Monday, October 22, 2012

October 21, 2012 Ducks at a distance - Tufted Duck update.

Hi Everyone
 
 The Tufted Duck was still present at Shirley's Bay on October 21st. It was viewed by a number of birders and photographed. I haven't seen any of the new photos yet. Based on all the feed back it appears that it is a Tufted Duck and not a hybrid. If anyone has taken better photos than mine please send me copies. The Tufted Duck is a very rare visitor to Ontario.  Observations in eastern Ontario have been in the Kingston and Ottawa areas, and Presqu'ile Provincial Park. There is only one previous record for the Ottawa-Gatineau district, an immature male at Shirley's Bay from April 30-May 9, 2003. Any additional docuemation would be appreciated.
 
Good birding, Bruce
 
Directions: Shirley's Bay: From Ottawa take Hwy. 417 west to the Moodie Drive exit and turn north (right) on Moodie Drive and continue to Carling Ave. Turn left at Carling Ave. and follow Carling to Rifle Road. Turn right (north) on Rifle Rd. Park at the lot at the end (boat launch). Walk back to the road, and continue through the gate on the Department of National Defense property. There is a trail on your right (clearly marked with vehicle "No Entry" signs) which heads into the woods, and, eventually to the causeway. There is lots of POISON IVY along the causeway.

**** PLEASE NOTE**** YOU MUST OBTAIN PERMISSION FROM THE RANGE CONTROL
OFFICE BEFORE ENTERING THE SHIRLEY'S BAY AREA-- Call (613) 991-5740and request permission to visit the causeway area for birding
 
 


Another distanct view of the Tufted Duck from October 20,2012.

photo: Ben Di Labio

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