Join the Nature Guelph Bird Wing group in search of owls and other birds on Amherst Island in eastern Ontario. We’re optimistic about encountering Snowy Owl, Short-eared Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl, Long-eared Owl, Rough-legged Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk and Northern Harrier. Our search will also include the rarer Gyrfalcon and Boreal Owl and other birds of interest: Horned Larks, Snow Buntings, and Lapland Longspur.
Meet between 10:00 and 10:15 am at the Millhaven Ferry, 5604 Bath Road, Millhaven, Ontario
Amherst Island is in Lake Ontario 10 km west of Kingston and about 3 kms offshore. The 33-car Frontenac II ferry provides service to and from Amherst Island 365 days a year. This trip involves catching the ferry in Millhaven, Ontario and exploring Amherst Island for much of the day and past dusk. There will be some hikes (Owl Woods) as well as birding from car for this trip.
Amherst Island has little to no facilities in the winter so come prepared for a full day with food and water. Washrooms are available at the ferry terminal on the island. The following is recommended: layered clothing, insulated boots, ice grippers, winter jacket, hat, mitts, snow pants, a field lunch, snacks, plenty of water, warm beverages, lens cloth, lip balm, sunscreen and favourite field guides. Snowshoes are optional. Ensure your vehicle has plenty of fuel.
Overnight Accommodations Recommended: Book in Advance
As we are starting early Saturday morning and ending our birding day at dusk, it is possible you may wish to stay the night in Kingston before and after the tour. There are a variety of accommodations available, so please simply choose what’s right for you.
Interested?
Confirm your participation in advance by emailing Marlene at birdwing@slategray-goat-873595.hostingersite.com.
Email us if you have any questions about the trip.
Above photo: Brett Forsyth