First off Approximately 12 acres of the Oshawa Second Marsh and adjacent Mclaughlin Bay Reserve went up in flames this afternoon. The fire started at the observation platform (which suffered some charring and vandalism) and burned south to the North end of Cool Hollow before it was stopped by the fire department. Most habitat between the open water of the marsh and the marshland trail has suffered extensive fire damage. Most of the Swallow boxes which were in that area are gone. Those who were on the walk this morning and had views of the Eastern Towhee blocked by the spruces do not have the trees to obscure the view now. Now better news This morning there were approximately 1500 Bonaparte's Gull present. However the Bonnies and Little Gulls were moving extensively back and forth between the marsh and adjacent nearshore area of the lake. So an accurate count of Little Gulls could not be done. The highest number visible in courtship flights at one time were 28 individuals. Other species present included Brant, Great Egrets, Horned Grebes, Glaucous Gull, Virginia Rail, Northern Shoveler, and both yellowlegs. Passerines were present in very low numbers and diversity. Directions
Exit from the 401 at the Harmony Rd. Exit(419) in Oshawa. Go south on Farewell St. Colonel Sam Drive. Turn East onto Colonel Sam Drive and follow to the parking lot at the GM Headquarters. Park in the west parking lot close to the marsh. The east (GM) platform is visible from the NW corner of the lot. For a trail map of the Oshawa Second marsh area visit www.secondmarsh.com and check the link for a trail map of the area. Tyler Hoar Oshawa _______________________________________________ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to [email protected] For information about ONTBIRDS visit http://www.ofo.ca/
