Uxbridge Dickcissel

[Lloyd]

An early morning drive has rewarded me with stunning views of the oft-mentioned male Dickcissel spotted just north of Uxbridge. This bird has been observed for the past several days as noted on the birdingonthe.net website. Settling on a hydro wire not 40 feet away, myself and several other birders enjoyed a great viewing and listening opportunity that lasted for several minutes. One friendly observer offered up the view through his scope which brought the image within inches of our eyes. Rumor has it the female is nearby (not confirmed).

[Ron Luft]

Following the directions ( Uxbridge; Main St. north to Co. Rd. 11, West to Cons. Rd. 4, north to Fire address 11099) to get there, we wondered if we were on the right road when we crested a rise and saw cars parked to the side of the road. Bingo! The Dickcissel had just gone on 'break' for a while but patience on our part was rewarded after half an hour or so. This is apparently his norm, so if you go and he's away on lunch;  wait, he'll be back. He announced his presence with a few calls while still relaxing, to keep us interested. When he did get back to work, perching and singing, his voice was drowned in the haying machinery din now behind us E. of the road. He was in the rough cut area W. of the road (opposite 11099 driveway) where there won't be any haying so he may stay around a while. He was a 'lifer' for several people there including myself. There were a few Savannah's and Song's around as well. An Osprey flew over to the north hunting the Wetland Reserve .5km up the road. From there we followed the back roads and found our way into the Holland Landing sewage lagoons which boad well for more visits; both Yellowlegs, Solitary, Least, Spotted and many Killdeer. Good access and viewing. Good for butterflies as well.

Follow Co. Rd. 51 north out of Holland.Lndg. 1.8 km. to Cedar St., turn R. and go 600M to the end, park and navigate the gates straight ahead. Holland Landing is still on Provincial Road maps just north of Newmarket and is in danger of being overshadowed by the urban blight of big box stores.