Such an exciting day today. I went to Amherst Island and was very skeptical in line for the ferry. There were several groups and lots of people! Somehow, it wasn't too bad when I first arrived at the Owl Woods. I was looking for my first Saw Whet Owl. There was one in a clump of cedars before the Owl Woods, but it was up high and all snuggled into the tree trunk - couldn't really make it out. I saw the Boreal Owl again - beautiful. On my way out, I saw my first Saw Whet. It is by far my favourite bird I have ever seen.
It is so tiny, with gorgeous colouration and just so beautiful. There were many photographers, but fortunately I got my pics before the numbers got too high. I did see the Snowy Owl on the KFN property again and again very far away. I did get a good look at a Short-Eared Owl in flight and perched (no pics though). Saw a beautiful Kestrel sunning itself for some time and a Harrier flying low and landing on the ground (no pics). Met some very nice people and a few not so nice ones too
. Saw nuthatches, chickadees, american tree sparrow, downy woodpeckers and heard the red-bellied woodpecker, but did not see him. Saw a beaver while waiting for the ferry - seemed odd.
On the drive along the 401 I saw many hawks and a barred owl near Belleville. With some info from birders at Amherst, saw the Hawk Owl on the way home.
My birdwatching has been slow lately, but six owls in one day - makes my day! Bring on the elf owls
