Recent sightings to June 18, 2015 Just as it appeared that the Ottawa region had settled into an early case of the summer doldrums, the LITTLE EGRET reappeared on the 17th. It was seen from Rideau Valley Drive north of Manotick, on the Rideau River back channel west of Manotick Island. The 2 head plumes appear to be gone completely. It has not yet been relocated. Unfortunately unless the bird returns to the same spot it would be difficult to find as the river nearby is hard to access and view; a boat would help. However, given the past history of this bird, it is likely still in the area. A very late CANVASBACK was reported east of Green Island on the north part of the Rideau River. The only other notable bird was the YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO that was heard (again) at Morris Island this week on the 16th, and seen and heard again on the 18th (at Loggers Way). Less notable but still interesting was an OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER at Fletcher wildlife garden also on the 16th, perhaps a very late migrant. Among the waterbirds, 2 COMMON GOLDENEYE were still lingering off the beach west of the Remic Rapids lookout on the 18th. GADWALL were at the Moodie drive pit; a regular spot for this local breeder. CASPIAN TERN continues to be seen from time to time at either the Ottawa River or the Moody drive pit, the latter spot being the most reliable, and there as recently as the 18th. The last of the BONAPARTE’S GULLS are passing through, and a GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL (uncommon in the summer) flew near Britannia point. LEAST BITTERN was at the Constance Creek marsh at the Thomas Dolan Parkway on the 14th. This is a traditional spot for this bird, but odds of observation are low due to its behavior (secretive and a weak call) and the noise from cars on the road. An unusual sighting was an adult NORTHERN GOSHAWK in a backyard in Sandy Hill on the 15th. This bird should now be in deep forest; it is further proof that birds can wander at any time of the year. By contrast, a sighting of this species at the Richmond Fen on the 11th was at an expected location. RED-BELLIED WOODPECKERS continue in Pakenham, and closer to the city, one was seen near Kinburn and Stonecrest. The RED-HEADED WOODPECKER continues at Constance Bay but is far from regular. BLACK-BILLED CUCKOOS are again somewhat scarce this year. One current spot with several sightings has been the Osgoode Link Trail north of Earl Armstrong and west of High Road. SEDGE WREN continues at 2 previously reported spots: Conley Road south of Mansfield and in Bristol, Quebec. The OFNC's Birds Committee no longer reports owl sightings on the Internet. We will continue to encourage the reporting of owls to [email protected] for the purpose of maintaining local records. Thanks to everyone who contributed bird observations. Good birding. _______________________________________________ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to [email protected] For information about ONTBIRDS including how to unsubscribe visit http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup Posting guidelines can be found at http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdsguide
