Birding Report Birding is often thought to be at a low ebb at this time of year, between the spring and fall migration periods, yet at Presqu'ile Provincial Park, despite its small size, there is sufficient habitat diversity that one can easily find as many as 60-70 species of birds in a morning in June. With a bit of extra effort and time, 80 species would not be out of the question.
 
Among the waterfowl currently present are hundreds of Canada Geese, close to a dozen Wood Ducks, half a dozen Gadwalls, and a few Redheads and scaup. On June 24, there were four American Wigeons on Owen Point. Since June 23, two Long-tailed Ducks have been seen several times between Salt Point and the lighthouse. Four Red-breasted Mergansers were on Gull Island on June 24. There are still two Common Loons in Presqu'ile Bay. Among the herons being seen regularly are Great Egrets. A Green Heron was at the calf pasture.
 
An Osprey flew past the calf pasture. While canoeing in the marsh, a birder who is familiar with the grunts of Virginia Rails but has never heard a King Rail heard three grunts which were a fairly close match with one of the sounds of the latter species on a tape. A Bonaparte's Gull was at Owen Point on June 21, as was a Black-billed Cuckoo. A Red-bellied Woodpecker has been visiting the feeders at 83 Bayshore Road. Orchard Orioles continue to be seen regularly.
 
To reach Presqu'ile Provincial Park, follow the signs from Brighton. Locations within the Park are shown on a map at the back of a tabloid that is available at the Park gate. Access to the offshore islands is restricted at this time of year to prevent disturbance to the colonial nesting birds there.
 
Questions and comments about bird sightings at Presqu'ile may be directed to: FHELLEINER@TRENTU.CA.