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Nature Link

With Blake Mann

OCTOBER ODDS AND SODS

Tuesday, October 10, 2006

This is Nature Link 180 already! I thoroughly enjoy writing these and I hope that many people continue to read this column each week. I would also like to thank John Gardiner for his comments last week. It was John who gave me this unique opportunity for writing about nature.

Last Wednesday I presented Robert Bossu a certificate of appreciation on behalf of the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) for turning part of his property into a wetland and allowing birders to come and see the Ruff and Snowy Egret last spring. (See attached photo of presentation)

I have mentioned the wetland a few times in this column and how successful it is. It came together with the input of many people and organizations. It is a fabulous wetland that is so attractive to many species of birds and other wildlife. We really need more of this thing because natural areas and wildlife are an important and healthy part of the ecosystem.

Every year the OFO presents certificates of appreciation to people, businesses or organizations who allow birders to come to their property to view a rare bird. As well, anyone who enhances bird habitat is eligible. It was very fitting for me to nominate Bob for two reasons: firstly, for allowing the creation of the wetland, and secondly without hesitation he allowed the public onto the property to view birds. I would also like to mention some of those who had a part in the Bossu Wetland from Ducks Unlimited to Rural Lambton Stewardship Network, and especially Bob's nephew Larry Cornelis who had a vision for this wetland many years ago.

Just to finish off something from last week, the OFO Ottawa convention found a total of 138 species of birds in the Ottawa area. That total is quite remarkable when one thinks about it. That could be a half decent big day in May! Next year's convention is back at Point Pelee to celebrate the 25th anniversary of OFO.

There have been lots of good bird sightings recently around southern Ontario. A Snowy Egret was seen for a day at the Ridge Landfill near Blenheim on October 3. A California Gull was seen at Wheatley late Friday, just to mention another nearby sighting.

The elusive Sharp-tailed Sparrows have been seen in their usual locations. Most of the warblers are gone, and the later ones such as Orange-crowned are being found regularly.

Jaegers have been seen at lakefronts such as Point Edward (when I am absent!).
This past weekend Rondeau Park saw huge numbers of Ruby-crowned Kinglets. On Saturday, about ten species of warblers were noted, including Northern Parula, Orange-crowned and Redstart to name a few. There were still some vireos, including many Blue-headed as well as a few Red-eyed. Not surprising, numerous sparrows of various species were present in various flocks.

At Blenheim lagoons, two Long-billed Dowitchers (see attached photo of one) were in the back pond with a Dunlin and several yellowlegs (both kinds).

The dowitchers were still there Sunday. Out Rondeau's marsh trail Sunday was an Osprey, Yellow-throated Vireo, and two very late Eastern Kingbirds. Sandhill Cranes were also present.

It will be very cold by week's end, so bird sightings may be interesting.