Today I decided to try my luck with the Snowy Owls reported at the Holland Marsh Vegetable Fields.I took my 2 Boys aged 5 and 7 years and headed south in a snow storm.We managed a pretty good day with the following sightings; 1 American Kestrel on Hazel Lane(caught a mouse and landed on some implements to dine) 12 Snow Buntings crossed our path on Wanda Road. 2 American Kestrels on Day Road,west of Devald. 1 Dark Phase Rough-legged Hawk also on Day,west of Devald.It was perched in an Willow tree on the south side then sprang to flight,diving into some dried sedge grasses.It rose a minute later empty handed and went back to the Willow. 1 Male Northern Harrier flew(mostly blown) from north to south on Devald Road. 1 Male Snowy Owl (finally) on Strawberry Lane across from house number #425,west of Keele Street about 1 km.It was sitting about on the ground about 500 yards north.My youngest had problems picking it out against the new snow.It must of sensed this as it flew to a small shed or pumphouse and landed in full view about 200 yards away.It was their first Snowy!
The Holland Marsh Vegetables Fields is easily accessed from the 400 Hwy at Canal Road.If you are coming south you must come under the 400 and head to the on ramp for the Northbound Hwy. Before getting on the Hwy you continue straight onto Wist Road.The first road you come to is Woodchoppers Lane.Follow to the first left and this becomes Strawberry Lane.There are many roads in the Marsh area.Most of them are deadends,but all can be accessed either off Canal Road,Woodchoppers Lane or Strawberry Lane.A Simcoe County Map shows most of them. Cheer's Garth N. Baker/Innisfil [EMAIL PROTECTED] "G.Baker" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
