The Pink-footed Goose was still present at Baie de la Pentecote, Plaisance Provincial Park, near Plaisance, QC at noon on April 19, 2004. It can be viewed from the large blind overlooking the bay. The bay is nearly clear of ice and the bird was well out, near the edge of remaining ice. At that range an excellent scope is necessary. Going east along the road from the blind should give somewhat better views.
Directions from the Birding Ottawa Guide's Grande & Petite Presqu'ile page at: http://www.neilyworld.com/oreq23.htm <http://www.neilyworld.com/oreq23.htm> . Going north on Autoroute de la Gatineau or Highway 5 take Exit # 2, the Autoroute 50 east exit. Follow the long, 1.0 km, ramp over Brewery Creek and onto Autoroute 50 headed north. Proceed 30 km to exit 166 (the final exit on 50 at this time), following the exit ramp 0.6 km as it loops back around to Rue Notre-Dame. Turn left or south and go 0.6 km SSE to where Chemin de Montreal or Highway 148 join Notre-Dame. Continue straight SSE 0.2 km to where Chemin de la Quai splits off to the right. Continue on Chemin de Montreal or Highway 148 by bearing left or ENE and going 25.6 km on it to the town of Plaisance and Chemin des Presqu'iles. Turn right or south onto it and drive 0.6 km the gatehouse for Grande & Petite Presqu'ile in the Plaisance Provincial Park. >From the entrance, take the left fork and go up the hill to the large wooden blind. Parking is opposite. Good luck. Larry E. Neily Ottawa, Ontario, Canada Birding Ottawa Guide: http://www.neilyworld.com/birdguide.htm <http://www.neilyworld.com/birdguide.htm>
