Windsor - Detroit River March 12 4:30pm
I stopped along the Detroit River across from the Windsor Casino at about 4:30pm today. The river is rich with ducks at the moment. Most numerous at this location are COMMON MERGANSER numbering in the hundreds. COMMON GOLDENEYE were close to shore today providing wonderful views. These were mixing with other ducks close to shore; CANVASBACK, RED HEAD and LESSER SCAUP. Walking upstream we found HOODED MERGANSER, a nice group of four males in my sight at once. A few could be seen coming close to shore offering great viewing. Also BUFFLEHEADS and at least 2 RUDDY DUCK still in winter plumage. New for me today is the NORTHERN SHOVELER (everyone else seems to have this on there list but me) ... but finally there they were two males and a female I had ventured down to the water today in search of grebes that had been reported recently. Far out in the water (about halfway across the river) were two grebes. Quite slender in the neck these are most likely the Red Necked Grebes that had been searchign for. I did see another grebe as well I am speculating Eared Grebe still in winter plumage. The local pros might do better with this identification. On the way back, hopping thru the rocks on the river bank , a lone song sparrow. This was a great viewing day and surprising being right downtown. Lots of ducks quite close to shore and not disturbed by my presense. This location is right across from the Windsor Casino on Riverside Drive ... entrance to the parking area is at Glengarry Ave. Mark Conlon [EMAIL PROTECTED] "Mark Conlon" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
