Volume 27, Number 1 March 2011

The Egret the Newsletter of the Essex County Field Naturalists’ Club

Inside this issue … Essex County Field Naturalists Club Bluebird Award...... 1 Bluebird Committee Report 2010 ECFNC Contacts ...... 2 By Don Bissonnette Owl Prowl...... 9 Photos by Graham Brown 17th Pelee Island Weekend...... 10 Bluebird production was good in Essex County in 2010. Phragmites...... 11 We counted 24 successful pairs of bluebirds who Cedar Creek C.A ...... 13 produced 154 fledglings. We also counted 120 Winter Waterfowl Excursion ...... 13 successful pairs of tree swallows. Our club Bird-Houses Cedar Creek Bird Count ...... 14 had the most productive year yet! Here is the data from Holiday Beach Bird Count...... 16 the past few years.

Bald Eagles Peche Island...... 20 Ojibway Nature Centre Hikes...... 21 Year #BB Fledged Kittiwake & Eider Detroit River... 25 2007 56 Point Pelee Birds 2010 ...... 26 2008 82 2009 86 Activities & Excursions...... 34 2010 95 Membership Form ...... 38 Fishes of Essex County...... 38 It’s good to see a ECFNC Monthly Meetings steady increase in Except for our outdoor meetings in July and Bluebird fledgling August, monthly members’ meeting are held the production. Thank second Wednesday of the month at 7:30 pm at you to everyone who Windsor Airport’s new community room at the west end of the airport terminal building. helped to make this From Division Road (County Road 42) turn happen. north on Duncan McColl Road (1st street west of airport terminal entrance) then turn right (east) … continued on page 3 on Hayes Road (1st right) and drive to the end. Park on south side of long white garage. Community room is adjacent and east of this parking area. The Egret March 2011

About the Club … ECFNC Contacts

The Essex County Field Naturalists’ President: Phil Roberts (519-776-8315) Club was incorporated in March 1985. Vice-President: Joe Parent (519-322-0004) We are a registered charitable Secretary: Linda Menard-Watt (519-734-1879) organization which promotes the Treasurer: Teresa Austrin (519-322-0004) appreciation and conservation of our natural heritage. ECFNC provides the Directors: Karen Cedar (519-966-5852), Denise Hartley community opportunities to become (519-735-1926), Tom Hurst (519-839-4635), Dave acquainted with and understand our Kraus (519-825-7491), Mike Malone (519-326-5193), natural world through identification, Ron Muir (519-736-6507), Margaret Jennings (519- maintenance and preservation of the 250-0705), Gerry Waldron (519-736-1276) natural areas within Essex County and surrounding regions. ECFNC is Chairpersons/Liaisons: affiliated with Ontario Membership Secretary: Denise Hartley Nature/Federation of Ontario Ontario Nature Liaison: JoAnn Grondin Naturalists. The Egret is published ERCA Liaison: Phil Roberts/Tom Hurst quarterly. To receive information on Carolina Woods Liaison: Ruth Junge the Essex County Field Naturalists’ Point Pelee Liaison: Phil Roberts/Mike Malone Club or to submit articles, letters, Bluebird Committee Chairman: Don Bissonnette reports, etc., please write to: NHRP Seed Collection: Bruno Sfalcin

Special Events Coordinator: Karen Cedar Essex County Field Naturalists’ Essex County Stewardship Network Liaison: Linda Club Menard-Watt Devonshire Mall P.O. Ojibway Liaison: Karen Cedar P. O. Box 23011 Citizens Environment Alliance Liaison: Phil Roberts Windsor, Ontario N8X 5B5 Windsor Planning Advisory Comm. Liaison: Phil Roberts Information Canada South Land Trust Liaison: Tom Hurst Detroit River Canadian Cleanup Liaison: Phil

Roberts/Ian Naisbitt ECFNC website www.ojibway.ca/ecfn.htm Committees: Egret email Egret Editorial: Betty Learmouth, Karen Cedar [email protected] Speaker: ECFNC directors ECFNC fax # 519-839-4795 Field Trip: JoAnn Grondin, Margaret Jennings Heritage: JoAnn Grondin (coordinator), Margaret Ojibway Nature Centre Jennings, Dave Kraus, Betty Learmouth, Muriel 519-966-5852 Kassimatis, Jim McAllister, Bruno Sfalcin, Gerry Point Pelee National Park Waldron, Peg Wilkinson, Shirley Grondin, Cathy Lapain 519-322-5700 Annual Dinner: Heritage & Special Events Committees Essex Region Conservation Auth. Little River Enhancement Group: Ian Naisbitt, Tom 519-776-5209 Henderson

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Bluebird Committee Report 2010 (continued from page 1)

Last Winter in February and March we washed and inspected all of the club Birdhouses and some of the affiliate Birdhouses. We were fortunate to have good weather. Thanks to Graham Brown, Cy Poisson, Bob Tanner, Ray Look–Kan and Caroline Williamson for all their hard work and dedication.

The Kingsville transfer Station had a complete renovation. Caney Creek, Doyle’s, O’Neil’s all received new birdhouses. Some of us spent a morning at Orchard View Golf Course, helping Mary Wilson with renovations to that large trail.

Wintering Bluebirds The 2009-10 winter was mild. There were many reports of wintering Bluebirds.

Alex and Shirley Michinski enjoyed a wintering flock of Bluebirds at their farm. On bad weather days, the flock of 8 birds stayed in the wooded area at the back of the farm. There they fed on Wild Grape, Sumac, Rose Hips and Juniper Berries. On fair weather days, the birds came up to the Michinski’s home to feed on Holly Berries. After a snow fall Alex swept the snow off the Holly bushes, so his guests could have a meal. Sometime in February a new Bluebird joined the flock bringing the total to 9 birds. On sunny pleasant days in February the bluebirds inspected the 27 Birdhouses on the Michinski Farm.

I also had wintering Bluebirds last year. They enjoyed the heated bird bath and dried currants, raisins and cranberries. In November 2009 there was a flock of 12 bluebirds visiting my place. They’d arrive most mornings eat, drink and move on. They would often return once or twice during the day. I might not see them for a day or two if the weather was bad. Through the winter ,this flock broke up into smaller groups. Like the Michinski flock on nice days in February they would visit the houses in my hayfield and in my neighbour’s (Ford’s) yard.

Firsts Feb 20th- Male Bluebird Singing. Don Bissonnette-One bachelor male sang, several times in the late morning while sitting on a birdhouse at Tuckette Farms, near Harrow. He found a mate on March 10th. March 16th Start of a Bluebird Nest - Don Bissonnette - The above mentioned pair set a new record for us. In the morning the female was seen carrying straw into the birdhouse. By evening there was ¼ “ of straw in the house. March 24th - Tree Swallow - Doyle’s - near Harrow-(Bob Tanner) March 27th- Tree Swallow– Backyard - East of Kingsville –(Graham Brown) March 29th - Tree Swallow - Woodland Hills Golf Course – (Gil Breton) March 29th - Wood Duck - - On his farm near Essex- (Cy Poisson) April 1st - Hummingbird - Observed at the Poisson’s . Cy and Monica assure us that this is no April Fool’s Joke. Cy immediately put up a hummingbird feeder. The visitor stayed a few days then disappeared. April 6th Bluebird Egg - - Discovered at the Harrow research station (Don Bissonnette) April 28th Bluebird Hatchling - Godard’s near Harrow-( Bob Tanner) May 3rd – Tree Swallow Egg – Kingsville Transfer Station( Graham Brown) May 12th - Bluebird Fledglings - -Godard’s near Harrow (Bob Tanner)

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The Bluebird Brunch Our Annual Brunch was held at Rose’s Kitchen in Essex on Saturday Oct. 16th. 14 people attended and had a good time. It was great to hear about everyone’s discoveries and experiences. Thanks to Caroline Kopchuk, Bob Tanner, Mary Wilson & Lori Doyle for donating the prizes. Clarie & Marg Calder won the prestigious “Top Producer “award with 39 bluebirds fledged. Bob Tanner was a close second with 37 Bluebirds fledged.

News from the Trails

Mother-Wood Trail – The Calders had a great year at the Mother-Wood trail . There were 4 pairs of Bluebirds which produced 31 eggs. There were no dud eggs ; all of these eggs hatched. On top of that all 31 nestlings grew and fledged successfully. Marg calls it “a perfect year.” This is amazing because most large trails have a few dud eggs, dead nestlings, and nest failures each year.

Altenhof Trail – The Best year yet! The 7 Birdhouses hosted 3 successful pairs of Bluebirds. These birds produced 21 fledglings, in 5 broods.

The pair of Bluebirds in birdhouse #1 had a successful spring brood, with 3 fledglings. Unfortunately, soon after the young fledged a pair House Wrens laid claim to the house. Also the 6 other houses were all occupied with Bluebirds, House Wrens and late nesting Tree Swallows. Often a pair of bluebirds in this situation will relocate. However, this pair stayed. They were often seen in a large Poplar. This tree had an abandoned woodpecker hole. Their spring fledglings were also seen in this tree. Hopefully, this pair had a successful nest in the natural cavity. This cavity was 30’ up so I was not able to monitor it.

There are a lot of natural cavities at the Altenhof property. Most of these are old woodpecker nests. Beside the pair of bluebirds there were 2 pairs of Tree Swallows nesting in abandoned woodpecker nests. Every year there are a few cases of secondary cavity nesters using the woodpecker nests, at the Altenhofs . In 2009, there were a pair of House Wrens and a pair of Tree Swallows.

An interesting find this year at Altenhof’s was a pair of nesting Eastern Phoebes. This was a first for me. Some of the windows on the Altenhof’s home are framed with artificial shutters. And this was enough to support a nest.

The nest resembles a Barn Swallow nest except it’s made of alternating layers of green moss and mud. This nest was successful. The adults were seen carrying food to the nest. While begging for food the nestlings could be heard calling “Shrill!, Shrill!”

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Later in the summer, there was a strange small bird sitting on the Altenhof’s roof. As I studied it with binoculars, an adult Phoebe flew to this “stranger” and fed him! This mystery bird was a fledgling Eastern Phoebe. I watched the Phoebe family for a while. There were still young in the nest, because the adults wee still carrying food to the nest. They fed the fledgling a few more times before I moved on. Most Eastern Phoebe nests are found near creeks or rivers. This nest was no exception; Mill Creek runs through the Altenhof’s front yard.

The Tornado-On the night of Sat. June 5th, a tornado developed near Harrow. It travelled West along the South shore of Essex County causing a lot of damage. Over the next few weeks more storms, with high winds developed over Essex County. There were no reports of bluebird fatalities related to these storms. Undoubtedly some cavity nesting birds perished during the storms, as so many entire trees, and tree limbs came down.

The Michinski’s farm was close to the Tornado. All of his 27 Bluebird houses were not harmed in the storm. However, shortly after the Tornado he did his house inspections. He found 4 nests of Tree Swallows, where all of the young had died. We can’t be sure what happened here. Perhaps both parents died. Perhaps the adults abandoned the area shortly before the tornado.

There were 8 other cases where an entire clutch of Tree Swallow nestlings died. However, the monitors who reported them were unsure if they were storm related or not. There were also several reports of partial Tree Swallow nesting failures. This is where 1 or more nestlings die, but the other nestlings remained healthy and fledged normally. In some cases, the monitors were unsure of the cause. Some of these deaths were discovered shortly after the storm, so they may have been linked to that storm.

The Braithwaite’s: For the first time in many years, Peter and Erica Braithwaite had a pair of Bluebirds on their property. In early spring the pair of Bluebirds moved into a birdhouse in a large grassy area, at the edge of a restoration site. In April, their nest contained 5 eggs. Only 2 of these eggs hatched. A pair of Tree Swallows arrived when the nestlings were quite small. The Swallows claimed the house. The pair of Swallows had the usual relationship with the Bluebirds lots of squabbling and chasing but no real harm to each other. The 2 little Bluebirds fledged on May 17th. Immediately, the Swallows moved in and added fresh nesting material to the old Bluebird nest. Their nest was also successful, fledging 4 young Tree Swallows in July.

Soon after fledging, the Bluebird family began spending most of their time in the Braithwaite’s front yard. Here, the adults inspected an “ornamental birdhouse complex” It’s 7 birdhouses staked together. It resembles a square post, with a roof on top. In late May the Braithwaites reported that the adult Bluebirds were building a nest in the 2nd birdhouse.

On May 28th we inspected this new nest. This nest complex has no inspection doors. We waited for the Bluebird family to move away from the birdhouse complex. By shining a flashlight into the nest hole they could see a good sized Bluebird nest. We could not see into the nest cup at the time, so we did not know if there were any eggs.

There were eggs. In June the adults were seen carrying insects to the nest. We did a few more nest inspections. We always waited for the adults and fledglings to move away from the nest to avoid traumatising them. At first they we couldn’t see much. The June22nd inspection was

Page 5 The Egret March 2011 productive. The nestlings had grown larger and flattened down the sides of the nest. We could plainly see 4 nestlings about twelve days old. One week later an inspection revealed a flattened empty nest. The fledglings were in a nearby tree calling “Jap! Jap!” They had fledged successfully.

The North American Bluebird Society Conference.

The NABS Conference was held this past September at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington Ont. It was hosted by the Ontario Eastern Bluebird Society (OEBS). The conference ran from Thursday Sept. 9th to Sunday Sept. 12th. Three of us from Essex Co. attended, John Balga, Cy Poisson and myself. It was a great experience. There were people from across the USA and Canada. One woman came from Germany. Not everyone was a Blue-birder. We met people who study Purple Martins, Wood Ducks and various other wild life. There were also your regular bird watchers.

The whole conference was well organised. There were field trips on Friday morning and Sunday. Most of the lectures were held on Friday afternoon and evening and all day Saturday. Most lectures lasted 50 minutes. Occasionally 2 lectures were held simultaneously, so you had to choose. Most of the speakers were excellent. Some topics were Chimney Swifts, Birds of Prey, Wood Thrushes, Trumpeter Swans and Migration studies using Geo-locators.

We were unable to attend any field trips but those who participated reported that they were enjoyable. Many people we spoke with on Saturday did not plan to attend the Sunday field trips. Instead, they planned on heading home. It was great to meet other Blue-birders and wild life enthusiasts. I spoke with Canadians from Alberta, British Columbia and different parts of Ontario. I spoke with Americans from California, New York and Pennsylvania. Americans are a good bunch although they repeatedly misspell “labour, colour, favourite, neighbour and pay cheque.”

They all asked me “Where is Essex County Ontario? ” “Essex County is the Southern-most point of Canada,” I’d answer.” We’re close to Michigan, just south of Detroit.” At this point my acquaintance would giggle and say “You mean North, of Detroit, Canada is North of the States, so therefore, Essex County, being part of Canada, is North of Detroit not South” Geography is not a strong point for Americans! Most of the Americans I spoke with had heard of or had read about, Jack Miner’s and Point Pelee. All of the Americans I spoke to had never been to Windsor or Essex County.

Perhaps, some day we can host a NABS convention. We can have field trips to Point Pelee, Jack Miner’s, Ojibway Nature Centre and Hillman Marsh. We could sell a few “Fish Field Guides!” We could teach them a few things. The first being that we are South of Detroit!!! One good thing happened at the conference. At the beginning of the Saturday evening Banquet there were some announcements. Bill Read (President of OEBS) was the Master of Ceremonies. Bill spoke about the “Conservation Award.”Every year the OEBS presents the Award to an individual or group, that has made an outstanding contribution to Eastern Bluebird conservation during the preceding year.” The 2010 winner of the Conservation Award was The ECFN Club’s “Bluebird Committee” (that’s us!!!) He called up the founder and the Committee Director (that’s me) to accept the plaque on behalf of the Committee.

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Thanks to everyone, who helped the Bluebird Committee. You helped all of us achieve this award. Also thanks to everyone who sent congratulatory messages and notes. What a great way to finish our 18th year.

This Past Fall & Winter

For the most part, last fall was beautiful. Good numbers of Tree Swallows were seen through September and October. On Wednesday Oct 20th there was a large flock of Tree Swallows seen just outside of Harrow. On the 3rd concession a farmer was using a gang mower to cut his hay field short. Fifty or so Tree Swallows flew close to the mower catching insects. When they had their fill, they rested on the nearby utility wires. There were approximately 700 Tree Swallows. There were constantly a few swallows returning to the wires and a few swallows leaving the wires, to follow the gang mower. This is the largest flock of Tree Swallows that I’d ever seen in October.

Bluebirds were last seen at my place on Tues. Dec. 7th. In mid November, I did set out Pokeweed berries, dried currants and dried cranberries. The Bluebirds did eat these but the majority were devoured by large flocks of Starlings.

There were several inches of snow by Monday Dec. 13th. From that point the daily high has been -1 C, or colder. This has resulted in very few Bluebird sightings. For the first time in many years both the Michinski’s and the Poisson’s do not have any wintering Bluebirds.

Despite the cold and deep snow, there are still wintering Bluebirds. Margaret Jennings reported a single Bluebird at Holiday Beach on Jan. 16th. Bill Backwill reports that bluebirds visited his yard, through January. Sometimes only one bird was sighted. Sometimes, the birds came in small groups, up to 5 birds.

A few times in early February I’ve spotted 3 Bluebirds on the McCormick Road, close to the Greenway. Here the birds feed on Wild Juniper, and Sumac.

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Hopefully by the time you read this, the weather will be more tolerable. Blue birders, hopefully by now you’ve begun to wash and inspect all of your birdhouses. We hope to establish some new trails in March.

Thanks to everyone involved in this labour of love. Best Wishes with the Upcoming Nesting Season.

Sincerely, Don Bissonnette

CLUB TRAILS Monitor(s) Houses Successful Fledged Successful Wren BB pairs BB's Tr.Sw. Prs. Pairs Altenhof's Don Bissonnette 7 3 21 6 3 Balkwill N. C.&M. Poisson 3 1 5 2 0 Balkwill S. C.&M. Poisson 5 1 5 3 1 Caney Creek Bob Tanner 2 1 6 1 1 Doyle-Godard Bob Tanner 6 1 7 4 2 Grosso's C.&M. Calder 3 1 8 2 0 Harrow R. St. Don Bissonnette 4 1 4 3 1 Howling's Denise Hartley 2 0 0 2 0 Lucchese's Ron Muir 3 0 0 4 0 O'Neil's Ron Muir 6 2 17 5 1 Pollard's C.&M. Poisson 3 0 0 3 0 Sartori's Bob Tanner 2 1 9 0 1 Sugar Bush Bob Tanner 2 1 5 1 1 Woodiwiss Bob Tanner 3 1 8 1 0 Club Total 51 14 95 37 11 AFFILIATE TRAILS Braithwaite's Don Bissonnette 2 1 6 1 1 Dunn Road Alex Michinski 27 0 0 23 4 Essex Land-fill Don Masse 8 0 0 6 0 Ford's W.&N. Ford 4 0 0 4 0 Fryer's Bob Tanner 2 1 2 2 0 Mother-Wood C.&M. Calder 13 4 31 8 0 Orchard View Mary Wilson 42 2 15 21 2 Poisson's C.&M. Poisson 7 2 5 3 0 Santarrosa's Don Masse 2 0 0 2 0 Stoney Cliff Mary Celestino 6 0 0 6 0 Transfer Station G Brown 7 0 0 8 0 Tuckette Farm Don Bissonnette 3 0 0 2 0 Waldron's Gerry Waldron 10 0 0 9 0 Affiliate Total 133 10 59 95 7 Club Total 51 14 95 37 11 Grand Total 184 24 154 132 18

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REDBUD Trees for Sale

This Spring Don’s Landscaping is selling Redbud trees. They range in height from 2’ to 6’. Prices range from $25.00 to $60.00.

25% from the sale of these trees will be donated to the Bluebird Committee.

Delivery and planting available at reasonable rates.

For more information call Don Bissonnette 519-738- 3279

Owl Prowl, January 9, 2011 By Margaret Jennings Photo by Jim Frith

On a chilly Sunday afternoon, nine field naturalists met at Holiday Beach with leader Tom Hurst for our annual prowl. We didn’t find any owls but we sighted many other birds: Red- tailed Hawk, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Carolina Wren, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Hermit Thrush, American Robin, Gray Catbird, Northern Cardinal and flocks of Canada Geese, White-throated Sparrows and European Starlings.

We also saw raccoons huddled together on a tree branch. One member spotted a jack rabbit. We saw signs of a raptor pursuing and capturing a small mammal. Thanks to Tom for an enjoyable afternoon.

Left to right: Ian Woodfield, Margaret Jennings, Peggy Hurst, Tom Hurst, Cathy Lapain, Shirley Girling, Kathy Lesperance, Jenny Brown

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Seventeenth Annual ECFNC Weekend Trip to Pelee Island Saturday April 30 & Sunday May 1, 2011 By Dave Kraus

Leave at 10:00 am Saturday from Leamington Dock aboard the M.V. Jiimaan (be at the dock by 9:20 am) We will return to Leamington Dock by 5:45 pm Sunday

We will very likely see: migrating waterfowl & warblers, wildflowers such as trilliums & phlox, basking turtles and snakes, bullfrogs, historic sites, and hear a chorus or two of American Toads, to suggest a few of the many enjoyable experiences on Pelee Island in spring. We should also get a chance to visit the Pelee Island Bird Observatory (PIBO bird banding station) and some of the recently acquired Nature Conservancy of Canada properties: Red Cedar Savannah ESA, Stone Road Alvar ANSI, Brown’s Point and woods, and Brown’s Road Alvar. We will have plenty of time to walk, observe, and relax on the excursions to some of Pelee's most beautiful natural habitats, including: Fish Point Provincial Nature Reserve, Lighthouse Point Provincial Nature Reserve, the Stone Road Alvar Complex, Sheridan Point ESA, and many other stops along the way. Should we experience inclement weather, we can visit the Pelee Island Heritage Centre, tour the island in the comfort of our rented bus driven by ECFNC member Sharon Medeiros, or possibly take in the hospitality at ECFNC members John and Mary Celestino’s Mill Point cottage.

I have arranged for bus transportation while on the island - no vehicles are necessary or desired on this trip. There is parking at the Leamington Dock area. I have reserved space on the ferry for all registered, walk on passengers attending this trip - we will meet in the ticket office at the dock on Saturday morning.

Accommodations have been reserved at the Anchor and Wheel Inn. The motel and bed and breakfast style rooms are comfortable and are situated on spacious grounds. Reservations are generally set for two persons per room. However, people do not need to register in pairs or groups - everyone is welcome and will be comfortably accommodated!!!

The Anchor and Wheel Inn contains a clean and comfortable restaurant where I have arranged for our delicious meals. We will break for meals regularly (lunch ~ noon and dinner ~ 6:00 pm on Saturday, breakfast ~ 8 am and lunch ~ noon Sunday) and hot meals and snacks are also available on both ferry crossings.

The total cost will be $175 this year. This cost will include: the two ferry trips, weekend bus transportation, four hot meals, overnight motel accommodations, and all taxes and tips. The $175 cost will include all expenses for the weekend other than alcoholic drinks, souvenirs, and snacks or meals on the ferry.

All interested persons need to do is: sign up with me and then show up at the Leamington Dock by 9:20 am Saturday morning with warm outdoor clothes and accessories, overnight necessities, $175 cheque (payable to David Kraus) or cash per person, and a few additional dollars for extra snacks, etc. if desired.

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I will contact each person that registers should any time or location changes for the ferry occur, otherwise the above outline is the basic schedule, rain or shine. I will hand out more detailed schedules on the Saturday morning of the trip, but with our own driver and rented bus, we can be flexible and able to see many more sites now.

To register for this trip: see me at the ECFNC meetings, call, or write: Dave Kraus phone: 519 825 7491 mailing address: 1515 Concession 7, RR 3, Wheatley, Ont. N0P 2P0 email address: [email protected]

I look forward to your company on this ECFNC outing !!!

Phragmites – The Giant Reed Grass By Gerry Waldron

Ever wonder about that giant grass you see along the shorelines of our rivers, wetlands and even in our roadside ditches? If you’re older than 35 you probably don’t remember seeing it in your youth. This is the biggest grass on our turf by far, ranging up to 4.6 metres (15 feet) tall. The plant has a number of common names, including Reed Grass but people frequently call it by its latin scientific name Phragmites (full name Phragmites australis). Some savvy biologist types have been heard to call it “Phrag”. Where cattails once grew, increasingly we see Phragmites

Page 11 The Egret March 2011 and because of its height and density we often see little else. Phragmites is spreading; nobody is sure why. The curious thing is, Phragmites has always been here – we have a native Reed Grass but you will never see it. It is a smaller, sparser plant than those you see locally and very, very rare.

There are many kinds of Phragmites – the species grows all over the world, the tropics, Australia, you name it. The big variety that is doing so well here comes from Europe. There it is used to thatch picturesque cottages – even boats are built from it. How did it get here? The plant was first seen along the eastern seaboard around shipping ports. That was in the nineteenth century. The suggestion is that the plant was used for livestock bedding on boats or seeds were contained in the soil ballast of sailing ships. After crossing the Atlantic and arriving on our shores, Phragmites, like so many other European plants (think Purple Loosestrife), found North American conditions very agreeable and, like the settlers from abroad, began colonizing the entire continent; slowly at first but gaining momentum over time. By the late 1970’s it was popping up here and there in the County. At first it was a novelty and was sometimes collected for dried floral arrangement – some liked to dye or spray paint it for added effect. In return for the ‘gift’ of Phragmites, we sent Canada Geese, Grey Squirrels and Canada Pondweed to the British Isles and Europe where they met with a less than appreciative reception.

Reed Grass spreads by seeds and by rhizomes which travel on and through mud, sand and soil to distances of ten metres or more a year. Down the drains it marched and around the shores of the marshes and creeks. The problem is Phragmites has a dark side. It is a real bully, so dense, tall and leafy that nothing much competes with it and all the other wetland species are overwhelmed – Purple Loosestrife too! Wetland diversity is lost. How serious is this? Well, 40% (123 hectares) of the marsh habitat in Big Creek is now composed of Phragmites and little else.

What to do? We could be patient knowing that nature will eventually bring this rogue under control. After all, here is a great mass of unexploited food ripe for the picking. Some organism is bound to come along and exploit it. More immediate results however can be achieved with herbicides and fire. The herbicide ‘Roundup’ (glyphosate) is effective. Vast amounts of this chemical are used on soyabean and corn fields locally. It kills nearly every type of plant after being absorbed through the foliage. A similar and even more effective herbicide is Arsenal (imazapyr). An application of either herbicide, or a combination of the two in their aquatic formulation in late summer by a licensed applicator can kill even dense Reed Grass stands. After the stems are dead and dry, the stands can be mown or flattened and burnt. This has been done with varying success in the LaSalle area, Ruscom Shores Conservation Area, Rondeau Bay and along the U.S. side of the Detroit River and Lake Erie. The procedure is expensive and requires permits from the Ministry of Natural Resources; it is not feasible to treat an area as large as Big Creek marsh. Perhaps though, there is a place for Phragmites management in specific areas – Tremblay Beach Marsh would make a good candidate. Such management is no silver bullet – without continuing treatment, the thug will be back. Ironically, in Europe much effort and expense goes into establishing Reed marshes; not just for their use as thatch but for wildlife habitat too. Some European birds, e.g. Reed Warbler, are dependant on Reed marshes for breeding and no doubt many other organisms are too. It might be a good idea to import some of the creatures that feed on it. Maybe not so good for our native Phragmites though.

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Cedar Creek Conservation Area Dolph Armstrong Woodlot and Wetlands By Michael Malone

Last fall I attended the media event for the announcement of the Armstrong property purchase at Cedar Creek CA, a place near and dear to me where I have enjoyed hiking and kayaking for 21 years. In case you don't know its location - it is near the mouth of the creek north of County Rd 50 and west of the bridge over Cedar Creek near Cedar Beach Conservation Area.

From Nature Conservancy of Canada: “The total land area is 317 acres (128 hectares), of which 35 percent is natural habitat. The natural habitat on the property contains native Carolinian woodland and Great Lakes coastal wetland. The agricultural fields have significant potential for restoration. The property provides habitat for species at risk, including: Cerulean Warbler, Eastern Foxsnake, and Purple Twayblade. Many more species will benefit from future restoration efforts. The woodland community on the property contains mature hardwood species such as: Shagbark Hickory, White Ash, Red Oak, Red Maple, White Oak, American Elm, and Hop Hornbeam. The property is part of several natural heritage designations: Provincially Significant Wetland and Area of Natural and Scientific Interest (Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources), Environmentally Significant Area (Essex Region Conservation Authority), and Carolinian Canada Site (Carolinian Canada Coalition).”

The property is also located adjacent to existing protected areas, strengthening the connectivity of natural habitat in the region, a critical factor for wildlife survival."

Winter Waterfowl Excursion By Margaret Jennings Photo by Jason Telasco Peregrine Falcon On February 27, 2011, three field naturalists met with our leader Paul DesJardins. The small number allowed us to travel in one vehicle.

Our first stop was under the Ambassador Bridge where we had good looks at both male and female Peregrine Falcons. They were coming and going from the nest site. Our second stop was along the Detroit River, not far from the bridge. Here we were pleased to find a female Long-tailed Duck.

We made several stops along the river. Waterfowl sighted were Mute Swan, Tundra Swan, American Black Duck, Mallard, Canvasback, Redhead, Greater Scaup, Lesser Scaup, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye, Hooded Merganser, and Common Merganser. We observed Ring-billed, Herring and Great Black-backed Gulls. We also spotted Cooper’s Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, American Kestrel and Bald Eagles. Thanks again Paul for leading an interesting and informative trip.

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Cedar Creek Christmas Bird Count, December 18, 2010 By Betty Learmouth Photos by Jason Telasco

An event enjoyed each December by local birders is the Cedar Creek Christmas Bird Count (CBC), this year celebrating its 25th anniversary. The count circle focuses on Cedar Creek with the Essex American Crow roost included in the circle. The count circle is divided into five areas with counters assigned areas.

This year marks the 111th year of the establishment of Christmas Bird Counts across North America.

Area Two of the Cedar Creek Christmas Bird Count is a long section extending south from the Town of Essex to the Lake Erie shoreline with the Arner Townline as the boundary to the west and the McCain Side Road to the east. The area is divided into two areas for two teams, the northern portion extending to the Chrysler Greenway while the Cedar Creek area is the southern portion. In the northern portion, CBCers were Marg Calder, Betty Learmouth, Kathy Lesperance and Larry Onysko. Counters in the southern portion of Area Two were Paul DesJardins, Pauline Renaud and Ian Woodfield and Bob Wickett (feeder watcher).

Counters in the northern portion of Area Two set out at 8:45 a.m. from the corner of the Talbot Trail (County Road 34) and the Arner Townline, proceeding east. The counters reminded each other that American Crows were to be counted throughout the day as the number of crows in Essex County has dwindled with no roost identified for this wintering season. Crow coordinator Phil Roberts reported this recent development at a meeting of the Essex County Field Naturalists’ Club on December 8, 2010. Counters usually encounter American Crows in flight along County Road 34 but none were observed. Five American Crows were reported by CBCers in the southern portion of Area 2.

CBCers stopped at Mrs. Moore’s home on County Road 34. About the residence a variety of species were observed including Mourning Dove, Blue Jay, Black-capped Chickadee, Dark- eyed Junco, Northern Cardinal, and House Sparrow. The coniferous plantation usually yields wintering birds but on this hike a Red-tailed Hawk was the single species flushed from the plantation’s west side edge.

A few doors west on County Road 34, CBCers visited Elaine and Harry Bosveld’s feeders where Mourning Dove, Black-capped Chickadee, Dark-eyed Junco, Northern Cardinal, American Goldfinch and House Sparrows were enjoying the feeders and water supply with piles of branches along the property’s edge providing a safe refuge. A Cooper’s Hawk was observed gliding through neighbourhood trees to the west while another Red-tailed Hawk made an appearance.

Heading south on the Arner Townline, the CBCers began their search for winter birds along the concession roads. The bitter weather of the last few days had pushed birds to places where they could find protection and food. Many individuals were to be found in drainage ditches which provided a relief from the wind. Weedy spots were attracting birds foraging for seeds as were exposed gravel beside the concessions roads.

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CBCers noted small flocks (five to twenty individuals) of Horned Larks at the exposed gravel, flying to nearby snow covered fields as the vehicle approached a flock. A few Snow Buntings were mixed in with the Horned Larks. Good numbers of Dark-eyed Juncos were noted along the concession roads as they moved between properties with protective shrubbery and the concession road gravel edges. Other species noted were American Goldfinch, American Tree Sparrow and Song Sparrow feeding on the seeds of weedy plant species. A female American Kestrel was spotted perched on corn stubble as she hunted for small rodents in an agricultural field.

On the Marsh Road, the CBCers noted a raptor flying close to a residence as it examined the shrubbery and foundation of the house. The raptor proved to be a handsome adult Northern Harrier which glided from the landscaped residence to nearby snow covered corn stubble, along a shallow drain and out over the open fields.

Feeders maintained at private residences had attracted various species including Mourning Dove, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Blue Jay, Northern Cardinal and House Finch. Eastern Bluebird In the early afternoon, the CBCers headed to the Balkwill residence in the southern portion of Area Two. Bill Balkwill reported a lively morning at the feeders with a number of species seen such as Mourning Dove, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Blue Jay, Black-capped Chickadee, Dark-eyed Junco, White-breasted Nuthatch, and House Sparrow. Eastern Bluebirds had visited the day before. A Great Horned Owl had been heard earlier in the week. While on a visit to Essex on the previous Tuesday, December 14, 2010, a Turkey Vulture had been observed but proved not to be in the count week which is the three day period before and following the count date.

During the late afternoon, the CBCers finished their sweep along concession roads, locating more Horned Larks and a Ring-necked Pheasant in someone’s back yard.

At five o’clock, CBCers descended upon the Hurst residence for a delicious potluck dinner. Following dinner, Cedar Creek compiler Paul Pratt held a draw for bags of oil seed donated by Bob Wickett. Winners of the oil seed were Carl Maiolani and Dean Ware. Peggy and Tom Hurst were presented with a bag of oil seed.

Each area provided its numbers for every species observed as compiler Paul Pratt recorded the numbers on his lap top computer. Numbers and species of waterfowl were low due to a lack of open water. No Great Blue Herons were seen although sixteen were reported on the north end of Detroit River’s Peche Island on December 15, 2010 during the Lakeshore CBC.

Highlights of the count included raptors such as two Merlins and two Red-shouldered Hawks. Alan Wormington discovered a Wilson’s Snipe in a thick hedgerow adjacent to the very frozen

Page 15 The Egret March 2011

Kingsville sewage lagoons. At the bottom of the hedgerow there was a little trickle of water. Two male Belted Kingfishers were seen along Wigle Creek, both within the Kingsville Golf Course. Female Belted Kingfishers are rarely seen in the winter. The only Winter Wrens on the count were the two seen by Alan Wormington on the lower Wigle Creek south of Highway 20.

Although 2010 is an irruption year for Black- capped Chickadees, this year’s 581 individuals did not break the record of 886 individuals seen during the 2005 Cedar Creek CBC. Numerous Dark-eyed Juncos were observed on this count but did not break the all-time record of 1,833 individuals.

Paul announced 80 species were tallied during the 2010 Cedar CBC. The average for this count is 85 species. Some 15,799 individuals were counted.

Thank you to all who counted and contributed to the pot luck supper. Thank Black-capped Chickadee you to Peggy and Tom Hurst who opened their home to the CBCers.

Holiday Beach Christmas Bird Count, December 27, 2010 By Betty Learmouth Photos by Jason Craft

The Christmas Bird Count activities for Canada were underway on November 24, 2010 with an e-mail from Dick Cannings, Christmas Bird Count Coordinator, regarding the date entry system for over 300 upcoming counts across Canada. The next step by local count compilers was to contact all count participants from 2009 to determine their interest in the 2010 count.

Luckily the response was excellent with counters in each of the five areas of the Holiday Beach Christmas Bird Count prepared to head out on December 27, 2010.

Boblo Island is always a popular destination for CBCers with nine counters crossing the Detroit River on the island ferry for a walk around the southern portion of the island. During the morning walk under overcast skies, a number of species were observed including Mute Swan (24) Tundra Swan (28), Red-shouldered Hawk (1), Red-tailed Hawk (2), Rough-legged Hawk (1), Rough-legged Hawk and Red-tailed Hawk Page 16 The Egret March 2011

Red-bellied Woodpecker (2), Downy Woodpecker (10), Northern Flicker (2), Northern Shrike (1), Black-capped Chickadee (20), American Robin (1), American Tree Sparrow (35), Dark- eyed Junco (23) and American Goldfinch (8). The Northern Shrike was a life bird for John and Chris Craft and their son Jason. Jason Craft obtained a photograph of the Northern Shrike.

During the morning Tom Hince had counted waterfowl including a Lesser Black-backed Gull, but at 1:00 p.m., under a blue sky, the Boblo group and Tom gathered at a privately owned woodland to look for wintering bird species. The group walked along a woodland lane, then stopped as Tom gave his authentic Eastern Screech-Owl call. Woods that had appeared devoid of birds came alive with woodpeckers and Black-capped Chickadees scolding Tom from overhead. A nearby Eastern Screech-Owl called in response from its box. Northern Shrike

As the group emerged from the woodland onto agricultural land, Tom spotted two Turkey Vultures moving west over Big Creek Marsh.

Over the next few hours the group accompanied Tom around the agricultural land, stepping into the woodland every so often to enjoy the results of Tom’s Eastern Screech Owl call. A Gray Catbird was seen which was a new species for the Count as well as Rusty Blackbirds feeding on grain provided by the landowner. Tom provided CBC Rare Bird Documentation for these species and the Lesser Black-backed Gull seen earlier in the day.

Species observed while walking about the agricultural and woodlands included Canada Goose (15), Mallard (13), Turkey Vulture (2), Bald Eagle adult (1), Red-tailed Hawk (3), Herring Gull (27), Mourning Dove (14), Eastern Screech-Owl (2), Red-bellied Woodpecker (6), Yellow- bellied Sapsucker (1), Downy Woodpecker (24), Hairy Woodpecker (2), Northern Flicker (9), American Crow (2), Black-capped Chickadee (18), White-breasted Nuthatch (1), Brown Creeper (4), Carolina Wren (2), Eastern Bluebird (10), Hermit Thrush (1), Gray Catbird (1), Yellow-rumped Warbler (24), American Tree Sparrow (8), Fox Sparrow (1), Song Sparrow (4), Swamp Sparrow (10), White-throated Sparrow (8), White-crowned Sparrow (2), Dark-eyed Junco (2), Northern Cardinal (16), Red-winged Blackbird (15), Rusty Blackbird (91), Common Grackle (2), Brown- headed Blackbird (5) and American Goldfinch (4).

John Craft reported that sixty or seventy Red-tailed Hawks streaming low over the roadway within the Holiday Beach Conservation Area for fifteen minutes or so was a highlight of the afternoon count.

Red-tailed Hawk Page 17 The Egret March 2011

Representatives from each area provided their numbers with the result that 76 species were observed for a total of 16,311 individuals count within the Holiday Beach Christmas Bird Count circle.

Thank you to the following counters who contributed their time and expertise: Rod Banks, Janet Boufford, Margaret Calder, Richard Carr, Cherise Charron, Jennifer Colebourn, John Craft, Christine Craft, Jason Craft, Pearl Davies, Paul DesJardins, Christine Gignac, Tom Hince, Andy Kovosi, Carol Kovosi, Theresa Lemire, Kathy Lesperance, Dan Loncke, Carl Maiolani, Dorothy McLeer, Ron Muir, Larry Onysko, Bob Pettit, Paul Pratt, Claude Radley, Nina Radley, Caroline Staddon, Bob Wickett, and Ian Woodfield.

To view the results from the Holiday Beach Christmas Bird Count, or from counts across the continent, visit the Audubon website at www.audubon.org/bird/cbc. You can look at all Christmas Bird Count results since 1900, by count or by species. Under the “Results” heading in the menu side on the left side of the page, simply click on “Current Year” or “Historical” to access the data.

Holiday Beach Christmas Bird Count, December 27, 2010 Species Area Area Area 3 Area Area 5 Total 1 2 4 1. Canada Goose 340 123 171 310 523 1,467 2. Mute Swan 0 2 2 0 25 29 3. Tundra Swan 0 0 94 1 44 139 4. American Black Duck 0 0 0 0 10 10 5. Mallard 4 0 10 0 151 165 6. Canvasback 0 0 2,404 280 2,400 5,084 7. Greater Scaup 0 0 8 0 0 8 Scaup sp. 0 0 0 0 7 7 8. Long-tailed Duck 0 0 0 0 1 1 9. Bufflehead 0 0 2 0 1 3 10. Common Goldeneye 3 0 35 0 235 273 11. Common Merganser 0 0 1 0 75 76 12. Red-breasted Merganser 0 0 0 0 4 4 Merganser sp 0 0 0 0 30 30 Duck sp. 83 45 128 13.Wild Turkey 0 30 0 27 0 57 14. Double-crested Cormorant 0 0 0 0 1 1 15. Great Blue Heron 1 0 0 0 0 1 16. Turkey Vulture 0 0 0 0 2 2 Bald Eagle unknown 1 0 0 0 0 1 17. Bald Eagle adult 1 0 2 0 1 4 18. Northern Harrier 2 0 0 2 0 4 19. Sharp-shinned Hawk 0 1 1 0 0 2 20. Cooper’s Hawk 5 1 2 1 5 14 21. Red-shouldered Hawk 4 0 0 0 3 7

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22. Red-tailed Hawk 127 5 11 10 13 166 23. Rough-legged Hawk 4 1 0 1 9 15 24. Golden Eagle 3 0 0 0 1 4 Buteo sp. 1 0 0 0 0 11 25. American Kestrel 0 0 CW 0 0 1 26. Merlin 0 1 0 0 0 1 27. Ring-billed Gull 10 0 98 0 285 393 28. Herring Gull 26 0 6 0 450 482 Mixed Herring/Ring-billed 0 0 0 85 0 85 29. Gr. Black-backed Gull 0 0 0 0 7 7 30. Lesser Black-backed Gull 0 0 0 0 1 1 31. Rock Pigeon 0 84 4 1 14 103 32. Mourning Dove 28 70 108 51 119 376 33. Eastern Screech-Owl 1 1 1 0 7 10 34. Great Horned Owl 1 2 0 0 3 6 35. Red-bellied Woodpecker 1 13 6 1 11 32 36.Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 0 0 1 0 1 2 37. Downy Woodpecker 10 14 11 15 49 99 38. Hairy Woodpecker 0 0 0 1 2 3 39. Northern Flicker 7 1 3 1 16 28 40. Northern Shrike 0 0 0 0 1 1 41. Blue Jay 2 38 18 7 16 81 42. American Crow 14 0 0 1 12 27 43. Horned Lark 1 184 3 0 0 188 44. Black-capped Chickadee 47 41 114 52 92 346 45.Tufted Titmouse 0 9 2 1 0 12 46. Red-breasted Nuthatch 1 0 0 0 0 1 47. White-breasted Nuthatch 6 3 19 1 6 35 48. Brown Creeper 3 0 2 0 8 13 49. Carolina Wren 0 2 0 2 5 9 50. Winter Wren 1 0 1 1 0 3 51. Golden-crowned Kinglet 17 0 0 1 1 19 52. Eastern Bluebird 0 10 0 0 12 12 53. Hermit Thrush 1 2 0 1 2 6 54. American Robin 33 1 4 0 9 47 55. Gray Catbird 0 0 0 0 1 1 56. Brown Thrasher 2 0 0 0 0 2 57. European Starling 451 185 559 133 671 1,999 58. Cedar Waxwing 20 0 0 7 15 42 59.Yellow-rumped Warbler 0 0 0 0 27 27 60. American Tree Sparrow 18 102 17 80 104 321 61. Fox Sparrow 0 0 0 0 1 1 62. Song Sparrow 24 10 4 58 19 115 63. Swamp Sparrow 0 1 1 0 22 24

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64.White-throated Sparrow 17 19 3 13 41 93 65.White-crowned Sparrow 0 0 1 0 2 3 66. Dark-eyed Junco 21 130 52 38 93 334 67. Snow Bunting 0 725 0 0 0 725 68. Northern Cardinal 8 44 21 30 45 148 69. Red-winged Blackbird 0 1 0 0 270 271 70. Rusty Blackbird 0 0 0 136 136 71. Common Grackle 0 2 6 0 367 375 72. Brown-headed Blackbird 124 32 100 1 353 600 Blackbird sp. 0 0 0 0 1,200 1,200 73. House Finch 46 40 9 43 5 143 74. American Goldfinch 46 46 14 36 110 252 75. House Sparrow 100 176 227 170 105 778

Wintering Bald Eagles, Peche Island Submitted by Betty Learmouth

An apartment resident and photographer who lives on Riverside Drive East in Windsor wrote the following: “During the snow storm today (Wednesday, February 9, 2011), about 1:30 p.m., Bald Eagles were hunkered down on the southeast corner of Peche Island. Once the wind and snow let up, they all flew away. At one point, I counted about thirty eagles. Unfortunately, poor visibility wouldn’t let me get a nice clear shot.”

Bald Eagles on Peche Island Page 20 The Egret March 2011

Ojibway Nature Centre Hikes By Betty Learmouth Photographs by Jason Telasco White-tailed Deer Brunet Park Hike, December 21, 2011

Five hikers joined Ojibway Nature Centre’s Naturalist Tom Preney on December 21, 2010 for a morning walk around Brunet Park in the Town of LaSalle. The group hiked along an old cement sidewalk in the wooded area adjacent to the parking lot, continuing around Brunet Park with the Cahill Drain to our left.

Within the woodland, Tom pointed out a large dark raccoon sleeping on an exposed branch. A little further onward, hikers viewed three White-tailed Deer as the deer moved slowly through the woodland.

The walk along the Cahill Drain proved to be most productive. A flock of American Robins and Cedar Waxwings were observed foraging on multiflora rose hips. Other bird species at this location included Downy Woodpecker, American Tree Sparrow, Song Sparrow, White-breasted Nuthatch, American Goldfinch and four Rusty Blackbirds that were drinking from the drain.

The hikers passed a broken tree trunk which was providing shelter for two sleeping raccoons.

In the area behind the toboggan hill, the hikers paused to examine a climbing plant called Virgin’s Bower. Newcomb’s Wildflower Guide states “the plants climb by twisting their leaf stalks around the supporting vegetation. The distinctive fruit is a cluster of feathery hairs called Old Man’s Beard.”

In the same location we observed two Tufted Titmice, American Goldfinch, Black-capped Chickadee, Red- bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Dark-eyed Juncos, and a Carolina Wren that popped up from the snow covered vegetation, and quickly disappeared back into the tangle. Several White-throated Sparrows greeted the hikers at the end of the trail completing the morning hike.

Thank you to Tom for a leading an informative and enjoyable winter hike.

American Robin Page 21 The Egret March 2011

Late Fall Hike on the Ojibway Provincial Prairie

Ojibway Nature Centre staff member Tom Preney lead a late fall hike to the Ojibway Prairie on December 7, 2010. The group paused at the feeder area behind the Nature Centre to admire the birds: Fox Sparrow, Pine Siskin, Black-capped Chickadee, American Tree Sparrow, American Goldfinch and Tufted Titmouse. Black-capped Chickadees and Pine Siskins have irrupted in our area this year as the northern food supply is not adequate.

Tom told us geese have been resting in the wetland adjacent to Canard Drive in River Canard. On December 2, 2010, Ojibway Nature Centre’s Chief Naturalist Paul Pratt was looking over the Canada Geese, discovering two Snow Geese and twenty-eight Greater White-fronted Geese.

Upon reaching the Provincial Prairie Reserve, Tom suggested that the group take the right hand trail, a trail the hikers had not explored this fall as the trail tends to become overgrown. Tom suggested that we look for Eastern Bluebirds during our hike due to a recent sighting.

A distinctive gall on oak twigs known as the Beaked Bullet Gall caught Tom’s attention. This gall is the size of a musket ball and has a little nipple or beak. It is caused by a species of wasp.

Tom remarked that the tallest plants surrounding us along the trail were Big Bluestem and Indian Grass. Leaves of Prairie Dock were found near to the trail. Prairie Dock blooms in August with attractive yellow blossoms.

The hikers noted Trembling Aspen which had been cut by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources to control this particular tree species from invading the prairie. Trembling Aspen is uncommon in Essex County; however, it seems to thrive in several locations within the Reserve.

A small section along the trail is renowned for a showy display of Dense Blazing Star along with other prairie species such as Early Goldenrod. In early August the contrast of colours is a wonderful focal point in this dry prairie setting.

In a tangle of vegetation, the hikers enjoyed glimpses of American Robin, Hermit Thrush, White-throated Sparrow, Northern Cardinal and Blue Jay. The group followed along on a trail running parallel to this drain, navigating along the drain and back on the loop trail towards Titcombe Road.

Thank you to Tom for leading the hikers to another little known part of the Ojibway Provincial Prairie. Northern Cardinal

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Devonwood Conservation Area Hike, January 4, 2011

Seven hikers joined Ojibway Nature Centre’s staff member Tom Preney on January 4, 2011 for a visit to Devonwood Conservation Area on a sunny winter morning. Tom told the group that Devonwood is renowned for its diversity of oak species, with eight different species occurring in the woodland.

Tom identified a Chinquapin Oak growing a short distance from the parking area to the right of the trail leading into the woodland. The leaf of this oak species resembles a chestnut leaf. Along the woodland’s edge, a mixed flock of Dark-eyed Juncos and sparrows foraged among some fallen tree trunks.

Along the trail, Tom drew the group’s attention to dark stains on the bark of some larger trees. Tom remarked that a local entomologist who studies Underwing Moths paints a mixture of sugar, bananas, beer and molasses on the tree trunks. This concoction attracts Underwing Moths which can be easily observed nectaring on this sugary mixture. Downy Woodpecker Attractive directional signs have been put in place throughout Devonwood Conservation Area.

The Devonwood Conservation Area site is wet during spring and summer with considerable standing water. Several trees were noted to have fallen, creating the first stage of a potential pit and mound environment. Many ash trees have fallen within the site, due to the death of these trees by the invasive Emerald Ash Borer.

The hikers enjoyed a variety of winter birds throughout the Conservation Area as the birds foraged and called while enjoying the morning sunlight. The songs of the White- breasted Nuthatch and Red-bellied Woodpecker resonated throughout the woods. Other winter bird species observed were Blue Jays, Black-capped Chickadees, and Downy Woodpecker.

A Bald-faced Hornet’s hanging nest attracted a flutter of Black-capped Chickadees, woodpecker species, White- breasted Nuthatch and a Tufted Titmouse.

Tom provided news of a new tenant at Ojibway Nature Centre. A Big Brown Bat was welcomed the previous day after it had been found during attic renovations at Maryvale. This bat will be fed meal worms daily while it is waiting for its spring release.

White-breasted Nuthatch Page 23 The Egret March 2011

The group admired a huge old Shumard Oak with its amazing buttresses as the walk drew to a close. This remarkable oak is located on the left hand trail a short distance from the first intersection of the trail system. Thank you to Tom for leading a delightful winter walk at Devonwood.

Tallgrass Prairie Heritage Park, February 1, 2011

Seven hikers joined Ojibway Nature Centre Naturalist Tom Preney on February 1, 2011 for a hike through the Tallgrass Prairie Heritage Park.

Before setting off on the morning’s hike, the group paused at the Nature Centre bird window. With a winter storm watch in effect, a hungry bird population was eagerly feeding in anticipation of the stormy day forecast on February 2, 2011. Tom counted twelve adult male and five adult female Northern Cardinals. Other species observed were Mourning Dove, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Blue Jay, Black-capped Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, White- breasted Nuthatch, American Goldfinch, Fox Sparrow (seen upon the conclusion of the hike), White-throated Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, House Finch, and House Sparrow.

During the walk along Titcombe Road to the Tallgrass Prairie Heritage Park on the left, several White-tailed Deer were observed in the Ojibway Prairie Provincial Nature Reserve. A sleeping raccoon was also spotted on a broken Black Oak limb.

Tom reported recent sightings of rare bird species on the Detroit River. A female King Eider from Canada’s Arctic has been seen by birders and photographers. In addition, a Black-legged Kittiwake in juvenile plumage has also been observed. These two birds were both spotted at Lakeview Marina which is a great location to scan for waterfowl during the summer months. Lakeview Marina is located on Riverside Drive at the eastern edge of Windsor opposite Peche Island. On Sunday, January 30, 2011, thirteen Bald Eagles were seen along the Detroit River. Great Blue Herons are again resting on the northern tip of Peche Island and on the surrounding ice.

Following the trails within the Tallgrass Prairie Heritage Park, the group paused as a Red-tailed Hawk was flushed. As the group approached a grove of poplar trees, two large birds flew from the trees. Tom identified the two birds as Great Horned Owls. Viewing a distant owl through his binoculars, Tom could see the bird’s ear-tufts blowing in the wind.

Tom commented that Great Horned Owls are the first birds to breed in our area (January-February). Great Horned Owls do not construct their own nest; instead they will use abandoned nests from other species of birds such as American Crow and Red-tailed Hawk. Residents of Conte Crescent adjacent to the Ojibway Provincial Prairie Reserve report that the Great Horned Owls in their neighborhood are calling every night, likely a breeding pair. Thank you to Tom for another enjoyable winter hike.

Great Horned Owl Page 24 The Egret March 2011

Black-legged Kittiwake and Female King Eider on the Detroit River By Cherise Charron

I am sending along a few photographs of the Black-legged Kittiwake and the female King Eider.

I saw the Black-legged Kittiwake on January 29, 2011 at Lakeview Marina. It was being hotly pursued by a Ring- billed Gull who wanted its fish.

On January 30, 2011, I finally saw the female King Eider. She was on the ice in the marina area associating with the Mallards, Canada Geese and Canvasbacks. She stayed for 10-15 minutes much to the delight of birders and photographers alike. Then after a while the Eider left the ice and drifted and swam into the Detroit River further and further out from the marina. Quite a neat looking duck.

On January 21, 2011 we had 30 Horned Larks land in our Black-legged Kittiwake and Ring-billed Gull backyard.

King Eider with other waterfowl (mallards, King Eider (above and below) Canada geese and canvasback)

Page 25 The Egret March 2011

POINT PELEE BIRDS — ANNUAL SUMMARY FOR 2010 copyright © 2011 by Alan Wormington

This 2010 summary pertains to the Point Pelee Birding Area, which is a standard 15-mile diameter CBC circle centred slightly north of Concession Road D. The area includes all of Wheatley and Wheatley Provincial Park to the northeast, and all of Seacliff and Leamington to the northwest.

It was an excellent year at Point Pelee, with many significant sightings to report. A total of 282 species was found, which is above the long-term annual average of 280.1 species dating back to 1980 inclusive (n = 31). During these 31 years the highest annual totals were 301 species (in 2005) and 289 species (in both 2003 and 1981). In contrast, the lowest annual totals were 271 species (in both 1989 and 1984).

The following list pertains to species that were not recorded at Point Pelee during 2010, but are normally somewhat regular in occurrence. For example, they typically occur at least two or three times during a 5-year period. If anyone is aware of any of these species being observed at Point Pelee during 2010, please let me know.

Ross’s Goose King Eider — first time not recorded since 2006 Eared Grebe — first time not recorded since 2001 Western Sandpiper Black-headed Gull Snowy Owl — first time not recorded since 2005 Northern Shrike — first time not recorded since 1994 Nelson’s Sparrow — first time not recorded since 2006 Yellow-headed Blackbird — first time not recorded since 2006

Finally, the following sections detail the most significant observations that were made during 2010. There were, of course, many other sightings of note including early and late migration dates, unusual wintering and summering records, breeding records, record-high counts, etc., but these are too numerous to be detailed here.

Thanks to everyone for providing their sightings throughout the year, even if they could not be included in this summary.

— ONTARIO RARITIES at POINT PELEE in 2010 —

Listed below are provincial rarities as designated by the Ontario Bird Records Committee (OBRC). The final status of these records await decisions by that body, at least for those sightings that were in fact documented and submitted to the OBRC for review.

Pacific Loon November 26 — one winter adult, flying east to west past Tip (Alan Wormington)

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Western Grebe May 13 — one, West Beach (Joshua D. Vandermeulen et al.) unidentified Plegadis (dark) ibis September 12-13 — one, NW Hillman Marsh (Randy H. Holland et al.)

Mississippi Kite May 12 — one adult, flying north over Pelee Marsh at DeLaurier Trail (Daniel R. Salisbury, John E. Black, Lou V. Marsh, Alex Dobson)

California Gull An unidentified Plegadis ibis at NW Hillman Marsh on May 6 — one third-alternate, Wheatley Harbour September 12, 2010 -- Randy H. Holland (Jean Iron et al.)

Scissor-tailed Flycatcher May 11 — one, SE Hillman Marsh (Michael A. Savino)

Townsend’s Solitaire December 20 — one, Wheatley Provincial Park (Ian C. Platt)

Kirtland’s Warbler May 7 — one, NW Hillman Marsh (many observers; finder not known) May 14 — one, Tip (many observers; finder not known) May 22-23 — one, West Beach (AW, William California Gull on the beach at Wheatley Harbour, May 6, 2010 G. Lamond, Kevin A. McLaughlin et al.) --- Jean Iron – all three birds were first-year males (born in 2009).

Henslow’s Sparrow May 2 — one, West Beach (Blake A. Mann et al.) May 24 — one, West Beach (JDV)

Blue Grosbeak May 15 — one definitive male, NW Woodland Nature Trail (E. Jean Kelly, A. Louise McAsh, Arlene R. Schaller, Heather A. McAsh, Geraldine Bryden)

A co-operative Kirtland's Warbler at West Beach Point Pelee, May 22, 2010 --- Alan Wormington Page 27 The Egret March 2011

— ADDITIONAL RARITIES of NOTE (not OBRC) —

Greater White-fronted Goose December 10 — two, flying west over Sturgeon Creek (AW) – these same birds had earlier been seen in Kingsville at the Jack Miner Sanctuary.

Trumpeter Swan December 20 — one juvenile, Lake Erie @ SE Hillman Marsh (JDV, Sarah E. Rupert) – a NEW species for Point Pelee — #387. It was not unexpected that this recently re- introduced species in southern Ontario would be found at Point Pelee.

Red-necked Grebe September 24 — two, east side of Tip (Andrew E. Keaveney, JDV) November 21 — one, NW Hillman Marsh (BAM)

American White Pelican May 17-18 — three, Hillman Marsh (Barry S. Cherriere, Linda L. Cherriere et al.)

Snowy Egret May 7-12 — one, NW Hillman Marsh and Muddy Creek (Mark W. Hubinger, Joanne A. Hubinger et al.)

Cattle Egret October 24-31 — one, north of Wheatley Harbour (James M. Pawlicki et al.) October 31 — two, northwest of Leamington at Mastronardi Produce (Todd R. Pepper) November 4 — two, NW Hillman Marsh (Dean J. Ware)

“Prairie” Merlin September 24 — one female or juvenile male richardsoni, flying south off Tip (AW) – this represents the 4th record of this pale subspecies for Point Pelee.

Gyrfalcon April 2 — one gray-morph juvenile, Onion Fields (Brandon R. Holden) – this represents the 7th record for Point Pelee.

King Rail May 26 — one, NW Hillman Marsh (DJW) November 11 — one, Pelee Marsh Boardwalk (Nancy E. Tar, William Tar)

American Avocet May 9 — two (male + female), NW Hillman Marsh (WGL, KAM et al.) May 13 — one, NE Hillman Marsh (many observers; finder not known) May 16 — two, flying over Hillman Marsh (JDV) October 30–November 7 — one juvenile male, Sturgeon Creek (Stephen T. Pike, Richard P. Carr et al.)

Page 28 The Egret March 2011

Purple Sandpiper American Avocet (juvenile male) at Sturgeon Creek on November 1, 2010 January 9 — one, Tip (Paul D. --- Alan Wormington Pratt et al.)

Ruff April 14-15 — one basic-plumaged male, Concession Road D (AW et al.) – this represents the 8th spring record for Point Pelee, and 15th record overall.

Red Phalarope September 7 — one, flying west to east past Tip (AW). September 29 — one, flying west to east past Tip @ 8:45 a.m. (Robert J. Cermak, AW, J. Michael Tate, Marianne B. Reid et al.) September 29 — one, flying west to east past Tip @ 9:13 a.m. (AW, MBR, JMT, RJC) September 29 — one, flying west to east past Tip @ 10:00 a.m. (AW, MBR, JMT, RJC) October 8 — one juvenile, flying west to east past Tip (AW, WGL et al.) October 10 — one, flying west to east past Tip @ 8:55 a.m. (AW, WGL, KAM et al.) October 10 — one, flying west to east past Tip @ 9:15 a.m. (BAM, AW, WGL et al.)

Laughing Gull May 5-12 — one adult, east side of Tip (Bruce M. Di Labio, Ben F. Di Labio et al.) May 8-10 — one adult, NW Hillman Marsh (JMP et al.) May 13 — one adult, east of Leamington @ N end of Noble Side Road (Jacob K. Bruxer) – this species has a tendency to move around, so it is not known if there is duplication in the above sightings, or if even more than three birds were involved.

Franklin’s Gull May 9 — one first-summer immature, NW Hillman Marsh (KAM, WGL et al.) May 13 — one adult, Onion Fields (AEK, Chris Charlesworth et al.)

“Scandinavian” Lesser Black-backed Gull May 17 — one adult intermedius, Lake Erie at Coterie Park (AW) – this represents the 6th record of this subspecies for Point Pelee.

Sabine’s Gull September 18 — one juvenile, flying west to east past Tip (AW)

Black-legged Kittiwake October 27 — one first-winter immature, flying south at Sturgeon Creek (SER)

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Long-tailed Jaeger September 13 — one light-morph juvenile, flying west to east past Tip @ 8:45 a.m. (AW, MBR)

Cave Swallow May 8 — one nominate fulva, east side of Tip (Jeffrey H. Skevington, Wayne Bennett) – this represents only the second spring record of Cave Swallow for Point Pelee, and the first record overall for the Carribean subspecies. October 27 — one, Tip in late a.m. (AW, MBR) October 27 — seven (4+1+1+1), flying off Tip in early p.m. (Lev A. Frid, Marina Lachtchenko) October 28 — 11, flying south at Hillman Beach at 9:29 a.m. (AW) October 28 — two, flying south at Hillman Beach at 9:30 a.m. (AW) October 28 — 25, Sanctuary Pond @ 5:00 p.m. to sunset (AW) – 12 birds were still present here on October 29 (early a.m. only). October 28 — ten, Pelee Marsh Tower @ 5:45 p.m. (AW) October 28 — 12, Pelee Marsh at DeLaurier Trail @ 6:20 p.m. (AW) – 3 birds were still present here on October 30, but were not necessarily the same individuals. October 30 — ten, East Beach to Tip (STP, RPC) October 31 — four, Concession Road C (DJW) November 1 — two, NW Hillman Marsh (John B. Schmelefske) November 1 — one, NE Hillman Beach (MBR) November 1 — three, Concession Road E (MBR)

Yellow-throated Warbler May 3 — one, south of PPNP entrance (BMD, BFD et al.) May 16-18 — one, half way transit stop (DJW et al.) May 22 — one, east side of Tip (Tom Lane) May 23 — one male, White Pine Beach (Hue Metcalfe et al.)

“Yellow” Palm Warbler April 25-28 — one male hypochrysea, PPNP entrance to Sanctuary Beach (AW et al.)

Le Conte’s Sparrow October 8-9 — one, DeLaurier Parking (Karl Overman, Robert M. Epstein, MWH, JAH et al.) October 9 — one, West Beach (BAM) October 16 — one, west side of Tip (JMP)

Dickcissel May 21 — one, east side of Tip (many observers; finder not known) May 24 — two, flying south off Tip (AW, WGL) Juvenile Le Conte's Sparrow at DeLaurier Parking Area on October 9, 2010 --- Alan Wormington Page 30 The Egret March 2011

Western Meadowlark October 19 — one immature, west side of Tip (AW, Henrietta T. O’Neill) – this represents just the 3rd fall record for Point Pelee.

White-winged Crossbill November 1 — one, West Beach (MBR)

Evening Grosbeak November 2 — one, Sturgeon Creek (MBR) – this is the first Point Pelee record since 2007, and prior to that year one must go back all the way to 2001 for the next occurrence! Formerly this species Immature Western Meadowlark at west side of Tip Point Pelee, October 19, occurred in abundance at Point Pelee. 2010 --- Alan Wormington

— SIGNIFICANT MIGRATION DATES —

With a history of bird study dating back to 1877, it seems remarkable that any record-early or record-late date could be established at Point Pelee. Yet every year we continue to push the biological limits of these migration categories.

RECORD-EARLY SPRING: Dunlin — two on March 18 (DJW) — 5 days record-early

RECORD-LATE SPRING: Great Black-backed Gull — one adult on May 19-20 (AW et al.) — 10 days record-late – immature birds regularly over-summer at Point Pelee, but by late April all adult birds have usually departed for their East Coast breeding grounds.

RECORD-EARLY FALL: Northern Harrier — one juvenile on August 7 (AW) — 5 days record-early Northern Goshawk — one juvenile on September 21 (Alfred L. Adamo) — ties record-early Peregrine Falcon — one juvenile on July 16 (BRH) — 17 days record-early – presumably this was a locally-raised bird, rather than a migrant from the north. Cave Swallow — eight on October 27 (one AW, MBR / seven LAF, ML) — 6 days record-early A record-late (adult) Great Black-backed Gull at the Tip of Point Pelee, May 19-20, 2010 --- Alan Wormington Page 31 The Egret March 2011

Orange-crowned Warbler — two on September 9 (Michael E. Carlson) — 6 days record-early – this very early observation followed an intense cold front, when the species was also recorded elsewhere across southern Ontario. Cape May Warbler — one adult female on July 16 (AW) — 18 days record-early Savannah Sparrow — one on August 27 at North Dike east (AW, KAM) — 6 days record- early – not only was this early fall migrant categorized as such by the fact that it was one of the darker, northern subspecies, but also the bird sought refuge within thick shrubs, a behavioural trail that local breeding birds rarely employ. Swamp Sparrow — one immature on September 14 at West Beach (AW) — 3 days record-early – fall migrants such as this bird can be detected only in areas well removed from Pelee Marsh. Western Meadowlark — one immature on October 19 (AW, HTO) — 8 days record- early

RECORD-LATE FALL: Purple Sandpiper — one on January 9 (PDP et al.) — 8 days record-late Little Gull — one adult on January 23 (BAM) — 7 days record-late This Scarlet Tanager at Tilden's Woods was record-late for Point – this bird at the Tip was presumed to be a Pelee, December 8, 2010 --- Alan Wormington very late fall transient since it was with 900 Bonaparte’s Gulls, which were also late-fall migrants and none were recorded thereafter. Scarlet Tanager — one first-year male on December 8 (AW) — 13 days record-late

— SIGNIFICANT SEASONAL RECORDS —

Golden Eagle April 18 — one, west of Wheatley (JDV) – this is one of only a few valid spring records for Point Pelee.

Least Sandpiper July 22 — one juvenile, Lake Pond (Dwayne D. Murphy) – this ties the earliest arrival date for a juvenile bird at Point Pelee.

White-rumped Sandpiper October 23 — one adult, Sturgeon Creek (AW) – this is the latest adult to be recorded at Point Pelee by 13 days. Juvenile Least Sandpiper at Lake Pond Point Pelee, July 22, 2010 --- Dwayne D. Murphy

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Great Black-backed Gull August 15 — one juvenile, Tip (AW, MBR, RPC) – this is the earliest juvenile to be recorded at Point Pelee by 2 days.

Parasitic Jaeger May 13 — one light-morph adult, Northwest Beach (G. Tom Hince) – this represents the 15th spring record for Point Pelee.

The Birds of Point Pelee Point Pelee bird sightings (current or historical) can be sent to: [email protected] The Point Pelee database is used for multiple purposes: Annual Summaries (such as this current one for 2010); seasonal sightings that are published in North American Birds; and for a major publication which is currently in progress — The Birds of Point Pelee.

Ojibway Winter Birding Trip at Pt. Pelee Looking north from tip – Photo by Paul Pratt

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ECFNC Activities and Excursions, March – June ’11

For further information concerning the ECFNC excursions, contact JoAnn Grondin (519-734-0056), or Margaret Jennings (519-250-0705). Let us know about your ideas for upcoming excursions. Consider volunteering as an excursion leader.

“Thank you” to those who have volunteered to lead an excursion. We appreciate leaders sharing their time and expertise with others.

* Remember that Point Pelee annual passes are discounted 25% until the end of March.

March 2,9,16,23,30 – Canada South Land Trust - Wednesday Pasta Nights at the Riverside Sportsmen Club - The Riverside Sportsmen Club located on Riverside Drive East holds pasta nights on each Wednesday of the month in support of a different charity each month. Thank you to the Riverside Sportsmen Club for extending an invitation to the Canada South Land Trust to participate in the weekly pasta night during March 2011. A delicious pasta dinner served from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm. Dine in or take out is $8.00. ECFNC volunteers are needed to help sell the Fishes of Essex County. Please call Teresa at 519-322-0004. Thank you CSLT for allowing us to participate!

March 9 – ECFNC Annual General Meeting – Enjoy an evening of updates from the various ECFNC committees and a stimulating quiz with prizes! Meet at the Windsor Airport Community Room, 7:30 pm.

March to May – Ojibway Nature Centre – Winter Hiking at Ojibway. Exercise your body and brain! These brisk morning walks with one of Ojibway Nature Centre's naturalists will introduce you to the many plants and animals in our area. Explore the Ojibway Prairie Complex, other sites in Windsor and meet new friends. Senior discount available. Call Ojibway for hike locations and to register (519-966-5852). Fee = $39/10 weeks Tuesdays 10:00 - 11:00 am. March 24 – May 26

March 17 – Ojibway Nature Centre - Owl Prowl - Come join us for a special evening hike to learn, listen and search for these fascinating birds. Please sign up early to avoid disappointment! Thursday night 6:30-8:30 pm. $6/adult, $5/child. Call Ojibway at 519-966-5852 to register.

March 12 - June 19 – The artwork of ECFNC Club member and local painter Mary Celestino: Middle Island at the Art Gallery of Windsor. Her works focus themselves upon the ecological devastation of Middle Island, Canada’s southernmost point, due to the infestation of cormorants. These paintings seek to underscore the enormous philosophical divide between those who argue against the notion of reassembling injured ecosystems and those who say that in some cases, we have no choice. See events also on March 27 and April 29.

March 27 Sundays in the Studio: Middle Island Dioramas. Art Gallery of Windsor 12:30 pm.

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April to May - Ojibway Spring Bird Migration Field Course. A series of morning field trips to observe the incredible variety of bird life that migrates through Point Pelee National Park and Southwestern Ontario. Saturdays from 8:30 am – noon, $15 each. Apr 2, (Saturday) meet at 8:30 am at the Point Pelee Visitor Centre Apr 16, (Saturday) meet at 8:30 am at the Point Pelee Visitor Centre May 7, (Saturday) meet at 8:30 am at the Point Pelee Visitor Centre May 21, (Saturday) meet at 8:00 am at the Point Pelee Visitor Centre

April 3 – ECFNC Spring Excursion – Join the Principal of the Dr. David Suzuki Public School for a tour of this demonstration site for innovative energy and environmental technologies. Meet at 2:00 pm at the front of the school, 6320 Raymond (just east of Jefferson).

April 8 - Canada South Land Trust - Annual CSLT dinner and Silent Auction Annual CSLT dinner and fund raising silent auction, Friday, April 8, 2011 at the Caboto Club in the Marconi Room. Doors open at 6:00 pm and dinner at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $35. Donations to the silent auction are welcome. Guest speaker is Carl Pascoe who will discuss Ruby-throated Hummingbirds. Call Betty at 519-944-0825 for tickets and further information.

April 10 – Friends of Ojibway Prairie Annual General Meeting. Please join the Friends for their annual meeting at 1:00 pm followed by a tour of the New Ojibway Nature Centre.

April 10 and 17 – Ojibway Nature Centre - Birding for Beginners. Join one of Ojibway's naturalists on a morning walk through Ojibway where we will learn skills to identify the warblers, sparrows, thrushes and other birds that migrate through Windsor each spring. Sunday from 10:00 am to noon. $6/adult, $5/child. Call Ojibway at 519-966-5852 to register.

April 13 – ECFNC Members Meeting – Guest speaker: Dennis Patrick on Ambassador Bridge Peregrine Falcons. Meet at the Windsor Airport Community Room, 7:30 pm.

April 14 – Green Infrastructure Workshop. Developing a Living Green Infrastructure Strategy for Ontario. 8:00 am – 4:45 pm, Ojibway Nature Centre. Please call Ojibway (519-966-5852) for details and registration information.

April 19 – Friends of Ojibway Prairie Spring Cleanup. Join the Friends of Ojibway Prairie as we help beautify our local natural areas. Refreshments provided. Tuesday from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Call Ojibway at 519-966-5852 for more information.

April to May – Ojibway Weekday Birding. Discover the most popular outdoor hobby in North America through a series of morning field trips during the peak of spring migration. Wednesdays from 8:30 am to noon, $15 each. Apr 27, (Wednesday) meet at 8:30 am at the Point Pelee Visitor Centre May 4, (Wednesday) meet at 8:30 am at the Marsh Boardwalk, Point Pelee May 11, (Wednesday) meet at 8:30 am at Hillman Marsh C.A.

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April 29 - Fridays Live! At the Art Gallery of Windsor. Meet artists, tour the exhibitions, enjoy music by local musicians and a cash bar, and create your own artwork in the studio. Take advantage of the fabulous shopping at the Uncommon Market gift shop and Art Rental and Sales and enjoy great food at Taste Bud Bistro! 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm. Cost: $7.00 (Free to AGW members)

April 30 – Canada South Land Trust - Ainslie Woodland Spring Wildflower Walk Enjoy a walk to enjoy spring migrants and flowering plants in the Ainslie Woodland located within the Town of Leamington on Saturday, April 30, 2011 at 2:00 pm. Directions: From Staples proceed south on County Road 77, watching for Concession 10. Turn left and proceed east along Concession 10 for 3 kilometres to the woodland and the lane access which is on the north side of the concession. Watch for number 1129 and drive along the lane to the back of the woodland. Donations are welcome towards the CSLT Legacy Fund. Refreshments will be served.

April 30 – May 1 - ECFNC Annual Pelee Island Trip – Join ECFNC member Dave Kraus in this wonderful weekend on Pelee Island. See details in separate article. For more information or to register, please call Dave at 519-825-7491.

April 30 – ECFNC Spring Excursion – Join club member Don Bissonnette and members of the Purple Martin Club for a bluebird tour. Meet at 9:00 am in the Greenway parking lot on the Arner Townline in Arner. Rain date May 7.

May 1- Bake Sale on Earth Day – Once again the Heritage committee is asking for donations of baked goods for our annual Bake Sale at Earth Day. Please drop baked goods off at Mic Mac Park after 8:00 am on Sunday. Wrap baked goods in clear plastic wrap or put in clear storage bags. Please call Cathy Lapain 519-776-6097 (leave message) if you are able to volunteer to help sell baked goods.

May 1 – Earth Day Celebrations at Mic Mac Park. Fun for the entire family! Enjoy over 40 environmental exhibits, crafts, entertainment, astronomy, food and much more! Sunday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Free Admission. Call Ojibway 519-966-5852 for more information.

May date to be announced- ECFNC Spring Excursion- Bonnie Ross will again be organizing an inspection and maintenance tour of the Shaughnessey Cohen memorial Savannah and the Ontario Nature Stone Road Reserve on Pelee Island. This is an overnight trip with several hours of work on the nature reserves and an opportunity to enjoy other areas of the island. Call Bonnie at 519-969-4247.

May 8- Canada South Land Trust - Balkwill Woodland Spring Wildflower Walk Enjoy a walk on the Balkwill Lands on Sunday, May 8, 2011 at 2:00 pm. If you are coming from Essex, proceed south on the Arner Town Line, watching for the sign indicating Road 2 West in the Town of Kingsville. Turn left at this intersection and proceed east, watching for house number 1880. Turn left into the lane and proceed to parking around the residence. Donations are welcome towards the land Trust’s Legacy Fund. Call Betty at 519-944-0825 if you will be attending. Refreshments will be served.

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May 8 & 9 - Spring Shore and Songbird Celebration at Hillman Marsh – We will again have our Blue Kestrel Cafe open on both days from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. If you can help for a portion of either day, please call Shirley Grondin at 519-972-5781. If you can't help out, stop by for a home baked muffin or a hotdog and enjoy the event. Join expert naturalists to celebrate shorebirds and songbirds as they migrate through this internationally renowned shore bird habitat. See songbirds up close as they are banded indoors by experts.

May 11 – ECFNC Members Meeting – Guest speaker: Dr. Rupp Carriveau on Wind Turbine Research. Meet at the Windsor Airport Community Room, 7:30 pm.

May 18 – Ojibway Big Day Birding. A full day of birding for people seeking over 100 species of birds in a single day! Wednesday at 6:00 am, $25. May 18, (Wednesday) meet at 6:00 am at the Marsh Boardwalk, Point Pelee

May 23 – ECFNC Spring Excursion – The Point Pelee Victoria Day birding walk has become a regular spring event for club members and friends. Meet at 8:30 am. at the Interpretive Centre. We will bird for the morning and eat lunch at the picnic tables. Bring your own lunch or support the Friends of Point Pelee by buying lunch at their food booth.

June 5 – ECFNC Spring Excursion – Join club members Gerry Waldron and Peggy Hurst to explore the conservation lands in the Cedar Creek Watershed with the focus on finding two rare medicinal plants, Goldenseal and Ginseng. Both are now protected under the Endangered Species Act. This will be a moderately difficult bushwhack hike (no shorts or high heels please!). Take the Arner Townline ( County Rd. 23) south from County Road 20, cross the bridge over Cedar Creek and immediately turn right at the first lane into Camp Cedarwin. There will be an ECFNC sign at the roadway. Proceed to the parking area near the camp buildings. Meet at 1:30 pm.

June 8 – ECFNC Members Meeting – Guest speaker: to be announced. Visit www.ojibway.ca/ecfn.htm for updates. Meet at the Windsor Airport Community Room, 7:30 pm.

June 12 – ECFNC Spring Excursion – Peregrine Falcon Watching – Join Club members at the Ambassador Bridge to hopefully watch the recently fledged Peregrines learn life skills from their parents. From Huron Church Road or University Avenue turn west (under the bridge ) to park in University of Windsor parking lot "A" between Peter Street and University Ave. This is a pay and display parking lot ($1.50 per hour), and there is metered parking on Huron Church Road. Meet at 2:00 pm on University Avenue at the Bridge to watch the falcons.

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Essex County Field Naturalists’ Club Membership Form – Due January 1, 2011

Individual membership $20.00 / year ______Family membership $25.00 / year ______Student (full-time) $10.00 / year ______Sustaining membership $30.00 / year ______Life membership $500.00 / year ______(tax receipt eligible)

Name ______

Street ______City ______

Province _____ Postal Code ______Phone Number ______

E-mail ______ I wish to receive the Egret by email.

 Please contact me to volunteer at ECFNC events!

Make cheques payable to: Essex County Field Naturalists’ Club Thank you! Devonshire Mall P.O., P. O. Box 23011, Windsor, Ontario N8X 5B5

FISHES OF ESSEX COUNTYAND SURROUNDING WATERS By Lynda D. Corkum

$25.00 (plus shipping)

Purchase online at www.fishesofessexcounty.com

Or by mailing this card to Essex County Field Naturalists’ Club At Devonshire Mall P.O. Box 23011, Windsor, ON, N8X 5B5

Name ______Address______City______Province/ State______Postal/Zip Code ______Phone______

Credit Card # ______Expiry Date______Visa/MasterCard______Signature______

Or you may enclose a cheque payable to ECFNC

For further information contact [email protected]

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