Archived Ontario Birding Reports - Long Point Area 2000

LONG POINT AREA

Archived Birding Reports - 2000

LPBO - Thu, 23 Nov 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Old Cut field station closed for the season on the 15th, with a banding total 4915 birds banded. The Tip closed the season with a banding total of 3792. Breakwater closed much earlier in the season with a banding total of 419.
For more information please visit our website:
http://www.bsc-eoc.org/lpbo/sightings.html
We had a great season and hope to see you next year!! The stations will be opening in April!!
Happy Birding!
Kathryn

Kathryn Warner Landbird Monitoring Programs Coordinator Long Point Bird Observatory P.O. Box 160 Port Rowan, Ontario N0E 1M0 Phone: (519) 586-2885 Fax: (519) 586-3532 Kathryn Warner lpbo@bsc-eoc.org

Sandhill Cranes & some oddities at Long Point - Wed, 15 Nov 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
There was a very cold wind and a trace of snow on the ground at LP today, (November 15). The birding was interesting, but a touch rigorous.
At the west side of the mainland end of the causeway and at the far side of the mud flats, there were about 36 Sandhill Cranes, they were in clear view, very nice sighting. In front of then were Least Sandpipers, and Bonaparte's and Ring Billed Gulls.
Plenty of Hooded Merganders, Gadwall, Black Duck, N. Shovellers, Mallards, Tundra Swans, Canada Geese, a N.Harrier and the odd American Widgeon around.
Perhaps the oddest sighting was of a raft of about 50 "Canvasbacks" off the east side of the causeway. They were bobbing and spinning around like a bunch of plastic bottles, and were grouped loosely around a small island of vegetation.
It really didn't look quite right, and indeed, on closer inspection I could see that these Canvasbacks owed their existence to an injection molding production line.
The island of vegetation turned out to be a hunter swathed in camoflage and lying prone on a miniscule pontoon, trying to look inconspicuous. He may have thought he looked natural, but the combination of the cold wind, his uncomfortable position, an unrelenting icy spray, endless fidgeting with his gun, and probably the calls of nature made him a dead giveaway. It served only to emphasise that this was no place for any self respecting duck. There was no other vertebrate visible within 300 yards.
You might want to make a note in your field guides that plastic Canvasbacks float too high in the water, bob around chaotically, and never feed or preen themselves. ( In all other respects at 300 yards, they look pretty good.)
If you really need directions to Long Point, it's at the south end of Hwy 59. South of Tillsonburg. The Causeway is the first wet bit you come to.
Peter Thoem
Burlington.
pthoem@home.com  Peter and Ruth Thoem

Oct 22nd Long Point Waterfowl Survey - Mon, 30 Oct 2000

Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).

As promised here are the results of the Long Point waterfowl survey. Observers were Scott Petrie and myself. Sorry the results aren't a little more timely but finding the time to transcribe four hours of tape can be diffcult.

Tundra Swan                     123
Mute Swan                       195
Canada Goose                    718
Snow Goose                      1
Wood Duck                       4
Green-Winged Teal               6992
Black Duck                      3929
Mallard                         11083
Northern Pintail		2669
Northern Shoveler               4
Gadwall                		185
American Wigeon        		8730
Canvasback                      6892
Redhead                		5668
Ring-necked Duck                897
scaup sp                        63818
Long-tailed Duck                6
Black Scoter                    8
Surf Scoter                     16
White-winged Scoter             7
Bufflehead                      1
Red-breasted Merganser		6
Ruddy Duck                      8342

Total                           120355

Double-crested Cormorants       101

Ron Ridout
Bird Studies Canada/Long Point Bird Observatory
P.O. Box 160
Port Rowan, ON N0E 1M0
519-586-3531
rridout@bsc-eoc.org
http://www.bsc-eoc.org

Long Point area sightings - late October - Mon, 30 Oct 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Hi everyone,
Here are some additional bird reports to add to Kay Warner's earlier posting (October 27). A report of a Cattle Egret flying north of Hahn Marsh (located west of Lee Brown's marsh) on October 18th came to our attention recently; the bird was heading west and has not been resighted. On October 27, at least 40 Little Gulls were tallied along the east side of Turkey Point - more were undoubtedly present further offshore but identification was made difficult by haze and heat shimmer. A flock of 10-15 Pine Grosbeaks were spotted flying north of Hahn Marsh on the 29th; this is only the second October record of this species for the Long Point area. Finally, the first Snow Buntings of fall for the area were reported from Turkey Point on the 29th, and the Tip recorded a Parasitic Jaeger on the 26th.
Sincerely,
Ian
*************************************
Ian Richards 
Research Assistant - Important Bird Areas
Bird Studies Canada / Études d'Oiseaux Canada 
P.O. Box 160, Port Rowan, ON, N0E 1M0
ph 519-586-3531 ext 218, fax 519-586-3532 
email:  irichards@bsc-eoc.org
http://www.bsc-eoc.org
*************************************

Long Point Bird Observatory - Fri, 27 Oct 2000

Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).

The following are the banding results for the Tip Banding Station:


                Banding         Northern Saw-Whet Owls
Oct 20          87                              2
Oct 21          79                              0
Oct 22          4                               3
Oct 23          19                              0
Oct 24          45                              0
Oct 25          25                              5

There are no hightlights at this time.  For more information, please see
our sightings boards at 
http://www.bsc-eoc.org/lpbo/sightings.html

Kathryn Warner
Landbird Monitoring Programs Coordinator
Long Point Bird Observatory
P.O. Box 160
Port Rowan, Ontario
N0E 1M0
Phone: (519) 586-2885
Fax: (519) 586-3532

Long Point Bird Observatory - Thu, 26 Oct 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Hi everyone,
As the season winds down, the week has slowed considerably. Fortunately, there still are a few sparrows, juncos, kinglets and myrtles hanging around.
The banding totals for Old Cut are as follows:
                Banding         Northen Saw-whet Owls
Oct 21          133                     7
Oct 22          54                      9 (8 new, 1 recap)
Oct 23          38                      6
Oct 24          24                      0 (rain)
Oct 25          35                      9

Highlights:  Oct 23 and 25 Eastern Screech Owl

For more information, please see our sightings boards at 

http://www.bsc-eoc.org/lpbo/sightings.html

Kathryn
Kathryn Warner
Landbird Monitoring Programs Coordinator
Long Point Bird Observatory
P.O. Box 160
Port Rowan, Ontario
N0E 1M0
Phone: (519) 586-2885
Fax: (519) 586-3532

Oct 8 Long Point Waterfowl Survey - Sun, 22 Oct 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).

The following waterfowl species were tallied on the October 8th waterfowl surveys flown here at Long Point. Counters were Scott Petrie and myself. We're flying another survey this morning. We should tally our first Tundra Swans of the season as well as more diving ducks.
Mute Swan                       203
Canada Goose                    1705
Wood Duck                       25
Green Wing Teal         	2795
Black Duck                      1184
Mallard                         7721
Northern Pintail        	563
Blue-winged Teal                20
Gadwall                 	20
American Wigeon         	5182
Canvasback                      1655
Redhead                 	1005
Ring-necked Duck                104
scaup sp.                       12822
Black Scoter                    18
Ruddy Duck                      1230

Total Waterfowl         	36252

Cormorants                      284
Ron Ridout Bird Studies Canada/Long Point Bird Observatory P.O. Box 160 Port Rowan, ON N0E 1M0 519-586-3531 rridout@bsc-eoc.org http://www.bsc-eoc.org

Great Egrets at Long Point, Fox Sp. in Ancaster - Sat, 21 Oct 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).

On Thursday (Oct 19th) there were 6 Great Egrets at Long Point, in the right pond across from the Marinas. These 6 have been around for a few days. We also saw a gorgeous sub adult Golden Eagle fly low, just over our heads when we were in the park. A gazillion (sorry mike) kinglets of both species, many of: Brown Creepers, Red-Breasted Nuthatches and Hermit Thrushes and of course Chickadees, White-Throated Sparrows etc. In the first mud flats just as you drive into the marsh there were lots of shorebirds, mostly Dunlin and Black-Bellied Plover.

This morning in Martins Field there were Fox Sparrows, Eastern Towhee and assorted small birds.(Ancaster...across from the high school, off Jerseyville Rd. turn right onto Martins Rd. drive down to small parking area.
Cheers, Rose
Ian Smith or Rose Petersen
Ancaster Ontario
rapids@sprint.ca

Long Point Bird Observatory - Fri, 20 Oct 2000

Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).

The banding totals since the 16th are as follows:

                Tip             Old Cut
Oct 17          243             124
Oct 18          248             130
Oct 19          143             63

Highlights are:

1 Red-bellied Woodpecker at the Tip on the 18th
1 Golden Eagle and 1 Sandhill Crane seen over Old Cut on the 19th

It should be noted that 44 Northern Saw-whet Owls were caught on the 19th.

Jane Wilson-Kendrick
Executive Assistant
Bird Studies Canada/Études d'Oiseaux Canada
P. O. Box 160, Port Rowan, ON, N0E 1M0
Phone: 519-586-3531 ext. 217, Fax: 519-586-3532
Email: jwilson@bsc-eoc.org, URL: www.bsc-eoc.org

Long Point Bird Observatory - Fri, 20 Oct 2000

Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).

        
The Long Point area has been very active the past week.  Most birds caught
are Ruby-crowned Kinglets, Golden-crowned Kinglets, White-throated
Sparrows, Hermit Thrushes and Myrtle Warblers.  The banding totals for the
week are:

                Tip             Old Cut 

OCT 9           85              179             
OCT 10          179             177     
OCT 11          171             270                     
OCT 12          222             239             
OCT 13          104             110     
OCT 14          18              77                                              
OCT 15          240             189
OCT 16          403             118

Highlights (seen or banded) include:
OCT 9           4 Orange-crowned Warbler, 3 White-rumped Sandpiper      
OCT 10          1 Hooded Warbler, 1 Lapland Longspur, 2 Sandhill Cranes
                3 Orange-crowned Warblers, 1 Northern Goshawk
OCT 11          2 Peregrine Falcons, 1 Grasshopper Sparrow, 3 Orange-crowned
Warblers
OCT 12          1 Orange-crowned Warbler
OCT 13          1 Northern Goshawk,     1 Orange-crowned Warbler
OCT 14          8 Surf Scoter, 2 Peregrine Falcons, 5 Sandhill Cranes,  1 Orange-
crowned Warbler
OCT 15          1 Orange-crowned Warbler
        
Kathryn Warner
Landbird Monitoring Programs Coordinator
Long Point Bird Observatory
P.O. Box 160
Port Rowan, Ontario
N0E 1M0
Phone: (519) 586-2885
Fax: (519) 586-3532

Peregrine & Prey at Long Point - Wed, 11 Oct 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
On the drive home from the office last evening along the Front Rd. between Port Rowan and St. Williams, I came upon a bird of prey standing on the ground right beside the road. As I drew even with it, I realized that it was a Peregrine. A heavy foot on the brakes brought the truck to a stop about seventy feet beyond the bird.
Looking back through the rear window with my binoculars, I was treated to a spectacular view of a lovely, blonde-headed, tundrius female mantling over her prey. So pale was she that one could almost mistake her for a Prairie Falcon.
After a moment or two, she began tearing at the bird she had captured. It appeared to be half plucked and the breast had been fairly devoured. Wasting no further time there, she started tugging on the victim's legs. It was at this point I noticed that its legs were long and cadmium yellow in colouration. Curious about what she was eating, I put the truck in reverse and backed up to within thirty feet of her. Wanting a even clearer view, I opened the rear sliding window. All the time she continued to tuck at the legs of her victim, taking little notice of me. Within a moment, at this close proximity, I was able to clearly discern the the dark slender talons on her meal's feet. She had captured a Sharp-shinned Hawk. How quickly a hunter had become the hunted!
Some slight stirring on my part must have alerted the Peregrine to my presence and she froze, staring intently right at me. A moment later she was airborne, taking her meal along with her. A part of me wished she had left the carcass for examination behind but a quick perusal of the scene revealed enough breast and tail feathers to identify the Sharp-shinned as an After Hatch-Year male.
Migration is fraught with dangers, even for the experienced.
Ron Ridout 
Bird Studies Canada/Long Point Bird Observatory 
P.O. Box 160 
Port Rowan, ON N0E 1M0 
519-586-3531 
rridout@bsc-eoc.org 
http://www.bsc-eoc.org 

Phalaropes,etc. - Tue, 26 Sep 2000
On Sunday Sept. 24, 2000 Stan Bajurny and I birded the Long Point Area again and true to form we had a pretty good day. Following are some of the high lights of the outing.
- 2 Tundra Swans
- 4 Great Egrets
- 5 Osprey
- 3 Falcon species
- A. Golden Plover
- Red-necked Phalarope
- Red Phalarope
- Yellow-bellied Flycatcher
- 3 Wren species
- many warblers
- 5 Field Sparrows together
Norm Murr
Richmond Hill, ON
NORMURR@SYMPATICO.CA

Swainson's Hawk - 10 am, September 13 - Wed, 13 Sep 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Hi everyone,
A light phase Swainson's Hawk was spotted (by Madeline Schickel and four others) at the Old Cut field station here at Long Point at 10 am, September 13. The bird was moving west and has not been relocated. It is probably heading towards Hawk Cliff by now (11:20 am) so hopefully they might pick it up (maybe Pelee and Holiday Beach will as well!).
Good luck to all you Lake Erie hawk-watchers!
Sincerely,
Ian
*************************************
Ian Richards 
Research Assistant - Important Bird Areas
Bird Studies Canada / Études d'Oiseaux Canada 
P.O. Box 160, Port Rowan, ON, N0E 1M0
ph 519-586-3531 ext 218, fax 519-586-3532 
email:  irichards@bsc-eoc.org
*************************************

Egrets at Long Point - Wed, 06 Sep 2000
Long Point-Port Rowan, Sept,2 2000.
While on Big Creek Dyke, a pair of Great Egrets flew over us giving us an excellent view of these beautiful birds. Not much else around L.Point, but on the way home, we stopped at the Port Rowan lookout on Front rd. Overlooking the marsh. At first glance we seen Blue Herons and another Great Egret, but 15 mins later we had a total of 9 Egrets, almost all in one view.
Along with many unidentified ducks and shorebirds. Not a bad day after all! Heading through Simcoe, two Green Herons flew over the Highway . One just before downtown , and the other just beyond city limits.
Thats all for now!
Kevin Murphy, BrAnTfOrD.

Oceanic Waif Found at Long Point - Sat, 15 Jul 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Staff here at BSC probably answer hundreds of bird-related questions by phone each year. During spring and early summer many are related to injured or found birds that require assistance. Yesterday was no exception as Ian Richards took a call regarding a bird found floating on the water off of Bluff Bar, 15 miles out Long Point, by a family returning from a day of fishing. They related that the bird was quite weak but still alive and they were keeping it in a box at their home.
Out of curiousity, Ian asked them to describe the bird:
The size of a blackbird but with longer pointed wings
Dark sooty gray
White rump
Webbed feet
Dark hooked bill with a tube on top
Are bells and whistles going off yet? They sure did for Ian, and for me when he related the conversation to me. Could it be anything other than a storm-petrel of some description? Well, there didn't seem to be many other options and, though having been fooled by these types of calls many times before, we still made arrangements to go pick up the bird after work. What would it be?
Shortly after 6:30 pm last night we arrived at the home of John and Julie Ferris just south of Simcoe. John met us at the door, invited us to have a seat in the kitchen and retrieved the bird from the bedroom in a small box. Upon opening the box, we were delighted to find a living, breathing storm-petrel! What a find! Every once in a while, dealing with the seemingly endless string of baby Robins out of the nest calls pays off with a jack-pot. The bird was extremely emaciated and in very poor condition. We took it with us but unfortunately it expired later in the evening.
The question is now to determine which species. Not having much experience with this group, we first thought Wilson's because the white feathers of the rump seemed to wrap around to the underside of the tail. However , the webs of the feet were totally black. While Cramp and Simmons' BWP refer to a varying amount of yellow in the webbing of Wilson's, they seem to indicate that at least some yellow should be present. Our bird had none. Also, they state the tarsus and toes are smooth and our bird's are scutulated. In addition, the wing chord is beyond that of Wilson's and the tarsus is shorter.
That leaves us with Leach's or Band-rumped. While the measurements of the bird lean towards Leach's, Band-rumped cannot be ruled out completely. The outer toe is slightly shorter than the middle toe which would also point towards Leach's. Normally the the shape of the tail and the white rump would be useful in separating these two species but our bird is moulting its tail and the feathers around it. Retrices 1 through 3 on both sides are missing so the tail shape is distorted. In addition, some of the white tail coverts are missing in the middle so that complicates matters.
So for the moment, we're left with either a Leach's or Band-rumped Storm-Petrel (with a gun to my head I'd choose Leach's) found here at Long Point Thursday. Because of its rarity, the specimen will likely be sent to the ROM and we should get an ID upon examination by someone more knowledgable with these two species.
In either case, Long Point has added a species to its list, bringing the total to 370.
Ron Ridout
Bird Studies Canada/Long Point Bird Observatory
P.O. Box 160
Port Rowan, ON N0E 1M0
519-586-3531
rridout@bsc-eoc.org
http://www.bsc-eoc.org

Black Vulture - June 10 at Long Point - Mon, 12 Jun 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Hi everyone,
A Black Vulture was reported to Ron Ridout by Jim Fairchild on June 10. It was feeding with Turkey Vultures on a raccoon carcass on the 4th Concession between Highway 59 and East 1/4 Line (Backus Woods area), just west of the communication tower. It was looked for later on Saturday and Sunday with no success. If it is relocated, ONTbirds will be updated.
Thanks,
Ian
*************************************
Ian Richards 
Research Assistant - Important Bird Areas
Bird Studies Canada / Études d'Oiseaux Canada 
P.O. Box 160, Port Rowan, ON, N0E 1M0
ph 519-586-3531 ext 218, fax 519-586-3532 
email:  irichards@bsc-eoc.org
*************************************

O.F.O. Trip to Longpoint Area, Saturday June 10. - Sun, 11 Jun 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
LONGPOINT TRIP 2000
On Saturday, June 10th, John Miles led an excellent trip in this area. We started at the St. William's Forestry Station, where the first thing we noticed was the smallness of the group compared with most O.F.O. trips. We thought perhaps the early start , 6.30a.m., had discouraged all but the most dedicated. About 12 birders were there all day, with some others coming and going through the morning, as we explored the Backus woods area.
Although the weather was fine, there was a strong wind, which made birdsong scarce, but in a lull we were able to pick up Prairie, seen well by everyone, but not the Wormeating Warbler on its territory. A Bluewinged warbler obligingly sat on a wire for us, and other birds such as Scarlet Tanager, Towhee, Great Crested Flycatcher, Wood Pewee and Rose-breasted Grosbeak made their presence known in the woods. A large shape in a tree turned out to be a Vulture, but its red head showed well in the sun, as we watched Chimney swifts fly high above it. Surprisingly, the lack of warbler song turned into a bonus, because we started to look around us, and though birds of course were the main focus, we started to study trees, butterflies, and ferns. Our trip turned into a wonderful "nature Outing". We smelled the Sassafras leaf, and that of the Spicebush, (nice), and then the Carrion flower, and Skunk Cabbage, (yuk), and John introduced us to the Dwarf Chinquapin Oak, at its only location in Canada. Mature oaks barely 6 feet tall! In contrast were the Tulip trees, tall and stately, reaching high into the canopy before branching. We saw their tulip- like flowers, and distinctive leaves. Lots of Tiger Swallowtails were patrolling the sandy roads, and this was the most prevalent butterfly species. The best sighting however was that of Red-spotted Purples. A group of three very fresh ones, clustered together on a tree trunk and became a photographer's dream, with one basking with open wings, and one right beside it with wings closed; all the field marks in one view. Then there were the ferns. We saw 10 species through the day. John identified them and told us how to remember different species. The Cinnamon with its fruiting body that colour, the Interrupted, with the fruiting bodies "interrupting" the leaflets on the stem, the Lady, with hairy legs, and the delicate Ebony Spleenwort with its black central rib.
But back to birds. An Acadian was heard, and we all watched . Below us was a wooded creek, and soon someone's sharp eyes spotted the bird, for the rest of us to see. Then we drove to a spot where a Prothonotary, and Ceruleans were nesting. No singing, so about to leave we got back into our cars, when I inadvertently set off my car alarm. The Prothonotary sang quite close to us, and the Ceruleans started to sing overhead! Brief looks were seen of them high in the canopy. We went to the Gartshore-Carson farm for our picnic lunch, picked up Humming bird and Grashopper Sparrow, then moved on to another area. We had heard secret mutterings about a treat in store for us for some time. Here it was. A scope was set up, and three by three we went into the wood. On the way we saw a Blue-headed Vireo nest, and listened to the male singing. When we reached the scope we found it was trained on a Hooded Warbler nest, with young in, and the parents feeding them. We were able to watch visits by both male and female. Many thanks to those who planned that.
That was the highest highlight of the day, but we went on to visit the marsh, with Black Terns, Marsh Wrens and an American Bittern doing an obliging flypast, Port Rowan lagoons and the lake overlook in town, finishing the day with 103 species in total. Great for a breezy June day. Thanks to John Miles for leading us.
When I reached home there was a message- a hotline call- " A Black Vulture at Backus woods, hanging around, eating a dead raccoon........."
Ann White
London Ontario Canada
dwhite@odyssey.on.ca

Am. White Pelicans - Long Point June 8 - Fri, 09 Jun 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Hi everyone,
Two American White Pelicans were sighted on the inner bay side of the Long Point Causeway on June 8. They have not been seen since but I will update ONTbirds if they are relocated.
The Causeway is where Highway 59 runs through the Big Creek Marsh area, southwest of the town of Port Rowan, at the base of Long Point.
Thanks,
Ian
*************************************
Ian Richards 
Research Assistant - Important Bird Areas
Bird Studies Canada / Études d'Oiseaux Canada 
P.O. Box 160, Port Rowan, ON, N0E 1M0
ph 519-586-3531 ext 218, fax 519-586-3532 
email:  irichards@bsc-eoc.org
*************************************

Long Point birds - June 1 to 5 - Mon, 05 Jun 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Hello everyone,
Here are some recent sighting from the Long Point area for the first five days of June (don't hang up your binoculars for summer yet). An immature Red-throated Loon has been reported on the lake off of Long Point Provincial Park (4th) and Hastings Drive (this morning, the 5th). Big Creek NWA has some reliable breeding birds that can be heard from the inner dike trail, including Least Bittern (as many as 4 calling birds), Virginia Rail, Sandhill Crane and Common Moorhen. The Causeway has had fairly high water levels and few shorebirds, although a White-rumped Sandpiper was recorded there on the 3rd. Barred Owl and Whip-poor-will are calling regularly at Backus Woods. Migration has been slow in general although Old Cut is still reporting migrant warblers (Blackpoll, Blackburnian, Canada, etc) and a good variety of Empidonax flycatchers (Acadian, Willow, Alder, Yellow-bellied and Least were recorded there on June 3). Acadian Flycatcher has also been reported singing at Backus Woods as well as the reliable bird at Fisher's Glen. Prairie Warbler was recorded on June 3 at the "usual" spot at the northeast corner of East 1/4 Line and 6th Concession. The Worm-eating Warbler was still singing as recently as yesterday (June 4) along the East 1/4 Line, 300 metres north of the 7th Concession (west side of road). Please stay on the road as all the surrounding land is private property. Louisiana Waterthrushes are on territory on the east side of the road at this spot, and also at Backus Woods. Hooded Warblers can be heard at numerous locations in the St. Williams forest and Backus Woods. Cerulean, Blue-winged and Golden-winged Warblers are also singing at numerous locations such as Wilson Tract and Backus Woods. Finally, the Sedge Wren is still singing here at the Bird Studies Canada headquarters (about 75 metres from my desk!) on Front Street just west of Port Rowan.
A quick reminder to please not use tapes to elicit responses from any of the rare or local territorial birds mentioned above.
Thanks,
Ian
Directions to Old Cut field station: follow highway 59 south past Port Rowan. South of the Causeway, the road bends east but stay on it for approximately four kilometres to Old Cut Blvd (heading east, it is the second last left before the provincial park boundary) - once on Old Cut Blvd, the field station is the 7th cottage on your right (east side of road) and has a small "Long Point Bird Observatory" sign out front; parking is available across the road from the field station. At the field station, there is a large map showing all the local birding hotspots, plus "A Birding Guide to the Long Point Area" is for sale in the banding lab for $6.95 including tax. Any locations mentioned in the sightings section above will be in the guide or on the map.
*************************************
Ian Richards 
Research Assistant - Important Bird Areas
Bird Studies Canada / Études d'Oiseaux Canada 
P.O. Box 160, Port Rowan, ON, N0E 1M0
ph 519-586-3531 ext 218, fax 519-586-3532 
email:  irichards@bsc-eoc.org
*************************************

Long Point area birds: May 26 - 28 - Mon, 29 May 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Hi everyone,
A quick note on the birding weekend here at Long Point (May 26 - 28). The LAUGHING GULL found on the 25th at the Turkey Point marina was relocated there on the evening of May 26th. Thus far, I have heard of no subsequent sightings (perhaps it left us for the LaSalle Marina - how disloyal). The Causeway had variable levels of water (depending on wind direction) but often had good numbers of shorebirds. The best species was a STILT SANDPIPER seen on Saturday (27th), along with 3 White-rumped Sandpipers. Other shorebirds, such as Least and Semipalmated Sandpipers, Dunlin, Short-billed Dowitcher and Semipalmated Plover are still being reported there. Migration itself was very slow for the whole area, the exception being a good movement of thrushes at Old Cut on the 27th, with 10 Gray-cheeked and 16 Swainson's being reported; Old Cut also had a late White-throated Sparrow and 20 Blackpoll Warblers on that date. The Tip recorded a late migrant Dark-eyed Junco on the 26th. Otherwise, the area still has some noteworthy territorial birds about including the WORM-EATING WARBLER still singing along the East 1/4 Line, about 300 metres north of the 7th Concession (just north of "Fox Hollow Farms") on the west side of the road - it can often be heard as close as ~20 metres from the edge of the road! Prairie Warblers are singing at the northeast corner of the intersection of East 1/4 Line and the 6th Concession, and Louisiana Waterthrush is singing across the road from the Worm-eating Warbler and in Backus Woods.
Thanks,
Ian
Directions to Old Cut field station: follow highway 59 south past Port Rowan. South of the Causeway, the road bends east but stay on it for approximately four kilometres to Old Cut Blvd (heading east, it is the second last left before the provincial park boundary) - once on Old Cut Blvd, the field station is the 7th cottage on your right (east side of road) and has a small "Long Point Bird Observatory" sign out front; parking is available across the road from the field station. At the field station, there is a large map showing all the local birding hotspots, plus "A Birding Guide to the Long Point Area" is for sale in the banding lab for $6.95 including tax. Any locations mentioned in the sightings section above will be in the guide or on the map.
 
*************************************
Ian Richards 
Research Assistant - Important Bird Areas
Bird Studies Canada / Études d'Oiseaux Canada 
P.O. Box 160, Port Rowan, ON, N0E 1M0
ph 519-586-3531 ext 218, fax 519-586-3532 
email:  irichards@bsc-eoc.org
*************************************

Great Egrets near Long Point - Sat, 27 May 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Yesterday (Friday, May 26) at 7:40 A.M. two Great Egrets were seen from our home in Port Ryerse flying west across Long Point Bay towards Turkey Point or Long Point itself.
Long Point is regularly described on this list--it is south and west of Hamilton. Port Ryerse is a tiny village west of Port Dover that appears on many, but by no means all, road maps.
Chauncey & Sarah Wood
Port Ryerse

Long Point birds May 25 - 26 - Fri, 26 May 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Hi everyone,
Ron Ridout and I recently finished our Baillie Birdathon (11 am to 11 am, May 25/26) so here are some of the highlights. There was an adult LAUGHING GULL at the south end of Ordnance Avenue at Turkey Point around 1 pm, May 25; it was spotted further to the south but ended out settling right on the beach just north of the marina. A spring plumaged WESTERN SANDPIPER was at Townsend's Sewage Lagoon at 4 pm. Other highlights included Rough-legged Hawk (late), Virginia Rail, both bitterns and Sandhill Crane at Big Creek NWA, the territorial Worm-eating Warbler and Louisiana Waterthrush at East 1/4 Line and 7th Concession (west and east side of the road, just north of "Fox Hollow Farms"), 2 Horned Grebes (late), 2 Little Gulls and Winter Wren at Turkey Point, White-rumped Sandpipers at Townsend's Sewage Lagoon, the Causeway and Turkey Point, Great Egret and Sedge Wren at our headquarters here in Port Rowan, 35 Whimbrel at Port Dover harbour, Acadian Flycatcher at Fisher's Glen, Bald Eagle at six locations, and 27 species of warblers, including Prairie, Blue- and Golden-winged, Yellow-rumped (late), Pine, Cerulean, Hooded, and Mourning. We also recorded Gray-cheeked Thrush at Old Cut, Hermit Thrush and Whip-poor-will along the St. William's sand road, and Barred Owl at Backus Woods. Shorebird numbers were decent at Townsend's Sewage Lagoon, Turkey Point and along the Causeway here at Long Point, with 15 species total, including Sanderling, Ruddy Turnstone and Upland Sandpiper (2 on the grassy berms around the Stelco facilities near Nanticoke). Anyway, we tallied 180 species for the day - the birding is good!!
Thanks,
Ian
Directions to Old Cut field station: follow highway 59 south past Port Rowan. South of the Causeway, the road bends east but stay on it for approximately four kilometres to Old Cut Blvd (heading east, it is the second last left before the provincial park boundary) - once on Old Cut Blvd, the field station is the 7th cottage on your right (east side of road) and has a small "Long Point Bird Observatory" sign out front; parking is available across the road from the field station. At the field station, there is a large map showing all the local birding hotspots, plus "A Birding Guide to the Long Point Area" is for sale in the banding lab for $6.95 including tax. Any locations mentioned in the sightings section above will be in the guide or on the map.
*************************************
Ian Richards 
Research Assistant - Important Bird Areas
Bird Studies Canada / Études d'Oiseaux Canada 
P.O. Box 160, Port Rowan, ON, N0E 1M0
ph 519-586-3531 ext 218, fax 519-586-3532 
email:  irichards@bsc-eoc.org
*************************************

Whimbrel & Snowy Egret near Long Point - Tue, 23 May 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
At about 5:30 P.M. on Monday, May 22, Sarah and I saw a flock of 90 Whimbrel flying west at Long Point. At the time Sarah spotted them we were on Hastings Drive, but they might have been seen from anywhere on the Point.
At 7:45 P.M. on Monday, from our home in Port Ryerse, we saw a SNOWY EGRET flying west over Lake Erie [actually Long Point Bay] towards Long Point. It may turn up there or at Turkey Point today. Once again it was Sarah who spotted the bird.
Long Point is accessible from Highway # 59 south of Brantford. Hastings Drive is the unpaved road that heads west off of # 59 where #59 bends east towards Long Point Provincial Park after you have crossed the causeway.
Port Ryerse is an unincorporated hamlet a few kilometres west of Port Dover.
Chauncey Wood

Swallow-tailed Kite at Long Point - Wed, 17 May 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
A Swallow-tailed Kite was observed this morning on the east side of the Wilson Tract by a couple of observers who didn't leave their names with the staff at Old Cut. If we have any further reports of this bird we will post them.
The Wilson Tract runs south from Reg. Rd. 60 and can be reached by turning south on the W 1/4 Line. 3.5 km west of Hwy 59. At the bottom of the 1/4 Line turn right (west) to the woods. I would look for the kite over the woods from the 4th Conc. (sand road into the tract).
Ron Ridout
Bird Studies Canada
P.O. Box 160
Port Rowan, ON N0E 1M0
Phone: 519-586-3531
Fax: 519-586-3532
Email: rridout@bsc-eoc.org

Long Point - Sun, 14 May 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Birdathon goodies-
Snowy Egret- Long Point causeway (Saturday) Worm Eating Warbler, Louisiana Waterthrush, Prairie Warbler - 1/4 Line East (Sunday) Louisiana Waterthrush also at Backus Woods and Wilsons Tract (Sunday) Cerulean Warblers at Backus Woods (Sunday) No one I talked to knew anything about the possible Painted Bunting in Townsend.( I would appreciate any news good or bad.) If you go, purchase the Birding Guide to Long Point Area for maps and species locations, a booklet available at LPBO on Old Cut Blvd in Long Point village just before the Prov Park, which discusses these and other hotspots in detail.
Dan Burton ,
Gravenhurst.
burton@csolve.net

Mississippi Kite at Long Pt. - Mon, 15 May 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Mark Cranford and Donna Sheppard took time out from their Birdathon today to stop here at BSC Headquarters to let us know that they saw a Mississippi Kite fly by them at Port Royal this morning at 11:30. They were stopped by the bridge on Reg. Rd. 42 over Big Creek when the bird flew right over them.
They also discovered a Sedge Wren in the field here at our headquarters and saw the Worm-eating Warbler singing on the East 1/4 Line this morning.
Thanks again Mark and Donna for stopping at letting us know about your sightings!
Port Royal is about 3 km west of Hwy 59 on Reg. Rd. 42. BSC headquarters property is about 400 metres east of Hwy 59 on the south side of Reg. Rd. 42 and directions to the Worm-eating have been posted several times in the past week.
Ron Ridout
Bird Studies Canada
P.O. Box 160
Port Rowan, ON N0E 1M0
Phone: 519-586-3531
Fax: 519-586-3532
Email: rridout@bsc-eoc.org

Long Point Birdathon Birds - Sat, 13 May 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Approximately 75 eager Birdathoners braved early morning showers and a stiff all-day westerly breeze to participate in the annual Long Point Birdathon Weekend. Except for a brief interval around 8 a.m., birding was "quiet" but by the end of the day I was overhearing list totals mostly above 100 and some in the 130s so it appears to have been a successful day for all.
Highlights for the day included the immature male Summer Tanager at the Old Cut Field Station at 8 a.m. this morning, a Snowy Egret which appeared along the causeway late in the afternoon and was seen by all until sunset, two Sandhill Cranes that flew by everyone at a distance of less than 100 metres a the beginning of the evening marsh hike, and to end the day, Backus Woods' ever-cooperative Barred Owl.
To all those who came down for the day and participated in this year's "weekend", a big thank you!
Ron Ridout
Bird Studies Canada/Long Point Bird Observatory
P.O. Box 160
Port Rowan, ON N0E 1M0
519-586-3531
rridout@bsc-eoc.org
http://www.bsc-eoc.org

Snowy Egret at Long Point - 7pm May 13 - Sat, 13 May 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Hi everyone,
A Snowy Egret was sighted on the mud on the inner bay (east) side of the Long Point Causeway at 7pm, May 13 (Saturday). It was opposite the CWS compound, about halfway along the Causeway; it could also be seen from the Big Creek NWA parking lot, located about 100 metres north of the CWS compound. The second year male Summer Tanager was seen briefly (9am) at Old Cut but, once again, it could not be relocated.
Ian Richards
Bird Studies Canada
Port Rowan, Ontario
Email: irichards@bsc-eoc.org
Directions to Old Cut field station: follow highway 59 south past Port Rowan. South of the Causeway, the road bends east but stay on it for approximately four kilometres to Old Cut Blvd (heading east, it is the second last left before the provincial park boundary) - once on Old Cut Blvd, the field station is the 7th cottage on your right (east side of road) and has a small "Long Point Bird Observatory" sign out front; parking is available across the road from the field station. At the field station, there is a large map showing all the local birding hotspots, plus "A Birding Guide to the Long Point Area" is for sale in the banding lab for $6.95 including tax. Any locations mentioned in the sightings section above will be in the guide or on the map.

Long Point area sightings, May 8 - 11 - Thu, 11 May 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Hi everyone,
Here are some of the Long Point area sightings for May 8 to 11. The best bird was a second year Summer Tanager, seen on the morning of the 8th at Old Cut; it was not seen the rest of that day or the next day, but reappeared on the 10th in the morning. Once again, it has not been relocated (it's toying with us, I know it). Another goodie was a Worm-eating Warbler singing this morning (11th), about 300 metres north of the 7th Concession on East 1/4 Line. It was on the west side of the road in the ravine just north of "Fox Hollow Farms"; it is presumably the same bird that was present into June last spring. The bird can usually be heard without leaving the road: it should be noted that the land in this area is private property. The East 1/4 Line runs north-south across highway 24, a few kilometres west of the St. Williams forestry station; to get to the 7th Concession, proceed north off of highway 24 on the East 1/4 line for about 3 kilometres.
Seven Long-billed Dowitchers were seen at the north end of the Causeway on the morning of the 8th; at least three were still present in the evening. The high water levels, created after the night of severe thunderstorms, has made the Causeway much less productive than the last few weeks. Clay-coloured Sparrows have been sighted regularly, with four during the period (singles at Old Cut on the 10th and 11th, the Tip on the 8th, and Breakwater on the 11th). A total of 27 warbler species were seen during the four day period.
These are the highlights, but for additional sightings, such as peak numbers of commoner migrants, new arrivals, late departures and banding totals, please visit the Bird Studies Canada "Sightings Board" at www.bsc-eoc.org
Directions to Old Cut field station: follow highway 59 south past Port Rowan. South of the Causeway, the road bends east but stay on it for approximately four kilometres to Old Cut Blvd (heading east, it is the second last left before the provincial park boundary) - once on Old Cut Blvd, the field station is the 7th cottage on your right (east side of road) and has a small "Long Point Bird Observatory" sign out front; parking is available across the road from the field station. At the field station, there is a large map showing all the local birding hotspots, plus "A Birding Guide to the Long Point Area" is for sale in the banding lab for $6.95 including tax. Any locations mentioned in the sightings section above will be in the guide or on the map.
Thanks,
Ian
*************************************
Ian Richards 
Research Assistant - Important Bird Areas
Bird Studies Canada / Études d'Oiseaux Canada 
P.O. Box 160, Port Rowan, ON, N0E 1M0
ph 519-586-3531 ext 218, fax 519-586-3532 
email:  irichards@bsc-eoc.org
*************************************

Worm-eating Warbler near Long Point - Thu, 11 May 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Between 08h00 and 08h30h, Thursday, 11 May '00, we birded the East 1/4 Line Road, Norfolk-Haldimand, between N-H Regional Road 1 and Hwy 24. Three warblers of interest were observed: WORM-EATING WARBLER, LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH AND PRAIRIE WARBLER.
The PRAIRIE sang from a perch along the east side of the East 1/4 Line Road approximately 30 metres north of the intersection of this road and the 6th Conc. (A well-known site for this species -- one concession north of Highway 24.)
The WORM-EATING AND LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH were observed at the following location: 0.5 km north of the intersection of East 1/4 Line Road and the 7th Conc. (also called N.Wals-S.Wals Townline Road). There is a ravine on both sides of the road at this spot -- not obvious at this time of year on a drive-by. Both birds were heard and eventually seen from the road. Both of these species were observed last year at this same location.
Bill & Heather Wilson
wgwilson@mgl.ca

Scarlet Tanager, Blue-grey Gnatcatcher, Great Horned Owl at Long Point - Mon, 08 May 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Hi,
We didn't arrive at Long Point until 3:00 in the afternoon, but were still able to record over 50 species in under 3 hours. Highlights from the campground include: Scarlet Tanager, Baltimore Orioles, White-crowned Sparrows, Red Headed Woodpecker, Palm Warbler, Common Yellow Throat, Warbling Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue-grey Gnatcatcher, Yellow-rumped Warbler and Yellow warblers by the dozens.
There is a great horned owl nesting in the trees on the west side of highway 59, about 75-150 m north of the small parking lot for the wetland walk (Trail leading to the lookout tower - sorry, I don't remember the name of the trail?). We were able to see the "horns" of the baby just above the nest top. The nest is located about 25-50 south of the house with no driveway on the east side of the highway (sorry for the rough directions - first time visitors...).
Lisa Amyot and Mark Harris
London, Ontario
mharris@multiboard.com

Long Point area sightings - May 6 & 7 - Mon, 08 May 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Hi everyone,
Here are some noteworthy sightings from the Long Point area for May 6 and 7. The best bird was a Summer Tanager seen during the afternoon of May 7 at Old Cut; an update from Old Cut at 10:15 am informed me that the bird is still there this morning (May 8th). A Worm-eating Warbler was also at Old Cut the on the 7th. Over 20 species of warblers were spotted, including Yellow-breasted Chat, Bay-breasted, Wilson's, Canada and Cerulean Warblers, and American Redstart. Five species of vireo were also seen: Philadelphia, Red-eyed, Blue-headed, Yellow-throated and Warbling (what?! no Bell's?!). A Clay-coloured Sparrow was observed at Port Rowan harbour on the morning of the 7th. These are the highlights, but for additional sightings, including peak numbers of commoner migrants and banding totals, please visit the Bird Studies Canada "Sightings Board" at www.bsc-eoc.org
Directions to Old Cut field station: follow highway 59 south past Port Rowan. South of the Causeway, the road bends east but stay on it for approximately four kilometres to Old Cut Blvd (heading east, it is the second last left before the provincial park boundary) - once on Old Cut Blvd, the field station is the 7th cottage on your right (east side of road) and has a small "Long Point Bird Observatory" sign out front; parking is available across the road from the field station. At the field station, there is a large map showing all the local birding hotspots, plus "A Birding Guide to the Long Point Area" is for sale in the banding lab for $6.95 including tax.
Thanks,
Ian
  
***********************
Ian Richards 
Research Assistant - Important Bird Areas
Bird Studies Canada / Études d'Oiseaux Canada 
P.O. Box 160, Port Rowan, ON, N0E 1M0
ph 519-586-3531 ext 218, fax 519-586-3532 
email irichards@bsc-eoc.org
***********************

House Wren and Hummingbird at Walsingham - Sat, 6 May 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
This morning at 8am we saw our first 2 House Wrens of the season. Our first Ruby-throated Hummingbird visited our feeder yesterday afternoon around 5 pm.
For those of you who have not have heard of Walsingham, it is on Hwy 59 on the way to Long Point.
We are now headed to Long Point to check out the new spring arrivals!
Jeff and Darlene Sauder
Walsingham
jefdar@execulink.com

Indigo Bunting at Walsingham - Fri, 5 May 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
We have just seen our first Indigo Bunting of the year at our bird feeder.
Jeff and Darlene Sauder
Walsingham
jefdar@execulink.com

White-eyed Vireo, Cerulean and Blue-winged Warblers at Long Point - Fri, 5 May 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Hi there,
A great day at Long Point today. Birds found in the provincial park included 14 species of warbler highlighted by Cerulean, Blue-winged, Northern Parula and Redstart. Nine species of sparrow were seen including Vesper, Lincoln's and Field. Other good birds in the area were White-eyed and Warbling Vireos, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, E. Wood Pewee, E. Kingbird, Least Flycatcher, Great Crested Flycatchers, Veery, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks and Northern Oriole.
The mudflats favoured by shorebirds (to your right as Hwy 59 first enters the Long Point Marshes) were quite flooded and attracted over a humdred shorebirds today, mostly Dunlin, Least Sandpipers and L. Yellowlegs but half a dozen Semipalmated Plovers and a Black-bellied were also present. The marsh trail into Long Point Marsh yielded Bittern, Green Heron, a late Rough-legged Hawk, Sora and Marsh Wren.
In all I had 108 species and I didn't get started until 10 am.
Long Point can be reached by following Hwy 59 south until it arrives at Long Point. The provincial park is at the most southerly point reachable by the highway. There is a locked gate across the road and you must walk from here. The shorebird area is to your right as Hwy 59 leaves the mainland and cuts through the Long Point marshes. The marsh trail is about two kilometres later and has a parking lot. It is on the right side of the road.
Don Graham
Simcoe ON
dsgraham@flarenet.com

Long Point and area - April 29th - Mon, 01 May 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
On Saturday, Terrie Smith, Ray Geras and I went to try our luck in the Long Point area. Sorry for the late posting, but I don't haver Internet at home ...
Amongst the 89 species we saw were:
Grasshopper Sparrow, Chimney Swift, Palm Warbler, Black-thr. Green, Pine, Black and White, Louisiana Waterthrush [near Wilson Tract], Solitary Sandpiper, House Wren, Wood Thrush, Rough-legged Hawk [light phase], Warbling Vireo, Screech Owl [at Walsingham A - calling and yes the nest box is still facing north!], 100+ Lapland Longspurs near Brantford and Peregrine Falcons [2 at Islington and Bloor in Toronto].
Addendum: Sunday, at Thickson's - Black-thr Blue Warbler in the woods and Little Gull over the lake; and Evening Grosbeak - first for my yard.
Geoff Carpentier
Ajax, Ont.
carpenge@ene.gov.on.ca

Big Creek, Long Point area - Sun, 30 Apr 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Hi all,
Today being perfect weatherwise I decided to take my canoe down Big Creek from Regional Rd. 60 to Port Royal. New migrants for the area included Blue-gray Gnatcatchers, Yellow Warblers, Bobolink, House Wren, a Solitary Sandpiper, a Catbird and all the normal swallows. The creek has enough water for paddling and a good current to speed you along. Fallen trees across the creek make for narrow passageways and the uniformly high muddy banks make getting out to stretch a big challenge. There is a fairly good pull out at Port Royal.
Big Creek runs roughly parallel to and west of Hwy 59 (at least where I was). Regional Rd 60 is the western extension of Hwy 24 after it crosses Hwy 59. Port Royal is on Regional Rd 42 and west of Port Rowan by about 5 km.
Don Graham
Simcoe, ON
dsgraham@flarenet.com

Birding at Long Point on Friday - Fri, 28 Apr 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
I had the pleasure of spending the day birding around Long Point with Dick Cannings (BC), Guy Wapple (SK), Wayne Neily (MB), David Christie (NB), Dave Fifield (NF) and Geoff LeBaron (U.S. National Audubon CBC Coordinator). While still a liitle early in the main spring rush, a respectable overnight migration (presaged by an extremely cluttered Nexrad radar from Cleveland and Buffalo last night) provided a steady stream of migrants on Long Point itself.
A good smattering of warbler species included Yellow-rumped, Blackburnian, Pine, Palm, Black & White, Black-throated Green and Louisiana Waterthrush (Thursday). The campground in Long Point Provincial Park was absolutely littered with dozens of Hermit Thrushes and Northern Flickers along with several lingering juncos.
Other highlights of our day included a Sandhill Crane (Dave Fifield), three different Bald Eagles (including one adult harassing a third-year bird for more than five minutes over Big Creek Marsh), a Merlin in Long Pt. P.P., a late Rough-legged Hawk at Big Creek as well as a beautiful adult 'anatum'-type Peregrine chasing Green-winged Teal there in a desultory fashion.
The beautiful spring day left us feeling the same way. Eager for more but nonetheless satisfied with what we had seen.
Ron Ridout
Bird Studies Canada/Long Point Bird Observatory
P.O. Box 160
Port Rowan, ON N0E 1M0
519-586-3531
rridout@bsc-eoc.org
http://www.bsc-eoc.org

Long Point - Friday, April 28th - Fri, 28 Apr 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
And now for some news about birds......what Ontbirds is REALLY about.
Although I have no "exciting" birds to report, I spent a beautiful morning at Long Point today. Since most of my visit was spent at Old Cut assisting the staff and volunteers with extracting birds from the mist nets, I did not visit all the regular hotspots.
There was a BLUE-HEADED VIREO seen at Old Cut and at Long Point Prov. Park. Also in the woodlot were several BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHERS, WHITE-THROATED SPARROWS, MYRTLE WARBLERS, HERMIT THRUSHES, BROWN-HEADED COWBIRDS, PINE SISKINS, EASTERN PHOEBE, and an AMERICAN BITTERN could be heard over the marsh behind the woodlot. Two birders reported seeing a BALD EAGLE flying overhead south.
I took a short walk through Long Point Prov. Park, and in addition to the Blue-headed Vireo, I saw PINE WARBLERS (3), MYRTLE WARBLERS, several CHIPPING SPARROWS, PURPLE MARTINS, BARN AND TREE SWALLOWS, AMERICAN GOLDFINCHES and other usuals.
Along Hastings Drive there were about 15 RED-BREASTED MERGANSERS on the lake and I saw 3 CASPIAN TERNS flying east.
The only species I saw on the mudflats along the causeway early in the morning were KILLDEER and several GREEN-WINGED TEAL.
A very brief stop at Rowanwood Sanctuary produced an EASTERN TOWHEE, FIELD SPARROWS, CHIPPING SPARROWS and PINE WARBLERS (both were heard and seen).
Although not an impressive number of species for the day, as always, it was well worth the visit.
Have a great weekend and happy birding trails!
Gina Turone
Toronto, ON
gturone@sympatico.ca
DIRECTIONS TO LONG POINT FROM TORONTO:
Highway 403 West to Garden Avenue (Cainsville) exit south to Regional Rd 4 south to Regional Rd 5 (Cockshutt Rd) south to Regional Rd 3 (NOT Highway 3) west to Highway 24 (bypassing all the Simcoe traffic) southwest to East 1/4 Line Rd south to Lakeshore Rd west to Highway 59 south.
Causeway:
From the intersection of Highway 59 and Regional Rd 42, drive south on 59 to a pulloff on the right (west) side.
Hastings Drive:
Follow Highway 59 south from Regional Rd 42 south of Big Creek to Hastings Drive, which goes right (west) where the highway turns sharply east (where the Pizza Hut is).
Old Cut Rd & Banding Station:
Continue southeast along Highway 59 and turn left at Old Cut Road.
Long Point Provincial Park:
East end of Highway 59 - From Old Cut Road, continue east to the main gain and park outside the main gate (Park is still closed).
Rowanwood Sanctuary:
Turn west from Highway 59 onto Regional Road 60 to West 1/4 Line - S. Walsingham (this is known as Wilson Tract). Rowanwood Sanctuary is at the sharp southward bend in the sand road east of the Wilson Tract.

White-winged Dove reported at Long Point - Tue, 25 Apr 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Hi everyone,
A White-winged Dove was reported by John Lamey at Long Point Provincial Park aound 12:30 pm, Monday, April 24. No other details are available at this point. It is not known if the bird is still around today but I will update ONTbirds if it is relocated and confirmed. Directions to Long Point Provincial Park are as follows: take Highway 59 southbound past Port Rowan (located near the base of Long Point) and follow it all the way to where it ends at the boundary of the park itself (the highway is southbound, except for the last 4 kilometres (after the causeway) where it turns east towards the park). The gate at the west end of the park was still up but you can park and walk in from there.
Thanks
Ian
*************************
Ian Richards
Bird Studies Canada
Port Rowan, Ontario
phone:  (519) 586-3531 ext. 218
email:  irichards@bsc-eoc.org
*************************

Screech Owl at A conc. at Long Point - Mon, 24 Apr 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Hi again
It appears that the land owner may not be birder friendly as the bird box containing the E. Screech Owl has now been turned around and only the back of the box is visible. I hope that this does not impact negatively on the bird.
Norm Murr
Richmond Hill, ON
NORMURR@SYMPATICO.CA
PS
There has been no adverse weather since Sun. to cause the box to rotate.
N.M.

Long Point birds - Sun, 23 Apr 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Ontbirds:
I visited Long Point today (April 23,2000) I had limited time to search for birds so I did not stay too long. There were few migrants around. Evidently the cold, clear night last night was not conducive to producing new birds in the area, and many of the birds reported present there yesterday seemed to have moved out.
I did not see the Great White Heron spotted yesterday nor were there any Greaat Egrets present either.
I did see two LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSHES on territory in the gully along West 1/4 Line in Norfolk County. This Road runs south from Norfolk Regional Road 60. Road 60 runs west from the end of Highway No. 24 where it meets Highway No. 59, the road to Long Point.
DENYS GARDINER
Brantford, Ontario

100 SPECIES AT LONG POINT (NOT A TEST) - Sun, 23 Apr 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Hi again Ontbirders
Today Fri.,Apr.22,2000 Stan Bajurny did our (it seems) usual loop at Long Point and the following are some of the high lights.
We actually started out checking out the E. Screech Owls along Hwy 20 SE of Hagersville. We only checked one woodlot as the rain was both wet and depressing. At this wood lot we encountered only 2 of the usual 4 owls but they did give a spirited verbal show and this time the fear was not evident in us as we knew we could take 2 owls. It appears that the owls are now nesting and defending a territory so we will not be checking on them again this season so as to leave them be.
Off we now went to Long Point and our 1st stop was Old Cut Woods. Here we found 2 singing Brown Thrashers, a singing Fox Sparrow, 7 Y.-B. Sapsuckers, a calling American Bittern (behind the woods) and Winnie Young who told us about hearing 2 A. Woodcock and the presence of 2 Pine warblers. Along the main road beside and near Old Cut were 14 Chipping Sparrows and over the woods flew 5 C. Loons
It was cool, dull and damp and we walked on and into Long Point Provincial Park. In the park we immediately encountered Purple Martins and several Common Loons overhead. Walking on we found MANY Ruby-crowned Kinglets, 6 C. Loons overhead, all six normal species of swallows, 28 N. Flickers, 12 Y.B. Sapsuckers, 12 Brown Creepers, a Vesper Sparrow, a Pine Warbler, 3 E. Towhees and 2 more Thrashers, and 20+ Rusty Blackbirds.
At one point in the park Stan pointed out a large white bird that turned out to be a Great White Heron (a southern morph of the Great Blue Heron) and not 50 yards to it's right at the same time and height (as if escorting it) flew an immature Bald Eagle. This spot was not exhausted yet as I drew Stan's attention to 2 Red-thraoted Loons flying over. We carried on further into the park and foud a Common Snipe, an Eastern Meadowlark and a surprise for me, a N. Mockingbird feeding on berries. Were now cool and hungry so we started back.
We now headed back towards Big Creek Marsh and on the way as we approached Hastings Drive we spotted a Green Heron heading out over the marsh, we passed on along the causeway and heard a R-N Pheasant calling just where the causeway starts.
At Lee Brown Conservation area there were a large number of A. Wigeon, Ring-necked Ducks and a male Redhead. We now drove up to the triple bridge area on A Concession and here were the usual Rusty Blackbirds (11), the E. Screech Owl (visible in the bird box on the north side of the road at the middle bridge) and 7 Wood Ducks.
We moved on from here stopping at the Port Rowan Overlook and found Caspian Terns, both Lesser and Greater Yellowlegs and 2 Dunlin and from this location we went to the Turkey Point Marsh Overlook. From this high vantage point we counted 37 Dunlin, 8 Lessr and 2 Greater Yellowlegs and a Sandhill Crane flew past. At Turkey Point we found no Little Gulls but did observe 400+ swallows together (mixed species) and on the east end a Spotted Sandpiper.
Driving towards home we went through Fisher's Glen and again got lucky wit 3 Pine Sisken and 2 Purple Finches at a feeder and as we passed through Fishers Stan spotted an adult Bald Eagle low overhead.
Now we headed to Townsend sewage lagoons and here we saw 74 Tundra Swans, 100+ Ruddy Ducks, 2 Canvasbacks, a large number of Ring-necked Ducks and Lesser Scaup. We also found another Spotted Sandpiper and 3 Savannah Sparrows. During our travels through these areas we also saw 11 N. Harriers, many Swamp Sparrows, and lots of Bonaparte's Gulls.
It was after Townsend that we Finally dragged out tired A----s home ward but along the way we agreed that it was another good day. If any of you are planning to go down that way then do not hurry and plan to spend the day there. Ask questions of other birders and cover as much of the areas mentioned as methodically as possible, the birds are there.
I have probably missed mentioning some good birds, but it is after 12:30 pm and I am failing fast.
The weather looks a lot better for the next 2 days so good luck and it can only get better in the Long Point area over the next few weeks.
Norm Murr
Richmond Hill, ON
NORMURR@SYMPATICO.CA
OLD CUT WOODS AT LONG POINT
Old Cut Woods at Long Point is southwest of Hamilton, directly south of Port Rowan. To reach it you can drive south on Hwy 6 from Hamilton, passing through Hagersville and turning right, west in Jarvis onto Hwy 3, drive to Simcoe and turn left, south on Hwy 24 and follow this to Hwy 59, ( it curves to the west south of town) turn left, south on Hwy 59 and drive right down about 8 km and past the golf coarse and you will be on the causeway.
Drive on across the bridge and continue past the marina on your left. The road comes to Lake Erie where it curves to the left through the cottage / retail business area. Continue driving until you come to Old Cut Road. Turn left and drive a couple of hundred yards down this road (you will see the entrance to the banding area on your right) this is the entrance to Old Cut Woods. Drive another 100 feet or so and you will see a parking area on your left. Park here and walk across the road to the woods.
NOTE: Be sure to lock your car and put your valuables out of sight).
LONG POINT PROVINCIAL PARK
The Provincial Park at Long Point is southwest of Hamilton, directly south of Port Rowan. To reach it you can drive south on Hwy 6 from Hamilton, passing through Hagersville and turning right, west in Jarvis onto Hwy 3, drive to Simcoe and turn left, south on Hwy 24 and follow this to Hwy 59, ( it curves to the west south of town) turn left, south on Hwy 59 and drive right down about 8 km and past the golf coarse and you will be on the causeway.
Drive on across the bridge and continue past the marina on your left. The road comes to Lake Erie where it curves to the left through the cottage / retail business area. Continue driving along this road passing Old Cut Road and you will come to the park entrance.
The park is closed for the season so park here at the gate, being sure not to block road and walk into the park.
NOTE: Be sure to lock your car and put your valuables out of sight).
LEE BROWN WATERFOWL SANCTUARY
To get to the sanctuary drive south on Hwy 6 from Hamilton, passing through Hagersville and turning right, west in Jarvis onto Hwy 3, drive to Simcoe and turn left, south on Hwy 24 and follow this to Hwy 59, ( it curves to the west south of town) turn left, south on Hwy 59 and drive right down about 7 1/2 km to Lakeshore Road (or Road 42) and turn right (west) off Hwy 59 onto this road. (This is the last road before the Long Point Causeway). (a gas station on your left and a driving range on your right). Drive over the bridge over Big Creek and watch on your left side (south) for the parking area with the viewing platform and a washroom and probably birders during migration. This is just a small pond and some cedars off the side of the road.
TRIPLE BRIDGE AT PORT ROYAL / PORT ROWAN ON A CONCESSION
To reach the triple bridge area you can drive south on Hwy 6 from Hamilton, passing through Hagersville and turning right (west) in Jarvis onto Hwy 3, drive west to Simcoe and turn left (south) on Hwy 24 and follow this to Hwy 59, turn left (south) on Hwy 59 and drive right down about 7 km to A Concession Road (just before the golf coarse on your right and just south of the OPP station on your left.
Turn right (west) here and follow the road to Big Creek. You will come to 3 bridges only a couple hundred yards apart.
Or you can drive past A Concession Road to Lakeshore Rd at the putting coarse. Turn right (west) here and drive past Lee Brown Conservation Area to the next road which is West 1/4 Line EXT. Turn right (north here and drive about 2km to A Concession Road. Turn right (east) and drive about 1 km to the bridges.
PORT ROWAN OVERLOOK
From Hwy 59 just before the Long Point drive along Lakeshore Road (AKA Front Street) to Main Street at the south end of the town of Port Rowan (just south of the CIBC branch) where it makes left hand turn into town. The overlook and parking area are directly on your right above the marina and harbour. P.S. If you continue up Main Street to the traffic light and turn right (east), this will take to the Turkey Point Marsh overlook and to Turkey Point itself and a little further on, the Fisher's Glen area.
TURKEY POINT MARSH OVERLOOK
To get to the Turkey Point Marsh overlook from Brantford, drive straight south down Hwy 24 through Simcoe ((following Hwy 24 as it curves west towards Long Point. About 8 km you will come to county road 10, turn left (south), (there are signs here as you approach this road indicating Turkey Point Prov. Park) and drive straight ahead for about 4 km until you reach Lakeshore Road, turn right (west), drive through the ravine and continue west until you see the chain link fence and pull off on your left (south) side. Park here and you will have a great view of the marsh. You should have a scope for this area for best viewing.))
From Hamilton drive south on Hwy 6 through Hagersville to Jarvis. In Jarvis turn right (west) on Hwy 24 and drive to Simcoe. In Simcoe turn left (south) on Hwy 24 and follow the directions in double brackets above.
TURKEY POINT
To get to Turkey Point from Brantford, drive straight south down Hwy 24 through Simcoe following Hwy 24 as it curves west towards Long Point. About 8 km you will come to county road 10, turn left (south), (there are signs here as you approach this road indicating Turkey Point Prov. Park) and drive straight ahead for about 5 km until you almost run into the lake at Cedar Road (the C in Cedar is hidden by a sign, so you will read it as Cedar Road), turn right and drive about 1 ½ km to Reserve Street. Turn left here and drive to the lake (I could not find a sign naming this street), turn right here and continue to the marina entrance and watch here for birds flying past or sitting on the beach, or off to your right on the sometimes exposed flats or sandy islands. Be sure to check the beach and lake on your right all along here.
From Hamilton drive south on Hwy 6 through Hagersville to Jarvis. In Jarvis turn right (west) on Hwy 24 and drive to Simcoe. In Simcoe turn left (south) on Hwy 24 and follow the directions in double brackets above.
TOWNSEND SEWAGE LAGOONS
On the way down to Long Point on Hwy 6 you will pass through Hagersville and drive towards Jarvis. Just as you approach the town you will see a sign indicating "TOWNSEND" at Nanticoke Creek Parkway #69. Turn right here and drive to the intersection with the stop signs, turn left on Keith Richardson Parkway and drive past some park ponds on your right. Drive ahead until you see a small children's shelter with an air conditioner on it's side (really). Turn right here on Conc. 14 TWP. This is just before you reach the abandoned railway line (tracks removed) and it is on your right. Turn right here and drive a few hundred yards and you will see a gate and sign indicating that this is a waste treatment area.. Park well to the side of the road and do not block the gate.

GREAT WHITE HERON AT LONG POINT - Sat, 22 Apr 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Hi all
I know it is after 11 pm fellow birders but I just arrived home 5 minutes ago so I am writing this on less than a tank full of gas.
Today April 22,2000 Stan Bajurny and I were at long Point again (more on that in the next email).
At 8:10 am in Long Point Provincial Park Stan looked up and pointed out a large bird only about 100 feet or less over our heads. It was very large and white and I commented that it sure was big as I watched it fly south overhead. It appeared (I repeat appeared) to be as large or larger than a Great Blue Heron, maybe this was an illusion because of its colour ? It also took slower and deeper wing beats as it passed overhead beyond the trees in front of us and out of our sight.
As it flew over I concentrated on its size and general appearance, but I did notice the large yellow beak and thicker appearing neck than a Great Egret and generally larger size.
With only the Great Egret in mind I marked Great Egret in my note book, shrugged and moved on and a Great Egret is what I told Jean Iron and Frank Pinilla that we saw and I want to apologize to both of them at this time. I should have mentioned my thoughts on this bird.
The size of the bird bothered me and I mentioned it at least two or three times as we birded on during the day and it wasn't until we were on our way home that in our conversation that Stan mentioned (or I finally heard) that the bird had with out any doubt, bright yellow legs (Stan didn't even know at this time that a Great White Heron even existed). We then got out a field guide and lo and behold out jumped the Great White Heron. None of the large herons or egrets have all yellow legs unless they were feeding in a Buttercup field.
I know where this bird is normally found and I did see 2 of them 12 years ago near Marathon Florida and can't recall the details of the bird as I knew then that it was not a separate species any more but I have no doubts what so ever what we saw today. I don't know if it is an escapee, some ones pet or came up on a marijuana boat from Florida but I do know what it was and I feel it is a note worthy bird and one that may be of interest to anyone that would like to try to find it again or to the folks at the bird banding station.
Norm Murr
Richmond Hill, ON
NORMURR@SYMPATICO.CA
LONG POINT PROVINCIAL PARK
The Provincial Park at Long Point is southwest of Hamilton, directly south of Port Rowan. To reach it you can drive south on Hwy 6 from Hamilton, passing through Hagersville and turning right, west in Jarvis onto Hwy 3, drive to Simcoe and turn left, south on Hwy 24 and follow this to Hwy 59, ( it curves to the west south of town) turn left, south on Hwy 59 and drive right down about 8 km and past the golf coarse and you will be on the causeway.
Drive on across the bridge and continue past the marina on your left. The road comes to Lake Erie where it curves to the left through the cottage / retail business area. Continue driving along this road passing Old Cut Road and you will come to the park entrance.
The park is closed for the season so you can park here being sure not to block road and walk into the park.
NOTE: Be sure to lock your car and put your valuables out of sight).

Long Point Area, April 16 - Sun, 16 Apr 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Ontbirds,
My brother, my Dad and I drove down to Long Point Today for a day of birding. Although the weather wasn't as nice as yesterday we had a good day of 79 species. Here are the highlights:
1) Hastings Drive.
3-4 Eastern Towhee, Ruby-Crowned Kinglet, several Swamp Sparrows(lots seen and heard), 4 Common Loon, Belted Kingfisher, Purple Martin, lots of Northern Flickers and several species of waterfowl but NO Eurasian Wigeon.
2) Old Cut Field Station
2 Brown Thrashers, 1 Fox Sparrow, Hermit Thush, Ruby-Crowned Kinglets, Golden-Crowned Kinglets, Winter Wren, Yellow-Rumped Warbler, Pine Siskin, we missed a Green Heron but as we were leaving a very nice looking Pine Warbler showed himself a top one of the pine trees in the woodlot.
3)Causeway.
21 Pectoral Sandpiper, 5 Greater Yellowlegs, 1 very obvious Ring-Necked Pheasant not less than ten feet from the road just before you come onto the causeway.
4)Concession 'A'
20 Rusty Blackbirds, Eastern Screech Owl in Wood Duck nest box, Blue-Winged Teal.
5)Rowan Wood Sanctuary
Vesper, Chipping and Tree Sparrow(missed Field) near Rowanwood Sanctuary along with Eastern Bluebird. We walked around the bush a bit in hopes of a Louisiana Waterthrush, but no luck. Finally, a Ruffed Grouse drumming in St. Williams Forest
Directions:
-Concession A:
Highway 59 north 1 km to Concession A, which runs west but not east. Turn left (west) and drive to the first bridge over the creek. Park on the side of the road and walk the area.
-North End of Causeway:
>From the intersection of Highway 59 and Regional Rd 42, drive south on 59 to a pulloff on the right (west) side.
-Hastings Drive:
Follow Highway 59 south from Regional Rd 42 south of Big Creek to Hastings Drive, which goes right (west) where the highway turns sharply east (where the Pizza Hut is).
-Old Cut Rd & Banding Station:
Continue southeast along Highway 59 and turn left at Old Cut Road.
-Rowanwood Sanctuary:
Continue west on Hwy. 24 past Hwy. 59 to West 1/4 Line. Turn southto the end of the road and turn left(This road is not maintained).
Good Birding,
Mike Burrell
burrellsc@golden.net

Long Point - Friday, April 14th - Fri, 14 Apr 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Today I took a drive to Long Point and although it was a short trip and I didn't go to all the usual spots, the trip yielded 54 different species. No Eurasian Wigeon on Hastings Drive and no Screech Owl on Concession A were seen although they may still be there. Here are my highlights:
CONCESSION A
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker
Northern Flicker
Swamp Sparrow
White-throated Sparrow
Song Sparrow
Sandhill Crane
Tree Swallow
Wood Duck
Hooded Merganser (male & female)
Golden-crowned Kinglet
Turkey Vulture
Killdeer
THE CAUSEWAY
Greater Yellowlegs
Lesser Yellowlegs
Ring-necked Pheasant (male & female)
Northern Shoveler
Green-winged Teal
Killdeer
Bonaparte's Gull
Herring Gull
OLD CUT WOODLOT
Winter Wren
Belted Kingfisher
Pine Sisken
Hermit Thrush
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Golden-crowned Kinglet
Slate-coloured Junco
White-throated Sparrow
HASTINGS DRIVE
Pied-billed Grebe
Eastern Phoebe
Ring-necked Duck
Bufflehead
Northern Flicker
Song Sparrow
LEE BROWN'S CA
Northern Harrier
American Wigeon
Green-winged Teal
Great-blue Heron
Purple Martin
Tree Sparrow
Canada Goose
Golden-crowned Kinglet
Eastern Phoebe
Happy Birding!
Gina Turone
gturone@sympatico.ca
DIRECTIONS TO LONG POINT FROM TORONTO:
Highway 403 West to Garden Avenue (Cainsville) exit south to Regional Rd 4 south to Regional Rd 5 (Cockshutt Rd) south to Regional Rd 3 (NOT Highway 3) west to Highway 24 (bypassing all the Simcoe traffic) southwest to East 1/4 Line Rd south to Lakeshore Rd west to Highway 59 south.
Concession A:
Highway 59 north 1 km to Concession A, which runs west but not east. Turn left (west) and drive to the first bridge over the creek. Park on the side of the road and walk the area.
North End of Causeway:
>From the intersection of Highway 59 and Regional Rd 42, drive south on 59 to a pulloff on the right (west) side.
Hastings Drive: Follow Highway 59 south from Regional Rd 42 south of Big Creek to Hastings Drive, which goes right (west) where the highway turns sharply east (where the Pizza Hut is).
Old Cut Rd & Banding Station:
Continue southeast along Highway 59 and turn left at Old Cut Road.

Long Point-Eurasian Wigeon, Field Sparrow - Sun, 9 Apr 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
This morning I was finally able to locate the drake Eurasian Wigeon, at the end of Hastings Drive. It was swimming by itself in the closest pond. Also, I had 1 Field Sparrow at the south end of Old Cut Blvd (the road that leads to the banding station), feeding on the lawn.
Good Birding!
Matt Timpf
Walsingham, Ontario
timpf@nornet.on.ca

Louisiana Waterthrush at Long Point - Mon, 03 Apr 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Birders,
The Louisiana Waterthrush continues to be seen by LPBO staff at the Old Cut Field Station. There was a bit of activity on the point today despite the rather wet conditions. Brown Creepers were moving through is higher numbers than previous. The season's first Purple Martin was seen at the station. A Great Egret was seen on the causeway on the bay side of the bridge over Big Creek.
Good Birding,
Jul
Jul Wojnowski 
Landbird Programs Coordinator 
Bird Studies Canada 
P.O. Box 160 
Port Rowan, ON N0E 1M0 
Phone: 519-586-3531 
Fax: 519-586-3532 
lpbo@bsc-eoc.org 
Web Page:http://www.bsc-eoc.org

Long Point - Sunday April 2nd - Sun, 2 Apr 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Went to Long Point this afternoon to see what was new from last week. On the causeway heading to Old Cut we found TREE SWALLOWS, BLUE-WINGED TEAL, a male KINGFISHER and a male HARRIER HAWK hunting the marsh grasses on the east side on the road. At Old Cut EASTERN TOWHEE (2), RUBY-CROWNED & GOLDEN-CROWNED KINGLETS, WINTER WREN, FOX SPARROW, HERMUT THRUSH, and EASTERN PHOEBE. On the way home we found a WILD TURKEY on highway 24 just east of highway 59 cutoff. Didn't locate the MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRD or WATERTHRUSH.
Rick Brown
Fergus, Ontario
rick.brown@sympatico.ca

Birds at Long Point - Sun, 02 Apr 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Good morning again
As you may have read by my previous e-mail, Stan Bajurny and I were at Long Point on Sat.Apr.1,2000 and the following are some of the high lights. We went down Hastings drive at sun up and saw the Eurasian Wigeon again along with many Tree Swallows, they are well and truly in now as throughout the day we observed about 100 of them in various places.
Next stop was at at Old Cut Woods and the first time through produced a Fox Sparrow and then it was off to the Provincial park beyond Old Cut. In the park we saw 4 Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers and another Fox Sparrow, and 9 Eastern Phoebes plus 4 Blue-winged Teal.
From here we returned to Old Cut where Stan found a Louisiana Waterthrush and by now the Fox Sparrow was singing.
We traveled to a few other places around the area and came up with 79 species of mostly expected species. A Bald Eagle, 11 Double-crested Cormorants and 1 Greater & 1 Lesser Yellowlegs from the Turkey Point Overlook and an adult Little Gull at Turkey Point and the Eastern Screech Owl in it's usual nest box on A conc. at Port Royal. We also stopped at the Townsend sewage lagoons where there are still 100+ Tundra swans as well as 16 other species of waterfowl including Blue-winged Teal.
On our way back towards home we again stopped off at the Owl Sanctuary near Fisherville and watched 3 Eastern Meadowlarks and 3 Short-eared Owls. The owls were seen after sundown as the hunted close to the road. The white vehicle's occupants near the sanctuary sign must have had great views of these owls! I think Stan woke me up about this time and we started home again and I got home after midnight as usual (I think I will switch to stamp collecting), hence the late posting.
This is a great time of year to get up and get out as the species type and counts are changing daily and any thing may be seen. The Long Point area is easy to bird with a wide variety of habitats and with lots birders around that can (may) help with sightings and locations. Be sure to report any of your better sightings to the staff at the Old Cut Bird Banding Station.
Norm Murr
Richmond Hill, ON
NORMURR@SYMPATICO.CA
OLD CUT WOODS AT LONG POINT
Old Cut Woods at Long Point is southwest of Hamilton, directly south of Port Rowan. To reach it you can drive south on Hwy 6 from Hamilton, passing through Hagersville and turning right, west in Jarvis onto Hwy 3, drive to Simcoe and turn left, south on Hwy 24 and follow this to Hwy 59, ( it curves to the west south of town) turn left, south on Hwy 59 and drive right down about 8 km and past the golf coarse and you will be on the causeway.
Drive on across the bridge and continue past the marina on your left. The road comes to Lake Erie where it curves to the left through the cottage / retail business area. (**) Continue driving until you come to Old Cut Road. Turn left and drive a couple of hundred yards down this road (you will see the entrance to the banding area on your right) this is the entrance to Old Cut Woods. Drive another 100 feet or so and you will see a parking area on your left. Park here and walk across the road to the woods.
NOTE: Be sure to lock your car and put your valuables out of sight). (**) Turn right here and you will be on Hastings Drive. Drive to the end of the road at the sand dunes (piles) and check the open water on the right (north) side for the Eurasian Wigeon.
LONG POINT PROVINCIAL PARK (FEE IN SEASON)
The Provincial Park at Long Point is southwest of Hamilton, directly south of Port Rowan. To reach it you can drive south on Hwy 6 from Hamilton, passing through Hagersville and turning right, west in Jarvis onto Hwy 3, drive to Simcoe and turn left, south on Hwy 24 and follow this to Hwy 59, ( it curves to the west south of town) turn left, south on Hwy 59 and drive right down about 8 km and past the golf coarse and you will be on the causeway.
Drive on across the bridge and continue past the marina on your left. The road comes to Lake Erie where it curves to the left through the cottage / retail business area. Continue driving along this road passing Old Cut Road and you will come to the park entrance.
If the park is closed for the season then park here being sure not to block road and walk into the park.
NOTE: Be sure to lock your car and put your valuables out of sight).
RAPTOR or OWL SANCTUARY ON 6th CONCESSION IN HALDIMAND-NORFOLK
On the way down to Long Point on Hwy 6 to the centre of Hagersville, turn left on Hwy 20 (King Street). Drive along Hwy 20 past the junction with Hwy 9 to Selkirk Road (Road 53) and turn right (south). Drive down Selkirk Road past Hwy 3 and turn LEFT (east) at the 3rd road (Concession 6) south of this highway. Drive along here about ½ to 3/4 km and you will see a sign on your right with a picture of an owl on it. This is the sanctuary.
(NOTE) After passing south of Hwy 3 you will notice Concession 6 on your right, continue on about ½ km as the Concession 6 you want is on your left.
TOWNSEND SEWAGE LAGOONS
On the way down to Long Point on Hwy 6 you will pass through Hagersville and drive towards Jarvis. Just as you approach the town you will see a sign indicating "TOWNSEND" at Nanticoke Creek Parkway #69. Turn right here and drive to the intersection with the stop signs, turn left on Keith Richardson Parkway and drive past some park ponds on your right. Drive ahead until you see a small children's shelter with an air conditioner on it's side (really). Turn right here on Conc. 14 TWP. This is just before you reach the abandoned railway line (tracks removed) and it is on your right. Turn right here and drive a few hundred yards and you will see a gate and sign indicating that this is a waste treatment area.. Park well to the side of the road and do not block the gate.
TRIPLE BRIDGE AT PORT ROYAL / PORT ROWAN ON A CONCESSION
To reach the triple bridge area you can drive south on Hwy 6 from Hamilton, passing through Hagersville and turning right (west) in Jarvis onto Hwy 3, drive west to Simcoe and turn left (south) on Hwy 24 and follow this to Hwy 59, turn left (south) on Hwy 59 and drive right down about 7 km to A Concession Road (just before the golf coarse on your right and just south of the OPP station on your left.
Turn right (west) here and follow the road to Big Creek. You will come to 3 bridges only a couple hundred yards apart.
Or you can drive past A Concession Road to Lakeshore Rd at the putting coarse. Turn right (west) here and drive past Lee Brown Conservation Area to the next road which is West 1/4 Line EXT. Turn right (north here and drive about 2km to A Concession Road. Turn right (east) and drive about 1km to the bridges.
The Screech Owl can be seen from the centre bridge, look north at the first Wood Duck box and it is usually sitting with its face appearing at the hole.
TURKEY POINT MARSH OVERLOOK
To get to the Turkey Point Marsh overlook from Brantford, drive straight south down Hwy 24 through Simcoe ((following Hwy 24 as it curves west towards Long Point. About 8 km you will come to county road 10, turn left (south), (there are signs here as you approach this road indicating Turkey Point Prov. Park) and drive straight ahead for about 4 km until you reach Lakeshore Road, turn right (west), drive through the ravine and continue west until you see the chain link fence and pull off on your left (south) side. Park here and you will have a great view of the marsh. You should have a scope for this area for best viewing. ))
From Hamilton drive south on Hwy 6 through Hagersville to Jarvis. In Jarvis turn right (west) on Hwy 24 and drive to Simcoe. In Simcoe turn left (south) on Hwy 24 and follow the directions in double brackets above.
TURKEY POINT
To get to Turkey Point from Brantford, drive straight south down Hwy 24 through Simcoe following Hwy 24 as it curves west towards Long Point. About 8 km you will come to county road 10, turn left (south), (there are signs here as you approach this road indicating Turkey Point Prov. Park) and drive straight ahead for about 5 km until you almost run into the lake at Cedar Road (the C in Cedar is hidden by a sign, so you will read it as Cedar Road), turn right and drive about 1 ½ km to Reserve Street. Turn left here and drive to the lake (I could not find a sign naming this street), turn right here and continue to the marina entrance and watch here for birds flying past or sitting on the beach, or off to your right on the sometimes exposed flats or sandy islands. Be sure to check the beach and lake on your right all along here. From Hamilton drive south on Hwy 6 through Hagersville to Jarvis. In Jarvis turn right (west) on Hwy 24 and drive to Simcoe. In Simcoe turn left (south) on Hwy 24 and follow the directions in double brackets above.

Louisiana Waterthrush at Long Point (Old Cut) - Sun, 02 Apr 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Good morning
Yesterday, Sat.Apr.1,2000 Stan Bajurny and I went on down to Long Point again and we were lucky enough to see a Louisiana Waterthrush in Old Cut Woods. Stan found this bird at approx. 10:50 am among the houses behind the banding station. We alerted the banding staff and after they checked out the bird they announced that the bird was unbanded. A Louisiana Waterthrush was banded here earlier in the week so it appears that Stan had found a second bird. Hopefully this can be confirmed by the banding staff in a later e-mail.
This bird was very visible as it walked and fed on the bare grass of the lawns giving us in the sun views of the bird, but if it walked into the woods it blended perfectly, so patience and watching for any movements in the brush should pay off.
Norm Murr
Richmond Hill, ON
NORMURR@SYMPATICO.CA
OLD CUT WOODS AT LONG POINT
Old Cut Woods is at at Long Point and is southwest of Hamilton, directly south of Port Rowan. To reach it you can drive south on Hwy 6 from Hamilton, passing through Hagersville and turning right, west in Jarvis onto Hwy 3, drive to Simcoe and turn left, south on Hwy 24 and follow this to Hwy 59, ( it curves to the west south of town) turn left, south on Hwy 59 and drive right down about 8 km and past the golf coarse and you will be on the causeway.
Drive on across the bridge and continue past the marina on your left. The road comes to Lake Erie where it curves to the left through the cottage / retail business area. Continue driving until you come to Old Cut Road. Turn left and drive a couple of hundred yards down this road (you will see the entrance to the banding area on your right) this is the entrance to Old Cut Woods. Drive another 100 feet or so and you will see a parking area on your left. Park here and walk across the road to the woods.
NOTE: Be sure to lock your car and put your valuables out of sight).

Eurasian wigeon at Long Point - Sat, 01 Apr 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
The male Eurasian wigeon was still present at Long Point this afternoon,Saturday, with very many American wigeons. This bird has a very red head. From the causeway, turn right at Hastings Dr., to the end (it is a rough sandy road). There is a place to view the marsh from the end of the road. However, after a brief glimpse the E. wigeon disappeared. I found it later by walking down the beach a few 100 yards and then looking into the marsh from another sand dune. There were lots of duck species around.
I didn't see the Louisiana waterthrush but it had been seen at the banding station at 10am. There quite a few birds at the banding station: Golden-crowned kinglets, Brown Creepers, Fox Sparrows, Red-breasted Nuthatches, Winter Wren. (Follow the main road to Old Cut Road, and turn left to the banding station and wood lot, there is a parking lot).
Also seen, a Bald Eagle missing several feathers at Normandale which is on Front St. just west of Fisher Glen which can be found by going south from Hwy 24 on Fisher Glen Rd. Also a Sandhill Crane flying west along the Lake Erie Shore near Port Dover.
--
Sandra Eadie
Aved@sympatico.ca
Toronto, Ont.

Long Point today 03/31/2000 - Fri, 31 Mar 2000
Please Excuse my spelling ,I am Dyslexic
thank you for your understanding.
Today at Long Point the Eurasian Wigeon was still seen from Hasting's Dr. which runs west from the corner of Long Point rd.) It was with a small group of A. Wigeon 75+ and 1 G. W. Teal
At the Old Cut banding station , on Old Cut rd. their was no sine of the Louisiana water thrush but their was 1 Fox sparrow , 1 Y .B .Sapsucker and 5 Tree swallows.
At the Long Point bird observatory head quarters 7 C. Snipe were seen near the new pond , there located just west of Port Rowan on Lakeshore rd.
On con. A west from hwy 59 a Gray Morph Eastern Screech owl was seen looking out from a wood duck box.
But the great surprise was the Mountain Blue Bird was seen on the phone lines just east of house # 1681 on front rd west of Fisher Glen which cane be found by going south from Hwy 24 on Fisher Glen rd.
The adult Bald Eagle was on it nest today also in the Long point area .
I also have just received back my slides of the hood Crow and one of them shown in flight, show's defined clipping of the primaries and secondaries , which wood add to Tiller's escape theory
Craig.S.A.McLauchlan
Toronto/Ont/Canada/World.
csam@sympatico.ca

Louisiana Waterthrush at Long Point - Wed, 29 Mar 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Birders,
A Louisiana Waterthrush was caught and banded at the Old Cut field station yesterday (March 28). It was not seen or heard today. It was a relatively quiet morning at the station today. Highlights included a few Fox Sparrows in the are of the station.
The Eurasian Wigeon was sighted today at the end of Hastings Drive (see previous directions).
Jul
Jul Wojnowski 
Landbird Programs Coordinator 
Bird Studies Canada 
P.O. Box 160 
Port Rowan, ON N0E 1M0 
Phone: 519-586-3531 
Fax: 519-586-3532 
E-mail: lpbo@bsc-eoc.org 
Web Page: http://www.bsc-eoc.org

Purple Martin, Towhee, etc. at Long Point - Sun, 26 Mar 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Once again Ontbirders - hello
Stan Bajurny and I went on down to Long Point after looking at and listening to Screech Owls near Fisherville and here are some of the high lights.
We first went out Hastings Drive and saw the Eurasian Wigeon at dawn and at the start of the road was a Mink and along further 7 Cottontails. While we were at the end of the road we watched as a Common Loon flew over and could here at least 1 Sandhill Crane calling from the marsh.
Heading back along the road we spotted 7 Eastern Meadowlarks together and 2 Tree Swallows. We then went to the causeway to see the Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs and 2 Pectoral Sandpipers and along the Big Creek Marsh trail we saw 2 Marsh Wrens, 4 Swamp Sparrows, 2 Sandhill Cranes, 6 Tree swallows and another Eastern Meadowlark and across the road from the parking lot was a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker..
We next went to Oldcut Woods and found 1 Winter and 1 Carolina Wren and Don Perks told us about a Fox Sparrow.
We continued through the woods and headed into Long Point Provincial Park where we found 1 Eastern Towhee, 5 Chipping Sparrows, 18 Northern Flickers, 9 Tree Swallows and watched as 2 Purple Martins flew north towards the marsh (a Purple Martin was also seen at Lee Brown).
Now it was time to head up to A Concession to see a reported Eastern Screech Owl. This owl was easy to find as it sat in the opening of a Wood Duck ? box. There are 3 bridges here and it can be seen from the main bridge (the eastern one). Just stand on the bridge and look north over the newly dredged channel at the first box, it has yellow paint on it. We also saw and heard about 12 Rusty Blackbirds here.
From here we headed homeward and stopped off at the Townsend sewage lagoons to look at the 2 blue phase Snow Geese among the 200 or so waterfowl and then on to an evening with Short-eared Owls at Fisherville.
Norm Murr
Richmond Hill, On
NORMURR@SYMPATICO.CA NOTE:- FEEL FREE TO CUT AND PASTE THE FOLLOWING DIRECTIONS FOR YOUR OWN TRIP REPORTS TO ONTBIRDS - N.C.M.
TOWNSEND SEWAGE LAGOONS
On the way down to Long Point on Hwy 6 you will pass through Hagersville and drive towards Jarvis. Just as you approach the town you will see a sign indicating “TOWNSEND” at Nanticoke Creek Parkway #69. Turn right here and drive to the intersection with the stop signs, turn left on Keith Richardson Parkway and drive past some park ponds on your right. Drive ahead until you see a small children's shelter with an air conditioner on its side (really). Turn right here on Conc. 14 TWP. This is just before you reach the abandoned railway line (tracks removed) and it is on your right. Turn right here and drive a few hundred yards and you will see a gate and sign indicating that this is a waste treatment area.. Park well to the side of the road and do not block the gate.
LONG POINT & CAUSEWAY MARSH & HASTINGS DRIVE
Long Point is southwest of Hamilton, directly south of Port Rowan. To reach it you can drive south on Hwy 6 from Hamilton, passing through Hagersville and turning right, west in Jarvis onto Hwy 3, drive to Simcoe and turn left, south on Hwy 24 and follow this to Hwy 59, ( it curves to the west south of town) turn left, south on Hwy 59 and drive right down about 8 km and past the golf coarse and you will be on the causeway. The causeway mud flats will be immediately on your right.
There are small parking areas on the north side of the road at the start of the causeway and at the bridge further along the road. Be careful of the traffic along this road at all seasons (but especially during cottage season) as this is a narrow road with narrow shoulders and a high traffic volume.
Drive a little further on across the bridge and you will see a small parking area on the right, this the start of the Big Creek Marsh trail and it leads to a viewing platform.
You can also get to Long Point by driving south from Hwy 403 at Brandford and driving south down Hwy 24 through Simcoe.
If you continue along the causeway after passing the Big Creek Marsh Trail you will pass a marina on your left. Hastings Drive is past here and on your right. Drive to the end of Hastings until you come to the sand dunes at the end. Keep an eye out along the way for migrants.
OLD CUT WOODS AT LONG POINT
Old Cut Woods at Long Point is southwest of Hamilton, directly south of Port Rowan. To reach it you can drive south on Hwy 6 from Hamilton, passing through Hagersville and turning right, west in Jarvis onto Hwy 3, drive to Simcoe and turn left, south on Hwy 24 and follow this to Hwy 59, ( it curves to the west south of town) turn left, south on Hwy 59 and drive right down about 8 km and past the golf coarse and you will be on the causeway. Drive on across the bridge and continue past the marina on your left. The road comes to Lake Erie where it curves to the left through the cottage / retail business area. Continue driving until you come to Old Cut Road. Turn left and drive a couple of hundred yards down this road (you will see the entrance to the banding area on your right) this is the entrance to Old Cut Woods. Drive another 100 feet or so and you will see a parking area on your left. Park here and walk across the road to the woods.
NOTE: Be sure to lock your car and put your valuables out of sight).
LONG POINT PROVINCIAL PARK (FEE IN SEASON)
The Provincial Park at Long Point is southwest of Hamilton, directly south of Port Rowan. To reach it you can drive south on Hwy 6 from Hamilton, passing through Hagersville and turning right, west in Jarvis onto Hwy 3, drive to Simcoe and turn left, south on Hwy 24 and follow this to Hwy 59, ( it curves to the west south of town) turn left, south on Hwy 59 and drive right down about 8 km and past the golf coarse and you will be on the causeway.
Drive on across the bridge and continue past the marina on your left. The road comes to Lake Erie where it curves to the left through the cottage / retail business area. Continue driving along this road passing Old Cut Road and you will come to the park entrance.
If the park is closed for the season then park here being sure not to block road and walk into the park.
NOTE: Be sure to lock your car and put your valuables out of sight).
LEE BROWN SANCTUARY
Really just a small pond just in off the road. To reach it turn right (west) off Hwy 59 at the last road (Lakeshore Road or Rd 42) before the causeway (a gas station on your left and a driving range on your right). Drive over the bridge over Big Creek and watch on your left side (south) for the parking area with the viewing platform and a washroom and probably birders during migration.
TRIPLE BRIDGE AT PORT ROYAL / PORT ROWAN ON A CONCESSION
To reach the triple bridge area you can drive south on Hwy 6 from Hamilton, passing through Hagersville and turning right (west) in Jarvis onto Hwy 3, drive west to Simcoe and turn left (south) on Hwy 24 and follow this to Hwy 59, turn left (south) on Hwy 59 and drive right down about 7 km to A Concession Road (just before the golf coarse on your right and just south of the OPP station on your left. Turn right (west) here and follow the road to Big Creek. You will come to 3 bridges only a couple hundred yards apart. Or you can drive past A Concession Road to Lakeshore Rd at the putting coarse. Turn right (west) here and drive past Lee Brown Conservation Area to the next road which is West 1/4 Line EXT. Turn right (north here and drive about 2 km to A Concession Road. Turn right (east) and drive about 1 km to the bridges.

Long Point-bw teal, sandhills - Sun, 26 Mar 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Hi Ontbirders:
Today at Long Point, we had 1 male Blue-winged Teal on the east side of the causeway, 2 Fox Sparrows along the causeway, 7+ Sandhill Cranes near Concession A, and 1 female Ruddy Duck at the Port Rowan Sewage Lagoons.
Good Birding
Matt Timpf
Walsingham, Ontario.
timpf@nornet.on.ca

Long Point - Friday, Mar 24th - Fri, 24 Mar 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
It was a beautiful day to have the day off and bird the Long Point area. Here are the highlights of my day:
Off Hastings Drive, the Eurasian Wigeon was seen at the far north end of the marsh, along with the AMERICAN WIGEONS, REDHEADS, RING-NECKED DUCKS, CANVASBACKS, BUFFLEHEADS, MUTE SWANS and CANADA GEESE. I also heard SANDHILL CRANES on the marsh, and had a PEREGRINE FALCON fly over the marsh from the lake. Along the road on the way in, there was a NORTHERN FLICKER on the lawn of one of the cottages.
Other highlights of the day were:
OLD CUT WOODLOT:
Red-breasted Nuthatch
Slate-coloured Junco
Northern Cardinal
Golden-crowned Kinglet
Song Sparrow
Pine Siskin
Common Grackles
Red-winged Blackbird
LOOKOUT FROM WILLOW AVE:
Northern Pintail (2)
Great Black-backed Gull
Killdeer
American Black Duck
Tundra Swan (8)
BIG CREEK MARSH (10 minutes from pkg. lot):
Northern Shoveler
Gadwall
Mallard
The Mountain Bluebird, nor any other bluebirds were NOT seen at Fisher's Glen as of 1:30 pm.
For those who are going to see the Eurasian Wigeon for the first time as I was, if you aren't so fortunate as to have the bird right below you as you climb the sand dune just as I wasn't, there are a few field marks that will help you clearly distinguish it from the Am. Wigeons. I recognized it in flight by its bright reddish-brown head (much brighter than is shown in the Nat.Geo. guide) contrasting sharply with it's white belly. This is not to be confused with Redheads and Canvasbacks in flight which have black in the chest area contrasting with the white on their bellies (see Nat.Geo. "Ducks in Flight" page). Also, the axillaries, or underside of the wings of the Eurasian Wigeon lacks the cinnamon colour as in the Am. Wigeon. When swimming on the water, it is distinguished from the Am. Wigeons again by its red head and cream coloured forehead, and its grey flanks, as opposed to cinnamon coloured of the Am. Wigeon.
Gina Turone
Toronto, ON
gturone@sympatico.ca Directions to Long Point:
From Toronto: 403 West to Garden Ave (Cainsville exit); #18 (Blossom Ave) south to #4 (Cockshutt Rd) south to #5 and west to REGIONAL RD (not Highway) #3 to Highway #24, thus bypassing the Simcoe traffic. Highway 24 to Highway 59 south.
Big Creek NWA: South on Hwy 59 from Region Rd. 42 to parking lot on the right (west) and walk the dike.
Hastings Drive: Hwy 59 south from Reg. Rd. 42, turn right at the Pizza Hut where the road curves to the left and follow it to the end.
Willow Ave: From Hastings Drive, follow Hwy 59 east about 1 km to Willow, turn left and park at the end of the road.
Old Cut: From Willow, continue east along Hwy 59 to Old Cut Rd, turn left.

Eurasian Wigeon - Fri, 24 Mar 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
March 23rd: Terrie Smith and I had the male Eurasian Wigeon at the west end of Hastings Road at Long Point. The wigeon (both species) were still very skittish, and one must approach very slowly and quietly. To find the bird, start at the causeway at Long Point and go south to where the road turns east into the community. On your right is Hastings Rd. Follow it westwards to the end where you will see a sandy hill on your right. Climb the hill and scan the ducks immediately below you.
Also seen were Sandhill Cranes, a few Tundra Swans, lots of ducks (well out on the water), a Lesser Yellowlegs, Rusty Blackbirds.
Good Birding
Geoff Carpentier
Ajax, Ontario
carpenge@ene.gov.on.ca

Shorebirds at Long Point - Tue, 21 Mar 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Despite what seem to be seasonal temperatures over the past week, migrants are arriving early this year. Early shorebirds along the west side of the causeway this morning included 3 Greater Yellowlegs, 1 Lesser Yellowlegs and 1 Pectoral Sandpiper. There was no sign of the Eurasian Wigeon at the end of Hastings Drive this morning but it's a big marsh and there are a lot of Am. Wigeon in the area. If you are going to look for this bird at this location, don't walk right up on to the dune. Stick your head over the top and scan the pond carefully. If you walk right up onto the dunes, you'll need to be pretty well versed on the difference of the undertail coverts between American and Eurasian Wigeon. Good luck.
Ron Ridout
Bird Studies Canada
P.O. Box 160
Port Rowan, ON N0E 1M0
Phone: 519-586-3531
Fax: 519-586-3532
Email: rridout@bsc-eoc.org

Long Point 3/18/2000 - Sun, 19 Mar 2000
LongPoint 3/18/2000
Highlights
734 Tundra Swan around Port Royal and the Big Creek Marsh 3 Sandhill cranes south of Lee Brown's Pond
647 Amercian Widgeon in ponds on the north side of Hasting Drive at the very end. With these birds was an absolutly perfect male EURASIAN WIDGEON. other waterfowl lots of Canvasbacks, Bufflehead, Green-winged Teal, Greater Scaup and Ring-necked Ducks
Small numbers of American coots and wood ducks around the area On concession A there was a gray phase Screech owl sunning itself at the entrance to a wood duck box on the north side of the road just east of Big Creek.
4 Pine siskins at Old cut.
Eastern Bluebirds 4 around the long point area including 2 with the MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRD MALE at 1681 front rd just west of Fischers Glen ( both the mtn bluebird and the E. Widgeon were found by other birders which very graciously told us where they were. For that I say thank you.)
Tyler Hoar
thoar@home.com

Birds from Toronto to Long Point and back.. - Sun, 19 Mar 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
Please Excuse my spelling ,I am Dyslexic
thank you for your understanding.
Craig.S.A.McLauchlan
Toronto/Ont/Canada/World.
csam@sympatico.ca
Today Bev Rellin, Rob Miller and my self Birded to long Point and back and the Highlights wear .
Fishers Glen , (which is found by turning south off of hiway # 24 on to Fishers glen rd ) 1 add Bald Eagle on a nest ( I will not give the exact location of this nest ) but know Mountain Bluebird or any bluebird could be found .
At Turkey Point march lookout ( on Lakeshore rd East of Port Rowan ) 2 Sandhill Cranes and 3 Tundra's swans wear seen .
At Port Rowan 2 Turkey Vulture's wear seen ( Port Rowan is found on # 42 east of Long Point)
then on to Lee Brown pond ( on # 42 or Lakeshore rd west of long Point) 30 R.N.Duck , 15 G.W.Tell ,7 A widgeon, Canada goose and 5 Tundra Swan.
at House # 2935 on # 42 (or Lakeshore rd west of Long Point ) wear 136 Tundra Swans .
The Lesser Yellowlegs was seen on the Crossway ( I know that this is a duel post but jest to back up the previews post do to this early sighting)
On con # 6 at Jarvis there wear 29 Tundra Swans and off of Hwy # 20 on 1st west road at the radio transmitter wear found 3 wild turkeys.
Craig Mclauchlan

Greater Yellowlegs at Long Point - Sun, 19 Mar 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
There was a Greater Yellowlegs on the east side of the causeway just south of house #774 this morning. There may also have been a Eurasian Widgeon in the same area although I couldn't be sure in the light conditions.
Old Cut Banding station birds were very active in song and display. Although I found nothing extraordinary, it was a pleasure to be there.
Long Point can be reached by going south on 24 and left at highway 59.
Regards,
Harold Stiver
Paris, Ontario
hstiver@home.com

Long Point-sandhill,swans,ducks - Fri, 17 Mar 2000
Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
This evening at Long Point I had a single Sandhill Crane fly over Big Creek Marsh. Besides thousands of diving ducks out in the bay there are lots of wigeon and gree-winged teal in the area. At Lee Brown's there were several Ring-necked Ducks and about a dozen Wood Ducks. At Concession A there were 2 Gadwall. There were also thousands of Blackbirds in the area. Near the base of the causeway there were a few hundred swans feeding in the fields.
Good Birding,
Matt Timpf
timpf@nornet.on.ca

Waterfowl at Long Point - Fri, 03 Mar 2000

Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
I just got back from our first aerial survey of the season. There certainly are a lot of ducks and gulls scattered around the bay. Just a guess (I only see my side of the plane) but I'd say there are at least forty to fifty thousand scaup, Canvasback and Redheads and easily double that number of gulls (mainly Ring-billeds and Herrrings). That said, I must add that hardly any of these birds are going to be easy to see from shore. If you're thinking of coming down for a look, you might want to bring the Mt. Palomar telescope with you. There are some ducks and Tundra Swans (maybe four or five hundred of the latter) to be seen from the causeway but even these are concentrated over against the Crown Marshes well east of the causeway itself. The marshes themselves (Big Creek and Turkey Pt.) are still very low with a lot of frozen mudflats and what few pools that are left still largely ice covered.
The pond at Lee Brown's WMA west of Port Royal is still frozen so no marsh ducks there. There are small numbers of these various species around including N. Pintails, Am. Wigeon and Gr.-winged Teal but again they're hard to find. I also saw one Snow Goose flying with Canadas just east of Port Royal. The other interesting sighting involved three or four Turkey Vultures in various locations.
We also flew as far east as Townsend looking for Tundra Swans in fields and found about 800 birds in a field northwest of Renton and about 600 birds standing on the ice at the Townsend sewage lagoons.
So... if you're looking for Tundra Swans this weekend, I wouldn't come as far south as Long Point but would try Townsend or better yet, the Aylmer Police College ponds. I have a second-hand report from the CWS guys that there are a couple of thousand birds there. And if you're looking for marsh ducks, I would wait another week for the ice to clear out of the marshes here. And if you're still keen after this, come on down and good luck.
All of the above locations are described in Goodwin's Birdfinding Guide to Ontario or on an Ontario road map. I recommend studying both.
Ron Ridout
Bird Studies Canada
P.O. Box 160
Port Rowan, ON N0E 1M0
Phone: 519-586-3531
Fax: 519-586-3532
Email: rridout@bsc-eoc.org

Tundra Swan arrival - Wed, 01 Mar 2000

Sighting reports originating from the ONTBIRDS mail server network are repeated courtesy of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO).
While small groups of Tundra Swans began arriving back in Ontario from the east coast early last week (not to be confused with several hundred birds that wintered on or near Lake Erie), the first major push of migrants (ie. thousands) began arriving here at Long Point this morning. Most of them appear to be moving through the area to points further west though a few (1500-2000) are resting on the waters of the bay just off the causeway.
This coincides nicely with the ice moving out of Long Point Bay on Sunday afternoon (chalk up several fishing huts and a couple of pickups as casualties). By Monday morning, the bay was covered with tens of thousands of diving ducks, mainly scaup, Canvasbacks and Redheads.
Also, I just flushed a Common Snipe in the wetland here on our headquarters property at Port Rowan. This is a record early arrival date for Long Point and unlikely to be a wintering bird given that things were frozen tighter than a drum here for close to six weeks.
Spring is springing.
Ron Ridout
Bird Studies Canada
P.O. Box 160
Port Rowan, ON N0E 1M0
Phone: 519-586-3531
Fax: 519-586-3532
Email: rridout@bsc-eoc.org

robins in the feeder area - Wed, 16 Feb 2000

Hi Gord,
This is Lois Wingfield of Simcoe, Ont. Just a note that 3 robins were observed today around 5pm with the mouring doves, and finches. This is high feeding time at the Wingfields. Also we have had bluebirds since January in the back of our property. Our property backs on to the Lynn Valley Trail which is operated by the Long Point Conservation Area.
That's it for now.
Thanks in advance
Lois Wingfield abw@kwic.com

Please send comments, corrections, or reports to myself,
Gord Gallant at Websites - Naturally

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This page was created: Thursday, October 09, 1997
Last Updated: April 11, 2002 8:58:31 AM