reply to: Sandhill Cranes in Southern Ontario posted by Chris on November 19, 2004 at 19:22:30:
Hi Chris;
As Marcel said Manitoulin is a very large staging area for the Sandhills in the Fall.Given your location I don't think it is or will be unusual for you to see them as they Migrate south.I am sure that many will make the flight over the Bruce Penninsuala, from there Staging Areas of Manitoulin.
Cheer's Garth/Innisfil
-- 70.80.116.143
In Reply to: Sandhill Cranes in Southern Ontario posted by Chris on November 19, 2004 at 19:22:30:
They're becoming more common, but in most areas are still quite an uncommon sight. The best places to see Sandhill Cranes remain Big Creek Marsh at the base of Long Point and, if stretching the definition of southern Ontario considerably, Manitoulin Island, where quite a few breed and large numbers stage every fall.
-- 209.50.73.118
Today (Nov. 19) I saw two flocks of Sandhill Cranes fly overhead (total approx. 15-20 birds) within a couple of minutes. I live near Erin Ontario, about 30 km NW of Guelph. I have never seen Sandhills here before.
I am trying to determine how uncommon an occurrence this is. Comments welcome.
-- 67.68.45.246
In Reply to: Ducks posted by Tony Wells on November 19, 2004 at 05:52:20:
There are likely to be be several different duck species at the same time in this general area, even in the same flock. The main candidates are long-tailed duck (formerly called oldsquaw, if you have an older reference book), bufflehead, mallard, gadwall, common goldeneye, greater and/or lesser scaup, red-breasted and/or common merganser, but others are also possible. Of these, scaup are most likely to congregate in very large flocks, but long-tailed duck and red-breasted mergansers are sometimes in large groups as well. Most of the above are fairly easy to identify, except it can be very tough to separate greater and lesser scaup from each other. Take a look in a field guide and I'm sure you'll be able to identify several species.
Pat Hodgson
Toronto
-- 64.231.226.212
I have been rowing at Cherry Beach. There are huge flocks of ducks in the water between the Eastern entrance to the harbour and the Gibraltar Point lighthouse on the Leslie Street spit. Can anyone tell me what these ducks are or are likely to be?
-- 207.164.224.2
In Reply to: How to look for Owls posted by Ruben Moya on November 12, 2004 at 19:11:19:
As winter approaches, you'll have better chances of seeing owls during the day. My best spot for owl's so far, is the Cranberry Marsh (north trail) and Lynde Shores. Both are basically the same area.
Thickson's Woods is suppose to be good, since there's a couple of owls resident year round, but I've yet to catch sight of one, although I did hear it this morning.
As Gavin said, don't use a flash. They have huge eyes, and suffer from a flash much worse than you or I. Most owls don't let you get too close, although we had a Barred Owl let us stand 6ft from it to take pictures, but that's an exception. My Barred Owl this morning let me get about 30ft away before I decide not to press my luck, and also let others see this bird later.
With that in mind, make sure you have very long lenses. I was shooting with a 500mm + 1.4 tc on a Digital Rebel w/ 1.6 crop factor... that's a 1120mm effective focal length.
-- 64.231.219.182
In Reply to: Birding in greater Toronto Area posted by David Gibson on November 10, 2004 at 21:38:28:
You have already received good advice in the previous replies, but if you haven't already done so, check the "ONTBIRDS" link at the top of the http://outdoorontario.net/birds/ page. It will take you to a page with all the daily postings. You may need a map to figure out which ones are relatively close to Toronto, but it is an excellent source of information on Ontario rare bird sightings.
Alternatively, you could subscribe to Ontbirds for a week or so. The instructions are at http://www.ofo.ca/ontbirdshow.htm
Good Luck!
BB
-- 24.141.172.70
In Reply to: How to look for Owls posted by Ruben Moya on November 12, 2004 at 19:11:19:
The most important thing to remember when photographing owls is RESPECT for the owl, forget the picture if you have to alter the environment in any way to get it. By not adjusting the scene you get the true picture, it may take longer but be creative.
Also NEVER ever use a flash. I love to photograph owls and have never required use of a flash. It can take many hours of patience for one picture simply by just having to wait for the sun to move. Good luck.
-- 216.183.143.253
Sunday afternoon we spotted a male & female Bald Eagle on the rock spit leading out into Miramichi Bay, leisurely lunching on fish. We watched them for 20 minutes before the Male took flight leaving his female companion on the rocky outcrop. Other highlights of a sunny afternoon was a Northern Shrike by the barn east of MacGregor Park and a flock of about 125 Snow Buntings mixed with a couple of Lapland Longspurs in a field close to Concession Rd 8.
-- 69.158.31.3
In Reply to: Mockingbird posted by Bruce Kappel on November 06, 2004 at 06:12:44:
Mockingbirds are a common site up here in Brampton, Clairville Conservation Area has several breeding sites in and around it. This year i found one pair with 5 young just south of there and another pair with three young near the reservoir. In fall they tend to move away from the breeding site, I don't know where they all go but one tends to winter around my back yard and can be regularly seen watching the other birds at the feeders. I also get a northern shrike watching my feeders during the winter on and off and Clairville has several Shrikes there now and some will remain for the winter as they always do.
Good birding to all.
Ian
-- 70.25.13.219
I was wondering if someone could give me a hand on how to look for Owls. I have an interest in photographing Owls but don't know what to read to learn about them as well as how to find Toronto spicies for me to photograph.
Thanks
-- 66.185.84.71
In Reply to: Re: Birding in greater Toronto Area posted by Kin Lau on November 11, 2004 at 05:27:04:
...and if you want to extend your range a bit, Niagara is fantastic for numbers and variety of gulls at this time of year. ( < 90 minute drive) An excerpt from an Ontbirds post today;
A big decline in Bonaparte's from Tuesday--Only 2370 in Fly-past. No white-winged found nor Purple S/P but there were 3 Dunlin behind the Barge.
Good news--imm. Sabine's at north side of Falls in the corner together with an imm.Little gull.There was an adult Little Gull at Lewiston off the water tower.
More good news--parking at the Greenhouse opposite old Toronto hydro building a.k.a.Electric Development Building or the Engineerium is only 3-00 /hour and perhaps free during the week-mine was.
-- 66.11.164.150
In Reply to: Birding in greater Toronto Area posted by David Gibson on November 10, 2004 at 21:38:28:
The 20th is a Saturday, so Tommy Thompson Park aka Leslie Spit is open (it's only open on weekends). High Park and the Humber Bay is available all the time and both are accessibly by subway/public transit. Out in the east end, there's the Rouge Valley, particularly the portion of it near the zoo.
-- 66.185.84.71
In Reply to: Birding in greater Toronto Area posted by David Gibson on November 10, 2004 at 21:38:28:
A couple of references that might help;
http://www.torontobirding.ca/
Starphone rare bird hotline - (416) 350-3000 x2293
Good locations are a bit hit and miss at this time of year, so it's best to find out what's around.
D
-- 205.206.233.72
We are keen birders from Calgary and will be in the Toronto area from Nov 18 to 20 and are wondering where the best birding sites with a 50 km area from Toronto are at this time of year. We would be interested in sites where more eastern birds could be seen.
-- 199.71.174.100
In Reply to: Re: Mockingbird posted by David Shilman on November 09, 2004 at 13:02:52:
I have made a hobby of looking for Mockingbirds in Southeast Scarborough for years and have yet to see one there, yet I have seen a fair number in Western Toronto. There seems to be a real drop off in abundance as you move east through the GTA. I guess they are still spreading eastward and will get more common there in the future.
-- 66.185.84.71
In Reply to: Re: Mockingbird posted by Bob Kortright on November 08, 2004 at 09:24:11:
"...and one has been in Woodbine park near the southeast corner of Coxwell and Eastern for several years, but I have not seen one there for a couple of months."
I live about 2kms from there, and had one in my backyard on October 31.
David
-- 69.194.113.67
Today Winnie Poon and I were fortunate to see three species of loons in Lake Ontario just off shore from the first parking lot to the southwest of the police marine unit at Humber Bay Park West.
These loons were first found by Winnie at about 2:00 p.m. and she contacted me to come and have a look at these birds. We watched them continuously, at varying distances (as close as 60 metres at one point, but sometimes as far as 350-400 metres).
The loons consisted of 6 adult Common Loons (all in winter plumage), 1 adult Red-throated Loon (completed molt to winter plumage), and 1 juvenile Pacific Loon
GC
-- 209.47.189.93
In Reply to: Re: Golden-Crowned Sparrow (Whitby) posted by Kin Lau on November 08, 2004 at 10:09:42:
I saw the Golden-Crowned Sparrow (Whitby) at 4:05 PM
to-day and again with twqo other people at 4:45.
-- 207.164.224.2
In Reply to: Golden-Crowned Sparrow (Whitby) posted by Greg Stuart on November 08, 2004 at 07:51:05:
Hundreds of people have been coming to see this bird, and it's very regular. In the 2 hours I was there today, it came every 12 min's.
A Northern Shrike has also been giving us a good show for a few days now, fighting for almost 5 min's with 3 Blue Jays today.
The Barred Owl of Nov 3 has been spotted again (not the dead one spotted on the beach on the weekend).
-- 192.75.48.150
In Reply to: Mockingbird posted by Bruce Kappel on November 06, 2004 at 06:12:44:
Check the data in the Breeding bird atlas: At http://www.birdsontario.org/atlas/map.jsp?map=be&species=NOMO&no=1&stype=1 you can see that signs of probable mockingbird breeding has been recorded even in Thunder Bay and Moosonee, and breeding has been confirmed in most parts of the GTA, which had only a few squares with confirmed breeding during the first atlas. I wouldn't call them common yet, but they certainly are increasing and spreading north. In Toronto, I usually find at least 1 mockingbird on a walk in Sam Smith park at the foot of Kipling, and one has been in Woodbine park near the southeast corner of Coxwell and Eastern for several years, but I have not seen one there for a couple of months. Good birding.
-- 69.197.196.119
For those people who do not subscribe to the OntBirds list hosted by the OFO (Ontario Field Ornithologists), a golden-crowned sparrow (Zonotrichia atricapilla) has been seen for the last three days at the Cranberry Marsh Hawk Watch in Whitby.
The sparrow has been feeding with a mixed flock of sparrows on the path within meters of the path's end.
Directions: Take 401 to Salem (in Ajax). Exit Salem and head South to Bayly Road, Turn east on Bayly and continue past Lakefield Road to (packed gravel) Halls Road. Head down Halls Rd to the second entrance to Cranberry Marsh. Head down the trail (taking a left at the only fork) to the picnic table and this is where the bird has been feeding.
-- 66.203.189.69
Today at about 10 am, with many other birders, A western grebe was seen at 50 point conservation area. Many other waterfowl were seen including White winged scoters,common and red breasted mergansers, Long -tailed ducks and buffleheads
-- 64.229.129.222
For two years running in this time period I have seen a lone Mockingbird on Scarsdale Rd (Leslie/York Mills).
Any others around?
-- 70.48.46.40
In Reply to: Not a Wild Turkey posted by Kin Lau on November 02, 2004 at 07:00:26:
so... where did you say it was? (sharpens knives)
-- 66.11.164.150
In Reply to: Re: Wild Turkey posted by Garth N. Baker on November 02, 2004 at 04:49:26:
Thank you very much.
I did a quick google for "Bantam Chickens" and did come up with a few that looked very similar. I think this bird's going to be dinner for someone or something real soon.
-- 69.197.100.77
In Reply to: Re: Wild Turkey posted by Kin Lau on November 01, 2004 at 12:58:51:
HI Kin;
This is not a Wild Turkey at all,but appears to be some breed of Chicken.Perhaps of the Bantam Race,it is a Hen for sure!
Cheer's Garth/Innisfil
-- 207.164.224.2
In Reply to: Wild Turkey posted by Kin Lau on November 01, 2004 at 12:53:06:
Trying again for a picture.
-- 207.164.224.2
In Reply to: Wild Turkey posted by Kin Lau on November 01, 2004 at 12:53:06:
Here's a picture of it.
-- 207.164.224.2
There's a wild turkey chick at the "turnabout" on Old Finch Road, right next to the Toronto Zoo (Go north on Meadowvale, and then West on Old Finch, until you hit the lights before the bridge and the turnabout is on the left). It's currently hiding in the fenced in area in the turnabout.
For a "chick", it's also rather big, about the size of full-grown chicken.
It's obviously been separated from it's parents and can be heard making some "crying" sounds. Anyone know what to do?
-- 207.164.224.2
In Reply to: Buffleheads posted by George Daszkowski on October 31, 2004 at 05:16:53:
We saw a couple of buffleheads Oct 11 of the Thanksgiving weekend in Tommy Thompson park.
-- 216.192.82.6
While the threat of thunderstorms was not realized until later in the afternoon, the morning fog presented birding challenges of it’s own. Nevertheless, ten birders got together to hone their “birding by ear” skills on the bird feeder trail at Lynde Shores C.A. The sparrow numbers were low at this site no doubt in part due to the absence of seed in the feeders and on the ground. We found many of the usual late Oct. bird suspects in these woods but the best find was a roosting gray phase Eastern Screech Owl in a cedar while we were looking for Saw-whet Owls. While we never did find any of the latter species, we did find a Long-eared Owl and a larger owl (likely a Great Horned Owl) before we left this part of the property.
Rough-legged Hawks (at least four) were also in the area and we had good close-up views of a few individuals along Hall’s Road and the trails leading south to the marsh. Other raptors seen here included Cooper’s Hawk, Northern Harrier, and Red-tailed Hawk. We spent a few minutes with the congenial folks at the south platform hawkwatch where we spotted several American Tree Sparrows foraging with the White-throated and Song Sparrows on the trail. We did not wait long enough to get a Fox Sparrow but did get Golden-crowned Kinglet, Yellow-rumped Warbler, American Goldfinch, Northern Flicker, Red-winged Blackbird, Greater Yellowlegs, Great Blue Heron, and Hooded Merganser before leaving Cranberry Marsh.
After a quick break we moved on to Thickson’s Woods where we figured we would try and find a few more owl species. The resident Great Horned Owl was very active on this gloomy, overcast morning and we figured that the only chance of getting the Barred Owl seen a few days earlier would be to find a pile of gray feathers somewhere on the forest floor. We decided to check the field for Saw-whets instead hoping that the Barred Owl had moved on before being discovered by its larger relative. We found fresh white-wash in a few pines but no Saw-whets, although we did see the Great Horned fly over the field into the large (still leafy) oaks on the NE side of the property. Other birds seen in the area included Gadwall, Common Merganser, Mallard, Northern Cardinal, Great Blue Heron, and Canada (no Cackling) Geese. We discussed plans for birding in November keeping in mind that this may be the winter when some of the more northerly owl species move south in larger numbers in accordance with their characteristic population cycles.
____________________________________________________________
Brete Griffin - breteg@yahoo.ca
Peel Birding Class - peelbirding@yahoo.ca
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PBC/ and
http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/BreteGriffin/
-- 69.194.192.71
Friday afternoon I was looking toward Lake Ontario, my back yard, and saw a flight of about 2 dozen buffleheads settle into the water.
October 29, 13 days later than my first sighting last year.
A colder winter? We shall see.
-- 24.235.203.173
I spotted what appears to be a male hermit thrush below our backyard feeder today. The weather here is wet and windy possibly bringing in this bird for some shelter.I have not seen this bird here before so I guess it may be migrating?
-- 64.228.47.33
In Reply to: Re: White Bird RFI posted by Karl Groos on October 29, 2004 at 13:06:29:
Karl, you could send the pics to the Ontario Field Ornithologists for display on their website. Check out
http://www.ofo.ca/photos/. Good luck. Al
-- 216.254.167.166
In Reply to: Re: White Bird RFI posted by Al Johnston on October 29, 2004 at 11:02:40:
Hi Al, I took two pictures with a 280 mm lens from about 40 feet through the window in the evening. If the pictures turn out I can make them available.
Karl
-- 64.228.47.62
In Reply to: White Bird RFI posted by Karl Groos on October 28, 2004 at 08:44:47:
Hi Karl, very interesting sighting. It's not a true albino but what is known as a leucistic phase. Can you get a picture of it? Al
-- 65.94.109.145
In Reply to: small bird posted by Vicky on October 26, 2004 at 07:44:23:
i think it might be a junco.
does anyone else agree?
-- 65.94.109.145
In Reply to: White Bird RFI posted by Karl Groos on October 28, 2004 at 08:44:47:
yes.
-- 216.254.162.248
Hi, We are located on Hwy 93 between Waverly and Wyebridge, about 30 min north of Barrie ON. On the 12th of October we noticed a white bird at our bird feeder. It is the approximate size of, and has markings just like a chickadee. The familiar black top and throat areas are only gray and the rest of the bird is just a bit off white. The flight pattern is also like that of a chickadee. Well it seems to be a completely white chickadee,i.e. albino. Is this a known occurrance?
Karl Groos
-- 64.231.223.24
I recently discovered a large portion of the Birder's Handbook on line at http://www.stanfordalumni.org/birdsite/
For those who don't know the book, it contains accounts for most North American birds detailing a lot of the infomation you won't find in field guides: breeding, nesting, feeding, etc. It also has a large collection of essays covering a wide range of bird behavior and conservation topics. The Stanford site only contains species accounts for the 175 species found in or around Stanford (in California), but it appears to have a large number, if not all, of the essays from the book.
BB
-- 24.100.93.29
In Reply to: Re: Bird Hotline posted by Brian Bailey on October 26, 2004 at 16:49:53:
Hi Robin,
Go to the menu bar at the top of this site an click on "OFO" Once at their site, go to the menu and click on "news". At the bottom of that page are a few birding hotlines.
-- 64.231.223.24
In Reply to: Bird Hotline posted by Robin M. on October 26, 2004 at 10:45:36:
The TOC (Toronto Ornithological Club) hotline is on Star Phone, 416-350-3000, category 2293.
-- 24.100.93.29
In Reply to: small bird posted by Vicky on October 26, 2004 at 07:44:23:
Vicky,
Depending on how 'old' your field guide is, you should be able to find this bird under Slate-colored Junco (old book), or, Dark-eyed Junco (new book).
-- 64.229.5.95
In Reply to: small bird posted by Vicky on October 26, 2004 at 07:44:23:
It is probably a Dark-eyed Junco
-- 64.229.197.36
In Reply to: small bird posted by Vicky on October 26, 2004 at 07:44:23:
Sounds like a Junco
-- 216.254.141.88
Is there a bird hotline that anyone knows about in ontario or the GTA
-- 66.185.85.75
I have had a small black bird at our feeder for a few days now. It has a black back, white breast and a white beak. It tail has perfect black and white stripes that looks like a fan when it flys. I cannot find it my book. I am just a backyard bird lover, so if anyone can tell me what it is, that would be great.
-- 65.92.174.150
In Reply to: RFI posted by sherry on October 25, 2004 at 12:51:31:
It sounds like you may have a Winter Wren. If it is still alive, you could try insects and spiders, but I expect they will be hard to find at this time of year.
I don't know much about bird rehabilitation, but I suspect its chances aren't too good unless it was just dazed from hitting a window. If that was the case, you have probably already released it by now.
BB
-- 24.156.33.219
In Reply to: Re: Cardinal flying into window posted by Derek Lyon on October 25, 2004 at 14:44:36:
Thank you for your responses. I will put a screen up and hopefully that will solve this problem of the cardinal attacking its reflection.
Doreen
-- 149.99.115.100
In Reply to: Cardinal flying into window posted by Doreen London on October 25, 2004 at 11:35:05:
Hi Doreen,
Sorry to say, but this is pretty common. If you told me that a bird was flying into your window -- I would have said, "Was it a male cardinal?" All male birds can do it in the spring (especially robins), they see a reflection in the glass that looks like a rival for the territory. Cardinals are very territorial and do the same thing all year. The only thing that really works (if possible) is to prevent the glass reflecting the outside. Installing some kind of screening on the OUTSIDE of the glass that covers the whole window or an outside curtain might help.
Hope this helps, DL
-- 66.185.84.75
In Reply to: Cardinal flying into window posted by Doreen London on October 25, 2004 at 11:35:05:
It's common, and Northern Cardinals are famous for it. It is attacking it's own reflection as a territorial behaviour. Is there any way of breaking up the reflection ON THE OUTSIDE of the window?
David
-- 216.209.250.170
My son brought a small brown bird into me that was just sitting on the ground. it has a long thin beak like a humming bird and no tail feathers and fairly long legs for the small size of it's body. it's about the size of a small egg you could buy at the grocery store. if anybody can help me identify it and give me an idea what to feed it, I'd greatly appreciate it, thanks in advance
-- 24.156.33.219
I don't know whom to ask, so I am posting to this group - maybe someone has some insight to this problem. I have a large walkout window from my living room onto my deck and a cardinal (male) keeps flying into it, intentionally, and has been doing this now for over a week, from sun rise to sunset. I pasted things on the window, did not help. I moved my indoor plants, no change. I moved the chair it perches on, so now it uses the railing or flies from the tree branch. I put outdoor planter figures that stand about 3 feet tall in front of the windows... so it perched on them before taking off for the window. It does not seem to be hurt by this, but it can't be normal. Does anyone have advice for me?
I was wondering if it is seeing something in my living room, last year a robin did the same thing, but it was "attacking" from a lawn chair, as soon as I moved the chair, it left. This cardinal is much more persistant.
Is this common behaviour???
Thanks.
Doreen London
-- 69.158.7.95
In Reply to: Scopes posted by Marck on October 24, 2004 at 09:31:55:
I went to Efston Science on Dufferin across from Yorkdale mall. I found a good selection and that the salesman seemed to know what he was talking about. After trying out several I found one that worked for me and didn't totally break the bank account.
-- 65.50.52.114
I followed the debate on Spotting Scopes which started at the beginning of October with great interest. However, where can I go in Toronto in order to buy one and receive additional information. Thanks.
-- 216.192.71.4
Seven eager birders met early this morning to bird the Hamilton/Burlington area. Our first destination was the South Shore Trail where the large willows, shrubbery, and reedy areas were alive with a variety of birds. Numerous sparrows were found, mostly White-throated and Song, while walking the trail towards the bridge. We also had very good views of Winter Wren, the first of several seen today, and many Ruby-crowned Kinglets were seen foraging actively in the willows canopy. As we continued along, steady streams of D.C. Cormorants, Canada Geese, and various waterfowl species were seen and heard flying overhead. We could even hear the dull roar of the wingbeats of several flocks of Red-winged Blackbirds as they passed low overhead as well.
A large flock of Yellow-rumped Warblers was encountered as we progressed further on the trail until we reached a large muddy area. We also heard Eastern Bluebird, Belted Kingfisher, White-breasted Nuthatch, Wood Duck and Red-bellied Woodpecker while here. At the muddy area where only a little bit of standing water remained, a small flock of shorebirds flew in. Seven of them were Pectoral Sandpipers and the other two were either Baird’s or White-rumped Sandpipers, the final distinction was not possible without a scope. On the way back to the cars we heard a Carolina Wren singing and saw an Am. Robin defending a berry laden shrub from the extended effort of a Swainson’s Thrush to feed there. Before leaving we heard Pileated and Hairy Woodpeckers and also saw several Downy Woodpeckers working the trees in the area. Other birds seen while here included Great Blue Heron, Cedar Waxwing, Cooper’s Hawk, American Goldfinch and at least one Pine Siskin.
From here we headed to the Tollgate Ponds where we found Great Black-backed Gull, Lesser Scaup, Northern Shoveler, Black Duck, Mallard, Bufflehead, and Canada Geese. The surprise find when we stopped at the Tollgate mudflats was a lone Snow Bunting in winter plumage. It then flew from the rocks up to the road and landed right in front of us for even better viewing. We next spotted about a dozen Dunlin feeding in the corner of the muddy area with a Baird’s Sandpiper feeding among them. At the Pier 25 pond nearby we found six more Dunlin, a Greater Yellowlegs, and a fly-over Kestrel.
We next traveled to the Grimsby sewage lagoons where the overgrown fields and grassy areas were full of sparrows (mostly White-crowned, White-throated, Song, and Dark-eyed Juncos) as we hiked in. We also saw Northern Mockingbird, House Finch, Blue Jay and American Robin in the treeline along the way. The northernmost lagoon cell had about 100-110 Dunlin, a few Killdeer and Yellowlegs, and a single Least Sandpiper. We then spotted a medium sized bird perched high in a dead tree (thanks Bill!) at a distance near the rifle range. We thought it might be a shrike but the color was not exactly right (brownish gray) and we could not see a clearly defined mask at that distance. But when it flew it went straight down before leveling off above the shrubbery just as a shrike would and it also showed white terminal patches on the tail. We moved closer to get a better look and saw it briefly chase an Eastern Phoebe before perching on top of a shrub. From here could see a faint mask and enough of the bill to be able to identify it as a juvenile plumaged Northern Shrike.
A Red-tailed hawk and Northern Harrier were seen on the drive to Van Wagner’s beach where we only stayed long enough to make sure there were no Kittiwakes sitting on the shoreline! We did get a tip about a Brant sighting back at the Tollgate Ponds (thanks Norm!) so we headed there and after a few minutes of searching spotted four Brant near the CCIW complex in the water under the Skyline bridge. Soon thereafter we spotted a Peregrine Falcon come in to land on the same tower of the lift bridge that we had seen a pair earlier this past spring. It was pointed out that if we had not been “waiting” for the bridge to lower we would not have seen this bird. I added that it might be a good location for a future Big Sit event, acknowledging that if you sit in one place long enough, birds (at least a few) will come! We called it a day around 130pm after discussing plans for next weekend.
____________________________________________________________
Brete Griffin - breteg@yahoo.ca
Peel Birding Class - peelbirding@yahoo.ca
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PBC/ and
http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/BreteGriffin/
-- 209.240.205.61
I watched the CH News from Hamilton (channel 11) at 6 pm.
The top news item was the discovery of many long tailed ducks that had been found dead along the Hamilton beach strip, near Confederation Park.
This was a puzzling discovery since they do not know the cause of the deaths of so many long tailed ducks. There was no mention of any other waterfowl being affected.
I understand that the long tailed ducks are migrating at this time of year and, they usually are found in the Toronto area.
They have taken some of the ducks to the Univ. of Guelph to determine the cause of death.
There are many waterfowl at the western end of Lake Ontario, where I reside. It is also connected to the Hamilton and Burlington bays where we are expecting trumpeter swans to arrive within the next month or so.
There are over 100 trumpeter swans that spend the winter in this area.
My concern is not for just the long tailed ducks and trumpeter swans but, for all the waterfowl.
There will be an update about this situation at 11 pm on CH news.
Has anyone heard of this occuring? I am curious to find out why these ducks have died. :(
Chris
-- 66.203.174.11
I was wondering if this year is different from previous years in regard to possible botulism. I have heard about the dead and dying shore birds at Presqu'ile provincial park, and today i noticed 20-30 dead/dying oldsquaws at van wagners beach in Burlington.
-- 142.177.97.101
Google listed you re May story Raptors. Was that birds or sports? Contact me Wolfville under Alexander C. phone or Stacey.campbell@ns.sympaico.ca
-- 69.158.6.157
In Reply to: RFI: Little Blue Herons posted by Athena on September 28, 2004 at 12:58:21:
It is possible that you could see a Little Blue Heron, although we are a little north of their ussual range we have seen them in Clairville Conservation Area in Brampton several times over the years and had them there this summer, never rule out any bird until you can be sure of its identification.
-- 209.161.242.11
In Reply to: Re: Any upcoming bird walks in the GTA? posted by Brian Bailey on October 14, 2004 at 18:26:33:
Monday to Friday, my life revolves around creepers and peckers, missing migration is the last thing I've done these last few weeks, just missed them in nature... thanks for the information.
-- 64.228.100.163
In Reply to: birdhouses/feeders posted by Trish on October 13, 2004 at 10:08:06:
you could try a place in Caledon Ont. It's not long distance from Toronto. The people would give you all the information you needed and steer you in the right direction. The place is called Caledon Mountain Wildlife Supplies and the area code is 519-927-3212 but not long distance.
-- 70.80.116.143
In Reply to: Re: White throated sparrows posted by Charles Caty on October 14, 2004 at 07:34:42:
They make an appearance in the heart of downtown every spring and fall, but it does take some careful observation to notice them - it's all to easy to assume that all sparrows downtown are House Sparrows! A few years ago, a couple of White-throats even overwintered in the shrubs at College Park, and if I remember correctly, a White-crowned did the same not too long ago at City Hall.
-- 70.80.116.143
In Reply to: Re: Any upcoming bird walks in the GTA? posted by Brian Bailey on October 14, 2004 at 18:26:33:
As Brian noted, a good chunk of fall migration is already behind us, but it's never too late to find some birds.
The Toronto Ornithological Club offers a series of Baillie Memorial Walks throughout the fall, winter, and spring, all of which are free and open to the public. The next one will be on Saturday December 11, focusing on waterfowl along the western lakeshore. The full list of upcoming outings is always available on the TOC website (link below); the next update for January - May will be posted in a month or so once dates and leaders have been finalized.
-- 64.231.216.129
In Reply to: Any upcoming bird walks in the GTA? posted by Merrilea Shields on October 14, 2004 at 08:43:51:
I think you have missed most of the fall migration, but I have info on three walks during migration and beyond.
CCFEW (Citizens Concerned About the Future of the Etobicoke Waterfront) organizes a series of bird walks along (where else?) the Etobicoke waterfront. The next ones are:
Saturday, October 23, at Colonel Sam Smith Park
Saturday, November 6th, at Humber Bay East Park
Saturday, December 4th, at Humber Bay East Park
All the walks are from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. rain or shine. These are free events and anyone who is interested is welcome.
At Col Sam, meet in the south parking lot. At Humber Bay, meet at the east end of the main parking lot at Humber Bay Park East.
-- 69.194.45.184
In Reply to: Re: toronto- injured bird posted by Al Johnston on October 13, 2004 at 09:16:19:
they told me it was a brown sparrow..he didnt make it though..:(
-- 69.198.31.205
In Reply to: Le Conte's Sparrow posted by Brendan O'Sullivan on October 04, 2004 at 12:28:00:
Hi Brendan, I don't know if you are aware of this, but another place to find Le Conte's Sparrows would be the area around Noelville (SE of Sudbury) during the breeding season. Several singing males have been recorded around there for the Atlas in the past two years. They are not common, but a weekend in early June, searching appropriate habitat along the area's backroads, might let you find them. The habitat that I've seen them in is uncut hayfields, with mixed grass and weeds. They're easier to find and (sometimes) to see than in the fall, since they're singing.
This area has some interesting potential (Brewer's Blackbird is also in the area) but seems to be underbirded, based on the atlas results. If your Algonquin trip didn't work out, it might be worth pursuing.
Joel Kits
-- 209.205.38.35
Looking to dust off my binos... anyone know of any fall migration walks happening?
-- 69.158.113.241
In Reply to: Re: White throated sparrows posted by Kin Lau on October 12, 2004 at 11:35:52:
I was amazed to see some white-throated sparrows in the TD centre courtyard in downtown Toronto last week. They seemed to be foraging under some evergreen shrubs and I only noticed them because I heard the scratching sounds they make with their feet.
-- 216.192.88.4
In Reply to: birdhouses/feeders posted by Trish on October 13, 2004 at 10:08:06:
You might try the following locations(the 3rd option is also good but a bit out of the way for you):
1)http://www.birdwatchcanada.com/
2)http://stores.wbu.com/toronto/
3)http://www.canoe-country.com/
Good luck! Brete
______________________________________________________
The Peel Birding Class: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PBC/
-- 199.246.61.1
I'm putting up some of these on a country property. Can anyone recommend a retailer where I would get responsible advice, bird-friendly stuff (ie, not just useless decorative things) and decent prices in the Toronto area?
Thanks for your help.
-- 64.228.53.127
In Reply to: Re: toronto- injured bird posted by Aaron Noel on October 12, 2004 at 12:30:23:
Thanks for the update. Hopefully it'll be OK. You did the best you could. Do you have any idea what species it was? Al
-- 65.95.156.150
Good day all
Yesterday Monday, Oct. 11/04 I went down to the Leslie St. Spit (Tommy Thompson Park)and the following are some of the hi-lites. The day started off with 2 E. Bluebirds and 9 species of Sparrows on the base. I continued on out on the spit and added a Nelson's Sharp-tailed Sparrow for a day total of 10 Sparrow species.
Other hi-lites for the day were one 2nd year Bald Eagle low overhead, 2 A.Coots, 1 N. Saw-whet Owl, 15 E. Phoebes, 54 Hermit Thrush, 61 Ruby-crowned Kinglets, 40 Golden-crowned Kinglets, 1 Orange-crowned Warbler, 55 Yellow-rumped Warblers, 3 E. Towhees, 4 Fox Sparrows and 4 Plover Species.
All in all a good day with 54 species seen.
- The Sparrows were - Fox, Song, Swamp, White-crowned, White-throated, D-E Junco, Savannah, N. Sharp-tailed, Field And E. Towhee and the Plovers were A. Golden, Black-bellied, Killdeer, and Semipalmated Plovers.
If you find you want a sparrow fix then the base of the spit can be accessed 7 days a week and the Toronto Islands are another good place for Sparrows including Sharp-tailed and also a good place for Orange-crowned Warblers and Saw-whet Owls.
DIRECTIONS:- LESLIE STREET SPIT (TOMMY THOMPSON PARK) IN TORONTO
To get to "The Spit" from Queen & Yonge Streets. Take the Queen Street Car#501 east to Leslie Street and walk south (about 2 km) or as far as you can go on Leslie Street to Unwin Avenue and you will see the gate and signage. By automobile you may drive to Lakeshore Blvd and Leslie Street.
If before 9 am you can park either on Leslie Street or Unwin Avenue, after 9am the parking lot inside the gate is open, be sure to note the closing time as your car will be locked in at that time.
NOTE:- The spit is only open on the weekends and on holidays, at other times you will not be able to access the area. This area is extensive, 7 km to the tip, but be prepared to walk more than that. There is a van available after 9 am from Victoria Day weekend to Thanksgiving Day weekend that will take you out or back. The "SPIT" is only open on the weekend as they are still building it.
If you find you want a sparrow fix then the base of the spit can be accessed 7 days a week and the Toronto Islands are another good place for Sparrows including Sharp-tailed and also a good place for Orange-crowned Warblers and Saw-whet Owls.
Norm
-- 69.194.45.184
In Reply to: Re: toronto- injured bird posted by Al Johnston on October 11, 2004 at 12:35:33:
thanks...i took him to the toronto humane society wildlife wing...they
said that they'll see what they can do...
-- 207.164.224.2
In Reply to: White throated sparrows posted by Anne in Stouffville on October 11, 2004 at 09:03:08:
I've seen many white-throats & white-crowns at the Cranberry Marsh in Whitby over the last few weeks. You can usually see them right on the pathway next to the hawk watch platform, and are only about 10-20 feet away.
They were also at Tommy Thompson Park... check out the OFO report by Norm Murr on Oct 11.
-- 64.228.53.154
In Reply to: toronto- injured bird posted by Aaron Noel on October 11, 2004 at 10:04:40:
If it is just stunned, chances are it flew into a window and will recover. Place it in a showbox lined with kleenex and keep in a warm place for a while. Al
-- 69.194.45.184
help! i found a little bird and i have no idea what to do! it seems like he was hit or flew into something...he is still alive but i don't know where to take him..i'll take him anywhere..
-- 65.48.232.219
The white-throated sparrows (with tan stripes) have returned to our feeders. Has anyone else seen them or the white-crowned?
-- 64.231.225.248
In Reply to: Spotting Scope advice posted by Iain Fleming on October 06, 2004 at 08:47:18:
I think you have some useful advice already, but here's my two cents worth:
If you are buying your first scope, don't break the bank. I've been using a Celestron with a 25X eyepiece for about 15 years. That model has been discontinued for years, but the closest thing to it today is probably a Bushnel Spacemaster. Neither my Celestron nor the Bushnel are the ultimate in optical precision, but they do a pretty decent job. I find the 25X a good compromise between power and field of view. A zoom eyepiece would be handy, but you will probably have to trade some optical clarity for the convenience unless you are buying top quality gear.
I have two basic reasons for saying "don't break the bank". First, if you don't already have a scope, you probably don't know what things you will want it for the most until you have used it. Different uses can lead to different priorities. Second, once you have used a scope for a while, you will realize there are many situations where all the optical quality money can buy won't make a difference. There can be a lot of optical distortion over water or mudflats on a sunny day. Sometimes those birds will be wiggly blobs no matter what you are looking through.
Most birders will use their binoculars far more than their scope. If I had to choose between owning Swarovski binoculars or a Swarovski scope, I'd choose the binoculars!
Finally, spend the money for a good tripod and head. I have a large Manfrotto tripod which I like because it is sturdy, relatively light, and quick to setup. More important though is the head. It's tempting to skimp here, but don't. Manfrotto makes an excellent video head. It's heavy and expensive, but a joy to use.
BB
-- 66.185.84.75
In Reply to: Re: Spotting Scope advice posted by Iain Fleming on October 07, 2004 at 11:56:14:
For most situations, in my opinion, it will be fine. I used a 20X for about 10 years, and just got a 30X eyepiece. A VERY few times, I wished I had more magnification.
David
-- 66.185.84.75
Do you ever check out this board? I assume there would be some interest. It is very inactive, and I'm just trying to "boost the ratings".
Check it out -
http://www.zoo.utoronto.ca/FUN/wildlife.htm
David
-- 24.226.89.81
In Reply to: Re: Spotting Scope advice posted by Derek Lyon on October 06, 2004 at 10:40:46:
It seems as though the prices of scopes jump way up with increasing magnification. Is a 15-45x scope too little magnification for viewing shorebirds and distant perched birds, or will it be enough?
Iain
-- 209.151.130.16
In Reply to: Re: Spotting Scope advice posted by Iain Fleming on October 06, 2004 at 10:03:22:
Hi Iain, I know about several makers of spotting scopes, but I've never heard of SAKAR (is that a model or manufacturer?). The scopes I know are made by the following: Nikon Pentax Bushnell Swarovski Leica Kowa
For some good ideas there's a website Better View Desired, click on the link below to go there.
-- 24.226.89.81
In Reply to: Re: Spotting Scope advice posted by Craig McLauchlan on October 06, 2004 at 09:59:41:
Thanks for the input Craig. I've located a SAKAR 20-60x60 for a fairly good price. Do you (or anyone else reading this) know if they have a good reputation?
Iain
-- 64.228.116.133
In Reply to: Spotting Scope advice posted by Iain Fleming on October 06, 2004 at 08:47:18:
Hi Iain it of cores depends on what you plan to do with it?? Gulls at Niagara, hawks at High park ( especially for the Golden Eagles going through right now ) or shore birding all wood need a 20 to 60 zoom lenses
I have the Kowa TSN-822 with a 20 to 60 zoom it gives you lots of light coming in throw the 82 aperture and has stood up to some heavy duded birding over the last 4 years
Also look for a vary good tripod!!!! This is important and if you do go for high power you need good legs to stand it on!!!!
Look up pelee wings on the internet they have good prices
But also if you can still find the bushmaster (I cant remember ho mead them ) spotting scope wow are they ever a good cheep starter scope
Craig
-- 24.226.89.81
Hi, I'm considering purchasing a spotting scope but I am unsure as to how much magnification is really needed. Any input would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks, Iain.
-- 24.153.12.150
For the past few years Le Conte's Sparrows have been found in the long grass at the Old Airport near the Lake of Two Rivers in Algonquin Park sometime between Sep. 24th and Oct.9th. As I still need this attractive and elusive sparrow for my life list I am wondering if there is anybody out there who would be interested in travelling to Algonquin either tomorrow (Tuesday) or Friday in pursuit of this bird -- I have to work Wed. and Thurs. If so please e-mail me to make arrangements--I live in Mississauga and would want to leave very early. Of course there is no guarantee of finding the bird but Algonquin at this time of year is worth seeing anyway.
Regards, Brendan O'Sullivan Mississauga.
-- 64.228.116.140
Their wear not to many birds to be found out on the spit this weekend , Saturday be for the rain I was happy to find a Long E Owl , 48 Mute swans , 1 Merlin ,17 W T Sparrows and 4 W C Sparrows , and 6 shorebird speeches
And to day will looking for a rear plant I flush up a Sharp Tailed Sparrow this is only the second I have seen in the park the first being 10 years a go ( Oct 29 1994 )
Also seen to day 1 sharp shin hawk, 47 mute swans and 5 shorebird, speeches
Tommy Thompson park Is found a the foot of Leslie st south of the lake shower boulevard and is only open on weekends and holidays.
Craig
-- 64.228.116.161
In Reply to: Re: Re:Lynde Shores ?? posted by Kabir Joshi-Vijayan on September 29, 2004 at 16:03:33:
for info on whats going by at Cranberry Marsh try the web site below , click on Regional/Specialty then Canada and Ont. this brings up Ontbirds and ther are daly up dates http://birdingonthe.net/
Craig
-- 66.11.164.150
In Reply to: Re: Re:Lynde Shores ?? posted by Kabir Joshi-Vijayan on September 29, 2004 at 16:03:33:
The Cranberry Marsh is south of Lynde Shores. You can get to it via Hall Road ( a dirt road off Victoria) just a little west of the Lynde Shores parking lot. Keep going south for about 1/2 km and park at the 2nd parking area. On a good day, there should be about 6 or 7 cars. They start the watch at about 9am, and quit when there's nothing left to count, which can be by noon if there's no wind or it's not from the north.
The best days are light clouds and a north wind.
Click on the "Ontbirds" link on this page and you should see the daily report as well as other info.
-- 205.188.116.202
In Reply to: Re: Lynde Shores ?? posted by Kin Lau on September 29, 2004 at 11:32:15:
Kin Lau made a reference to a Raptor Watch everday until Nov. at Cranberry Marsh. I would love some more information about this, that is, location in the marsh and best times to come out.
Thanks,
Kabir
-- 207.164.224.2
In Reply to: Lynde Shores ?? posted by Mark on September 29, 2004 at 06:16:01:
Juvenile Bald Eagle? They don't have the distinctive white head till after the 2nd year.
Lynde Shores is just north of the Cranberry Marsh where the Raptor Watch takes place everyday till Nov.
Check out http://www.ofo.ca/photos/baeakn.jpg for a picture of a juv bald eagle on the OFO site (not my pic).
-- 206.47.0.171
In Reply to: Lynde Shores ?? posted by Mark on September 29, 2004 at 06:16:01:
I'm not sure of how good your view was but there are Double Crested Cormorants nesting in trees in that area
-- 38.112.106.15
In Reply to: Re: Lynde Shores ?? posted by Al Johnston on September 29, 2004 at 09:52:15:
The bird I saw was huge.
-- 64.228.47.2
In Reply to: Lynde Shores ?? posted by Mark on September 29, 2004 at 06:16:01:
Hi Mark,
An immature TV has a dark head so that's probably what you saw. Al
-- 38.112.106.15
I recently spotted a HUGE bird way up in a tree on the east side of Lynde shores. I assumed it was a turkey vulture was when I got close enough to have a good look it had a white and brownish chest with a black head. I though Turkey vulture all had a Red head.. What did I see??
Thanks
-- 205.188.116.202
In Reply to: Re: Northern Saw-whet Owls posted by Peter on September 28, 2004 at 12:20:47:
Hi Peter,
Thanks for your comments, hopefully I'll be able to check soon, to make sure.
Susan
-- 205.188.116.202
In Reply to: Re: Northern Saw-whet Owls posted by Norm Murr on September 27, 2004 at 17:49:06:
I don't think they were here during the summer. Did see them close to the end of April and at the end of August.
Susan
-- 65.93.222.43
In Reply to: Re: Northern Saw-whet Owls posted by Peter on September 28, 2004 at 12:20:47:
Good point Peter. Screech Owls are ba