Bruce Di Labio's Blog

Ontario Field Ornithologists Celebrity Birdathon results May 29,2016

2016-06-02T06:50:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone

Over the decades I’ve done many “big days” starting in the mid 1970s on my bicycle and into the 1990s and early 2000s on competitive big days at the World Series of Birding, Texas Birding Classic and Taverner Cup. I thought I had seen all the possible weather conditions. Not so. I’ve dealt with rain and wind but heat was something I didn’t count on.
Ben and I started at midnight east of Ottawa and it was a slow start with very little calling and no nocturnal call notes overhead. It was obvious the late date and recent heat wave would make it more challenging. Regardless, our spirits were high and we worked our way towards Algonquin Park hoping to arrive by dawn. On Friday I had my car in for an oil change and check up. Everything was a go, at least I thought. As we staring working our way towards Algonquin it became obvious that one of my front wheel bearings was going. There was a sound which continued to increase in volume as the day progressed. Despite this problem we continued on. Over the years of big day competitions I knew that once you are committed to a route you don’t change the route. If you do it becomes a long chase. As we changed drivers Ben did the Algonquin run. We made numerous stops and were rewarded with few birds. During the night we managed to add American Woodcock, Sora , Virginia Rail, Eastern Screech-Owl, Barred Owl, and lots of Whip-poor-wills. At Algonquin Park we covered a variety of areas including Arowhon Road, Wolf Howl Pond, Spruce Bog Boardwalk and Opeongo Lake Road. Overall we did well with a number of species including Olive-sided Flycatcher, Boreal Chickadee, numerous warblers and an over abundance of black flies and mosquitos! The walk along the old railway line to Wolf Howl Pond and West Rose Lake was not enjoyable. Though birds were singing/active we missed a number of the Algonquin Park specialties including Spruce Grouse, Black-backed Woodpecker, and Gray Jay. We left Algonquin Park by 8:30a.m. and made our way towards Presqu’ile Provincial Park. This leg of the journey is usually three hours with a few stops. As Ben and I worked our way south the temperature started to rise and few birds were singing. Our highlight was the Madoc Sewage Lagoon where we found 2 Trumpeter Swan, a family of Hooded Mergansers, along with Green-winged Teal and a few shorebirds. With the rising temperature we made a brief stop in Brighton Hills at noon and added Blue-winged Warbler, along with Eastern Towhee, Field Sparrow and Rose-breasted Grosbeak. We heard a Golden-winged Warbler calling too, which turned out to be a hybrid, Brewster's Warbler.

Our next stop was Presqu’ile Provincial Park where we added a few waterbirds and Piping Plover. Unfortunately due to the hot weather the beach was busy and few shorebirds were present. At 1:15pm we were on our way to the Napanee area in search of Loggerhead Shrike and any other grassland species. After a while we finally got one Loggerhead Shrike, one Upland Sandpiper and American Kestrel as the temperature reached 35c! By 4:30p.m. we reached the Opinicon Road/Chaffeys Lock area. It was deadly quiet with only a few Red-eyed Vireos and Indigo Buntings singing. We couldn’t find any of the area specialties. Over the next few hours we made our way to the Carp area and finished along the Carp river at Ben’s favorite birding spot, the site of last years Little Egret. With water levels low there was only one shorebird, a breeding plumage Black-bellied Plover along with Northern Rough-winged Swallows. Our final new species for the day was Chimney Swift which was guaranteed since they breed in our chimney. It was a long but fun day. We ended with 132 species and traveled 850 kms from midnight to 7:00p.m.

Ben and I would like to thank everyone who sponsored us for the 2016 Birdathon. If you haven’t had a chance to donate there is still time. See link below.

http://birdscanada.kintera.org/faf/donorReg/donorPledge.asp?ievent=1153443&lis=1&kntae1153443=37D9ACFCDBB541ADA3997AD733EEDB6D&supId=376360042

Good birding,

Bruce and Ben Di Labio

Carp, Ontario

35th Dunrobin-Breckenridge CBC results 2 January 2016

2016-01-26T09:31:00.001-05:00

Hi Everyone

The 35th Dunrobin, On.-Breckenridge P.Q. Christmas Bird Count took place on 2 January 2016. A total of 65 species were recorded, the second highest total ever. Highest was 68 species in 2001/02. A total of 6,780 individuals were recorded. The record high is 12,884 in 1985/86.

Weather conditions were good and the main channel of the Ottawa River was still wide open though bays and inlets were ice covered. The combination of open water and excellent viewing conditions resulted in a higher than normal number of water birds.

The following highlights were recorded.

New Species: Three new species were recorded bringing the overall total to 116 species in 35 years.

Bufflehead 1

Long-tailed Duck 1

Peregrine Falcon 1

Record highs: Previous highs are shown in parentheses, followed by the year.

Common Goldeneye 135 (58,2006)

Hooded Merganser 6 (2,1993)

Common Merganser 130 (36,2001)

Red-breasted Merganser 4 (1,2001)

Common Loon 7 (1,2001)

Ring-billed Gull 4 (3,2000)

White-throated Sparrow 4 (3,2013)

Rusty Blackbird 2 (1, 87,88,97)

Tied record highs: Previous highs are shown in parentheses, followed by the year.

Tufted Titmouse 1 (2013)

Gray Catbird (1) (2007)

Other species of interest include:

Ring-necked Duck 1 (3rd record)

White-winged Scoter 1 (2nd record)

Red-breasted Merganser 4 (2nd record)

Gray Partridge 12

Northern Shrike 4

Bohemian Waxwing 422

Lapland Longspur 6

Finches:

Pine Grosbeak 0

Purple Finch 18

Red Crossbill 0

White-winged Crossbill 0

Common Redpoll 25

Hoary Redpoll 0

Pine Siskin 52

American Goldfinch 397

Evening Grosbeak 0

I’d like to thank my wife Laurie for preparing the wonderful post-count supper and to all participants who took part during the day!

Good Birding, Bruce

Bruce Di Labio compiler 1981/82-2015/16

P.O. Box 538

Carp, Ontario

K0A 1L0

613-715-2571

January 16,2016 Local birding: Barrow's Goldeneye, Harlequin duck, and Summer Tanager

2016-01-16T19:09:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone

I spent a few hours birding this afternoon around Ottawa. The immature male Harlequin Duck was showing well off the northeast corner of Bate Island. For those who saw earlier posts this is the same bird that was reported as a female but morphed into an immature male recently.

The Summer Tanager appears to be doing well and was present in the New Edinburg area this afternoon and visited the feeder near the corner of Queen Victoria and Avon Lane. It was wolfing down peanuts. This is one of the longest lasting Summer Tanagers to be recorded in Eastern Ontario.

Along the Rideau River between Strathcona Park and Hwy 417 I observed two classic male Barrow’s Goldeneyes.

On my way into Ottawa, with light snow falling, I observed 1000+ Bohemian Waxwings in a few flocks with the largest concentration just south of the intersection of Moodie Drive and Carling Ave. The main flock was sitting up in a few deciduous trees and a small number would fly up as if they were fly catching. As I watched for 10 min. my only conclusion was that they were catching snow flakes to hydrate? The behavior was very similar to Cedar Waxwings or European Starling fly catching during the fall eating flying ants or other insects. I’ve never seen this behavior before over 45+ years of birding.

The Bullock’s Oriole is doing well and has gained 7 grams since arriving at the Wild Bird Care Center.

Good birding,

Bruce

Directions: If you require additional information please email me privately.

Bohemian Waxwing catching snow flakes.

The behavior was similar to fly catching during the fall.

The flock sitting in a deciduous tree.

How many Bohemian Waxwings in this flock?

Male Barrows Goldeneye

Barrow's Goldeneye

Preening male Barrow's Goldeneye

The Summer Tanager appears to be doing very well.

It enjoys peanuts and hopefully will survive the cold temperatures that are forecast next week .

The immature male Harlequin Duck continues off the north-east corner of Bate Island.

January 14,2016 Northern Fulmar found in Kanata south.

2016-01-15T08:10:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone

One more goodie for 2015! A Northern Fulmar was found on December 31,2015 in Kanata south. It was picked up along the shoulder of a road as it sat in the snow and brought to the Wild Bird Care Center as a "seagull". The fulmar was emaciated and unable to fly. It's recovering well and will hopefully be released at a later date along the Atlantic coast. This is the second fulmar this winter and one of the few records for Ottawa and Eastern Ontario.

Good birding,

Bruce

There are at least 6 records now of Northern Fulmar from Eastern Ontario with this one being the latest record.

The Northern Fulmar is a seabird that is related albatrosses,shearwaters and petrels. These "tube nose" seabirds have large nostril tubes on top of their bill that are used to help the birds remove salt from their system by forming a saline solution that either drips or is ejected through the nostril.They are gull size and in flight have a rapid wing-beat followed by a stiff winged glide.

January 13,2016 Harlequin Duck at Bate Island, Ottawa.

2016-01-15T07:45:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone

An immature male Harlequin Duck has been present off the east end of Bate Island since January 9. This individual was first thought to be a female but closer examination revealed its an male. Most immature males I've since in January along the Ottawa or St.Lawrence rivers are more advanced than this bird. The first photo shows a slaty gray colour to the head and a whitish line along the scapulars as well as the distinctive perpendicular bar on the side of the breast. All of this will develop more over the next few months. The progressive molt in young male ducks over the winter is always quite variable in its appearance.

Good birding,
Bruce

Harlequin ducks are very rare late fall and early winter visitors to our region. Occasionally they do overwinter.

Note the white perpendicular bar on the side of the breast.

Newfoundland Birding January 7-12,2016

2016-01-15T07:19:00.001-05:00

Hi Everyone
If you every have an opportunity to bird watch in Newfoundland during the winter its an amazing time. I spent 6 days birding around St.John's and the Avalon. Lots of interesting birds and great views. Two of the days Bruce Mactavish accompanied us as we birded along the south shore of the Avalon and various locations around St.John's. Definitely the highlight of the trip was the south shore of the Avalon. Below is a post from the Newfoundland birds by Bruce Mactavish.

What a great winters day birding down the shore. Was with two Ontario birders Bruce Di Labio and Laurie Brown. Dovekie is always a target bird and that bird was scored in Aces. There was some phenomena with large numbers of Dovekies feeding in close to shore at a few locations, with Aquaforte, Portugal Cove South, Biscay Bay and St Vincents Beach being the headliner locations. Dovekies were present in small numbers flying about at Bear Cove, Cape Race, Long Beach, Pt La Haye but not so much on the water. It was not only Dovekies but other alcids, in fact all six species. The birds were diving a lot as if getting plenty to eat. Lots of loons at same locations. Conditions were IDEAL, nearly no wind any where and nice overcast light.

AQUAFORTE
Dovekie - 50 feeding by wharf and ice edge farther up inlet. Lots of chirping and activity.

RENEWS
Dovekie none where were had 25 feeding last weekend

BEAR COVE
a handful of Dovekies in flight, none on the water, no Kings among the few hundred eiders

CAPE RACE Road, hardly any Dovekies along the road yet superb viewing conditions. THE DROOK was devoid - just one Red-necked Grebe and two Common Loons. Very odd. Long Beach was dead. No Dovekies on water here. Cripple Cove a handful of Dovekies on water, 8 Surf Scoters 50 Purple Sandpipers etc. Cape Race pretty quiet, didn't stay too long, there was a light trickle of northward flying Dovekies. Not many eiders.
Snowy Owl - 1 heavily barred immature west of Long Beach
American Pipit - 1 at Miners Lettuce Patch

PORTUGAL COVE SOUTH
Dovekie - 120 (lots of chirping)
Common Murre - 2
Razorbill - 5
Atlantic Puffin -2 (one feeding 10 m off beach)
Black Guillemots - yes
Red-throated Loon - 1
Common Loon - 25
Red-necked Grebe - 3

Main feeding area half way along beach and within 150 m of shore, many within 50 m, some Dovekies 2 m from beach. All looking very frisky, healthy, very active and alive, seemed like a feeding frenzy.

BISCAY BAY (supreme viewing conditions)
Dovekie - 200+ (mainly in mouth of bay so not close
Razorbill - 5
Common Murre - 5
Black Guillemot - yes
Horned Grebe - 2
Red-necked Grebe - 3
Red-throated Loon - 12 (probably a record high winter count)
Common Loon - 15+
lots of singing Long-tailed Ducks plus 30+ RB Mergansers, 6 Greater Scaup etc.
Northern Harrier - 1 (same bird for 1+ month?)

TREPASSEY BEACH
Dovekie - 10
Razorbill - 2 close to beach
Common Loons - plenty

Snowy Owl - 1 near St. Shotts turn off but didn't go to St. Shotts so that we could fit in St Vincents

ST.VINCENTS BEACH (including Peters River)
viewing mainly from the bank at west end of guard rail at roughly the half way point of the entire beach. Viewing conditions superb. Loons were scattered everywhere, some kms from shore. We nearly gave up on the Pacific Loon but in the end saw it quite close to our position with an active feeding flock of 8 Common Loons. no good photos yet great scope views

PACIFIC LOON - 1
Common Loon - 30 at most - low
Dovekie - 200+
Atlantic Puffin - 1
Razorbill - 25+
Common Murre - 20
Thick-billed Murre - 2
Black Guillemots - yes
Red-necked Grebe - 2

PT LA HAYE
tide was rising, a fly by 25 Purple Sandpipers. No other shorebirds. Small eider flock

It was getting dark. A great day.

BD
LB
BM

Hard to beat a winter days birding in Newfoundland!

Good birding,

Bruce

Bald Eagles are a regular sight over Quidi Vidi Lake.

The Eurasian Green-winged Teal or Common Teal regularly winters in the St.John's area.

Dovekies were easy to see along the coast this trip.

Late lingering birds are regularly found in Newfoundland during January. This Orange-crowned Warbler was one of four species of warblers we observed.

A Yellow-breasted Chat played hide and seek most of the time.

Eurasian Wigeons also overwinter on the island. This group was at Spaniard's Bay.

Depending on the berry crop a small number of Northern Flickers can be found in St.John's during the winter months.

A winter Atlantic Puffin was a nice treat.

Tufted Ducks are easy to find around St. john's during the winter months. up to 40 birds were in the area.

A Wilson's Warbler along Kellys Brook in St.John's attracted lots of birders and photographers.

Gull watching can be very exciting in St.John's at Quidi Vidi Lake. A few 1000 gulls regularly roost on the lake during the day. Up to 8 species were observed plus a few hybrids.

January 5,2016 Bullock's Oriole captured

2016-01-15T06:40:00.001-05:00

Hi Everyone
After a night of -27c the Bullock's Oriole was captured in weakened condition in Pakenham. The oriole spent the following night in my home before arriving at the Wild Bird Care Center on Moodie Drive. It weighed only 27 grams, 37 grams is the average weight of a healthy bird, and was suffering from frostbitten on a few toes. Many late lingering birds perish during extreme cold periods but this Bullock's Oriole was lucky to have been spotted huddled up against the foundation of a home trying to keep warm. Stay tuned for an update on its condition.
Good birding,
Bruce

During its finally days in Pakenham the Bullock's Oriole sought shelter and heat from a nearby house foundation.

During its overnight stay at Casa Di Labio the oriole enjoyed fresh oranges, bananas and even peanuts.

Bullock's Oriole

January 1,2016 Oriole and Tanager start the year!

2016-01-13T17:08:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone

Happy New Year!

For many birders the list goes back to zero at the start of a new year. After an amazing 2015 it will be almost impossible to have a better year. Eastern Ontario dominated the birding starting in early June with the Little Egret and it continued into the late fall with the Pink-footed Goose, Bullock's Oriole, Mountain Bluebird, Northern Fulmar and finished with Smew. An incredible run!
I was able to add three species to my all time January list so far including Double-crested Cormorant, Bullock's Oriole, Summer Tanager. With the river wide open and not much snow there were still lots of late lingering species, particularly waterfowl. Between the Champlain Bridge and Shirley's Bay there was an amazing selection of ducks including 1 White-winged Scoter, 1 Long-tailed Duck,1 Bufflehead, 1 Greater Scaup, 3 Lesser Scaup, 1 Northern Shoveler, and 3 American Wigeon. Other water birds included 1 Red-necked Grebe, 2 Common Loon, and 17 Ring-billed Gull. During a normal winter most of these birds wouldn't be in the area.

Good birding,

Bruce

Many birders got their first ever Summer Tanager for January.

The Bullock's Oriole was seen by many on January 1st. Another first for the month and year!

December 31,2015 An amazing year of birding ends with a Summer Tanager!

2015-12-31T23:59:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone

An immature male Summer Tanager was the final rarity for 2015. First noticed coming to a bird feeder in New Edinburgh on December 25 the alert went out and after some searching the tanager was found. Today it spent some of its time at a feeder along Avon Lane between Union and Queen Victoria Streets. The Summer Tanager is a very rare visitor to the Ottawa area and the first record was found on May 24,1967 by Dan Brunton in the west end of Ottawa. The following day the tanager was collected. Other May records include May 8,1996 at Vincent Massey Park, and May 4,2012 near Kemptville. The only other late fall occurrence is a female visiting a bird feeder from November 10-15, 2004 in the west end of Ottawa.

Happy New Year!

Bruce

An immature male Summer Tanager was a surprise find in the Ottawa area.

This represents one of only a handful of records for the Ottawa-Gatineau district.

December 26-29, Eastern Ontario Birding

2015-12-30T18:23:00.001-05:00

Hi Everyone
Birding over the past few days has been an eye opener with the contrast in the recent weather. Hard to believe on Christmas Eve it was 17c and starting on December 27 a total change in the weather. Winter has arrived and some late lingering species will now slowly die off. The unusually mild late fall and early winter had contributed to there extended lifespan but you can't stop winter. Overnight we received 20+ cms of snow and temperatures are cooling off back to the norm. Species like the Wood Thrush, Swainson's Thrush, Cape May Warbler seen on the Ottawa-Gatineau CBC its only the matter of time before they succumb to the elements. Even the Bullock's Orioles chance of survival is zero. Its a harsh reality that winter listing is just chasing the dying. I know a list is a list but we never look at the overall picture. These unfortunate souls are here for a short time and they are merely a tick on your list. We can't save them all, occasionally species such as hummingbirds are captured but don't always do well. It's part of nature and what we witness in our day to day birding actives. Since these birds are only here for a brief time remember not to be selfish and try and get the best photo but keep your distance and respect them.

Most local Christmas bird counts benefited from the lack of snow and above normal temperatures which resulted in numerous new species being found for the first time and new record highs were set. With mild conditions lasting up until Dec. 26, a number of late lingerers managed to survive. Under normally conditions these birds wouldn’t have lasted this long.

The Pakenham-Arnprior Christmas Bird Count held on Dec.26 tallied one of its highest totals with 60 species. The record is 66 species set in 2001. Viewing conditions were excellent along the various waterways which helped out in counting late lingering water birds. Definitely the highlight of the count was the long staying Bullock’s Oriole found back on Nov.29. Unfortunately many of these late lingering land birds won’t survive the now wintery conditions. There were four other new species recorded including Red-throated Loon, Red-necked Grebe, Double-crested Cormorant and Lesser Black-backed Gull. Record high tallies included 1,561 Canada Geese, 14 American Black Ducks, 101 Common Goldeneyes, 316 Herring Gulls, 10 Ring-billed Gulls, 31 Great Black-backed Gulls, three Eastern Screech-Owls, 10 Barred Owls and five Song Sparrows.

The drastic change in weather seriously affected the results of the Massena-Cornwall Christmas Bird Count held on Dec.27. A combination of freezing rain, rain, and snow flurries made it a challenge. The highlight of the count was the female Smew first discovered on Dec.13 near Long Sault and relocated prior to the count between Upper Canada Village and Ault Island. Other interesting species including two Tundra Swans, 500 Redheads, 18,000 Canada Geese, and 3,000 Snow Geese.

Good birding,
Bruce

A freezing rain storm didn't stop this Mountain Bluebird.

A small flock of late lingering Northern Shovelers were found along the Ottawa River at Britannia.

The Bullock's Oriole continues at Pakenham, Ontario.

During the recent winter snow storm and cold temperatures it still managed to feed on the apples. Below is a series of photos.

Bullock's Oriole

Recent freezing rain.

American Robins will feed on berries and other fruit during the winter months.

A Northern Cardinal feeding on the ice covered branch.

A levitating Northern Cardinal !

December 27,2015 Smew at Ault Island near Upper Canada Village

2015-12-27T21:28:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone

While taking part on the Massena-Cornwall CBC this morning we spotted the Smew at 8:45a.m. off the west end of Ault Island from the foot bridge near the Guest house at Upper Canada Village. The Smew was with a small group of Common Mergansers. After watching it for a while the group fly east and disappeared around the west end of the island. It was relocated and observed flying west along the shoreline and landing off Chrysler Farm Monument in Upper Canada Village. A bout five minutes it flew east and disappeared around the southwest tip of Ault. During the latter part of the afternoon it was observed off the south side of Ault Island. This bird does move around the general area and is usually with mergansers, either Hooded or Common. If you do locate the Smew please post to Ontbirds. Also, remember the OFO Birding code of ethics.

Good luck,

Bruce

The Smew was present this morning off the west end Ault Island

During the day it was observed at a few locations along the St.Lawrence River between Upper Canada Village and Ault Island.

December 24,2015 Eastern Ontario Rarities Update

2015-12-25T10:03:00.002-05:00

Hi Ontbirders
This is my last update for a couple of days. There will be a significant change in the weather over the next couple of days in eastern Ontario with cold temperatures on the way.

The Pink-footed Goose was observed along Eight Road near Moose Creek this morning in a group of 9000+ Snow Gees . Lots of patience is required to find this goose.

The Mountain Bluebird was present this afternoon at the intersection of Century Road and Goodstown Road south of Richmond. As it held onto a fence line, it must have felt at home like on the prairies with 40+ kms winds.

The Bullock’s Oriole was again observed in Pakenham feeding in its favourite apple tree at the south west end of Dalkeith St. Please remember the OFO Birding Code of Ethics!

I haven’t received or heard of any observations of the Smew today.

Merry Christmas,
Bruce

Directions: Pink-footed Goose: From Ottawa take Hwy 417 east past Casselman and exit at #58 south on Hwy 138. Follow south to Norman Dr. Turn right and continue west and Norman changes into Valley St. Follow to Eight Road and turn right continue to 16182 8th but watch for Snow Geese anywhere in the fields.

Mountain Bluebird directions: Take Hwy 416 south or north to Exit 57. West on Brophy to Eagleson and south on Eagleson/McCordick to Century Rd.. West on Century to intersection of Goodstown.

Bullock’s Oriole directions: From Ottawa take Hwy 417 west to Kinburn Side Road. After exiting turn left and follow to CR 29. Turn left and as you enter the village of Pakenham watch for Waba Road on your right. Turn right and then left on Dalkeith St.

The Mountain Bluebird holds on to the barbwire during 40 km/hr winds.

My latest Woolly Bear Caterpillar for Ottawa was at Dick Bell Park enjoying +17c on December 24!

December 20,2015 96th Ottawa-Gatineau Christmas Bird Count

2015-12-21T20:10:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone

The annual Ottawa-Gatineau CBC was held today, December 20,2015. Conditions were excellent with virtually no snow cover and open water conditions contributed to almost a record number of species. The preliminary results, 86 species, our second highest ever. The record is 89 species in 1984. Our average over the past 30 years is around 72 species. This was my 45th consecutive Ottawa CBC and one of the most exciting. Conditions were excellent for walking and covering areas you don't usually do since there is a few feet of snow or the area is frozen. There was lots of natural food available,berries and seeds plus we'd had no extreme cold temperatures this fall and early winter to kill off late lingering species. As a result the Britannia sector had its best showing ever with 65 species confirmed so far. Our previous high was 61 species in 2006. The combination of no snow, waterways open, and a relatively mild fall and early winter resulted in a higher number of late lingerers. Highlights included Winter Wren, Swamp Sparrow, Hermit Thrush, Northern Mockingbird, and Wood Thrush to name a few. A great team effort!

Good birding

Bruce

The first record of Greater White-fronted Goose for the count was found early in the week.

A Northern Mockingbird was one of numerous rare land birds found on the count.

A few Snowy owls were observed along the Ottawa River.

With all waterways open there were a number of late lingering ducks including American Wigeon.

First record of Wood Thrush for the count was a big surprise.

December 19,2015 Pembroke CBC Black-throated Gray Warbler!

2015-12-21T18:56:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone

This morning while participating on the Pembroke CBC Ben and I discovered a Black-throated Gray Warbler on Morrison Island/Quebec side of the count circle, only 1 km from Ontario. This is yet another western species that has shown up in our region. Enjoy the CBCs over the next few weeks! Lots of possibilities on our Ontario counts.

Merry Christmas,

Bruce and Ben

Direction: If you require additional information please email me privately.

Unfortunately due to the height of the cedar trees and being very active warbler it was difficult to get a clear photo of the warbler.

December 18,2015 Eastern Ontario rarities update

2015-12-18T18:28:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone

Since my son Ben has been away at university in New Brunswick this fall and missed all the excitement, I picked him up at the Ottawa airport at 7:50a.m. and we spent the day searching for the local goodies. Before leaving Ottawa for Fredericton, Ben’s Ottawa Life list was at 299. Our first stop was the female Mountain Bluebird, which was present along the fence line at the intersection of Century Road and Goodstown Road at 8:40a.m.

Our next stop, Pakenham, produced the Bullock’s Oriole along the old railway bed and it spent most of its time in the vegetation to the south. We did not see it visit its favorite tree.

The final destination was east of Casselman for the Pink-footed Goose. There were no geese along Lafleche Road so we worked our way towards Moose Creek and located a large concentration of Snow Geese along Eighth Road just north of Moose Creek. After a while of scanning the flock we spotted the Pink-footed Goose. There were 10,000 Snow Goose and more sizable flocks arriving. The best viewing location was north of 16182 Eighth Road. The mass of Snow Geese were visible from the road and viewing conditions were great.

Good luck,

Bruce and Ben

Directions: Mountain Bluebird: Take Hwy 416 south or north to Exit 57. West on Brophy to Eagleson and south on Eagleson/McCordick to Century Rd.. West on Century to intersection of Goodstown.

Directions: Bullock’s Oriole: From Ottawa take Hwy 417 west to Kinburn Side Road. After exiting turn left and follow to CR 29. Turn left and as you enter the village of Pakenham watch for Waba Road on your right. Turn right and then left on Dalkeith St.

Directions: Pink-footed Goose: From Ottawa take Hwy 417 east past Casselman and exit at #58 south on Hwy 138. Follow south to Norman Dr. Turn right and continue west and Norman changes into Valley St. Follow to Eight Road and turn right continue to 16182 8th but watch for Snow Geese anywhere in the fields.

December 14,2015 Eastern Ontario Rarities update

2015-12-14T17:54:00.002-05:00

Hi Ontbirders

The birding in Eastern Ontario continues to be unpredictable and exciting. It doesn’t appear to be slowing down too soon. The weather forecast for the next few days is above seasonal temperatures and no snow. All waterways are still ice free.
The Smew was observed at first light today along the St. Lawrence River just east of Long Sault along Hwy 2 at Fickes Road. The Smew flew west and disappeared. Fortunately for a few of us while scanning the river it was spotted flying back, landing briefly in the same location before taking flight again and heading west along the river. A number of us searched various areas but no luck. The bird may return at dusk and I’d check tomorrow at dawn.
The Pink-footed Goose was observed at the sod farm off Laflèche Road late morning and was still present into the afternoon. There were no geese along Laflèche Road when we arrived but shortly after a small flock landed followed by 5-8 thousands and the PFGO was spotted. Lots of patience is required to find this goose.
The Mountain Bluebird was present this morning and early afternoon at the intersection of Century Road and Goodstown Road south of Richmond.
The Bullock’s Oriole was again observed in Pakenham and I observed it feeding in its favourite apple tree at the south west end of Dalkeith St. at 3:15p.m.
Good luck,
Bruce
http://brucedilabio.blogspot.ca/

SMEW directions: Seen from Highway 2 between Cornwall and Long Sault Just west of Fickes Road, there is a short, open stretch of river that is viewable from the highway. There is also a bike path here. This is a busy stretch of road, so it may be best to park on Fickes Road and walk the short distance to the west.

Pink-footed Goose directions: Take Hwy 417 east from Ottawa past Casselman and take exit 58.
Turn right (south) on Hwy 138 towards Cornwall. Laflèche Road is the first road on the right.

Mountain Bluebird directions: Take Hwy 416 south or north to Exit 57. West on Brophy to Eagleson and south on Eagleson/McCordick to Century Rd.. West on Century to intersection of Goodstown.

Bullock’s Oriole directions: From Ottawa take Hwy 417 west to Kinburn Side Road. After exiting turn left and follow to CR 29. Turn left and as you enter the village of Pakenham watch for Waba Road on your right. Turn right and then left on Dalkeith St.

The Smew was only seen briefly before flying west along the St. Lawrence River. Smew photos courtesy of Jacques Bouvier.

Only a few fortunate birders got to see the Smew before it disappeared near Long Sault.

Pink-footed Goose with Snow Geese.

Mountain Bluebird spent much of its time feeding along the fence line and flying down to the ground to pick up grubs.

The female Bullock's Oriole continues to favor one apple tree at the southwest end of Dalkeith St.

December 13,2015 Smew near Cornwall,Ontario

2015-12-13T20:32:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone
This afternoon at 3:30p.m. Jacob Bruxer discovered a Smew on the St. Lawrence River about 5 km west of Cornwall. He watched it for about 15 minutes feeding within about 50 m of shore and managed a few digiscoped photos. The bird was loosely associating with a small group of Common Mergansers and Common Goldeneye. It eventually flew out further into the river and joined a larger group of diving ducks.

Directions: Seen from Highway 2 between Cornwall and Long Sault. Just west of Fickes Road, there is a short, open stretch of river that is viewable from the highway. There is also a bike path here. This is a busy stretch of road, so it may be best to park on Fickes Road and walk the short distance to the west.

Smew along the St.Lawrence River near Cornwall.

December 12,2015 birding Ottawa and Renfrew County: Barrow's Goldeneyes and late lingerers.

2015-12-13T06:50:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone

Since conditions are still mild and all waterways are ice free I started the day at Shirley’s Bay and had a male Barrow’s Goldeneye in a flock of 300+ Common Goldeneye on the west side of the causeway. Other water birds included 60 Lesser Scaup, 12 Ring-necked Ducks, one male Canvasback, one Long-tailed Duck, two White-winged Scoters and one Common Loon. A Snowy Owl was perched on Aylmer Island in Lake Deschenes.

At Muskrat Lake at Cobden there were four Common Loons and one Long-tailed Duck. My next stop was Lake Dore and there was still a good variety of late lingering water birds. Normally at this time of year most lakes are frozen and the ground snow covered.

Highlights included a male Barrow’s Goldeneye off the Township Park along Hwy 41, 9 Horned Grebes, 12 Red-necked Grebes, 33 Hooded Mergansers, 1 Red-breasted Merganser, 8 Common Loons, and two very late Bonaparte’s Gulls.

A brief stop at the Madawaska Head Pond at Arnprior produced three late lingering Double-crested Cormorants.

Good birding,

Bruce

Directions: Directions: Shirley's Bay: From Ottawa take Hwy. 417 west to the Moodie Drive exit and turn north (right) on Moodie Drive and continue to Carling Ave. Turn left at Carling Ave. and follow Carling to Rifle Road. Turn right (north) on Rifle Rd. Park at the lot at the end (boat launch). Walk back to the road, and continue through the gate on the Department of National Defense property. There is a trail on your right (clearly marked with vehicle "No Entry" signs) which heads into the woods, and, eventually to the causeway.

**** PLEASE NOTE**** YOU MUST OBTAIN PERMISSION FROM THE RANGE CONTROL

OFFICE BEFORE ENTERING THE SHIRLEY'S BAY CAUSEWAY AREA -- Call (613) 991-5740 and request permission to visit the causeway area for birding.

Male Barrow's Goldeneye at Shirley's Bay

The male Barrow's Goldeneye is distinguished from the male Common Goldeneye by it large crescent facial mark, black spur and checkered scapulars. Head shape is also important, steep forehead.

Male Barrow's on left side of flock of Common Goldeneye.

Lake Dore classic male Barrow's Goldeneye off Township Park.

Another view of the male Barrow's Goldeneye at Lake Dore.

December 11,2015 Bullock's Oriole continues and Mountain Bluebird rediscovered south of Richmond.

2015-12-12T00:23:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone

The Bullock's Oriole continues to be reported from Pakenham and was seen this morning in the apple tree at the southwest end of Dalkeith. This has been its favorite tree since first discovered on November 29. The Mountain Bluebird first observed on November 29 and last observed on November 30 was rediscovered this morning south of Richmond at the intersection of Century Road and Goodstown Road. The bluebird spent much of its time feeding along the fence line and picking up grubs.

Unfortunately no further sightings of yesterdays Northern Fulmar.

Good birding

Bruce

Mountain Bluebird

December 10,2015 Northern Fulmar at Ottawa!

2015-12-10T18:32:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone

After an incredible fall of rarities....it continues. Today a Northern Fulmar, was discovered early afternoon on Lake Deschenes off Andrew Haydon Park by Jon Ruddy. After finding the bird Jon put out an alert immediately and the chase was on. Fortunately I was close by in Carp and was able to get there quickly and within an hour 30+ birders were on the fulmar. The bird spent most of its time resting on the water but did take flight a couple of times. To see any tubenose inland is amazing! These birds are from the Atlantic Ocean and a very rare sight inland. After watching the fulmar for a while it finally took flight and was wandering around Lake Deschenes before finally drifting east and we lost sight of it as it passed over Deschenes Rapids at around 3:20 p.m. and went out of sight. It was seen down river later off Mousette Beach in Hull, Quebec. Amazingly there are 3 previous records of Northern Fulmar for Ottawa. On November 12, 1984, Richard Brouillet, Don MacKinnon and I watched in amazement as a Northern Fulmar flew over a cornfield in Woodlawn as it headed east. On December 14, 1994, there was a small flight of fulmars inland from the Gulf of St.Lawrence and numerous fulmars were found between Quebec City and Ottawa. One individual landed on a lawn in Limoges, Ontario and was finally caught on December 16 and sent to a rehab center before being released in Nova Scotia. During this time I found two Northern Fulmars at the Cornwall Power Dam on December 14.

The late Richard Poulin of Ottawa observed a Northern Fulmar flying over Hwy 417 near the Carling exit on December 7,1995.

Below are a number of distant photos I took today of the Northern Fulmar found by Jon Ruddy this afternoon. Congratulations Jon! and a lifer for Jon too!

The Northern Fulmar is resting on the water to the left. Note the very white head and dark mantle.

The Northern Fulmar is a seabird and has a distinctive flap and guide flight with wings stiff like shearwaters and other pelagic species.

This individual is a light morph which is common on the Atlantic Ocean.

Northern Fulmar in flight.

December 10,2015 Bullock's Oriole update

2015-12-10T17:39:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone
The Bullock’s Oriole continues to be reported from the village of Pakenham. Today I saw it just after noon at the corner of Isabella and Jeanie St. before it disappeared. A short while later it was back at its favorite apple tree at the southwest end of Dalkeith St.

The oriole hasn’t been to the feeder with sliced oranges in the apple tree yet. Another mild day today, +10c and the forecast looks good for the weekend too.
Good luck,
Bruce

Directions: From Ottawa take Hwy 417 west to Kinburn Side Road. After exiting turn left and follow to CR 29. Turn left and as you enter the village of Pakenham watch for Waba Road on your right. Turn right and then left on Dalkeith St.

The Bullock's Oriole continues to favour its favorite apple tree at the southwest end of Dalkeith St.

Bullock's Oriole

December 7,2015 Bullock's Oriole update 2

2015-12-08T08:33:00.001-05:00

Hi Ontbirders and others,

Since the discovery of the Bullock’s Oriole over 200 birders and photographers have viewed this rarity, respecting its space in its unfamiliar environment . Unfortunately over the past few days the situation has changed with countless individuals situated too close to where the bird feeds thus harassing the bird.

With internet accessibility, anyone can find out the location of a rare bird. Unfortunately there are individuals that aren't aware or choose to ignore of the Birding Code of Ethics. This bird is out of its range and harassment will affect its ability to survive. If you are out at the site remind everyone that crosses the line.

Yet again, common sense has disappeared to the detriment of a rare bird. If you are out at the site remind those that cross the line. Don’t be shy to voice your concerns!

Good birding,
Bruce

December 6 and 7, 2015 Pakenham: Bullock's Oriole update

2015-12-08T08:31:00.001-05:00

Hi Everyone

The Bullock’s Oriole was seen by numerous observers today feeding in the apple tree at the southwest end of Dalkeith St. It again frequented many of the same sites along the old railway bed too. With no severe weather in the forecast it will likely be around for a while.

Good birding,

Bruce

The Bullock's Oriole continues at Pakenham.

December 6,2015 Local birding

2015-12-06T18:48:00.002-05:00

Hi Ontbirds

I spent the day birding along the Ottawa River and south east of Ottawa. It was a great day and the weather conditions were more like October. In fact it was the first time I’ve every birded the eastern sewage lagoons in December. Normally everything is frozen and covered by snow.

Geese numbers were high and I estimated 25,000 Canada Geese, mainly at Andrew Haydon Park, Moodie Drive ponds and Embrun. Highlights included one Ross’s Goose at Winchester along with 10,000 Snow Geese including a neck banded individual, UP 63 and one female Northern Pintail. At Embrun an adult Greater White-fronted Goose was in the large flock of Canada's along with 300 Snow Geese, 4 Northern Shoveler and two Gadwall. Other birds of note included 1 Ruddy Duck at the Moodie Drive ponds, 3 Common Loons off Andrew Haydon Park, one Horned Grebe, one Long-tailed Duck and one Double-crested Cormorant off Deschenes Lookout. At Chrysler on American Pipit was observed in a field with 20+ Horned Lark.

Birds of prey included 6 adult Bald Eagle, 5 Rough-legged Hawk, 4 Red-tailed Hawk, and 2 Northern Harrier. A second Double-crested Cormorant was observed at Nepean Sailing Club. East of Casselman the Lafleche Landfill site had a good selection of gulls, around 2000 + including 5 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, 4 Iceland Gulls, and 3 Glaucous Gull among the 100s of Herring Gulls. I also had an odd looking gull and not sure of the species yet.
Along Smith Road off Milton road near Navan a flock of 60+ Sandhill Cranes were feeding in a cornfield.

Good birding
Bruce

December 5,2015 Pakenham Bullock's Oriole update

2015-12-05T19:14:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone

The Bullock’s Oriole was again present today and seen a number of times at the regular spots previously reported. It still visits the apple tree at the east end of Dalkeith St. This oriole was discovered on November 29 by Ray Holland and Richard Waters. The extended forecast is mild weather for the next week of December. Hopefully the bird will stay in the area.

Good birding

Bruce

The Pakenham Bullock's Oriole continues to be a star attraction.