Ontbirders: Twenty-one enthusiastic OFO members and friends enjoyed an early spring day in Algonquin Park on Saturday (April 23). Luckily, we did not experience any significant rainfall until 3 p.m., allowing ample time to search for the northern birds that were our primary objective.
A male Spruce Grouse in the black spruce bog along Opeongo Road (km 46.3 on Highway 60) allowed close approach for all to see. It was a life bird for some. Gray Jays along Opeongo Road took food from people's hands. A few participants heard Boreal Chickadee along the old railway near Wolf Howl Pond (accessible from Arowhon Road at km 15.4). Unfortunately, as has been the case for many birding in Algonquin recently, Black-backed Woodpecker eluded us. The Great Gray Owl observed near Wolf Howl Pond on April 22 had apparently moved on. The Visitor Centre (km 43) feeders attracted several sparrow species, including Chipping, Savannah, Fox and White-throated (the latter two in song). Finch sightings for the day were limited to Purple Finch and the much-appreciated five Evening Grosbeaks at the Visitor Centre feeder. Directions: Algonquin Park is three hours north of Toronto, via Highways 400, 11 and 60. Follow the signs, which start in Toronto on Highway 400. From Ottawa, take Highway 17 to Renfrew, then follow Highway 60 to the park. Kilometre markers on Highway 60 in the park go from the West Gate (km 0) to the East Gate (km 56). Permits and information are available daily at both gates. The Visitor Centre (km 43) is open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Ron Tozer Dwight, Ontario
