On a traditional walk this time of year in search of the Nelson's Sharp Tailed Sparrow, James Lees and myself ventured through the obstacle course of the Dundas Marsh in search of this little gem. Migration seemed to have happened last night as there were fresh migrants in at Shoreacres/Paletta Park in Burlington this morning including Lincoln's Sparrow and Dark-eyed Junco.
At 11:30 a.m., we spotted a Nelson's Sharp-tailed Sparrow at the extreme west end of the marsh. The bird popped up about 5 feet in front of me. The bird was located in the marsh past the large dried up pond known as Paradise Pond. It was along the edge of the marsh in the taller reeds. The walking is difficult both on the trail out there and in the marsh. I wore rubber boots and rain pants as the area was quite muddy and wet in the reeds. This may be more of an informational posting that these birds are starting to move. Use caution if you do venture forth in to this area to see these birds. I'm sure that other traditional spots will be seeing these birds soon. To get to Dundas Marsh: Take HWY 6 north from the QEW. Turn west at York Road and follow the road all the way down to where it turns into Olympic Drive and meets with Cootes Drive at the end. Turn left on Cootes Drive and at the first bend you will see parking for the RBG trails. You have to cross Olympic Drive without losing your life and proceed to the RBG trails located across the road. Go down the trail and proceed over the iron bridge then turn left and follow the trail out to the marshy area. These birds have been found at various places in the reeds in the past. It is difficult to pinpoint a location, you just have to keep looking. The reeds are high and walking is difficult in these areas at times. Also watch the mud as one is apt to get stuck in the goo. There are a number of dead fish about due to the drying up of the pond on the way out to the marsh. The poison ivy seems to be rampant there as well. (Sounds very appealing doesn't it?) I just wanted people to know of the risks. Cheers, Cheryl Edgecombe
