This morning I observed a newly hatched Red-necked Grebe in Bronte Marsh. The nest has three eggs remaining. The nest is in the cattails on the south side. It can be easily observed from the only part of the pond not edged with cattails. There are two picnic tables there. A scope is handy for observation of the activity.
This is the same spot where Least Bitterns have been observed recently. In the half hour I was there I did not see or hear them. Similarly I did not see or hear them in quick visits yesterday or last Monday. My last bittern sighting was last Sunday. Red-necked Grebes last nested in Bronte marsh in 2005. That nest was abandoned when the water level dropped stranding the nest. This year there is lots of water. Directions: Exit the QEW at Bronte Rd. (Oakville) and go south to Rebecca St. and turn right then turn left at Mississaga (the nest lights). Proceed to Riverview St. and turn left which end near the marsh. There is a town sign "Riverview Park" (nobody calls it that). The pond and the viewing area is at the bottom of the hill. Gavin Edmondstone Oakville, Ontario _______________________________________________ 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

