This morning, Tony Beck and his group discovered an adult breeding-plumaged Arctic Tern feeding over the Deschênes Rapids. We viewed the bird from a spot a couple of hundred metres west of Britannia Point, which seemed to be the best vantage point. Although we'd briefly lost the bird when I left at 9:30 AM, it's probably still there. Note that, although binoculars were sufficient to identify the bird (for tern-experienced birders), a scope was necessary for good views. Note also that at least a couple of Common Terns were in the area as well. There were also a couple of Bonaparte's Gulls among the many Ring-Billed.
Paul Matthews, Ottawa Directions: From 417 west, exit Pinecrest north, then turn right on Richmond then left on Poulin. After the 90 degree bend, turn right (north) on Britannia, go round the construction detour and turn right (east) on Cassels. You can park right at the end of Cassels (inside the filtration plant)--this is Britannia Point, but parking is very limited and you might be better off parking outside the plant on Cassels and proceeding on foot. _______________________________________________ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to ONTBIRDS mailing list [email protected] For instructions to join or leave ONTBIRDS visit http://www.ofo.ca/information/ontbirdssetup.php ONTBIRDS Guidelines may be viewed at http://www.ofo.ca/information/ontbirdsguide.php
