2021 Long Point CBC Summary.

The 61st Long Point CBC was held on Saturday December 18. The count covers a ~24-kilometre circle centred on the lighthouse south of St. Williams. Conditions on count day were absolutely horrible. As one of our participants described, “it was awful!”. The day was cold, windy, wet, and treacherous. Every conceivable type of precipitation fell consistently – mostly a mix of rain, ice, and snow, and temperatures swung from -6 to +6 C. Consequently, our effort (number of participants and hours in the field) was the lowest since 1971.

Mild conditions leading up to the count kept all waterways open allowing birds to distribute widely throughout the area. Diving ducks, which normally make up a large percentage of our numbers, were generally not present or visible on count day. Redhead and Canvasback numbers were one quarter what they were in 2020. Landbirds were also widely distributed, hunkered down, and difficult to find on count day.

Despite the conditions, 43 stalwart volunteers weathered the storm to count 31,089 birds of somehow, a remarkable 110 species! Despite the conditions and effort this is above the long-term average of 28,886 individuals of 102 species, and close to the recent 10-year average of 38,998 individuals of 104 species. We can’t help but imagine what we might have found with fair weather. Since 1960, volunteers have contributed more than 8,500 hours and counted 1.65 million birds of 193 species.

Highlights/Lowlights:

Red-throated Loon – One was observed flying by Normandale.

Cackling Goose – Three were observed flying over Turkey Point.

Canada Goose – Second highest total of 3,986. High was 4,232 in 2006.

Northern Pintail – Second highest total with 186. High was 344 in 1998.

Green-winged Teal – Second highest total of 86. High was 346 in 1998.

Red-shouldered Hawk – Four were observed. High is 6 in 2006.

Ruffed Grouse – Fourteen was the highest total since 2006.

Sandhill Crane – Coincidentally tied last year’s high of 5,786.

Little Gull – One was observed on the Inner Bay.

Eastern Bluebird – The lowest count (4) since 1992.

Gray Catbird – Tied the highest count of 6 also observed in 2016 and 2020.

White-throated Sparrow – Highest total ever with 259. 220 were observed in 1980, 1992, and 200 in 2005.

Red-winged Blackbird – Lowest count (94) since 1998 (33).

Common Raven –  Was reported for the second time on the count.

 

Count week species (read big misses):

Greater White-fronted Goose, Trumpeter Swan, American Coot, Killdeer, Dunlin, Common Loon, Golden Eagle, Northern Mockingbird, Eastern Meadowlark, Rusty Blackbird, Black-and-White Warbler.

A complete summary of the 2021 Long Point CBC results are available here.

Participants:

Geoff Atkins, Gregor Beck, Wayne Boswell, Michael Bradstreet, John Carson, Peter Carson, Mark Conboy, Joseph Gabriel, Mary Gartshore, Paula Gent, Ted Gent, Eric Giles, Kevin Kavanagh, Mike Hallet, Audrey Heagy, Barry Jones, Bill Lamond, Sarah Lamond, John Lounds, Chris Leys, Ryan Leys, Annie Li, Tim Lucas, Lucas Lui, Stu Mackenzie, David Okines, Scott Peck, Zach Peck, Josh Pickering, Lynn Post, Ron Ridout, Lydia, Diane Salter, Wanda Schram, Evan Sinclair, John Sinclair, Shelia Smith, Bob Stamp, Adam Timpf, Matt Timpf, Stacey Vannatter, Graham Wood, Ross Wood.

 

The Christmas Bird Count (CBC) is North America’s oldest standardized census providing valuable information on the early winter distribution and abundance of birds throughout the western hemisphere. It is also a vital outreach and birder/naturalist recruitment tool, and has become a proud holiday tradition for many. The CBC in Canada is coordinated by Birds Canada in partnership with the National Audubon Society.

 

 

October 2 – November 30, 2021

 

South winds and mild temperatures characterized most of October. The temperature began to dip as November approached, but all in all the fall was warm and migration of landbirds was somewhat slower than hoped for. Waterfowl took their time arriving, but by late October were well ensconced upon Long Point Bay and Lake Erie. “Winter birds” like Northern Shrike, Snow Buntings, Rough-legged Hawks, and winter finches remained relatively scarce throughout the migration monitoring season, which wrapped up at the Tip on November 4 and at Old Cut November 15. Despite the slow migration, there were as usual, a number of goodies to be found, including a rather notable influx of Cattle Egrets, but no spectacular rarities.

 

Highlights:

 

Ross’s Goose – One was photographed at Turkey Point November 17 (NS).

Cackling Goose – Four flew over ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park October 31 (NH). Two more were along Lakeshore Road November 8 (SJ).

Trumpeter Swan – Two were at Old Cut October 24 and one was there November 3 (SJ). Four were observed from the Turkey Point Marsh overlook November 4 (SJ). Four flew over West Quarter Line Road November 16 (AT).

Black Scoter – Very scarce this fall. Single birds flew past the Tip October 7 and 17 (MAC).

Ruffed Grouse – Relatively rare on Long Point proper, though they are common on the adjacent mainland. One was at the Tip 6-7 October, and even made its way into a mist net (LPBO). Another was observed at Old Cut periodically throughout early November (LPBO).

Red-necked Grebe – An uncommon migrant, one was at the Tip October 21 (MAC).

Common Gallinule – A late bird was along the Crown Marsh Trail November 16 (SAM).

Yellow Rail – A very rare Yellow Rail was flushed along the Turkey Point beach October 30 (SAM, AM).

Killdeer – A late bird flew over South Coast Gardens near Turkey Point November 24 (ESi).

American Golden Plover – Numerous observations throughout the season. A high of twenty were observed along the Front Rd. fields October 4 (AB, VB). Nine were observed flying over Birds Canada headquarters November 1 (SAM, RR).

Hudsonian Godwit – This fall was another good one for Hudwits. Two or three continued at Turkey Point through late October (multiple observers). One flew over Birds Canada headquarters November 1 (SAM). Two flew past The Coves November 15 (DO).

Photo: Stu Mackenzie

Baird’s Sandpiper – A late migrant was along Hasting’s Drive October 14 (SJ)

White-rumped Sandpiper – A very late bird was at Turkey Point November 29 (SJ).

Red Phalarope – With two sightings of Red Phalarope this fall, Long Point has managed to attract all three species of phalarope this year. One was at the Tip October 26 (EG, E0S), and one was observed by boat just off Richardson Drive on the Inner Bay on Nov. 10 (SAM).

Pomarine Jaeger – One was observed chasing a Parasitic Jaeger off the Tip October 17 (MAC).

Parasitic Jaeger – Contrary to last year’s record count of Parasitic Jaegers, only single birds were observed off Turkey Point October 1 (NC), Hasting’s Drive on October 9 (SAM), and off the Tip October 17 (MAC).

Black-legged Kittiwake – A young bird was observed from Turkey Point Marina Oct. 29 (SJ).

Little Gull – A high count of 50 was observed at Turkey Point October 22 (SJ).

Lesser Black-backed Gull – Uncommon this fall, even at the Tip where they are regularly observed in most years. One was at Turkey Point Marina on Oct 4-10 (LL, SJ); another was there November 17 (SJ). One was at the Tip October 18 (MAC). One was at Turkey Point November 17 (SJ).

Forster’s Tern – A late bird was at Turkey Point October 22 (SJ).

Cattle Egret – There was an invasion Cattle Egrets in late October with some birds staying well into November. Three birds were along Dancey Side Road in St. Williams October 28-November 1 (multiple observers). Single birds were also recorded from Old Cut, ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park, the Long Point townsite, the Crown Marsh trail, Port Rowan, Concession Road 1, Port Dover and East Quarter Line Road up until November.

Photo: Stu Mackenzie

Green Heron – A late bird was at the Tip October 17-18 (MAC).

Black-crowned Night Heron – One flew over Old Cut October 5 (SJ). Three flew over Big Creek National Wildlife Area November 4 (JL, RL); another flew over the NWA November 15 (SJa).

Osprey – One lingered around Old Cut until at least November 15 (LPBO).

Golden Eagle – A high of six birds at the Old Cut October 31 (LPBO). Other observations came from the Tip, ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park, Lakeshore Road, the Birds Canada headquarters, Concession Road 1, and the Coves.

Northern Goshawk – Single birds flew over ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park October 22 and November 23 (SAM), as well as Old Cut November 13 (MAC).

Short-eared Owl – One was along East Quarter Line Road October 31 (NH).

Snowy Owl – First for the fall was one along the Causeway November 24 (CWS), and again on November 30 (SAM).

Northern Saw-whet Owl – The single biggest night for saw-whet migration was October 27 when 41 were banded at Old Cut (LPBO). A total of 206 saw-whets were banded this fall at LPBO.

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker – A few lingering sapsuckers were reported from the area including single birds in Simcoe, Port Rowan and Old Cut (multiple observers).

Tufted Titmouse – Only a handful of records from South Coast Gardens near Turkey Point, Concession Road A and St. Williams (multiple observers). Individuals were observed at Old Cut October 20 (MTT), and November 12 (MAC).

Barn Swallow – There was a very late bird in St. Williams November 16 (EGi).

Cliff Swallow – A late bird flew over ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park October 17 (NH).

Northern Mockingbird – At least a few mockingbirds were in the Dedrick Road-Port Rowan Wetland area over the past month (multiple observers).

Evening Grosbeak – There was a single flyover at the Tip October 19 (MAC), and two flyovers at Turkey Point beach October 30 (SAM).

White-winged Crossbill – The only record for the fall was of one flying over Old Cut October 23 (SJ).

LeConte’s – One was observed at the western end of Hasting’s Drive on October 17 (SJ).

Nelson’s Sparrow – Four were observed at the west end of Hasting’s Drive on October 14 (SJ). One was in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park on October 22 (SAM).

Bobolink – A very late migrant was along Hasting’s Drive October 23 (SJ).

Brewer’s Blackbird – One visited a feeder west of Fairground November 28 (KB).

Mourning Warbler – A late migrant was along Concession A October 16 (DL).

Summer Tanager – One was an unexpected visitor to a feeder in Simcoe November 28 (LK).

Photo: Lynda Kosalle

Observers: Kathryn Boothby (KB), Alvan Buckley (AB), Vernon Buckle (VB), Mark Conboy (MAC), Nick Crease (NC), Emma Gignac (EG), Eric Giles (EGi), Nathan Hood (NH), Sophie Jaquier (SJa), Sean Jenniskens (SJ), Lynda Kosalle (LK), James Lees (JL), Denis Lepage (DL), Ryan Leys (RL), Lucas Liu (LL), Alba Ruth Mackenzie (ARM), Stu Mackenzie (SAM), David Okines (DO), Ron Ridout (RR), Nancy Shaw (NS), Evan Sinclair (ESi), Eloise Sutton (ES), Adam Timpf (AT), Long Point Bird Observatory staff (LPBO).

 

 

August 10 to October 1, 2021

 

August was one for the record books; never has the Old Cut Research Station been so consistently busy in August. What’s driving the high numbers is anyone’s guess, but ‘spruce budworm specialists’, namely Bay-breasted, Cape May, and Tennessee Warblers have been very abundant following a trend that we’ve been observed over the past five or more years. The Tip Research Station opened in early August in the depths of the worst heat wave of the summer. Unfortunately, the Breakwater Research Station was not opened this fall due to personnel shortages.

The early part of September had its fair share of interesting birds and big migration days as well. Steady numbers of flycatchers and early-migrant vireos and warblers were plentiful throughout the reporting period.

Northern Saw-whet Owl banding will begin at Old Cut on fair weather nights beginning the first week of October.

Highlights from our sister-observatory Thunder Cape Bird Observatory (https://tbfn.net/thunder-cape/) at bottom of section.

 

LPBO Highlights:

Whisting-Duck Sp. – Seven were observed flying west over Old Cut September 1 (SAM). This is not the first time whistling ducks have gone unidentified on Long Point, nine unidentified whistlers were observed August 28, 2010, flying east past Old Cut.

Trumpeter Swan – Three were observed from the Inner Bay viewing platform August 23 (DB).

Ruffed Grouse. Rare for Long Point proper, one was captured at the Tip September 28 (LPBO).

Photo: Mark Conboy

Common Nighthawk – More than 100 were observed near Lynedoch, ON., August 31 (SAM). A high count of 93 were observed at Big Creek NWA on September 15 (SAM), 40 were observed at South Coast Gardens near Turkey Point September 10 (GB, KK).

King Rail – One was heard from Old Cut August 21 (MAC).

American Golden-Plover – One was along Hastings Drive September 18 and 19 (MH). Six were on Bluff Bar September 18 (AD, SAM). Three were in the Crown Marsh September 23,  two were observed at Old Cut September 24 and one at Old Cut September 28 (SAM).

Snowy Plover – Long Point’s fourth ever Snowy Plover was photographed along Hastings Drive September 7 (HG). Unfortunately it was not seen again.

Photo: Henny Giles

Hudsonian Godwit – Two flew over St. Williams September 14 (RR).

Marbled Godwit – One was observed over Prairie Song Nursery in Walsingham August 19 (APT).

Red-necked Phalarope – One was photographed off the north shore of Long Point between Gravelly Bay and the Tip September 3 (KC).

Willet – One was at Old Cut September 15 (RL).

Parasitic Jaeger – The first jaeger of fall was at the Tip September 11 and 12 (MAC, LPBO). Another was observed at the Tip September 29 (SAM, CMF).

Little Gull – One was at the Tip September 11 (MAC) and another was at Old Cut September 24 (SAM).

Lesser Black-backed Gull – One or two were somewhat regular at the Tip throughout September (LPBO). There were additional single birds reported at Turkey Point September 4 (AB) and Old Cut September 24 (SAM).

Black Tern – Somewhat late birds were seen off Hastings Drive September 18 (IL, ML) and three off Old Cut September 24 (SAM).

Red-throated Loon – First of the season were observed at the Tip September 27 (LPBO).

Cattle Egret – One was found along Concession Road August 25 (ES).

Great Egret – A high of 45 were counted flying west over Old Cut on the evening of September 3 (RL). Great Egrets can regularly be observed in area wetlands, particularly in late summer and early fall, but this represents a significant count at one time. 52 were observed at the Crown Marsh Trail September 23 (SAM).

Black-crowned Night-Heron – One flew over Marina Shores at the base of the causeway (SAM) and another flew over Old Cut August 12 (SAM). One more flew over the Long Point town site September 3 (EG).

Plegadis Ibis – One Ibis sp. was observed flying south off the Tip September 25 (MTT).

Red-headed Woodpecker – Observations from the Tip, Gravelly Bay, Port Ryerse, Port Rowan, the Birds Canada Headquarters, and Old Cut (multiple observers).

Photo: Matt Timpf

Olive-sided Flycatcher – Numerous individuals observed throughout the period, and one was banded at Old Cut August 21 (LPBO).

Photo: Mark Conboy

Acadian Flycatcher – One was heard and observed at Old Cut August 25 (SAM, RL).

Common Raven – One flew over the Birds Canada Headquarters September 3 (TK). One flew over Old Cut September 12 (CM).

Evening Grosbeak – Two were observed at Old Cut September 28 (SAM).

Tufted Titmouse – One was in Turkey Point Provincial Park September 9 (anonymous observer).

Northern Mockingbird – Two were at Old Cut September 6-12 (LPBO). One was at the Tip September 18 (LPBO).

Pine Siskin – Very scare so far this fall. The first was at Old Cut September 16 (AD).

Clay-coloured Sparrow – One was banded at the Tip August 31 (LL).

Photo: Matt Timpf

Yellow-breasted Chat – One was at the Tip August 25 (LL).

Connecticut Warbler – Single birds were found at the Tip August 29 (LL), September 5, 6 (LPBO) and 24 (MTT), and one was observed at Old Cut September 26 (MAC).

Photo: Stu Mackenzie

Orange-crowned Warbler – One was observed in the ‘new’ Long Point Provincial Park September 24 (AJ, JS).

Blackpoll Warbler – There was a major influx of Blackpoll Warblers at the Tip and Old Cut September 15. Almost three hundred were banded at the Tip and over two hundred were banded at Old Cut!

Prairie Warbler – One was observed at the Tip October 1 (MTT).

Dickcissel – Three were observed at the Birds Canada HQ in Port Rowan August 17 (SAM).

 

Observers: Gregor Beck (GB), Dan Birkenbergs (DB), Alvan Buckley (AB), Kyle Cameron (KC), Mark Conboy (MAC), Alyssa DeRubeis (AD), Charles Francis (CMF), Henny Giles (HG), Ethan Gosnell (EG), Mike Hallett (MH), Kevin Kavanagh (KK), Terri Kershaw (TK), Adiran Juurlink (AJ), Ina Legzdins (IL), Lucas Liu (LL), Markus Legzdins (ML), Christopher Moser-Purdy (CM), Ryan Leys (RL), Stu Mackenzie (SAM), Ron Ridout (RR), Richard Skevington (RS), Evan Sinclair (ES), Adam Timpf (APT), Matt Timpf (MTT), Long Point Bird Observatory staff (LPBO).

 

Highlights from our sister-observatory Thunder Cape Bird Observatory (https://tbfn.net/thunder-cape/)

Harris’s Sparrow – One was banded October 1.

Photo: Rinchen Boardman et al.

Lapland Longspur – The first of the season was captured September 22.

Photo: Rinchen Boardman et al.

Nelson’s Sparrow – One was banded September 27.

Photo: Rinchen Boardman et al.

Painted Bunting – One was banded September 18.

Photo: Rinchen Boardman et al.

Rusty Blackbirds – Many are moving through the area currently.

Photo: Rinchen Boardman et al.

 

 

June 19 to August 9, 2021

 

As usual, summer birding was relatively slow, but not completely uninteresting. The latter part of June and much of July were relatively mild but things began to heat up in August. July also featured some heavy rains. There were several rarities, including a long-staying Blue Grosbeak that attracted hundreds of birders from across the province. The west end of Hastings Drive looks promising for shorebirds this fall but birders must be cautious there. Hastings Drive is a sand road with soft spots, potholes and is sometimes flooded after storms. Please don’t turn around in private driveways and be careful not to get stuck in the very soft sand at the end of the road.

LPBO’s 61st fall migration monitoring season begins August 15 at Old Cut. Northern Saw-whet Owl banding will begin September 25. The Old Cut trails, banding lab, visitor center, and public washroom will be open to the public to begin the season. Physical distancing and mask-wearing rules remain in effect. Our facilities may close at any time depending on the status of COVID in Ontario over the coming months. Watch our website and social media for updates.

 

Highlights:

 

Black-bellied Whistling-Duck – Norfolk’s first ever Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks were a flock of 16 that were found in Port Dover July 8-13 (Glen Patton; multiple observers).

Photo: Colleen ReillyPhoto: Colleen Reilly

Trumpeter Swan – Up to six were found on Inner Long Point Bay for much of the summer (multiple observers). One flew over West Quarter Line Road July 21 (AT).

American Wigeon – Unusual in summer, there were two along the Crown Marsh Trail July 13 (JA, SJ).

Long-tailed Duck – Late-staying birds, likely ill, were observed at Bluff Bar and the Tip throughout July and August (LPBO).

Ring-necked Pheasant – One was observed near Langton July 21 (CM).

Ruffed Grouse – A rare bird on Long Point proper, one was at Old Cut August 9 (MAC).

Common Nighthawk – The first fall migrant was observed north of St. Williams Conservation Reserve August 4 (CB, JG).

Semipalmated Plover – The first fall migrant was on Long Point proper July 20 (MVB,CJ), and at the Tip August 6 (SAM).

Ruddy Turnstone – The first fall migrant was at the west end of Hastings Drive August 9 (MAC).

Sanderling – The first fall migrants were observed on Long Point proper July 20 (MVB, CJ), and at the west end of Hastings Drive August 9 (MAC).

Willet – One was at the Tip June 26 (MAC; multiple observers).

Little Gull – The west end of Hastings Drive was a reliable spot for the world’s smallest gull species. Up to 10 birds were present until mid-July (multiple observers). Five were observed along the Causeway July 12 (LG). Sightings of single birds also came from Turkey Point June 20 (GS) and Gravelly Bay July 20 (CJ, MB).

Laughing Gull – A young bird was at the west end of Hastings Drive June 24 (EK).

Franklin’s Gull – One was at the west end of Hasting’s Drive July 11 (CV).

Photo: Stu Mackenzie

Lesser Black-backed Gull – A handful of birds were reported from Turkey Point, the Tip, Gravelly Bay, ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park, and the west end of Hastings Drive (multiple observers).

Frigatebird sp. – One was observed near the ‘Old’ Long Point Provincial Park July 29-30.

Great Egret – There was a notable count of 23 during an evening flyover of the Crown Marsh Trail July 13 (JA, SJ).

Black-crowned Night-Heron – The Crown Marsh Trail was an excellent place to find (normally scarce) night-herons throughout July. The high count was 17 on July 21 (EK, JA, SJ). This was certainly a notable count but a little short of the record 21 at Breakwater May 18, 1975.

Yellow-crowned Night-Heron – One was discovered along Big Creek about 2km upstream from the Causeway July 10 (BC).

Photo: Brian Craig

Black Vulture – One was at the Tip June 23-26 (LPBO).

Red-headed Woodpecker – There were only a handful of breeding pairs across the county, including one pairs at the Port Rowan Wetland and at the Tip (LPBO).

Hairy Woodpecker – A relatively rare bird on Long Point proper, a nesting pair was found west of the Tip June 21 (MAC).

Peregrine Falcon – One was observed along the Crown Marsh Trail July 25 (JA, SJ) and again July 30 (EK) while it was harassing a night-heron.

Olive-sided Flycatcher – The first two fall migrants were along West Quarter Line Road August 9 (AT).

Yellow-bellied Flycatcher – The first fall migrant was at Old Cut August 2 (SAM).

Common Raven – Reports of single birds from Port Dover, St. Williams, the Crown Marsh Trail, and ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park (multiple observers).

Tufted Titmouse – One was at Booth’s Harbour June 26 (DB). Two more were at Turkey Point Provincial Park July 22 (EK, SJ).

Hirundae – The Long Point swallow roost is in fine form. 75,000+, mostly Bank. Barn, and Purple Martin, can be observed each evening from Big Creek National Wildlife Area, Long Point Crown Marsh, and Old Cut Research Station. The majority of birds accumulate at the east end of the Long Point Provincial Park where large stands of Phragmites remain. An estimated 250,000+ birds went into roost here August 10 (SAM).

Sedge Wren – Small colonies bred at The Hahn National Wildlife Area and suspected in the ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park. One was also observed along Hastings Drive July 15 (HG, and at the Port Rowan Wetland July 28 (JS).

Northern Mockingbird – One was at the Barrett-Sanderson Tract July 9 (KE).

Clay-colored Sparrow – One was at Spring Arbor Farm Nature Reserve June 21-22 (DB, PB).

Lark Sparrow – One was along West Quarter Line Road June 29 (EK, JA, SJ), in exactly the same location as the 2020 Lark Sparrow.

Cape May Warbler – The first fall migrant was in Port Rowan August 5 (RL).

Blue Grosbeak – A second-year male was found singing at the corner of East Quarter Line Road and Highway 24 on July 4 (EK; multiple observer). It remained there until at least August 7.

Photo: Doug Ward

Dickcissel – One was at the Old Cut Research Station feeders July 14-16 (EK; multiple observers).

Photo: Erik Van Den Kieboom

Observers: Jenny Andrews (JA), Connor Bennett (CB), Dolan Bohnert (DB), Peter Burke (PB), Mike Burrell (MVB), Mark Conboy (MAC), Brian Craig (BC), Kevin Empey (KE), Lillian G (LG), Henny Giles (HG), Jessica Glegg (JG), Sean Jenniskens (SJ), Colin Jones (CJ), Ryan Leys (RL), Stu Mackenzie (SAM), Catherine Manschot (CM), Glen Patton (GP), Gis Segler (GS), Jack Starret (JS), Adam Timpf (AT), Erik Van Den Kieboom (EK), Cecilia Verkley (CV), and Long Point Bird Observatory (LPBO).

 

May 25 to June 18, 2021

 

The end of spring migration didn’t come without a fair number of surprises. Rare and unusual birds continued to pop up across the area throughout the reporting period. LPBO ceased migration monitoring operations at Breakwater in late May and at Old Cut and the Tip in early June.

The Old Cut trails and visitor center bathroom are now reopened to the public for COVID-safe use. Please give everyone lots of space on the trails and wear a mask if you cannot maintain a 2 m distance from other people at all times. LPBO staff are still living and working on site, please help to keep them safe.

 

Highlights:

 

Trumpeter Swan – Six were reported off Port Rowan June 1 (DL).

White-winged Scoter – Two late birds were seen off Long Point Beach May 26 (SJ).

Long-tailed Duck – A late-staying bird was seen at Gravelly Bay, near the Tip of Long Point, May 20-22 (JP).

King Rail – There was at least one late-May report of King Rail in the area (unknown observer). King Rail is a provincially and federally endangered species – do not use playback to attract them!

Black-necked Stilt – Two were photographed June 9 on a foggy evening at the west end of Hastings Drive (JA, SJ). This was Long Point’s second record of Black-necked Stilt, the first being of one seen on a remote part of Long Point National Wildlife Area (Squires Ridge) in May 1996.

American Avocet – One female was present at the Jarvis Sewage Lagoons (restricted access) June 6-12 (RP, SAM).

Whimbrel – Whimbrel migration seemed to be slightly behind schedule this May, however there were reports from all around Long Point Bay and off the south shore (multiple observers), including a high count of 101 at Hastings Drive May 29 (DT). One rather late bird was seen near Breakwater June 15 (MAC).

Red Knot – Knots were scarce during spring migration this year. The west end of Hastings Drive was the hot spot with up to 33 counted May 29-30 (multiple observers).

White-rumped Sandpiper – Unusual in June, one was at Turkey Point June 17 (BC, DB).

Wilson’s Phalarope – 2021 has proved to be a good year for Wilson’s Phalaropes at Long Point. One last bird was seen along Hastings Drive May 31 (NS, RT), to compliment the three others reported earlier in the spring in the Crown Marsh and at Breakwater.

Little Gull – Small numbers remained in the area throughout the spring. Up to six were at the west end of Hastings Drive May 29 to June 17 (multiple observers). Two were along the south shore of Long Point National Wildlife Area June 15 (MAC). Singles have been observed periodically at Turkey Point and Port Dover throughout the period.

Lesser Black-backed Gull – Up to two birds at the west end of Hastings Drive May 29 to June 17 (multiple observers). One was at ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park June 5 (ML). Two were also frequenting the Tip throughout the latter part of May into June (LPBO).

Little Blue Heron – One flew over Port Rowan on the evening of May 31 (SAM). This was the first record of a Little Blue Heron at Long Point since 2011.

Black-crowned Night-Heron – One flew over the Inner Bay June 9 (SAM).

White-faced Ibis – Breakwater recorded its second White-faced Ibis of the spring May 31 (LG, RL).

Black Vulture – One flew over west over remote sections of Long Point June 18 (KC, ES), and likely the same bird was later at the Tip June 23 (MAC).

Mississippi Kite – Long Point’s second of the spring was seen at Gravelly Bay May 29 (JP).

Red-headed Woodpecker – An increasingly rare breeder in the region, pairs have taken up residency at the Tip of Long Point and near the Port Rowan wetland.

Hairy Woodpecker – Normally rare on Long Point proper, at least one pair has taken up residence near Breakwater (RL) and another along Gravelly Bay Road (MAC, MTT).

Acadian Flycatcher – While the usual mainland breeders were on territory, a seemingly late migrant was found on Squires Ridge in Long Point National Wildlife Area June 14 (RL). Acadian Flycatcher is a provincially and federally endangered species – do not use playback to attract them!

Western Kingbird – One was at the Tip June 7 (HJ, LPBO). Another was reported from the Port Rowan Wetland June 15 (SAM).

Sedge Wren – Two were singing in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park June 12 (SAM).

Northern Mockingbird – Single birds were in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 31 (JB) and at Breakwater June 6 (RL).

Red Crossbill – One was observed in the St. Williams Conservation Reserve May 27 (SJ).

Dark-eyed Junco – There was an unusual report of one along Hastings Drive June 6 (JA, SJ).

Yellow-breasted Chat – One was banded at Old Cut June 2 (RB).

Yellow-headed Blackbird – One was observed at Hasting Dr. June 1 (SAM), a stunning male was at the Tip June 7 (HJ, LPBO), and another was observed at Turkey Point June 18 (CL).

Connecticut Warbler – Seemingly rare this spring. One was in a remote part of Long Point National Wildlife Area June 1 (MAC).

Northern Parula – Late migrants were still being recorded up to June 16 at several locations on Long Point (LPBO).

Prairie Warbler – A late migrant was on Long Point near Gravelly Bay May 30 (MTT).

Dickcissel – The only report this spring came from Monroe Landon Woods, northeast of Walsh, June 15 (SJ).

 

Observers – Jenny Andrews (JA), Rinchen Boardman (RB), Dolan Bohnert (DB), Judy Boone (JB), Kyle Cameron (KC), Mark Conboy (MAC), Barry Coombs (BC), Leanne Grieves (LG), Henry James (HJ), Sean Jenniskens (SJ), Markus Legzdins (ML), Denis Lepage (DL), Chris Leys (CL), Ryan Leys (RL), Stu Mackenzie (SAM), Rob Palin (RP), Josh Pickering (JP), Evan Sinclair (ES), Nancy Smith (NS), David Thomas (DT), Rick Thornton (RT), Matt Timpf (MTT), and Long Point Bird Observatory personnel (LPBO).

 

 

 

May 11 to 24, 2021

 

Migration finally jumped into high gear during the latter part of May, when south winds predominated and the birds passed through in good numbers on most days. As usual for the time of year, there were a few overshooting southern migrants, and a handful of more unexpected rarities.

Please note that Old Cut remains closed to visitors until further notice due to the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic. The closure includes the banding lab, visitor centre, store, washroom, and trails. Banding and research operations are continuing at the Tip, Breakwater and Old Cut, where LPBO staff work under very strict health and safety procedures. The many birding locations in the Long Point area are detailed in the Long Point Birding Trail.

 

Highlights:

 

Trumpeter Swan – A long-staying pair was observed at Big Creek National Wildlife Area May 16 (SB).

Greater Scaup – Ten lingering birds were observed from Breakwater May 19 (AI, BB).

Ring-necked Pheasant – One was at Backus Woods May 16 (SB).

Northern Bobwhite – A presumed escapee, but one never knows, was observed in Waterford, May 20 (TS).

Yellow-billed Cuckoo – The first spring migrant was at the Turkey Point Conservation Reserve May 17 (EK, JA, SJ).

Black-billed Cuckoo – The first spring migrant was at the Nature Conservancy’s Rendulich property May 14 (EG).

Common Nighthawk – The first spring migrant was over Backus Woods May 15 (RB). Evening counts have been very low at all three stations so far this spring.

King Rail – At least one was singing in the area throughout May (multiple observers). This is a provincially and federally endangered species – do not use playback to attract them!

Piping Plover – Another Piping Plover was observed at the Tip May 12 (LPBO). Presumably the same bird was observed at Gravelly Bay May 23 (TH), but this was not confirmed.

Whimbrel – The first spring migrant was at the Tip May 17 (MTT). The high count so far for the spring was made at Breakwater May 23, when 40 flew past (AI, BB).

Red Knot – One was observed at Breakwater May 25 (BB, AI).

Ruddy Turnstone – The first spring migrant was at Turkey Point May 14 (unknown observer).

White-rumped Sandpiper – The first spring migrant was at Turkey Point May 16 (AB, IA, MAC). Only the second one of the year was at Breakwater May 24 (AI, BB).

Semipalmated Sandpiper – The first spring migrants were at the Crown Marsh Trail (RB) and Turkey Point (unknown observer) May 14.

Short-billed Dowitcher – The first spring migrant was at Breakwater May 16 (BB).

Wilson’s Phalarope – Single birds were at Breakwater May 16-17 and two were observed May 24 (AI, BB).

Little Gull – Single birds were observed from Hastings Drive May 18 (AB) and May 20 (RR). One was observed on the Inner Bay May 25 (APT).

Lesser Black-backed Gull – One was at the Tip May 24 (LPBO).

Red-throated Loon – A high of 55 were observed at the Tip May 17. At least two were off the south shore of Long Point Provincial Park May 18 (multiple observers).

American White Pelican – A flock of 13 were photographed off Hastings Drive May 18 (AB). As often happens with pelicans at Long Point, they vanished, not to be observed again.

Snowy Egret – The second one of the spring flew past Birds Canada headquarters May 13 (EK, JA, SJ). It was observed there and along the causeway until at least May 18 (multiple observers).

White-faced Ibis – Long Point’s fourth record was observed at Breakwater May 19 (AI, BB). It remained there until the next day. Presumably the same bird was observed flying past Old Cut (SJ) and then Big Creek National Wildlife Area (KC) in the afternoon of May 21.

Plegadis Ibis. Three were observed flying west over Big Creek NWA on May 22 (DT).

Mississippi Kite – One young bird was observed flying over the Crown Marsh trail May 22 (SAM).

Red-headed Woodpecker – Reports from the Tip, Breakwater, Old Cut, ‘New’ and ‘Old’ Long Point Provincial Parks, Port Rowan, Port Royal, and Concession Road 3 (multiple observers).

Hairy Woodpecker – An unusual species on Long Point proper, one was banded at Breakwater May 12 (AI, BB) and another was at the Tip May 18 (LPBO).

Peregrine Falcon – One flew past Old Cut May 15 (LG).

Olive-sided Flycatcher – The first spring migrant was in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 19 (DL).

Eastern Wood-Pewee – The first spring migrant was in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 8 (BT, JB, MB).

Yellow-bellied Flycatcher – The first spring migrant was in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 8 (DoR).

Acadian Flycatcher – The first spring migrant was in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 17 (NF, RS). Other migrants were reported from Old Cut (RR, SAM) and the Tip (LPBO). Another was observed and banded at the Tip May 22 and 23, respectively, and another observed at Old Cut May 25 (SAM).

Alder Flycatcher – The first spring migrant was at Old Cut May 20 (LPBO).

Willow Flycatcher – The first spring migrant was in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 16 (multiple observers).

Scissor-tailed Flycatcher – One was observed flying west at Concession 1 over Big Creek May 25 (CAF).

White-eyed Vireo – One was along Hastings Drive May 13 (SG). One other was in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 15 (LB).

Yellow-throated Vireo – A high of three were at Old Cut May 21 (LPBO).

Common Raven – One was at Hay Creek Conservation Area May 16 (LM).

Tufted Titmouse – One was in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 14 (DG, DaR).

Sedge Wren – Reports from the Hahn Marsh, Hastings Drive, and ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park (multiple observers).

Northern Mockingbird – One was in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 15 (GS, MS) and May 23 (JB, MB). One was at Old Cut May 24 (MAC).

Evening Grosbeak – One was at Old Cut May 14 (LG, RL), three were at South Coast Gardens May 19 (GB), and a lingering individual at the Tip remained until May 20. One other bird was along West Quarter Line May 23 and 24 (AT).

Clay-coloured Sparrow – Migrants were in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 13 (LG, RL) and May 15 (MH), and at Old Cut May 16 (EK, MAC). Other reports came from the Nature Conservancy’s Rendulich property May 14, and along Highway 24 May 18 (EG).

Fox Sparrow – A very late bird was banded at Old Cut May 15 (LPBO). This ties the record for latest spring migrant ever banded at LPBO. The previous late date was of a bird banded at Breakwater May 15, 1966.

Yellow-breasted Chat – One was at Old Cut May 16 (SJ) and in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 17 (JH).

Worm-eating Warbler – One was observed at the Tip May 21 (HJ, LPBO).

Golden-winged Warbler – One was along Concession Road 1 May 15 (CF). Single birds were at Old Cut May 13 and 15 (LPBO), and in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 18 (RL). A Golden-winged x Blue-winged hybrid (of neither Brewster’s nor Lawrence’s type) was banded at Old Cut May 17 (MAC).

Kentucky Warbler – One female was banded at the Tip May 20 (LPBO).

Prothonotary Warbler – A migrant was in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 16 (BF, EH). One was observed at the Tip May 21 (HJ, LPBO). Other birds were on territory in Norfolk County woodlots. This is a provincially and federally endangered species – do not use playback to attract them!

Cerulean Warbler – The first two spring migrants were in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 8 (JB, MB). One was also there May 15 (KC, RP). Another migrant was in ‘Old’ Long Point Provincial Park May 14 (SAM). A female was observed at the Tip May 19 (HJ), and a male May 21 (MTT, LPBO). A small number of birds have taken up territory in Norfolk County woodlots. This is a provincially threatened and federally endangered species – don’t use playback to attract them!

Bay-breasted Warbler – The first migrant of spring was at Old Cut May 11 (LPBO).

Blackpoll Warbler – The first migrants of spring appeared across the area May 16 (multiple observers).

Prairie Warbler – Single birds were reported from ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 14 (SG) through May 16 (BR, CK, SMc).

Connecticut Warbler – Outside of the birding area, but noteworthy due to the virtual absence of Connecticut Warblers so far this spring, one was at Delhi May 19 (MF).

 

Observers – Jenny Andrews (JA), Isabel Apkarian (IA), Robert Baumander (RB), Gregor Beck (GB), Amanda Bichel (AB), Larry Bird (LB), Judy Boone (JB), Mike Boone (MB), Sara Bowman (SB), Brendan Boyd (BB), Alvan Buckley (AB), Kyle Cameron (KC), Mark Conboy (MAC), Neil Faulkenham (NF), Brett Fried (BF), Christian Friis (CAF), Myles Falconer (MF), Dan Galvin (DG), Eric Giles (EG), Scott Gillingwater (SG), Leanne Grieves (LG), Mike Hallett (MH), Erika Hentsch (EH), Jason Hergott (JH), Alex Israel (AI), Sean Jenniskens (SJ), Erik Van Den Kieboom (EK), Christina Kovacs (CK), Denis Lepage (DL), Ryan Leys (RL), Stu Mackenzie (SAM), Sheldon McGregor (SMc), Liv Monck-Whipp (LM), Rebecca Pearce-Cameron (RP), Ron Ridout (RR), Dan Roberts (DaR), Bruce Robinson (BR), Dorlisa Robinson (DoR), Gis Segler (GS), Max Segler (MS), Richard Skevington (RS), Tim Sullivan (TS), Brittany Tartaglia (BT), Adam Timpf (APT), Matt Timpf (MTT), David Thomas (DT), and Long Point Bird Observatory staff (LPBO).

 

 

April 21 to May 10, 2021

 

Cool and damp conditions prevailed for much of the reporting period. As a consequence of prevailing cool and damp conditions for much of the reporting period, migration was relatively light on most days. There were however, a few notable days where south winds and warmer temperatures brought significant movements of neotropical migrants, as well as Blue Jays, Ruby-crowned Kinglets, and White-throated Sparrows. Old Cut Pond produced yet another rarity: a Marbled Godwit. There were other rarities and spring-overshoots to be found as well.

Please note that Old Cut remains closed to visitors until further notice due to the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic. The closure includes the banding lab, visitor centre, store, washroom, and trails. Banding and research operations are continuing at the Tip, Breakwater and Old Cut, where LPBO staff work under very strict health and safety procedures. We recommend birding in ‘New’ Long Provincial Park as an alternative to Old Cut at this time. Old Cut Pond is indeed best viewed from the provincial park.

 

Trumpeter Swan – Two, possibly more, were observed around Inner Long Point Bay throughout late April and early May, with Old Cut Pond being the most reliable location (multiple observers).

Eurasian Wigeon – The male that frequented Old Cut Pond during the earlier part of April moved back to the mainland later that month. It was observed at Lee Brown Wildlife Management Area April 22 (BC, PG, TG) and at the Port Rowan Wetland April 26-27 (DR, ES).

American X Eurasian Wigeon Hybrid – The male hybrid remained at Old Cut Pond in the company of American Wigeons and other dabblers until April 27 (multiple observers).

Ring-necked Pheasant – Two were observed along Concession Road 2 April 21 (PG, TG).

Eastern Whip-Poor-Will – The first two of the spring were singing along West Quarter Line Road May 2 (AT).

Chimney Swift – The first migrant of the spring flew over the Tip April 27 (LPBO).

Ruby-throated Hummingbird – The first migrant of the spring was at Old Cut April 30 (MAC).

King Rail – One was reported in the area May 2 (LG, RL). King Rail is listed as Endangered both provincially and federally, do not use playback to detect them!

Common Gallinule – The first birds of the spring were in the outer Crown Marsh April 24 (AB, MAC).

Black-bellied Plover – The first migrant of the spring was at Turkey Point May 1 (CB, LS).

Semipalmated Plover – The first migrant of the spring was at Turkey Point May 1 (GP).

Piping Plover – One was observed and photographed at a remote (and restricted access) location in Long Point National Wildlife Area April 27 (MTT).

Sanderling – The first migrant of the spring was at the Tip April 28 (LBPO).

Dunlin – The first migrants of the spring were at Breakwater April 17 (SAM, RWW).

Least Sandpiper – The first migrants of the spring were at Breakwater April 30 (AI, BB).

Spotted Sandpiper – The first migrant of the spring was at the Tip April 24 (AD).

Stilt Sandpiper – The only record for the spring so far came from the Crown Marsh May 8 (EK).

Willet – A flock of 26 were at Turkey Point April 28 (JS, RS). At least three birds remained until May 1.

Marbled Godwit – One was found in Old Cut Pond May 6-7 (RL; multiple observers). This is only the second Marbled Godwit to be recorded at Old Cut; the first was in May 2006.

Wilson’s Phalarope – A male was along the Crown Marsh Trail May 7 (AG; multiple observers). This was the first one since September 2013.

Little Gull – Small numbers reported during the period, with a high count of six off ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park April 26 (ES).

Franklin’s Gull – One was present for a couple hours along the causeway May 8 (JS, RP, RS; multiple observers). It was flushed by a passing Bald Eagle and was not refound.

Iceland Gull – One was at the Tip April 22 (AD, MTT).

Lesser Black-backed Gull – Scarce so far this year. One flew over Old Cut April 30 (EK, RL).

Black Tern – The first of the spring was in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 2 (JK, NR).

Common Tern – The first of the spring was at Port Dover Harbour April 25 (RR).

Least Bittern – The first of the spring was in the Crown Marsh April 25 (SAM).

Snowy Egret – The second one to make a day-long stop at Old Cut Pond in as many years was found April 24 (RS; multiple observers).

Black-crowned Night-Heron – One was observed at Old Cut April 28 (MAC), May 1 (LG), and May 2 (SJ).

Golden Eagle – One was observed along Long Point’s south shore between the Tip and Breakwater April 23 (MTT). Another flew over Concession Road 1 April 28 (CF).

Short-eared Owl – One was observed over the fields along Lakeshore Road May 4 (PG, TG).

Red-headed Woodpecker – Numerous reports from across the area, including migrants moving through all three banding stations (multiple observers).

Peregrine Falcon – Single birds were observed at Old Cut April 28 (RL) and May 3 (SJ), as well as along the causeway, also on May 3 (RR), and Bluff Bar May 10 (RWW, SAM).

Least Flycatcher – The first migrant of the spring was in ‘Old’ Long Point Provincial Park May 1 (GP).

Great Crested Flycatcher – The first migrant of the spring was at Turkey Point May 1 (GP).

Eastern Kingbird – The first migrant of the spring was in ‘Old’ Long Point Provincial Park May 1 (GP).

White-eyed Vireo – One or two were reported in Long Point Provincial Park most days between April 28 and May 6 (multiple observers). One was banded at the Tip April 28 (MTT); another was observed there May 4 (LPBO). Breakwater banded its first White-eye of the spring May 3 and another May 10 (AI, BB).

Yellow-throated Vireo – The first of the spring was at Backus Woods April 28 (ES). One was banded at Old Cut May 2 (LPBO).

Philadelphia Vireo – The first migrant of the spring was at Old Cut May 5 (DL).

Warbling Vireo – The first migrants of the spring were at Old Cut (RL) and ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park (KB) April 28.

Red-eyed Vireo – The first migrant of the spring was along West Quarter Line Road May 6 (AT).

Common Raven – Single birds were reported from the Port Rowan Wetland April 24 (KN), ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 1 (MH), and Birds Canada headquarters May 7 (KC).

Black-capped X Carolina Chickadee – A probably chickadee hybrid was photographed and well-described in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park April 28 (TL).

Tufted Titmouse – One was at the Tip April 29 (AD). The following day another was observed in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park (JM).

Cliff Swallow – The first migrant of the spring was along Concession Road 1 April 25 (CF).

Sedge Wren – There were a fair number of reports of this normally hard-to-find wren. The first of the spring was at the Tip April 28 (LPBO). There were additional records from Breakwater, ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park, the Crown Marsh and Big Creek National Wildlife Area (multiple observers).

Northern Mockingbird – One was observed along Lakeshore Road April 21 (PG, TG). Another was observed along Hastings Drive May 10 (SAM).

Veery – The first migrant of the spring was in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park April 27 (KB).

Grey-cheeked Thrush – An early migrant was banded at Old Cut April 27 (LPBO). This ties the record for earliest grey-cheek ever banded at LPBO.

Swainson’s Thrush – The first migrant of the spring was at Old Cut April 27 (SJ).

Wood Thrush – The first migrant of the spring was at Old Cut April 27 (LPBO).

Eurasian Tree Sparrow – Two were observed and photographed at Breakwater May 2 (AI, BB). This is only the second time this non-native sparrow has been recorded at Breakwater.

Evening Grosbeak – Three were in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 2 (multiple observers). One visited a feeder along Troyer Road May 3-4 (PG, TG). One was at Old Cut May 2 (MAC, RR), May 6 (LG, RL), and May 9 (RB). The high count was 19 at the Tip May 9 (SAM, RWW).

Red Crossbill – Three flew over the Turkey Point Conservation Reserve April 24 (JA, SJ).

Lapland Longspur – One was at the Tip April 25 (AD).

American Tree Sparrow – A late tree sparrow was at Big Creek National Wildlife Area May 6 (EK).

Grasshopper Sparrow – The first bird of the spring was along West Quarter Line Road April 28 (AT).

Clay-coloured Sparrow – Two were along West Quarter Line Road May 5 (AT; multiple observers). On May 10, two were at the ‘Old’ and one at the ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park (RR), and one was along Hastings Drive (SAM).

Harris’s Sparrow – The long-staying Port Dover bird continued to visit its favorite yard until at least May 5 (multiple observers).

Lincoln’s Sparrow – The first migrant of the spring was in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park April 25 (MCo).

Yellow-breasted Chat – The one and only record so far in 2021 was of a migrant at Breakwater May 2 (BB).

Yellow-headed Blackbird – One was reported near Old Cut May 8. Another was in St. Williams May 9 (EG; multiple observers).

Bobolink – The first migrant of the spring flew over ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 2 (JA, SJ).

Orchard Oriole – The first migrant of the spring was at Breakwater May 1 (AI, BB).

Baltimore Oriole – The first migrants of the spring appeared throughout the area April 28 (multiple observers).

Ovenbird – The first migrant of the spring was at Old Cut April 27 (LPBO).

Northern Waterthrush – The first migrant of the spring was at Port Royal April 24 (GP).

Louisiana Waterthrush – One was heard briefly at Old Cut April 27 (SAM). Many others were already on territory throughout Norfolk County. Louisiana Waterthrush is listed as Threatened under the Ontario Endangered Species Act – do not use playback to attract waterthrushes!

Golden-winged Warbler – The first migrant of spring was banded at Old Cut April 28 (LPBO) – the third earliest ever at LPBO.

Blue-winged Warbler – The first migrants of the spring were found far inland at Spring Arbor Farm Nature Reserve April 30 (EG).

‘Brewster’s Warbler’ – One was in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 2 (JK, NR).

Black-and-white Warbler – The first migrants of the spring were in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park April 27 (KB, NH).

Orange-crowned Warbler – The first ones of this uncommon spring migrant were at Old Cut (EK) and in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park (JK, NR) May 2.

Nashville Warbler – The first migrants of spring were at Old Cut (RR, SAM) and in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park (IA, KB) April 27.

Common Yellowthroat – The first migrant of spring was at Old Cut April 27 (RR, SAM).

Hooded Warbler – The first migrants of the spring were in ‘Old’ (ED) and ‘New’ (JK, NR) Long Point Provincial Park May 2.

American Redstart – The first migrant of the spring was at Old Cut May 3 (MAC).

Cape May Warbler – The first migrant of the spring was in Port Ryerse May 2 (CO).

Northern Parula – The first migrants of the spring were at the Tip (LPBO) and in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park (JK, NR) May 2.

Magnolia Warbler – The first migrant of the spring was in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park April 28 (KB, TL).

Blackburnian Warbler – The first migrant of the spring was in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park April 27 (KB, NH).

Yellow Warbler – The first migrant of the spring was at Old Cut April 27 (MAC, SAM).

Chestnut-sided Warbler – The first migrant of the spring was at Old Cut May 2 (EK).

Black-throated Blue Warbler – The first migrants of the spring appeared across the area May 2 (multiple observers).

Black-throated Green Warbler – The first migrant of the spring was in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park April 24 (GP).

Wilson’s Warbler – The first migrant of the season was ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 2 (JK, NR).

Summer Tanager – One was in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park April 27 (KB).

Scarlet Tanager – The first migrant of the spring was banded at Old Cut May 2 (LPBO).

Rose-breasted Grosbeak – The first migrants of the spring were at the Tip (LPBO) and ‘Old’ Long Point Provincial Park (JS, RS) April 28.

Indigo Bunting – The first migrants of the spring appeared across the area May 2 (multiple observers).

 

 

Observers – Jenny Andrews (JA), Isabel Apkarian (IA), Cody Bassindale (CB), Amanda Bichel (AB), Rinchen Boardman (RB), Brendan Boyd (BB), Ken Burrell (KB), Maria Cohoon (MCo), Mark Conboy (MAC), Barry Coombs (BC), Kitty Corbett (KC), Alyssa DeRubeis (AD), Christian Friis (CF), Paula Gent (PG), Ted Gent (TG), Eric Giles (EG), Anne Goulden (AG), Mike Hallett (MH), Nathan Hood (NH), Alex Israel (AI), Sean Jenniskens (SJ), James Kennerley (JK), Erik Van Die Kieboom (EK), Denis Lepage (DL), Ryan Leys (RL), Tim Lucas (TL), Joanne Munzar (JM), Kevin Norbury (KN), Christy Obalek (CO), Robert Paul (RP), George Prieksaitis (GP), Nicole Richardson (NR), Ron Ridout (RR), Dorlisa Robinson (DR), Evan Sinclair (ES), Jeff Skevington (JS), Richard Skevington (RS), Laurie Stacey (LS), Adam Timpf (AT), Matt Timpf (MTT), Ross Wood (RWW).

 

 

 

April 1 to 20, 2021

 

Early April began with warm breezes and a steady migration. Colder weather soon returned slowing landbird migration to nearly a halt.

Old Cut is now closed to visitors until further notice due to the worsening COVID-19 pandemic. The closure includes the banding lab, visitor centre, store, washroom, and trails. Banding operations are continuing at the Tip and Old Cut under very strict health and safety procedures.

Highlights:

Trumpeter Swan – Two birds stayed for more than a week in Old Cut Pond, visible from both Old Cut and ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park (multiple observers). Other sightings came from around Inner Long Point Bay, including a high count of five April 12 (DG).

Eurasian Wigeon – The appearance of at least one Eurasian Wigeon at Long Point in spring is something of an annual tradition. The male that was first found at the Port Rowan Wetland in March relocated to Old Cut Pond in April and was observed almost daily to April 16 (multiple observers).

American X Eurasian Wigeon Hybrid – A male hybrid was at Lee Browns WMA April 22 (BC).

Redhead X Ring-necked Duck Hybrid – This curious-looking bird was last observed at the Port Rowan Wetland April 2 (JK, NR).

Green Heron – The first of the spring was in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park April 17 (NH).

Long-tailed Duck – Over 2000 were still on Outer Long Point Bay April 13 (MAC).

Virginia Rail – The first of the spring was heard April 4 at Big Creek National Wildlife Area (EL, SL, WL).

Sora – One was heard along the Crown Marsh Trail April 7 (AM).

Sandhill Crane – Small numbers still remain in the traditional locations along the Long Point causeway, Lakeshore Road fields, and Old Cut.  (multiple observers).

Pectoral Sandpiper – Pecs have been regular at Old Cut Pond since the beginning of April (multiple observers). The high count was seven April 14 (LG, RL).

Lesser Yellowlegs – The first of the spring was at Old Cut April 2 (MTT).

Little Gull – There were sightings throughout the month from Port Dover, Turkey Point, the Long Point causeway, Old Cut and the Tip (multiple observers). The high count was five at Big Creek National Wildlife Area April 2 (ES, JF).

Lesser Black-backed Gull – One was observed at Bluff Bar on Long Point April 18 (SAM).

Glaucous Gull – A mammoth first-cycle bird was circling over Old Cut April 2 (MAC, RL). It was observed in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park (IA) and along the Crown Marsh Trail (ZM) the following day.

Caspian Tern – The first of the spring was reported from Old Cut April 8 (GA).

Forster’s Tern – The first of the spring was reported in the Crown Marsh April 3 (MAC).

Red-throated Loon – One flew over Old Cut April 9 (MAC). Daily observations at the Tip (multiple observers).

Broad-winged Hawk – The first of the spring was along West Quarter Line Road April 13 (RS).

Rough-legged Hawk – One was observed from the Crown Marsh Trail April 4 (EL, SL, WL). Another was observed over Old Cut April 17 (LG, RL; multiple observers).

Red-headed Woodpecker – The first of the spring was at Old Cut April 9 (MAC, RL). One frequented the feeders at the Tip April 10-18 (MTT). A third bird was at Port Royal April 11 (DH).

Peregrine Falcon – There were reports of a single birds at ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park April 2 (EC, SF), Old Cut (KC) and Big Creek National Wildlife Area (AB) April 5.

Common Raven – There was the usual smattering of sightings on the mainland stretching from Port Dover to Port Royal (multiple observers). More notable were a series of ravens found on Long Point proper, where they are decidedly uncommon. Single birds were reported at the Tip April 12 (MTT) and Old Cut April 13(MAC). Two were reported from ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park April 10 (RaR).

Tufted Titmouse – Single birds were found in St. Williams April 4 (EG) and along Concession Road 1 April 13 (DG, DR). Two of Norfolk’s most reliable titmice were at South Coast Gardens near Turkey Point April 11 (GB, KK).

Northern Rough-winged Swallow – The first of the spring flew over Old Cut April 14 (MAC).

Purple Martin – The first of the spring was at the Port Rowan Wetland April 4 (DM, NY).

Bank Swallow – The first of the spring was at Old Cut April 14 (LG, RL).

Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher – The first of the spring was along Concession Road 2 April 14 (SAM).

House Wren – The first of the spring took up residence along West Quarter Line Road April 13 (AT).

Northern Mockingbird – There were several sightings, including near the St. Williams Conservation Reserve, Concession Road 2, ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park, and the Tip (multiple observers).

American Pipit – The first of the spring flew over the Tip April 12 (MTT).

Evening Grosbeak – Long Point missed the bulk of northbound grosbeaks this spring, however there were a few in the area, including up to nine in St. Williams April 4-19 (RR). One flew over West Quarter Line Road April 16 (AT). Two were in the St. Williams Conservation Reserve April 8 (AG, LF).

Purple Finch – After a winter with near absence in Norfolk, the first spring migrants were reported from ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park (RR), Old Cut (RL) April 7, and St. Williams (RR) April 20.

Common Redpoll – What was perhaps the final redpoll of the spring was one that flew over Old Cut April 1 (MAC).

Pine Siskin – Small numbers remained scattered throughout the area (multiple observers).

White-crowned Sparrow – Only a handful have been reported so far this spring including three at South Coast Gardens April 11 (GB, KK), one at Old Cut April 8-10 (MAC, MJ), and one in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park April 20 (SAM).

Harris’s Sparrow – A long-staying bird remained at a Port Dover bird feeder until at least April 19 (PS).

Louisiana Waterthrush – Several took up territories in Backus Woods and the Coppen-Armstrong Tract. Louisiana Waterthrush is listed as Threatened under the Ontario Endangered Species Act – do not use playback to attract waterthrushes!

Palm Warbler – The first birds of the spring were found along Hastings Drive (AD, MD) and ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park (RR) April 10.

Observers – Isabel Apkarian (IA), Geoff Atkins (GA), Gregor Beck (GB), Amanda Bichel (AB), Kyle Cameron (KC), Ezra Campenelli (EC), Mark Conboy (MAC), Anna Dickson (AD), Barry Coombs (BC), Mark Dickson (MD), Jennifer Fillingham (JF), Sian Ford (SF), Liv Frid (LF), Dan Galloraino (DG), Dan Galvin (DG), Eric Giles (EG), Leanne Grieves (LG), Amanda Guercio (AG), Nathan Hood (NH), Diane Hopkins (DH), Mourad Jabra (MJ), Kevin Kavanagh (KK), James Kennerley (JK), Eric Lamond (EL), Sarah Lamond (SL), William Lamond (WL), Donna Mackenzie (DM), Stu Mackenzie (SAM), Zachary Moore (ZM), Ryan Leys (RL), Angelique Mori (AM), Nicole Richardson (NR), Ron Ridout (RR), Dan Roberts (DR), Raymond Roth (RaR), Richard Skevington (RS), Eric Smit (ES), Peter Stewart (PS), Adam Timpf (AT), Matt Timpf (MTT), Nick Yaremczuk (NY), and Long Point Bird Observatory staff (LPBO).

 

 

 

March 9 to March 31, 2021

 

March was relatively mild, with lots of waterfowl and some songbirds on the move. A few firsts of the year made appearances, mostly on schedule, but there were some notably early arrivals. The most interesting birds were all ducks: two odd hybrids and an Eurasian Wigeon.

Migration Monitoring begins at the Old Cut Research Station April 1. The demonstration laboratory and visitor centre will be closed to the public, but the trails will remain open for physically-distanced birding. Birds Canada headquarters’ trails are open to the public but the building is closed.

Highlights:

Snow Goose – One was at Lee Brown Wildlife Management Area March 25-28 (NS, RT; multiple observers).

Cackling Goose – A notable flock of 10 flew over West Quarter Line Road March 12 (AT). Single birds were at the Crown Marsh Trail March 20 (SG) and Lee Brown Wildlife Management Area March 27 (GP). Two were at the Port Rowan Wetland March 21 (SAM).

Trumpeter Swan – Two were at Vittoria Conservation Area March 14-21, an unusual location (AM, GS, MS). At least two birds frequented Long Point’s Inner Bay and were observed from the causeway, the Crown Marsh Trail, Old Cut, and ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park (multiple observers).

Tundra Swan – The majority of Tundra Swans moved north early in the month with only a few remaining in the area.

Blue-winged Teal – The first two migrants of the spring were at Birds Canada headquarters March 19 (MAC).

Northern Shoveler – The first push arrived March 10 when dozens appeared along the causeway and in the Crown Marsh.

Eurasian Wigeon – The rarest bird of the reporting period was a Eurasian Wigeon that was first found at the Port Rowan Wetland March 24 (SAM). It was observed by dozens of people before it presumably moved to Old Cut March 30 (LH, LM, RL). This was the first Eurasian Wigeon on record for Old Cut.

Eurasian Wigeon x American Wigeon Hybrid – One was found at Old Cut March 25-30 (RL; multiple observers).

Redhead x Ring-necked Duck Hybrid – This striking hybrid was found at the Port Rowan Wetland March 27-30 (AC).

White-winged Scoter – The first reports of the year were from Outer Long Point Bay and the Tip March 21 (MAC, RR, SAM).

Horned Grebe – The first of the year was on Outer Long Point Bay March 21 (MAC, RR, SAM).

Wilson’s Snipe – The first of the year was a relatively early one at Old Cut March 11 (MAC).

Greater Yellowlegs – The first migrant of the spring was along East Quarter Line Road March 14 (PS).

Little Gull – Observations from across the area included a high count of 15 at Turkey Point March 27 (MiC, ND).

Iceland Gull – One was along County Road 60 March 12 (TL).

Lesser Black-backed Gull – An adult was along the Crown Marsh Trail March 30 (DR).

Common Loon – The first of the year was observed off ‘Old’ Long Point Provincial Park March 27 (IA, EG, NH, WK).

Double-crested Cormorant – Also observed March 27 off ‘Old’ Long Point Provincial Park was the first cormorant of the year (IA, EG, NH, WK).

American Bittern – The first of the year was found along the causeway March 27 (RE).

Great Egret – The first of the year was observed from South Coast Gardens March 28 (GB).

Black Vulture – One was photographed somewhat outside of the Long Point Birding Area, north of Houghton Centre March 14 (JG).

Osprey – The first of the year was observed along the causeway March 27 (RE).

Golden Eagle – One was reported near Turkey Point March 14 (FE, RE).

Northern Saw-whet Owl – One was found in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park March 10 (JV).

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker – The first migrant of the spring was at ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park March 30 (EJ).

Common Raven – Sightings across the area, with perhaps the most reliable location being Concession Road 6 through St. Williams Conservation Reserve.

Tufted Titmouse – Widely reported during March from South Coast Gardens near Turkey Point, St. Williams, Backus Woods, Troyer Road, Port Rowan, Old Cut and ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park (multiple observers).

Barn Swallow – The first of the year was observed from the Inner Bay viewing platform March 27 (EG, IA, NH).

Purple Martin – The first prospecting males were observed in Port Rowan on March 31 (M. Obs) 

Gray Catbird – An early migrant or perhaps an overwintering bird was in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park March 29 (EC).

Northern Mockingbird – One continued at the Port Rowan Wetland throughout March (multiple observers). A second bird was at the Rowan Mills Conservation Area March 13 (AM).

Hermit Thrush – An overwintering Old Cut bird was observed periodically throughout the month (MAC; multiple observers). Another was singing during a warm evening March 24 in St. Williams Conservation Reserve (MAC).

Evening Grosbeak – Several small flocks were reported: four in St. Williams Mach 12 (RR), eight at South Coast Gardens March 13, and three at the Turkey Point Conservation Reserve March 16 (LF). There has not been any indication of a large northward movement of Evening Grosbeaks or other winter finches so far this spring.

Common Redpoll – Small numbers remain throughout the area (multiple observers).

Hoary Redpoll – Two were along County Road 60 March 9 (LF).

Red Crossbill – A flock of 28 flew over West Quarter Line Road March 12 (AT). Two flew over the Port Rowan Wetland March 28 (SAM).

White-winged Crossbill – Two flew over ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park March 17 (GP).

Pine Siskin – Small numbers throughout the area (multiple observers).

Chipping Sparrow – One lingered around the Old Cut feeders from March 7 onward (LL; multiple observers). Additional birds began to appear later in March (multiple observers).

White-crowned Sparrow – One was along Concession Road 1 March 13 (CAF).

Harris’s Sparrow – One continued at a feeder in Port Dover well into March (multiple observers).

Savannah Sparrow – Single birds were reported from Turkey Point, Concession Road 2, Birds Canada headquarters, the Lakeshore Road fields, and Big Creek National Wildlife Area (multiple observers).

Rusty Blackbird – The high count was 45 at ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park March 29 (EC).

Yellow-rumped Warbler – Up to two overwintering birds remained at Old Cut throughout March, and one was even heard singing on warm days (multiple observers). Another was at the Port Rowan Wetland March 25 (SAM).

Pine Warbler – The first of the year was heard along Concession Road 1 March 30 (SAM).

Observers – Isabel Apkarian (IB), Gregor Beck (GB), Ezra Campanelli (EC), Adam Capparelli (AC), Mark Conboy (MAC), Mike Cowlard (MiC), Nancy Douglas (ND), Felix Eckley (FE), Rick Eckley (RE), Lucas Foerster (LF), Christian Friis (CAF), Scott Gillingwater (SG), Ethan Gosnell (EG), Jeremy Graves (JG), Nathan Hood (NH), Lily Hou (LH), Eugene Jankowski (EJ), William Konze (WK), Ryan Leys (RL), Lucas Liu (LL), Tim Lucas (TL), Stu Mackenzie (SAM), Liam McGuire (LM), Angelique Mori (AM), George Prieksaitis (GP), Ron Ridout (RR), Dorilsa Robinson (DR), Gis Segler (GS), Max Segler (MS), Nancy Smith (NS), Peter Stewart (PS), Rick Thornton (RT), and Joshua Vandermeulen (JV).

January 7, 2021 to March 9, 2021

 

Winter conditions at Long Point varied from a relatively mild January to a genuinely cold February, and a return to more normal mild conditions come March. The freeze-up didn’t really take hold until February, when almost unbroken ice conditions prevailed all month on the Inner Bay. There were even a few days of partial ice cover off Long Point’s south shore and in Outer Long Point Bay. Aside from a few small patches of moving water, most of the wetlands and inland waters were frozen solid for much of February. March brought a return to warmer daytime temperatures, but chilly nights remained the norm. The first traditional migrants arrived in the first week of March, including swans, American Woodcock, Horned Larks, blackbirds and even some record early Tree Swallows. Great Horned Owls and Bald Eagles are on nests. As usual, the Lakeshore Road fields played host to the more notable geese species. There were a number of noteworthy birds, particularly around bird feeders.

Highlights:

Snow Goose – The first of the year was at Turkey Point January 18 (NS). The second report was of one among a flock of Canada Geese along Lakeshore Road, west of Port Rowan, February 26 (DH). An additional bird was seen from Lion’s Park on the Port Rowan waterfront (SAM), and two were observed at Silver Lake March 3 (MT).

Ross’s Goose – One made the rounds beginning at Silver Lake in Port Dover March 3 (MT), followed by the Lakeshore Road fields March 7 (SAM), and the Long Point causeway March 8 (SH).

Greater White-fronted Goose – 2021 started off well for sightings of this handsome goose. The first of the year was one among thousands of other waterfowl at the mouth of Big Creek January 24 (MAC). The fields along Lakeshore Road hosted most of the observations: four February 14 (KB) and February 25 (AG, LF), and five February 26 (DB, MiC, ND, AT). Other reports were four at Big Creek National Wildlife Area and Gore Road February 21 (EJ, NR, JK, SAM), and four at the Port Rowan Wetland February 26 (SAM). The maximum count was a very impressive 33 at Port Royal March 7 (ABu et al.).

Cackling Goose – There were numerous sightings, mainly mixed with Canada Geese. The first birds of the year were a flock of seven at Silver Lake in Port Dover January 9-25 (MT, AM, RR, MAC). Other observations were three at Big Creek National Wildlife Area January 11 (RR), five on the Long Point causeway February 2 (JK, NR), one along Concession Road 1 February 6 (CF), three at the Port Rowan Wetland February 26 (SAM), one at Port Rowan February 28 followed by three the next day (SAM), four at Birds Canada Headquarters March 2 (SAM), and numerous reports from the Lee Brown Wildlife Management Area-Port Rowan-Lakeshore Road fields area (multiple observers).

Trumpeter Swan – At least three were frequenting ice-free patches of water at the base of the Inner Bay. The first birds of the year were a pair along the Long Point causeway February 6 (AD, MD). There were subsequent observations from the causeway, Birds Canada Headquarters and Lion’s Park in Port Rowan (multiple observers). The high count was three along the causeway March 6-7 (CB, CL, LT).

Tundra Swan – The first migrants joined the overwintering flocks during the last few days of February, and numbers peaked between March 5 and 10. The high count so far has been 2000 at Lee Brown Wildlife Management Area February 28 (EG, NH).

Wood Duck – A few birds overwintered, including four at Port Royal January 19 (RR), one along Concession Road 1 January 29 (CF), and two in Dedrick Creek at Backus Woods February 6-10 (ABi, MAC). Two, likely first migrants, were along the Long Point causeway March 7 (ABu) , and 8 were in Port Rowan March 9 (SAM).

Other Ducks – Numbers of other ducks are slowly rising. Good concentrations of Redhead and Canvasback were found along the Port Rowan waterfront. Mallard, Gadwall, Northern Pintail, American Wigeon and other species began increasing in numbers as soon as March began.

Ring-necked Pheasant – One was near Port Ryerse January 10 (MB).

Sandhill Crane – Once again, Long Point hosted an impressive number of overwintering cranes. There were over 2000 still present in early January (MAC), but numbers seemed to drop to about 1000 by February, and to a few hundred by early March (multiple observers), and 1,600 birds were observed in the area March 8 (TL).

Killdeer – At least two overwintered in Port Rowan and another was along Lakeshore Road (multiple observers). The first migrants began to arrive during the last few days of February. One eager pair was seen copulating and scraping a nest on the positively early date of March 9 at Birds Canada Headquarters (RR).

American Woodcock – The first migrants of the year were reported displaying near St. Williams March 8 (DO).

Little Gull – At least one persisted throughout the winter between St. Williams and the Long Point Causeway (multiple observers). The high count for the year so far was three at Turkey Point March 7 (AM).

Iceland Gull – Sightings included two different birds at Port Dover January 17 and 23 (MJ, RR), and one along Concession Road A February 21 (SAM).

Lesser Black-backed Gull – A handsome adult was at Turkey Point March 3 (TL).

Great Black-backed Gull – There was a notable count of 10 at the Inner Long Point Bay viewing stand January 1 (MAC).

American White Pelican – The same pelican that made an appearance on the Long Point Christmas Bird Count in mid-December persisted into the New Year. The first sighting was at the St. William’s Inner Long Point Bay viewpoint January 1 (GP). It remained there until January 9 (multiple observers) before relocating to the Long Point causeway, until the end of January (multiple observers).

Turkey Vulture – There were numerous overwintering birds (multiple observers).

Golden Eagle – There were at least two, and probably three birds in the area, with sightings spread between Gore Road and Port Ryerse. Two were observed together along East Quarter Line Road February 6 (AT).

Red-shouldered Hawk – A few persisted throughout the winter, most notably one that was consistently seen between St. Williams and Forestville (multiple observers).

Snowy Owl – There was at least one bird seen from Port Rowan down to Long Point in early January. The first sighing was January 1 along the Long Point causeway (AA, HP, KB). There were no reports of Snowys in February or early March.

Long-eared Owl – The only record for the winter was of one in a Port Rowan backyard March 1 (IT, RT).

Short-eared Owl – Single birds were reported from Lakeshore Road January 2 (DL), Port Rowan January 4 (SAM), Big Creek National Wildlife Area January 23 (MAC), the Long Point causeway January 30 (LL), and Concession Road A February 20 (MH). Two were at the Port Rowan Wetlands February 26 (SAM).

Northern Saw-whet Owl – One was at South Coast Gardens near Turkey Point February 2 (GB, KK), and another in the New Long Point Provincial Park March 10 (JVa).

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker – There was an over-wintering bird at Backus Heritage Conservation Area January 1 (ES).

Red-headed Woodpecker – Always scarce in winter, one was reported along Charlotteville Road 2 February 15 (Anonymous Observer).

Eastern Phoebe – The first of the year was reported in Port Rowan March 9 (SAM).

Common Raven – Scattered observations ranged from West Quarter Line Road to the Turkey Point Conservation Reserve (multiple observers).

Horned Lark – The first notable push of migrants was right on time, in mid-February (multiple observers).

Tree Swallow – There was a rash of record early sightings, the first being a single bird along East Quarter Line Road March 3 (EG). Two more individuals were reported the following day at Port Rowan (SAM) and the Barrett-Sanderson Tract (AM).

Ruby-crowned Kinglet – One was reported in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park January 6 (ES). This bird may have relocated to Old Cut as one was found there February 2 (SAM). That bird persisted into March through some very wintry weather (multiple observers).

Marsh Wren – A few birds overwintered. There was one at Silver Lake January 1 and 25 (MT). Up to two were in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park January 3-9 (ES, SAM, RR).

Gray Catbird – Overwintering birds were reported from ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park January 3-6 (ES), Old Cut January 20 (MAC) and February 21 (SAM), South Coast Gardens near Turkey Point February 12 (GB, KK), and along Troyer Road February 15-18 (PG, TG).

Hermit Thrush – Numerous overwintering birds were reported from West Quarter Line Road to Turkey Point and south to Old Cut and ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park (multiple observers).

American Pipit – One was found on the Long Point causeway January 9 (DL).

Evening Grosbeak – Last fall’s movement of Evening Grosbeaks was the fourth largest on record at LPBO, but very few of those birds remained throughout the winter. There were only a handful of reports so far in 2021: two were at Turkey Point Provincial Park January 3 (SAM), one was along Troyer Road January 8-9 (PG, TG), two were in St. Williams January 17 (EG), one was along Concession Road A February 26 (DB), and South Coast Gardens near Turkey Point hosted three January 16 and 24 February 14 (GB, KK).

Purple Finch – Fairly uncommon this winter. There were sightings from Gore Road to Port Dover, including a high count of seven January 16 (GB, KK).

Common Redpoll – Fairly common and widespread this winter. Large flocks included 300 south of Pinegrove January 7 (EG), 250 near Spooky Hollow January 10 (RR), and 200 near Vittoria January 29 (MT).

Hoary Redpoll – This winter has proved to be one of the best for finding Hoarys in many years. The first of the year were two birds along Concession Road 2 February 3 (SAM). Other sightings were one along Dancey Side Road near St. Williams February 10 (AT) and February 19 (DL), and two in Port Rowan February 18 (SAM).

Red Crossbill – There were widespread sightings of single birds and small flocks from West Quarter Line Road to Port Dover (multiple observers), including a high count of 21 near the St. Williams Conservation Reserve January 9 (TGr). Perhaps the most notable observation though came from just outside the official boundaries of the Long Point Birding Area, at Trout Creek Nature Reserve. A flock of crossbills was frequently reported there in January and February. Based on sonogram analysis, at least three “call types” were present January 30. A flock of 19 birds had 15 Type 10s, three Type 2s, and one rare Type 4 (TL).

White-winged Crossbill – While scarcer than Red Crossbills,observations included 13 at Backus Heritage Conservation Area January 29 (MF), eight in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park February 2 (JK, NR), two at St. Williams Conservation Reserve January 27 (LFo) and three there February 17 (LFo), and numerous observations at Old Cut including a high count of 35 February 2 (MAC, SAM).

Pine Siskin – Last fall’s movement of Pine Siskins was by far the largest on record at LPBO. Some siskins remained in the area over winter but not in huge numbers.

Lapland Longspur – Seemingly more common during the early part of 2021 than in some years. There were observations from Gore Road to East Quarter Line Road (multiple observers), with a high count of seven at the latter location February 7 (MAC).

Snow Bunting – There was a high count of 1500 at the Frank Miller Nature Reserve February 7 (RR).

Chipping Sparrow – Two overwintered at a feeder along West Quarter Line Road January 3-February 9 (AT, TM). One was also reported at the Old Cut feeders February 19 (HG).

Field Sparrow – There were a few overwintering birds from the Wilson Tract to Turkey Point (multiple observers).

Fox Sparrow – Overwintering birds were at Backus Heritage Conservation Area January 30 (SAM) and South Coast Gardens near Turkey Point January 31-February 21 (GB, KK).

White-crowned Sparrow – There were a handful of overwintering birds, including two near Vittoria January 29 (MT) and February 15 (JV), one along Concession Road A February 10 (HG), one at Silver Hill February 13-15 (JW), and one along St. John’s Road west of Port Dover February 20 (JK, NR).

Harris’s Sparrow – One was at feeder in Port Dover February 10-27 (PS; multiple observers).

Savannah Sparrow – There were at least three overwintering birds. One was first found along Lakeshore Road January 2 (DL; multiple observers). Up to five were along Concession Road A January 21 onward (SAM; multiple observers). One last bird was along East Quarter Line Road February 20 (KB).

Eastern Towhee – Overwintering birds were at South Coast Gardens January 16 (GB, KK), Concession Road 2 at Big Creek February 12 (RR), and along Troyer Road February 19-23 (PG, TG).

Eastern Meadowlark – The first report of the year came from Concession Road A (JK, NR). Additional wintering birds were found at the Lakeshore Road fields February 21 (AM) and March 7 (SAM) & 8 (TL), and Old Cut February 25 (PD).

Rusty Blackbird – There were a few overwintering birds, including a high count of 37 along Troyer Road February 27 (PG, TG).

Common Yellowthroat – One was in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park January 3 (ES).

Yellow-rumped Warbler – Overwintering birds were found at Concession Road 1 January 2-30 (CF), ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park January 6 (ES), Backus Heritage Conservation Area January 30 (SAM), and Old Cut February 28-March 8 (MAC, SAM).

Dickcissel – One spent a few days at a feeder near Backus Heritage Conservation Area January 23-February 7 (MBr et al.).

Observers – Aaron Allensen (AA), Cody Bassindale (CB), Gregor Beck (GB), Amanda Bichel (ABi), Mike Boone (MB), Kathryn Boothby (KB), David Britton (DB), Matt Brock (MBr), Alvan Buckley (ABu), Ken Burrell (KB), Adam Capparelli (AC), Mark Conboy (MAC), Mike Cowlard (MiC), Bob Curry (BC), Anna Dickinson (AD), Mark Dickinson (MD), Parker Dirks (PD), Nancy Douglas (ND), Myles Falconer (MF), Lucas Foerster (LFo), Liv Frid (LF), Christian Friis (CF), Paula Gent (PG), Ted Gent (TG), Eric Giles (EG), Henry Giles (HG), Ethan Gosnell (EG), Terry Groh (TGr), Amanda Guercio (AG), Megan Hiebert (MH), Nathan Hood (NH), Diane Hopkins (DH), Sandra Hawkins (SH), Eugene Jankowski (EJ), Mourad Jabra (MJ), Kevin Kavanagh (KK), James Kennerley (JK), Denis Lepage (DL), Catriona Leven (CL), Lucas Liu (LL), Tim Lucas (TL), Stu Mackenzie (SAM), Taylor Marshall (TM), Angelique Mori (AM), David Okines (DO), George Prieksaitis (GP), Hailey Priest (HP), Nicole Richardson (NR), Ron Ridout (RR), Nancy Shaw (NS), Evan Sinclair (ES), Glenda Slessor (GS), Peter Stewart (PS), Liam Thorne (LT), Adam Timpf (AT), Matt Timpf (MT), Ilse Tozer (IT), Rory Tozer (RT), Josh Vandermeulen (JVa), John Vanrooy (JV), Julia Wever (JW).

 

 

 

 

November 7, 2020 to January 4, 2021

 

Early Winter Update and Christmas Bird Count Summary

Winter eased into the Long Point region, which has yet to experience any significant snowfall or deep freeze. Many of the ponds and protected bodies of water have at least some ice cover, but most of Long Point Bay and certainly Lake Erie proper remained ice free for the entire period. As usual, many lingering landbirds could be found in protected areas, particularly along the lakeshore. Impressive numbers of Tundra Swans passed through early in the period but had thinned out by year’s end. Sandhill Cranes continued to be an impressive local spectacle, and waterfowl remain abundant.

The 60th Long Point Christmas Bird Count (CBC) took place on 19 December. Forty-seven local birders counted a remarkable 73,759 birds of 115 species. This is the second highest species total (114 in 2016), and third highest total number of birds counted in the counts history. The long-term average is 28,014 individuals of 102 species, and the recent decade average of 38,998 of 104 species. The average number of birds counted at Long Point has grown consistently over the decades from 10,375 in the 1960’s to 38,998 in 2010-2020. Since the count began in 1961, volunteers have contributed more than 8,500 hours counting more than 1.5 million birds of 193 species.

The 34th Woodhouse CBC took place on 20 December covering areas north east of Long Point.  The count tallied 94 species of 18,869 individuals which is the 3rd highest species total ever, and the highest since the record of 99 was set in 2006. There were two additional count week species recorded on the day before the count: a Snow Goose had been hanging around in the park in downtown Simcoe, and an American White Pelican was briefly seen off Port Ryerse.  Two new species were recorded for the count: 1 Marsh Wren at Silver Lake, 1 Rose-breasted Grosbeak coming to a feeder in Simcoe.

 

Highlights:

Snow Goose – There was a smattering of Snow Geese throughout the reporting period, including two flying over Port Rowan November 12 (DT), three at the Birds Canada headquarters November 20 (SAM), two over West Quarter Line Road December 5 (AT, MT), one at Lee Brown Wildlife Management Area November 27 (KB), one in the fields along Lakeshore Road, west of Port Rowan December 13 (KB), and two over Big Creek December 19 (AT, MT, RR).

Ross’ Goose – A rather uncommon but somewhat regular winter visitor to Long Point: two were observed from the Turkey Point Marsh Overlook on Front Road, east of St. Williams November 8 (SL, WL).

Cackling Goose – Three were present at the Port Rowan Wetlands, November 18-19 (EG, SAM). A single bird was found at Lee Brown WMA December 19 (SL, WL).

Trumpeter Swan – At least three birds remained in the Inner Bay throughout November with sightings at Old Cut on the 9th and 27th (MAC, RL), and the Crown Marsh Trail on November 29 (AM).

Tundra Swan – There was a high count of 3000 going to roost at Big Creek National Wildlife Area December 3 (AB, MAC), and a grand total of 4425 December 19 (multiple observers).

Wood Duck – A late bird at Port Royal December 29 (DB).

Mallard – Mallard doesn’t usually make the sightings board, but it is worth noting the record-high count of 9038 December 19 (multiple observers).

Northern Pintail – A late bird was along the Long Point causeway January 2 (MAC).

Redhead – An impressive 20,000 were counted December 19 (multiple observers). While not an unusual count in late October or November, numbers of Redhead and many other ducks tend to thin out by mid-December. Open water conditions meant that many species, such as the aforementioned Mallard, were in great abundance during the final weeks of 2020.

Black Scoter – One flew past the Tip with a flock of White-winged Scoters November 24 (MAC, SAM).

Red-necked Grebe – A species not commonly observed from the mainland, one was off the Birds Canada headquarters November 23 (AB, MAC).

Virginia Rail – Late-staying birds were flushed from the ‘New” Long Point Provincial Park wetlands during phragmites control operations throughout Nov and early December (AT).

Sandhill Crane – Long Point has become a major overwintering location for several thousand cranes. A survey conducted around New Year’s counted approximately 7000 individuals, mainly concentrated in the fields west of Port Rowan and along the causeway, including Big Creek National Wildlife Area (RW, DS).

Killdeer – Two hardy birds remained at Lion’s Park on the Port Rowan waterfront through early January (multiple observers).

Dunlin – One was at Turkey Point (TL) and two were along Long Point’s south shore out towards Breakwater (MB, SAM) December 19.

Hudsonian Godwit – A lone bird stayed at Turkey Point until at least November 22 (multiple observers).

Wilson’s Snipe – A few late birds remained into December, the latest at Old Cut Dec 16 (MAC).

Little Gull – Low numbers, probably only a few individuals, were observed around the Inner Bay and at Turkey Point November through January (multiple observers).

Lesser Black-backed Gull – One was observed at the Tip November 9 (MAC, RL).

Glaucous Gull – One was at Turkey Point December 19 (PB). First and Second-cycle individuals were at Port Dover Harbour December 20 and 31 (TL, RR).

Arctic Tern – A rarity at Long Point, but there were at least two at the Tip November 8 (SAM).

Forster’s Tern – A late bird was at the Tip November 8 (MAC, RL, SAM).

American White Pelican – One was observed from the Turkey Point Marsh Overlook on Front Road November 8 (ML). Possibly the same bird was at Turkey Point December 19 (TL), and subsequently observed along the lakeshore between Port Rowan and St. Williams into January (multiple observers). This was a new species for the Long Point and Woodhouse CBCs.

Least Bittern – Record late individuals were flushed from different parts of the ‘New” Long Point Provincial Park wetlands and Big Creek NWA along Hastings Dr. during phragmites control operations December 3, 8, 16, 17 (APT).

Golden Eagle – Sightings were fairly scarce this fall. One was observed from the Turkey Point Marsh Overlook November 8 (ML). Another was along West Quarter Line Road December 5 (APT, MTT).

Northern Goshawk – One was just east of Port Royal December 4 (AB, MAC), while another was near Turkey Point the following day (FE, RE). One was observed at Turkey Point on the December 19 CBC.

Red-shouldered Hawk – One bird remained in the vicinity of St. Williams from December 19 to January 5 (EG, SAM).

Snowy Owl – Two were found along the Inner Bay during a boat trip to the Tip December 10 (MAC, MB, SAM). At least two were observed regularly throughout December and into January along the causeway (multiple observers).

Short-eared Owl – Numerous sightings of single birds including the causeway November 8 (GP), Lakeshore Road fields December 5 (RaRo, DL), Port Rowan December 25 (LPBO), ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park December 28 (MAC), and Port Rowan Wetland January 4 (SAM).

Red-headed Woodpecker – One was at Lee Brown Wildlife Management Area November 11 (RR). Another was at Old Cut November 13 (DC, RB).

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker – One was along Concession Road 1 at Big Creek December 18 (CF).

Common Raven – Singles were observed at St. Williams December 9near Turkey Point December 28 (GB, KK), and one east of Port Rowan on January 3 (SAM).

Tufted Titmouse – Eleven were counted December 19, a CBC record number. Most were found along the lakeshore (multiple observers).

Red-breasted Nuthatch – After the big migration of nuthatches this past fall, it’s no surprise that a new record high count was made December 19, with 223 (multiple observers). See Dunn 2019. The Auk, Volume 136, Issue 2, 1 April 2019, ukz008, https://doi.org/10.1093/auk/ukz008 for an interesting synopsis of RBNU movements in the continent.

Ruby-crowned Kinglet – There were a few lingering individuals, including one near Turkey Point December 19 (multiple observers).

Gray Catbird – Six lingering birds were counted December 19 (multiple observers). One was found in ‘New” Long Point Provincial Park January 3 (ES).

Northern Mockingbird – One was at the Port Rowan Wetlands December 12 (ED).

Marsh Wren – Lingering birds were found as late as January 3 at Silver Lake in Port Dover (MT) and ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park (SAM, ES).

Hermit Thrush – As usual, a few birds had remained in the area into the New Year, including one at Old Cut and one in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park January 2 (MAC).

American Pipit – An excellent count of 41 was made at the ‘Onion Fields’ December 19 (AB, MAC, CL, RL).

Red Crossbill – Small flocks or single birds were reported throughout November and December (multiple observers).

Hoary Redpoll – One was found in a flock of Common Redpolls along Turkey Point Rd. December 19 (AC JL, KC).

Other Winter Finches – Most of the winter finches that moved through in abundance during October and November have departed. Small numbers of Evening Grosbeaks, White-winged Crossbills, Common Redpolls and Pine Siskins were reported throughout the area.

Lapland Longspur – Migrants flew over Old Cut November 12 (MAC). Overwintering birds were reported along Concession Road 1 December 18 (CF) and near Port Dover December 20 (TL).

Grasshopper Sparrow – One was observed at the bottom of West Quarter Line Rd near Wilson’s Tract in Walsingham December 27 (APT).

Savannah Sparrow – One was along Lakeshore Road west of Port Rowan January 2 (DL).

Harris’s Sparrow – One was reported from Port Dover December 4 (MT).

Pine Warbler – One was found in Turkey Point Provincial Park December 19 (PB).

Common Yellowthroat – One was observed at Big Creek on the December 19 CBC, and a lingering bird was in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park as late as January 3 (SAM, ES).

Rose-breasted Grosbeak – One was observed in Port Dover December 7 and continued through December 20 CBC (MTT, APT).

Dickcissel – One was at a St. Williams yard November 7 (JM).

Observers: Gregor Beck (GB), Amanda Bichel (AB), Kathryn Boothby (KB), Michael Bradstreet (MB), Richard Brault (RB), David Britton (DB), Peter Burke (PB), Ken Burrell (KB), Kyle Cameron (KC), Mark Conboy (MAC), Andrew Couturier (AC), Diane Croteau (DC), Erica Dunn (ED), Felix Eckley (FE), Rick Eckley (RE), Christian Friis (CF), Eric Giles (EG), Kiah Jasper (KJ), Kevin Kavanagh (KK), Sarah Lamond (SL), William Lamond (WL), James Lees (JL), Markus Legzdins (ML), Denis Lepage (DL), Chris Leys (CL), Ryan Leys (RL), Tim Lucas (TL), Stu Mackenzie (SAM), Jon McCracken (JM), Angelique Mori (AM), George Prieksaitis (GP), Raymond Roth (RaRo), Ron Ridout (RR), Denby Sadler (DS), Evan Sinclair (ES), Adam Timpf (APT), Matt Timpf (MTT), Doug Tozer (DT), Ross Wood (RW), and Long Point Bird Observatory staff (LPBO).

 

June 11 to August 24, 2020

 

Seemingly endless hot sultry weather characterized almost the entire summer at Long Point. Rare birds were few and far between, but excellent shorebird habitat at Silver Lake in Port Dover did provide some entertainment. The fall migration monitoring season commenced at Old Cut on August 15 and will continue through November 15.

Highlights:

Trumpeter Swan – Four were at Turkey Point June 29 (AG).

Long-tailed Duck – A rare over-summering individual was found at the Tip August 5-13 (RL, WVH).

Bufflehead – Another unusual summer duck, one was at Silver Lake in Port Dover August 5 (AB, MAC).

Red-breasted Merganser – As with Long-tailed Ducks, Red-breasted Mergansers sometimes remain all summer at the Tip, as the three that were there August 3 (MAC) presumably had done. Six were at Turkey Point August 12-15 (SM).

Common Nighthawk – The first migrants of the fall were at Big Creek Marsh August 8 (SAM). Seasonal accumulations at Big Creek NWA and elsewhere in earnest August 21 when 110 were observed (SAM). Double-digits have been records nightly there since. Forty-two were observed at the Tip August 23 (MAC).

King Rail – One of these provincially and federally endangered birds was heard at Big Creek National Wildlife Area August 12 (SAM) and again August 14 (GP, RL).

Black-bellied Plover – The first migrants of the fall were at the Tip August 1 (SAM).

American Golden-Plover – An unusual mid-summer sighting: three flew past the Birds Canada office in Port Rowan July 18 (SAM).

Semipalmated Plover – The first migrants of the fall were at Silver Lake in Port Dover July 31 (MAC. SM).

Ruddy Turnstone – The first migrants of the fall were at Turkey Point August 2 (SM).

Red Knot – Two young were discovered at Turkey Point August 21 (SM), and remained until at least August 24 (SAM).

Stilt Sandpiper – The first migrant of the fall was at Silver Lake in Port Dover July 26 (AW, MAC, SB).

Sanderling – The first migrant of the fall was at Turkey Point July 19 (AW, EC, EH).

Baird’s Sandpiper – Ten were observed along Long Point’s south shore August 18 (SAM).

Buff-breasted Sandpiper – One was discovered at Turkey Point August 21 (GS), and continued until at least August 23 (SAM).

Pectoral Sandpiper – The first migrant of the fall was at Silver Lake in Port Dover July 17 (SM).

Semipalmated Sandpiper – The first migrant of the fall was at Silver Lake in Port Dover July 26 (AW, MAC, SB).

Short-billed Dowitcher – The first migrant of the fall was at Silver Lake in Port Dover July 14 (MAC).

Solitary Sandpiper – The first migrant of the fall was at Silver Lake in Port Dover July 14 (MAC).

Lesser Yellowlegs – The first migrant of the fall was at Silver Lake in Port Dover July 8 (SM).

Willet – One was observed at Turkey Point August 17 and continued to August 21 (Steve Moore).

Greater Yellowlegs – The first migrant of the fall was at Silver Lake in Port Dover July 8 (SM).

Little Gull – After being absent for much of the summer, one was at the Tip August 3 (MAC).

Lesser Black-backed Gull – One was at the Tip June 25 (RL).

Great Egret – Numbers were building throughout the summer, with a recent high count of 14 flying over Old Cut August 15 (LPBO).

Black-crowned Night-Heron – Single birds were at Old Cut June 30 (MAC) and Big Creek National Wildlife Area July 19 (AW, EC, EH). Two were at the Thoroughfare Unit of Long Point National Wildlife Area Augsut 6 (CL).

Northern Goshawk – An unusual summer observation was of one at ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park July 22 and 25 (CL).

Peregrine Falcon – One was observed along Concession Road A June 24 (SAM). Another was at Big Creek National Wildlife Area July 28 (RL) and August 11 (RL, SAM).

Olive-sided Flycatcher – As many as two individuals have been observed at Old Cut from August 21 through August 24 (SAM).

Yellow-bellied Flycatcher – The first migrant of the fall was banded at Old Cut August 12 (KGC, MAC, RL).

Tufted Titmouse – At least one was at Sleepy Hollow June 21 to July 21 (DM, RP). Up to seven were at South Coast Gardens near Turkey Point June 14 to July 24 (ES, GB). One was also along Concession Road 1 June 12 (SAM).

swallows – The Long Point swallow roost began taking shape in mid-July with as many as 100,000 individuals swarming Big Creek NWA and surrounding wetlands at dusk. This annual phenomenon continued through August 17 and is expected to continue in some form until early September. Peak estimates so far occurred August 8 with more than 275,000 birds at Big Creek – the majority are Bank followed by Tree, Barn and mere thousands of Purple Martin. At least half a million swallows occupy Long Point at this time of year. You can observe the exodus of swallows every morning on weather radar out of Exeter, ON.

Sedge Wren – One was at ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park June 18 (SAM).

Northern Mockingbird – One was in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park July 7 (SM). The same bird may have been the one at Old Cut August 2 (MAC). One was at the Tip July 17 (MAC).

Swainson’s Thrush – The first migrant of the fall was at Old Cut August 16 (MAC).

Purple Finch – Scarce this year; the only observations during the entire summer were at South Coast Gardens near Turkey Point June 14, July 10 and August 15 (GB). The first migrant of the season was observed at Old Cut August 19, and banded August 21 (LPBO).

Clay-coloured Sparrow – One was along West Quarter Line Road June 19-July 16 (AT).

Lark Sparrow – Another good sparrow from West Quarter Line Road was a Lark Sparrow, present August 14 (AT) to 16 (multiple observers).

Tennessee Warbler – The first migrant of the fall was at Port Rowan August 4 (SAM).

Canada Warbler – The first migrant of the fall was at Old Cut August 12 (KGC, MAC, RL).

Observers: Gregor Beck (GB), Amanda Bichel (AB), Sarah Bonnett (SB), Kyle Cameron (KGC), Ezra Campanelli (EC), Mark Conboy (MAC), Anita Goodman (AG), Eric Heisey (EH), Catriona Leven (CL), Ryan Leys (RL), Stu Mackenzie (SAM), Dan MacNeal (DM), Steve Moore (SM), Rob Porter (RP), George Prieksaitis (GP), Evan Sinclair (ES), Greg Stuart (GS), Adam Timpf (AT), Will Van Hemessen (WVH), Alessandra Wilcox (AW), Amy Wilson (AW), and Long Point Bird Observatory staff (LPBO).

 

 

 

May 22 TO June 10:

 

Unfortunately, the poor weather that characterized early May meant that the more conducive migration conditions during this reporting period caused the vast majority of thrushes, vireos and warblers to rush past Long Point, resulting in many very ‘quiet’ mornings. However, there were a few rather spectacular mornings when migrants abounded and  a number of notable rarities delighted birders and banders alike.

The migration monitoring season came to an end at Breakwater and the Tip June 3 but continues at Old Cut in some capacity to June 10. The banding lab and visitor centre remain closed for the duration of the spring season, however trails are open for birding as long as physical distancing rules are strictly adhered to. Stay tuned for updates about how the fall season will operate.

Highlights:

Trumpeter Swan – Two were observed near Old Cut May 22 (SAM).

Black Scoter – One flew past the Tip with a pair of White-winged Scoters May 27 (MAC).

Northern Bobwhite – One was singing near St. Williams June 5 (RR). Individuals were observed around St. Williams and Booth’s Harbour in recent weeks – undoubtedly escaped or intentionally released captive-bred birds.

 

 

Chuck-wills-widow – One was singing in St. Williams early in the morning of May 22 (RR).

 

 

 

The Tip | May 26 | Mark Conboy

Snowy Egret – The first one in 15 years graced the Tip with its elegance May 26 (MAC, MTT, SAM).

Black-crowned Night-Heron – Always uncommon at Long Point, night-herons have been especially scarce this spring; the only record so far was one that flew over Breakwater May 24 (AI, BB).

Brown Pelican – Long Point’s third Brown Pelican flew north past the Tip May 28 (MAC, MTT) and was not relocated. The pelican was observed the same day as the remnants of Tropical Storm Bertha arrived over Lake Erie. No other storm birds were observed despite hours of continuous lake watching at the Tip. Another Brown Pelican was on Lake Ontario the week previous.

Port Rowan | June 4 | Ryan Leys, Stu Mackenzie

American White Pelican – A lone bird circled briefly over Port Rowan June 4 before disappearing to parts unknown (RL, SAM).

Mississippi Kite – An apparent adult flew over Old Cut May 30 (RL).

Laughing Gull – An adult continued at the Tip off and on until May 26 (MAC, MTT, SAM).

Little Gull – Immature birds continued to frequent the Tip daily, with a high count of 11 May 26 (SAM). Four flew past Breakwater June 1 (AI, BB).

Iceland Gull – One bird lingered at the Tip May 25 to 27 (MAC, MTT).

Lesser Black-backed Gull – One 1^st-2^nd cycle bird remained at the Tip through May 29 (MAC, MTT).

Whimbrel – The single largest count of Whimbrel for the spring were the 118 that winged their way north past the Tip May 26 (MAC, MTT). A flock of 75 winged north over South Coast Gardens near Turkey Pt. May 25 (GB, KK).

Upland Sandpiper – Seldom reported at Long Point; one flew over Breakwater May 24 (BB).

Pacific Loon – This May proved to be good for Pacific Loons, which in recent years have become something of a regular occurrence late in the month. Three were off the Tip May 24 (MAC, MTT, SAM). One was also heard calling at Old Cut May 24 (SAM). One more was off the Tip May 28 (MAC, MTT).

Olive-sided Flycatcher – Several were observed during the latter part of May throughout the Long Point area; the high count was of three at the Tip May 23 (MAC, MTT).

Acadian Flycatcher – Individuals were observed at Old Cut on and off from May 24 through June 9. Individuals were also observed in the Old LPPP May 24-25 (DL),  at Breakwater May 29, and at the Tip May 25 (MTT), and 2 on June 2 (MAC).

The Tip | May 25 | Stu Mackenzie

Loggerhead Shrike – The second one in as many years was observed at the Tip May 25 and banded at May 26 (MAC, MTT, SAM). This second-year male had not been previously banded as part of any Loggerhead Shrike banding program, so its origin remain a mystery.

Tufted Titmouse – Two were at South Coast Gardens near Turkey Point May 23 (GB, KK).

Sedge Wren – One was heard along Hastings Drive May 23 (SAM).

American Pipit – A late one flew over Old Cut May 24 (SAM).

Pine Siskin – Very few reports of this irruptive finch have been made this spring, but one was at the Tip May 24 (MTT).

Clay-coloured Sparrow – One was found in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 27 (CB).

Yellow-breasted Chat – One was banded at Breakwater May 27, and another was observed there the following day (AI, BB).

Golden-winged Warbler – One was at Breakwater May 23 (AI, BB) and one was at the Tip May 24 (MAC).

Prothonotary Warbler – Migrants were observed at Breakwater May 19 (male), and May 26 (female). A singing male was also observed on Hastings Drive May 23 (SAM).

Connecticut Warbler – There was one along Hastings Drive May 23 (SAM) and one in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 25 (RP).

‘New’ Long Point P.P. | May 24 | Graham Wood

Kentucky Warbler – One delighted many birders in ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 24 (RW, GW et al.).

Yellow-throated Warbler – One was at Turkey Point Provincial Park May 23 (RC).

Cerulean Warbler – One male was observed on Hastings Drive May 23 (SAM), another at the Old LPPP May 24 (APT, KGB), and a female was observed at the Tip June 1 (MTT).

Prairie Warbler – Single birds were found at ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park May 25 (RP), Breakwater May 27 (AI, BB) and the Tip June 1 (MTT).

Breakwater | May 25 | Alex Israel & Brendan Boyd

 

Summer Tanager – Two were at Breakwater May 25 (AI, BB), and another was at Old Cut June 3 (RL).

Blue Grosbeak – A male was observed briefly at the Tip May 24 (SAM).

Dickcissel – One flew over the Tip June 1 (MAC).

 

Observers: Gregor Beck (GB), Brendan Boyd (BB), Courteney Brown (CB), Ken Burrell (KGB), Mark Conboy (MAC), Robert Curry (RC), Alex Israel (AI), Kevin Kavanagh (KK), Denis Lepage (DL), Ryan Leys (RL), Stu Mackenzie (SAM), Rob Porter (RP), Ron Ridout (RR), Adam Timpf (APT), Matt Timpf (MTT), Ross Wood (RW), Graham Wood (GW).

Abbreviations: LPPP – Long Point Provincial Park

 

 

 

 

 

APRIL 15 TO MAY 21:

 

Red-necked Grebe – Two were observed at Turkey Point May 13 (HD, HP).

Eurasian Collared Dove – One continuing bird was observed May 6 (RR), May 16 (JV), and May 19 (SAM).

White-winged Dove – One was present at a feeder on Concession A from May 5-10 (KW, SW).

American Avocet – Two were observed at Turkey Point beach May 2 (NH).

Whimbrel – One was observed at the Townsend Sewage Lagoons May 15-16 (MS, GS, CB). Three were observed at Turkey Point May 20 (SM).

Willet – One was observed at Turkey Point Beach May 16 (APT)

Red Knot – One was observed on Hastings Dr. May 18-19 (MD, SAM).

Ruff – One orange male was observed along Concession A, and later at the James Berry Drain on Lakeshore Rd. on May 3 (APT). The same individual was rediscovered along the Long Point Causeway May 16 (JV, DR, GR, NM).

Little Gull – Observed regularly observation on the Inner Bay, Old Cut, and Tip.

Laughing Gull – One adult was observed at the Tip May 21 (MAC, MTT).

White-eyed Vireo – One was observed in the Old LPPP May 3 (BF), and May 10 (RR). One was observed on Lighthouse Crst. May 18 (MAC).

Sedge Wren – One was observed at Old Cut May 8 (RR), and others in the New LPPP May 15 (HD, HP).

Fish Crow – One individual has been observed on and off in the vicinity of the New LPPP on numerous occasions (M.OBs.).

Pine Siskin – Two were observed at Old Cut May 20 (MAC).

Clay-coloured Sparrow – Individuals were observed at Old Cut (CB, JB) and the Tip (MAC) May 2, and May 13 (RR, SAM). Local birds are also back on territory. One was observed in Port Rowan May 7 (SAM), and Turkey Point May 4 (GB, ES).

American Tree Sparrow – One late individual was observed on Hastings Dr. May 14 (M.Obs.).

Fox Sparrow – A late individual was observed at Old Cut May 12 (SAM).

Yellow-breasted Chat – One was observed at the Port Rowan Wetlands May 18 (SAM).

Louisiana Waterthrush – One was observed at the Old LPPP May 1 (KC), and at Old Cut May 3 (SAM).

Golden-winged Warbler – One was observed at Old Cut May 14 (BF).

Lawrence’s Warbler – One was observed in the New LPPP May 16 (MP).

Prothonotary Warbler – One was observed along Concession A May 18 (SAM).

Orange-crowned Warbler – A very early migrant was at Old Cut April 29 (RR).

Hooded Warbler – Individuals were observed or heard in the Old Long Point Provincial Park 10, 15 and 18 (BF, RR, SAM, DT), and one male was at Old Cut May 17 (SAM). Another individual was observed and later banded at the Tip May 20 (LPBO).

Yellow-throated Warbler – One was heard in South Walsingham forest May 2 (JS, RS, SS), and a male was observed at Old Cut May 14 (SAM).

LeConte’s Sparrow – One was singing at Old Cut May 16 (SAM).

Summer Tanager – One young male was observed at Old Cut May 8 (SAM, RR). A female was observed in the New Long Point Provincial Park May 14 (RS, JS). Another young male was in Port Ryerse May 17-19 (PLJM).

Tufted Titmouse – One was observed at Old Cut May 15 (RR, SAM).

 

Observers: Cody Bassindale (CB), Gregor Beck (GB), Chris Boccia (CB), James Boccia (JB), Mark Conboy (MAC), Mark and Anna Dickson (MAD), Hannah Dodington (HD), Brett Fried (BF), Ethan Gosnell (EG), Nathan Hood (NH), Stu Mackenzie (SAM), Paul and Lou Jean MacNeal (PLJM), Nancy MacPherson (NM), Steve Moore (SM), Henqrique Pacheco (HP), Mark Pomeroy (MP), Ron Ridout (RR), Dan Riley (DR), Garth Riley (GR), Gis Segler (GS), Max Segler (MS), Jeff Skevington (JS), Richard Skevington (RS), Sharron Skevington (SS), Evan Sinclair (ES), Adam Timpf (APT), Matt Timpf (MTT), Josh Vandermuelen (JV), Kerrie Wilcox (KW), Steve Wilcox (SW).

 

Abbreviations: LPPP – Long Point Provincial Park

 

 

 

April 1 to 15:

 

The spring migration monitoring season officially began on April 1 at Old Cut. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, operations were scaled back markedly. The first two weeks of the season were characterized by generally unfavourable migration conditions, with lots of wind from any direction but seldom the south, and mild to downright cold weather. On April 13 we had a major sieche event and flooding, followed by 4 cm of snow on April 15. However, there were a few days of genuine migration and mild weather, and a handful of interesting sightings too.

 

Trumpeter Swan – Up to three individuals were seen from different locations around Inner Long Point Bay, including the causeway and Old Cut (multiple observers).

Snow Goose – One was at Port Rowan April 10 (SAM).

Red-throated Loon – One was seen from Port Rowan April 11 (anonymous observer).

Eurasian Collared-Dove – One flew over Old Cut April 13 (MAC).

Pectoral Sandpiper – One flew over Old Cut April 4 (MTT)

Little Gull – One flew past Old Cut April 9 (MAC),

Hairy Woodpecker – Though common on the mainland, this woodpecker is always a notable sighting on the point. One was at Old Cut April 13 (MTT, SAM).

Fish Crow – One was reported near Old Cut April 5 (KB). It was relocated in Port Rowan on April 6 (SAM, RR).

Common Raven – One was at South Coast Gardens near Turkey Point April 7 and 14 (ES, GB).

Tufted Titmouse – An ongoing titmouse was at South Coast Gardens near Turkey Point April 2 to 13 (ES, GB, KK).

American Pipit – An early pipit flew over Old Cut April 5 (MAC).

Rusty Blackbird – One to 10 daily at Old Cut (MAC, MTT).

Yellow-headed Blackbird – One was at a Forestville feeder April 15 (EH).

Orange-crowned Warbler – One was at Old Cut April 12 (MAC); this was likely the same bird that was reported from Hastings Drive April 9 (NH).

 

Observers: Gregor Beck (GB), Ken Burrell (KB), Mark Conboy (MAC), Erika Hastie (EH), Nathan Hood (NH), Kevin Kavanagh (KK), Stu Mackenzie (SAM), Ron Ridout (RR), Evan Sinclair (ES), and Matt Timpf (MTT).

 

 

Visitors are always welcome. Daily birding hikes depart the Old Cut Research Station one hour after sunrise, and banding demonstrations occur all morning until November 15. Owl monitoring will commence on fair-weather nights from October 1 to November 15. Explore the Long Point Birding Trail. You can help contribute to sightings in the Long Point area by submitting your sightings to eBird or by sharing them with us at lpbo@birdscanada.org. For more information on the research, education, and training programs of LPBO select this link and check out the 2018 LPBO Program Report. Your best source for information about the birds and birding sites around Long Point can be found in A Birding Guide to the Long Point Area by Ron Ridout, available at the LPBO Shoppe and Birds Canada headquarters.

If you enjoy these updates and wish to support the research, training, and conservation projects of the Long Point Bird Observatory, please consider supporting the Cygnus Crusaders in their Great Canadian Birdathon, or better yet, conduct your own Birdathon for LPBO.

LPBO’s Old Cut Research Station and Visitor Centre is open to the public during spring and fall migration (from April to mid-June, and early August to mid-November) from 9 a.m. until Noon.

The complete list of the birds of Long Point is available here.

November 1

This past week brought heavy southwest winds from Tropical Storm Olga, causing flooding along the Lake Erie shoreline. This was followed by another strong southwest storm on the evening of October 31 which caused further flooding and damage. Dawn and dusk blackbird flights have been impressive with a high count of 500,000 observed at Big Creek Marsh (SHM). Waterfowl movement is also quite impressive with thousands of Redhead flying over Old Cut daily and thousands of Scaup present on the Outer Bay.

Redhead – Thousands flying over Old Cut Dyke daily (LPBO)

Common Nighthawk – One flew over Old Cut October 28 (SHM)

American Golden-Plover – One was observed at the ‘New’ Provincial Park October 28 (eBird)

Hudsonian Godwit – Two were observed at the Tip October 28 (SAM)

Sanderling – Thirty flew by the ‘New’ Provincial Park November 1 (SAM)

Parasitic Jaeger – One was observed at the Tip October 27 (SAM)

Little Gull – One was observed off the Tip October 25 (SMJ). Another was observed on the Inner Bay October 25 (SAM). One was seen off the south shore of Long Point October 26 (SAM). Three were observed at the Port Rowan Harbour October 28 (SAM)

Black Tern – One was observed at the Tip October 27 (SHM). One was observed off Port Rowan Harbour October 28 (SAM)

American Bittern – One was observed along the Causeway October 29 (SHM)

Long-eared Owl – One was observed at the ‘New’ Provincial Park October 26 (ATT, TM, JC)

White-eyed Vireo – One was banded at Old Cut October 29 (LPBO)

Tree Swallow – Six were at the Tip October 27 (LPBO). Two flew over Old Cut October 30 (KGC, SHM).

Tennessee Warbler – One was observed at the Tip October 26 (SHM)

Observers: Kyle Cameron (KGC), Janice Chard (JC), Sean Jenniskens (SMJ), Stuart Mackenzie (SAM), Taylor Marshall (TM), Sam Meigs (SHM), Long Point Bird Observatory Staff and Volunteers (LPBO).

 

October 25

Snow Goose – One was observed at Old Cut October 18 (SHM).

Waterfowl – Tens of thousands of waterfowl are occupying Long Point’s Inner and Outer Bays dominated by Redhead, Canvasback, Scaup, and Ruddy Duck. Best viewing is from the Old Cut dyke in the AM to watch the flight to the lake or on the lake from the Long Point Provincial Park.

Red-necked Grebe – Two were observed at the Tip October 20 (SMJ).

Yellow-billed Cuckoo – One late individual was observed at the Tip October 17 (SMJ, KGC).

Sora – One was observed at the Tip October 17 (SBC).

Hudsonian Godwit – One was observed at the Tip October 23 (SMJ).

Pomarine Jaeger – Two were observed at the Tip October 22 (SMJ).

Parasitic Jaeger – A high count of three were observed off the Tip October 17 (SMJ, KGC, JBG).

Sabine’s Gull – One was observed off the Tip October 17 (SMJ).

Little Gull – One was observed at the Tip October 22 (SMJ), and at Port Dover October 23 (SAM).

Lesser Black-backed Gull – One was observed at the Tip October 19 (SBC).

Cattle Egret – Scattered sightings of one individual making the rounds near Port Rowan October 23 (SM, DL et al.) and a high count of four at Townsend Sewage Lagoons October 21-24 (JL).

Black-crowned Night Heron – One was observed at the Tip October 23 (LHS).

Northern Goshawk – One was observed at the Tip October 17 (SMJ) and one was at BSC Headquarters October 22 (AVT).

Yellow-bellied Flycatcher – A late individual was banded at Old Cut October 18 (LPBO).

White-eyed Vireo – One was at the ‘New’ Provincial Park October 17 and 19 (SAM, EG, EG2).

Varied Thrush – One flew over Old Cut October 17 (SAM).

Yellow-breasted Chat – One was banded at the Tip October 20 (LPBO).

Yellow-headed Blackbird – One was observed at BSC Headquarters October 18 (DL).

Blackbirds – The Long Point blackbird roost is approaching one million strong, primarily observed from the Big Creek National Wildlife Area at dusk.

Observers -Kyle Cameron (KGC), Santiago Castro (SBC), Ethan Gosnell (EG), Elaine Gosnell (EG2), Julian Grudens (JBG) Sean Jenniskens (SMJ), James Lees (JL), Denis Lepage (DL), Stu Mackenzie (SAM), Sean Macey (SM), Lakesha Smith (LHS), Antoine Turcotte (AVT), Long Point Bird Observatory Staff and volunteers (LPBO)

October 15

Consistently unfavourable winds continued to plague Long Point. Little glimmers of favourable northerly and westerly winds did deliver some migrants on occasion.

Waterfowl numbers and diversity are rising; several thousand Scaup, primarily Greaters, are observed at the Tip daily, and several thousand Redheads are being observed from the Old Cut dyke in the early morning. Twenty-five waterfowl species were observed in the area over the period.

Passerine movements in general have been lacklustre though some reasonably good movements of temperate migrants with a mix of late neotropical migrants were documented at both research stations this past weekend. Additionally, the river of blackbirds is starting to build with approximately 100,000 birds accumulating in the Big Creek National Wildlife Area every evening. Five to twenty thousand are being observed from Old Cut daily.

Highlights:

Tundra Swan – The first family of the season was observed near the Tip October 11 (KGC).

Snow Goose – One was observed flying over Old Cut October 5 (SAM).

Scoters – All three species (White-winged, Surf and Black) were observed with some regularity at the Tip (LPBO).

Horned Grebe – Three were observed on the Outer Bay October 7 (SAM).

Red-necked Grebe – One was observed at the Tip October 10 and 15 (LPBO).

Red Knot – One young bird was observed at Turkey Point beach October 11 (SAM).

American Golden-Plover – One was observed at Turkey Point beach October 6 (SAM).

Stilt Sandpiper – One bird was observed at Silver Lake in Port Dover October 5 (APT). Five were observed at Turkey Point beach October 6 (SAM), and one remained for October 8 (HG).

Pectoral Sandpiper – Seven were observed at Turkey Point beach October 11 (RR).

Spotted Sandpiper – One was observed near the Tip October 11 (KGC).

Little Gull – One was observed at the Tip October 12 (JBG, KGC).

Lesser Black-backed Gull – One bird was observed from Old Cut October 5 (SMJ) and another at the Tip October 9 and 14 (LPBO).

Red-throated Loon – Individuals were observed from Old Cut October 5 and 7 (SAM, JBG).

American Bittern – Individuals were observed at Old Cut October 8 and 9 (JBG, SMJ).

Least Bittern – One was observed at the Tip October 6 (SBC).

Yellow-crowned Night-Heron – One immature bird was reported at the Tip October 7 (SBC). If accepted, this would be the 5th record for Long Point and the first since 1987.

Northern Goshawk – One individual was observed at Old Cut October 7 (SAM).

Red-shouldered Hawk – Several individuals were observed throughout the period (LPBO).

Broad-winged Hawk – One was observed over Old Cut October 8 (SMJ).

Northern Saw-whet Owl – The first of the season was banded at Old Cut October 8 (LPBO).

Peregrine Falcon – Several individuals were observed throughout the period from both Old Cut and the Tip, with a high count of six at the Tip October 12 (LPBO).

White-eyed Vireo – One young bird was observed in the New Long Point Provincial Park October 12 (SAM).

Western Kingbird – One was observed at The Coves on October 4 (RS).

Bank Swallow – One was observed at the Tip October 13 (SKA).

Purple Finch – One was observed at Old Cut October 7 (SAM).

Northern Waterthrush – One was observed at the Tip October 5 (SBC).

Ovenbird – One was banded at Old Cut October 14 (LPBO).

‘Yellow’ Palm Warbler – One was banded at Old Cut October 14 (LPBO).

Observers: Shane Abernethy (SKA), Jody Allair (JRA), David Bradley (DB), James Casey (JC), Santiago Castro (SBC), Brett Fried (JBF), Callum Gibson (CPG), Eric Giles (EG), Henny Giles (HG), Julian Grudens (JBG), Sean Jenniskens (SMJ), Stuart Mackenzie (SAM), Taylor Marshall (TM), Sam Meigs (SHM), Ron Ridout (RR), Elijah Rodgers (EJR), Richard Skevington (RS), Graham Sorenson (GS), Adam Timpf (APT), Matt Timpf (MTT), Long Point Bird Observatory Staff and volunteers (LPBO)

 

October 4

Highlights:

Surf Scoter – One was observed at the Tip September 30 (SMJ).

White-winged Scoter – Small numbers are now being observed regularly from the Tip (LPBO).

Black-billed Cuckoo – One was banded at Old Cut October 3 (LPBO).

Chimney Swift – One was observed at Old Cut October 1 (SMJ, JBG).

Lesser Black-backed Gull – One was observed at the Tip September 30 (SMJ).

Peregrine Falcon – Numerous individuals have been moving through the area (M. Obs.).

LeConte’s Sparrow – One was observed at the Tip October 3 (EJR)

Rusty Blackbird – Present in small numbers throughout the area during this period (M. Obs.).

Orange-crowned Warbler – Observed regularly throughout the area. (M. Obs.).

Observers: Julian Grudens (JBG), Sean Jenniskens (SMJ), Elijah Rodgers (EJR), Long Point Bird Observatory Staff and volunteers (LPBO).

September 30

Passage was a little slow as strong southerly winds and warm temperatures prevailed. Activity picked up a little with the onset of strong northerlies over the weekend. Bird diversity is at its seasonal high as warblers and flycatchers mix with kinglets and sparrows. Waterfowl numbers are also building on Long Point’s Inner Bay and Lake Erie. There was a big push of Monarch butterflies this week with 5,202 observed at the Tip alone.

Highlights:

Cackling Goose – One was observed at the Tip September 29 (SMJ).

Long-tailed Duck – Two were observed at Gravelly Bay September 19 (KGC, SBC, SKA).

Horned Grebe – One was observed at the Tip September 26 (SMJ).

Eastern Whip-poor-will – One was observed at Old Cut September 26 (SKA).

Pectoral Sandpiper – One was at the Tip September 27-29 (SMJ).

Parasitic Jaeger – One was observed at the Tip September 24 (SMJ).

Little Gull – Individuals were observed off the Tip September 24-26 (SMJ) and two were at Turkey Point September 29 (SAM).

Bonaparte’s Gull – A high count of 2,090 were observed at the Tip September 25 (SMJ).

Lesser Black-backed Gull – One was observed at the Tip September 26 and 29 (SMJ).

Horned Lark – The first migrant of the season was observed in the ‘New’ Provincial Park September 24 (eBird).

American Pipit – The first migrants of the season were observed in the ‘New’ Provincial Park September 24 (M.Obs.).

Nelson’s Sparrow – One was at the ‘New’ Provincial Park September 22 (CL).

Connecticut Warbler – Perhaps the last individual of the season flew over the ‘New’ Provincial Park September 24 (SAM).

Eastern Meadowlark – The first migrants were observed in the ‘New’ Provincial Park September 24 (M.Obs.).

Rusty Blackbird – Present in small numbers throughout the area during this period (M.Obs.).

Dickcissel – One flew over Port Rowan September 22 (SAM).

Observers: Shane Abernethy (SKA), Kyle Cameron (KGC), Santiago Castro (SBC), Sean Jenniskens (SMJ), Catriona Leven (CL), Stuart Mackenzie (SAM), Long Point Bird Observatory cooperators (LPBO).

September 23

We are now around the peak for warbler diversity and numbers for many species, with some mid-season birds starting to show up more frequently. Waterfowl diversity and numbers are slowly increasing in the area as well.

Persistent high pressure, warm temperatures, and clear skies over the past two weeks have created perfect conditions for migration with slow, steady activity on the ground. As expected with such conditions, migrant activity at Breakwater and Old Cut was relatively high, where reasonable stopover habitat exists, but the Tip was largely devoid of birds aside from a few days with unsettled weather. The Tip typically doesn’t stay silent for long and on the afternoon of September 22, Long Point’s 2nd Vermillion Flycatcher was observed! The last week of September typically provides the greatest diversity of birds as neotropical migrants are in full force and the first temperate migrants begin to show up. A few big movements and some goodies are also probable so keep your eyes on the weather and Go Birding!

Highlights:

Trumpeter Swan – One bird was observed at the Tip September 18 (KGC).

Surf Scoter – Four birds were observed at Breakwater September 14 (MTT).

Common Merganser – Nine birds were observed at Breakwater September 19 (MTT).

Horned Grebe – One was observed at Breakwater September 5 (SMJ).

Common Nighthawk – Peak migration was observed between September 6-8 at Big Creek National Wildlife Area with counts over 100 each night. A high-count of 282 were counted at Big Creek NWA September 8 (SAM, TM, RR, APT).

Eastern Whip-poor-will – Individuals were at the St. Williams Conservation Reserve (EG) and Timpf Farm (APT) September and 7 and 9, respectively.

American Golden-Plover – One was at Breakwater September 6 (SMJ).

Whimbrel – Two were observed at Breakwater September 9 (JBG, SMJ). One was observed at the Turkey Point Marina September 16 (DB,GS) and September 19 (JRA).

Long-tailed Jaeger – One was observed at the Tip September 15 (SHM).

Parasitic Jaeger – One was observed at the Tip September 16 (KGC).

Little Gull – Six were observed at the Tip September 16 (EJR, SHM).

Lesser Black-backed Gull – One immature bird was observed from the ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park September 8 (SAM).

Black-crowned Night-Heron – Individuals were observed at Big Creek NWA, Old Cut, Breakwater and the Tip September 9 (SAM), September 15 (SAM), September 8 (SMJ), and September 16 (EJR), respectively.

Red-headed Woodpecker – Individuals were observed at Breakwater (4) September 15 and 16, and one was banded at the Tip September 16 (LPBO). Individuals were observed at Old Cut September 14, 15, and 21 (LPBO). Sightings away from the Point included an immature at Port Ryerse September 19 (JRA, PD, AMR, RR) and an adult at St. Williams September 22 (RR).

Peregrine Falcon – Several were observed for the period, including two at Old Cut September 8 (CPG), singles at Breakwater September 6, 10 and 19 (LPBO), Long Point Eco Adventures September 17 (DL, RR, JRA, SAM), the Tip September 18 (LPBO), and BSC HQ September 23 (PD).

Olive-sided Flycatcher – Individuals were observed at the Tip (JBF) and Breakwater (MTT) September 8 and 17 respectively.

Photo: Emma Buck

Vermilion Flycatcher – A young bird was observed at the Tip the afternoon of September 22 (SM, ERB). This is Long Point’s 2nd Vermilion Flycatcher after a long run as one of Long Point’s ‘next’ birds. The first, an adult male, was observed April 27, 2018.

Yellow-throated Vireo – One was banded at Breakwater September 11 (LPBO), and another was observed September 19 (JBG).

Tufted Titmouse – A lone individual was observed at Backus Woods September 18 (KGB).

Yellow-breasted Chat – One was observed at Old Cut September 15 (SAM)

Rusty Blackbird – Individuals were observed at Old Cut September 8 (CPG), Breakwater on September 16 (MTT), and the Tip on September 17 (KGC).

Orange-crowned Warbler – Individuals were observed at Breakwater September 9 (SMJ) and September 15 (JBG), and Turkey Point Conservation Reserve September 16 (DB, JC, GS).

Golden-winged Warbler – One was observed at Old Cut September 15 (SAM).

Connecticut Warbler – Numerous individuals were observed at all three research stations throughout the period.

Blackpoll Warbler – High counts of 325 and 255 were observed on September 11 at Breakwater and the Tip respectively (LPBO).

Dickcissel – One was observed flying over Port Rowan September 22 (SAM).

Observers: Jody Allair (JRA), David Bradley (DB), Emma Buck (ERB), James Casey (JC), Pete Davidson (PD), Brett Fried (JBF), Callum Gibson (CPG), Eric Giles (EG), Julian Grudens (JBG), Sean Jenniskens (SMJ), Denis Lepage (DL), Stuart Mackenzie (SAM), Taylor Marshall (TM), Sam Meigs (SHM), Anne Marie Ridout (AMR), Ron Ridout (RR), Elijah Rodgers (EJR), Graham Sorenson (GS), Adam Timpf (APT), Matt Timpf (MTT), Long Point Bird Observatory Staff and volunteers (LPBO)

 

September 6

The first week of September brought cooler temperatures and mainly clear skies overnight resulting in significant migration. That hasn’t necessarily translated into lots of birds on the ground. Nevertheless, passerine diversity has increased and numbers are steadily climbing. The vast swallow roosts of recent weeks have now dwindled an echo of the hundreds of thousands of just a week ago. Purple Martin numbers have also decreased from a peak of 30,000 at Old Cut to about 5,000. September can often rival May in terms of diversity and brilliance in our region, so get outside and Go Birding!

Highlights:

Trumpeter Swan – One was observed along the south shore of Long Point September 5 (JBF, MTT).

Horned Grebe – An individual was observed at the Tip September 4 (EJR).

Lesser Black-backed Gull – One adult was observed at the Tip September 5 (JBF).

Eastern Whip-poor-will – One was banded at the Tip September 3 (LPBO).

American Golden Plover – One was at Breakwater September 3 (MTT) and one was observed along the south shore of Long Point September 5 (JBF, EJR).

Red Knot – An individual was at Townsend’s Sewage Lagoons September 4 (JL).

Stilt Sandpiper – Two were at Townsend’s Sewage Lagoons September 4 and three were present there September 5 (JL).

Baird’s Sandpiper – One was at the Tip August 29 (JBF, EJR).

Buff-breasted Sandpiper – One was observed along the south shore of Long Point September 5 (JBF, MTT).

Black-crowned Night-Heron – Two were at Old Cut September 4 (SMJ).

Olive-sided Flycatcher – Numerous individuals were observed at all three research stations throughout the period (LPBO).

Red-headed Woodpecker – One was observed at Breakwater September 3 (LPBO).

Winter Wren – An individual was observed at Fairnorth Farm September 1 (KB).

Northern Mockingbird – One was observed at the Tip August 29 and September 1 (LPBO).

Eastern White-crowned Sparrow – The same individual has been lingering at Old Cut throughout the period (LPBO).

Orchard Oriole – One was at Old Cut August 28 & 29 (CPG & SMJ) and another at Breakwater September 1 (MTT).

Blue-winged Warbler – One was banded at Old Cut August 31 (LPBO).

Brewster’s Warbler – This hybrid was banded at Breakwater August 31 (LPBO).

Connecticut Warbler – One was banded at Old Cut while two were banded and three more observed at the Tip September 5 (LPBO).

Hooded Warbler – One was banded at Old Cut and Breakwater August 31 (LPBO).

Blackpoll Warbler – A respectable 263 were observed at the Tip September 4 (LPBO).

Prairie Warbler – One was observed at Breakwater September 5 (MTT).

Observers: Kathryn Boothby (KB), Brett Fried (JBF), Sean Jenniskens (SMJ), James Lees (JL), Elijah Rodgers (EJR), Matt Timpf (MTT), Long Point Bird Observatory Staff and volunteers (LPBO)

August 30

Migration has been generally slow and steady with increasing diversity but no significant movements to speak of, except for the astonishing evening swallow and martin roosts in the Long Point wetland complex. The roost at Big Creek National Wildlife Area was in excess of 100,000 birds with numerous other roosts in the tens of thousands. More than 30,000 Purple Martin spent nights somewhere in the Long Point Crown Marsh and Company marshes west of Old Cut. Unfortunately these roosts can be difficult to observe. The best vantage points are from any of the three observation platforms in or surrounding Big Creek NWA or on the Old Cut Dyke in the half hour of twilight after sunset.

Highlights:

White-winged Scoter – Two were observed at Breakwater August 23 (ZWD).

Red-breasted Merganser – One was observed at the Tip August 23-29 (SAM, JBF).

Common Nighthawk – Birds were observed regularly at dusk from the Old Cut Dyke and Big Creek NWA (LPBO).

Whimbrel – One was observed flying over Big Creek NWA August 24 (SAM).

Ruddy Turnstone – One bird was observed at the Tip August 24, 25, 28 (SAM, JBF).

Baird’s Sandpiper – Individuals were observed at the ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park August 22, and the Tip August 25 (eBird, JBF).

White-rumped Sandpiper – One was present at Silver Lake in Port Dover August 28 (SAM).

Pectoral Sandpiper – One was present at Silver Lake in Port Dover August 28 (SAM). Yellowlegs sp. – One flock totalling 50 Lesser and 10 Greater was observed at Breakwater August 27 (MTT).

Least Bittern – Two were heard from the Old Cut Dyke August 28 (SMJ).

Peregrine Falcon – Several individuals were observed from the Tip, Big Creek NWA, Old Cut, and the ‘New’ Provincial Park (SAM, CG, JBG).

Prairie Falcon – Long Point’s second record was observed between the ‘New’ Provincial Park and Breakwater August 24 (SAM, RWW). Coincidentally, the first was observed at the Tip 23 years to the day in 1996. One observed December 18, 1976 was thought to be a bird that had recently escaped a falconer near Toronto.

Olive-sided Flycatcher – Individuals have been observed regularly at Old Cut and Breakwater (LPBO) with birds banded at Old Cut August 25 & 28 and at Breakwater August 29.

Swallows – A roost of more than 100,000 birds was present at Big Creek National Wildlife Area August 24 through 28 dwindling to about 50,000 on the 29th. The reduction may just be a result of wind conditions. The roost is comprised of Bank, Barn, and Tree swallows and very small numbers of Rough-winged and Cliff swallows. Lower numbers of Purple Martins are roosting further west,.

Purple Martin – High counts of 30,000 were observed at Old Cut (SMJ) and 12,500 at Breakwater (MTT, ZWD) August 27 and August 28 respectively.

Northern Mockingbird – Individuals were observed at all three stations this week; the Tip August 29 (EJR), Breakwater August 25 (MTT), and Old Cut August 29 (SAM).

Orchard Oriole – One was observed at Old Cut August 28 & 29 (LPBO).

Blue-winged Warbler – One was observed at Breakwater on August 23 (MTT) while another was at the Timpf Farm August 24 (APT).

Hooded Warbler – One female was banded at Breakwater August 20 (LPBO).

Prairie Warbler – One was observed at the Tip August 28 (JBF).

Observers:

Brett Fried (JBF), Callum Gibson (CG), Julian Grudens (JBG), Sean Jenniskens (SMJ), Stuart Mackenzie (SAM), Elijah Rodgers (EJR), Adam Timpf (APT), Matthew Timpf (MTT), Julie Webber (ZWD), Ross Wood (RWW), Long Point Observatory Staff and Volunteers (LPBO).

August 19

Trumpeter Swan – Three were observed at Turkey Point Marina July 21 (RH).

Tundra Swan – One individual lingered throughout spring and was last observed at Lee Brown WMA June 14 (KGC).

Long-tailed Duck – One male over-summered near the Tip (LPBO).

Ring-necked Pheasant – One was spotted along Norfolk County Road 60 July 17 and 18 (MVB, CJ).

White-winged Dove – One continued at the Tip until June 8 (LPBO).

Common Nighthawk – The first migrant of the season was observed at Old Cut August 18 (LPBO).

Upland Sandpiper – One flew over the ‘New’ Provincial Park August 8 (KGB).

Whimbrel – One flew over St. Williams July 21 (RR).

Baird’s Sandpiper – One was observed at Breakwater August 4 (SMJ).

Red-necked Phalarope – One was observed at the Tip August 10 (SAM).

Lesser Black-backed Gull – One was at the ‘New’ Provincial Park July 11 (SAM).

Red-throated Loon – An individual seen flying over Old Cut August 18 provided a first for August Long Point record (ER).

Common Loon – A summering group of 123 was observed on the Outer Bay June 26 (SAM).

Heron sp.- A smaller (than a Great Blue) dark heron seen flying at Highway 59 and Highway 3 in Courtland July 18 (DL) raised suspicions of Little Blue Heron.

Great Egret – A high count of 23 were observed at Breakwater August 14 (MTT, SMJ). They can be observed daily from the Old Cut dyke at dawn.

Merlin – A Simcoe nest which produced three young provided the first confirmed breeding record for Norfolk C83ounty.

Peregrine Falcon – Two were observed flying over the ‘New’ Provincial Park August 9 (KGB). One flew over Silver Lake August 10 (YOW).

Olive-sided Flycatcher – Individuals were observed at Breakwater August 11, 13 and 14 (MTT) and at Old Cut August 14 (SAM).

Bank Swallow – Large numbers can be found throughout late July and August at Long Point. High counts this year were 65,000 from the ‘New’ Long Point Provincial Park August 9 and 30,000 at Breakwater August 15 (MTT, SMJ).

Purple Martin – Up to 25,000 are estimated to be in the greater Long Point area occupying numerous smaller roosts ranging in size from 500 to 12,000 birds. There were high counts of 6,000 at Breakwater August 10 (MTT, SMJ) and 12,000 at Old Cut August 15 (ERB).

Golden-crowned Kinglet – One was observed in the Old Cut woodlot August 17 (ER, CG).

Photo: Stu Mackenize

Henslow’s Sparrow – A territorial male was present near Walsingham from early June through early August (APT). It was observed carrying food in mid-July but breeding was not otherwise confirmed. This is the first summer record at Long Point since 2005. The last migrant was at Old Cut April 29, 2011.

White-crowned Sparrow – One moulting adult was banded at Old Cut August 9 (LPBO). This is the first August record for Long Point.

Golden-winged Warbler – One male was observed at Breakwater August 14 (MTT)

Observers: Emma Buck (ERB), Kenneth Burrell (KGB), Mike Burrell (MVB), Kyle Cameron (KGC), Erica Dunn (ED), Anonymous eBirder (eBird), Callum Gisbon (CG), Randy Husson (RH), Colin Jones (CJ), Denis Lepage (DL), Stuart Mackenzie (SAM), Ron Ridout (RR), Elijah Rodgers (ER), Adam Timpf (APT), Matt Timpf (MTT) Young Ornithologist Workshop Participants (YOW), Long Point Bird Observatory Staff and Volunteers.