NeilyWorld      Birding Ottawa - Where and When to See Guide


   WHERE & WHEN TO SEE GUIDE
         This section includes information on all regularly occurring Ottawa rarities, scarcities and uncommon species. Accidental or casual species are only included if some clue can be given as to where and when one might look for them. Some common to abundant species are included by virtue of the spectacle value, specialized habitat requirements or nocturnal habits. Sites specifically named in this section are all covered individually in the book.
NOTE:    When jumping from this page to a particular site page, please use your browser's "Back" button to return here.
Choose a species from this drop-down menu:
Check the Birding Ottawa Winter Specialty Status page.
Check the Winter Finch Forecast courtesy Ron Pittaway.
Check the Birding Ottawa  Current Year's RBA.
Review the Birding Ottawa  Past Years' RBAs.
Review Past Years' Winter Specialty Status Pages.
Review the Birding Ottawa Past Years' Pittaway's Winter Finch Forecasts pages.
Return to Birding Ottawa  Table of Contents.


Greater White-fronted Goose          A few seen each year, usually with flocks of Canada Geese. Best locations are Cobbs Lake Creek at Russell Road (Bourget), Bear Brook at Milton Road and Bear Brook at Frank Kenny Road in spring. Geese are more spread out in the fall, feeding in stubble fields south of the city during the day and roosting on the river and quarries at night. A midday circuit of the farm land scanning each flock (such spots as Earl Armstrong Road or Brophy/Bankfield Road) or a visit to Ottawa Beach or the Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds in the evening are recommended.       Return to Main Menu
Snow Goose          This species is becoming more common in Eastern Ontario in the last few years, with tens of thousands being seen each year from Cornwall north through the eastern portion of the Ottawa Checklist Circle and areas to the immediate east of it. Usually a few thousand gather in the spring at Cobbs Lake Creek at Russell Road (Bourget), the South Nation River North of Riceville and some of Eastern Ontario's sewage lagoons and adjacent fields such as Alexandria, Maxville, Alfred and Chesterville. A few, sometimes hundreds, at Bear Brook at Milton Road in the spring. And a few at Ottawa Beach and the Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds in the fall. In December of 2006-07, unusually warm conditions appeared to delay the flight southward of these birds and one of the largest flocks (c. 30,000 - Dec. 23-24) ever seen in the area, frequented the local sewage lagoons and corn fields around Casselman, St. Isadore, St. Albert, Maxville and Alfred. The largest flock reported, so far, near the Ottawa Circle, was one of around 50,000 seen on Apr. 17, 2008 along the South Nation River north of St. Isadore and east of County Road 9 (see the South Nation River North of Riceville page).       Return to Main Menu
Brant          For a few weeks each around late May and late October, flocks of Brant pass through the Ottawa area. In spring, they can be heard flying over at night. In the autumn, flocks sometimes put down to feed or rest along the Ottawa River. The best spot is Ottawa Beach.       Return to Main Menu
Cackling Goose - Ottawa Beach - Nov. 2, 2008 - photo courtesy Brian Young
Cackling Goose          Each spring and fall a small number of this species, newly split from the Canada Goose, occur in our area. They are almost always found with flocks of Canada Geese, although they often keep a bit to themselves within the larger flock. These birds were formerly the smaller subspecies of the Canada Goose, some looking no larger than ducks. Since the split they are more often being reported, and have occurred more consistently at Ottawa Beach than elsewhere in the area; though there are reports from many sites.
Photo taken on Nov. 2, 2008 courtesy Brian Young.       Return to Main Menu
Canada Goose          Each spring at Cobbs Lake Creek, when the flooding occurs, up to 100,000 gather on their way north (see Cobbs Lake Creek at Russell Road (Bourget)). Thousands more occur between here and Riceville in low, flooded areas. Bear Brook at Milton Road area can have up to 10,000. Even after the flooding is through, thousands of geese may be found in fields and bays along the Ottawa River, particularly on the Quebec side. See the extensive fields used by geese near the Marais aux Grenouillettes, opposite La Ferme Soleil, and just outside the circle, check the sheltered bays at Grande & Petite Presqu'île. In the fall, many city dwellers are amazed to see geese flying south every morning and then flying north each evening. Thousands flock to the Ottawa River each night to roost (Ottawa Beach and Shirley's Bay are the best spots), and go off to the corn fields south of the city during the day. When winter forces them to, they fly a bit farther south to the Saint Lawrence.       Return to Main Menu
Mute Swan          Almost yearly of late, usually single birds. Check Cobbs Lake Creek at Russell Road (Bourget), Bear Brook at Milton Road, Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds and the Jock River near Twin Elm.       Return to Main Menu
Tundra Swan          Almost yearly, in the vanguard of the waterfowl migration in late March or early April, single birds set down in our area. Check Cobbs Lake Creek at Russell Road (Bourget), Bear Brook at Milton Road and the Jock River near Twin Elm.       Return to Main Menu
Wood Duck          Trouble finding a Wood Duck? Go to the south end of Mud Pond in Britannia. They are there anytime the lake is icefree.       Return to Main Menu
Gadwall          Check Shirley's Bay or Rivermead.       Return to Main Menu
Eurasian Wigeon          Ottawa is graced by this bird almost yearly. Most recently, in both 2003 and 2004, this species has been found in late April in Lac Carpentier, viewable from both Lac Carpentier and Petite Baie Clément and Marais aux Grenouillettes. One bird returned faithfully each autumn from 1988 through 1991, spending each September and October waffling between Rivermead and Britannia. That must mean these areas are good bets. Shirleys Bay and the Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds are other sites where this species has occurred. Any gathering of American Wigeon is worth checking, they like to hang out together and swap stories.       Return to Main Menu
Canvasback          The best area to find this species in the region is along the Ottawa River from just below the Deschênes Rapids west to Shirley's Bay, especially in late fall. April records are scarcer. Shirley's Bay and Ottawa Beach are the spots where the majority of sightings have occurred. Dick Bell Park and the Grandview Road area are also good bets. Perhaps the best spring site is Cobbs Lake Creek at Russell Road (Bourget).       Return to Main Menu
Redhead          Like the Canvasback this somewhat more common diving duck prefers the Shirleys Bay to Deschênes Rapids area best. But it also shows up with some regularity at area sewage lagoons. The best sites are Shirley's Bay, Ottawa Beach and Rivermead. The best lagoons are Casselman and Embrun. Try Baie Noire and Plaisance areas also. In the summer of 2003, 2 birds stayed at the Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds. It is not known if they bred. Large flocks of Redhead are seen along the St. Lawrence River in fall (see Cornwall Dam).       Return to Main Menu
King Eider          Possibly occurs each late fall and early winter, but is not seen every year. When seen, it is usually in passing along the Ottawa River. Shirley's Bay has had repeat sightings. On the Rideau River, at the Jock River's mouth, an immature male spent nearly a week one December. This was an anomaly, but who knows? Seen with some regularity in late fall and early winter off Owen Point in Presqu'ile Provincial Park.       Return to Main Menu
Harlequin Duck          This species winters occasionally on the Ottawa River. The spot they seem to prefer is Parc Brébeuf, in the channel between the shore and the small island. The shores of the Deschênes Rapids are another spot to check. One has spent the last few winters at the rapids on the Rideau River near Strathcona Park and Riverain Park.       Return to Main Menu
Black Scoter          This species can be found along the Ottawa River, especially during fall migration. Consistently seen between Britannia and Shirley's Bay, often in company with other scoter species. Scan the river with a scope, they are seldom close to shore.       Return to Main Menu
Long-tailed Duck (Oldsquaw)          Best seen in fall and early winter along the Ottawa River, especially after Lac Deschênes freezes over forcing the remaining birds closer to shore near the rapids. Scarce in spring. Best areas are the Deschênes Rapids and Shirley's Bay. Ottawa Beach, Parc Brébeuf and Kitchissippi Lookout are other spots to try. Occasionally seen at sewage lagoons, i.e. Munster and Embrun.       Return to Main Menu
Barrow's Goldeneye          There are usually two or three individuals of this species present all winter on the Ottawa River. The best viewing spots are above the Deschênes Rapids and from Parc Brébeuf, both on the Quebec side of the river. One individual habitually winters on the Rideau River, often visible from Riverain Park or Strathcona Park.
Regarding identification of female Barrow's Goldeneye Bruce Di Labio cautions: "The bill colour of female Barrow's is only an aid to the identification and it is not diagnostic. Most important is to look at the head shape. The head of the female Barrow's Goldeneye has an oval shape created by a steep forehead, flat crown and elongated hind neck feathers like a mane. The latter gives the appearance of a swept back crest, similar to the male Barrow's and female Hooded Merganser. The head shape of the Common Goldeneye lacks the "puffiness" of the female Barrow's. It has a rounded rather than flat crown and a sloping forehead." For more information see identification article: Recognizable Forms: Bill Colour and Identification of Female Barrow's Goldeneye by Bruce Di Labio, Ron Pittaway and Peter Burke in Ontario Birds, Vol. 15, No. 2, Pages 81-85, 1997.       Return to Main Menu
Red-breasted Merganser          This species can be found along the Ottawa River, especially during fall migration. Consistently seen between Britannia and Shirley's Bay. Scanning the river with a scope affords best results.       Return to Main Menu
Ruddy Duck          A small number of these birds breed in some of the Eastern Sewage Lagoons. Just outside the circle, significant numbers breed at the Alfred Sewage Lagoon. And in the late fall, Ruddy Ducks form a small flock at Shirley's Bay.       Return to Main Menu
Gray Partridge          This resident is found only in the disappearing agricultural areas, mostly south and east of Ottawa. A prime area for sighting of this bird is the area northeast of Navan (Sarsfield and Regimbald Roads, Dunning and Regimbald Roads, Giroux & Dunning Roads and Frank Kenny and Wall Roads). Overall, it is becoming decidedly less common.       Return to Main Menu
Ring-necked Pheasant          These beautiful and fairly obvious birds once were moderately common locally in the Ottawa area, and since they had maintained a stable breeding population over the years, they were on our checklist. However, hard times fell on them, and they disappeared over the course of a few years. Hard winters, urban expansion and predators all contributed. Populations at Britannia and Hurdman Park held on longer than the rest, but they too failed. It is now considered extirpated from our area. Occasional sightings are likely escapees from bird fanciers or game farms.       Return to Main Menu
Wild Turkey          This bird has been seen increasingly in the Ottawa area recently, but is still not on our checklist as countable. It falls under the recent introduction category. Many birds have been released by the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) around the periphery of Ottawa. Local releases began in the Kemptville area in 1992 and near Carp in 1996-97. The last local introductions occurred in 2000-01. MNR does not plan any further introductions in the Ottawa area. If they are self-sustaining after another 10 or 15 years have passed, they may be put on the local checklist as a countable species. Flocks may be seen almost anywhere around the area, foraging in agricultural fields.       Return to Main Menu
Red-throated Loon          Best bet is to watch the Ottawa River during late October and the first half of November (particularly the second week of November). The best spots would be from the end of the dyke at Shirley's Bay, the Deschênes Rapids, Bate Island or anywhere the river narrows sufficiently to force the birds closer to land. Most records are of small flocks flying straight on through, but occasionally, birds are spotted resting on the river. Sometimes large numbers of this species and Common Loons pass as migrants. For instance, on Nov. 13, 2006, 222 Red-throated and 173 Common Loons were seen along the Ottawa River from Shirley's Bay east to Remic Rapids.       Return to Main Menu
Least Bittern          These are difficult birds to actually see, but may at least be heard, if you are persistent, in several area marshes. While they are present from mid-May through mid-September, they usually stop calling by early July. To make matters even more difficult, they, like most marsh birds, call mainly at night. Breeding sites include Richmond Fen, Nortel (Moodie Drive) Marsh & Trails, Munster Road at Soldier's Line, Marathon Trail, Constance Creek at Vances Side Road, Marais aux Grenouillettes, Ramseyville Marsh, etc.       Return to Main Menu
Great Egret          Nearly every year more of these birds are seen, usually along one of our rivers or ponds. In the summer and fall of recent years, up to 6 of these beauties lounged around the marshes between the islands at Shirley's Bay Dyke. Other sites that have had repeat visits in recent years are the Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds, High Falls Conservation Area and the Bruce Pit. It would not be surprising to find them breeding in the area in the near future.       Return to Main Menu
Cattle Egret          Almost every year, with Brewer Park being a repeat site.       Return to Main Menu
Green Heron          Uncommon but widespread. Late summer and fall at Britannia is the best bet.       Return to Main Menu
Black-crowned Night Heron          Beginning in 2007, this species nested at the Deschênes Rapids. Post-breeding birds are seen in late summer and fall at Britannia and Shirley's Bay, and the Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds.       Return to Main Menu
Bald Eagle          Look for this species along the escarpment of the Gatineau Hills in winter (check the Steel Line and Ramsey Lake Roads). Also seen along the Ottawa River throughout the year now (check Shirley's Bay, the point at Britannia, etc.). More common in winter and migration, but present all year. Much more common in recent years.       Return to Main Menu
Northern Goshawk          Though a permanent forest and woodland resident, you have a somewhat better chance of seeing it in October and November when the fall migrants are passing through, unless you know of an active nest site. One such site, active in the summer of 2005, was the County Road 8 and Route 100E Trail in the Larose Forest.       Return to Main Menu
Red-shouldered Hawk          This uncommon bird is usually present from late March to October, rarely lingering later. It is best found near one of the known breeding locations, and located by its loud and repetitive "kee-ah" call. Beware the imitators though, Blue Jays and other birder's with tape recorders. One consistent locale is Constance Creek at Thomas Dolan Parkway and the adjacent Dunrobin Ridge on Greenland Road.       Return to Main Menu
Rough-legged Hawk          From October on into May the Ottawa area usually has a good number of over-wintering Rougies. They prefer expanses of fields such as those south of the airport, near Richmond or in the French Hill area.       Return to Main Menu
Golden Eagle          Uncommon to rare along the escarpment of the Gatineau Hills in winter. And possible nearly anywhere during its late fall migration (mid-Oct. to late Nov.).       Return to Main Menu
Merlin          A bird that is having recent success breeding in the city. Many pairs can be seen and, more obviously, heard within our urban neighbourhoods. Easily seen during migration, most often seen along the Ottawa River (Deschênes Rapids, Shirley's Bay) and at local sewage lagoons.       Return to Main Menu
Gyrfalcon          This magnificent creature deigns to spend the winter in our area some years. Favorite haunts have been the Clyde Quarry, Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds (possible roosting areas), and hunting along the Ottawa River.       Return to Main Menu
Peregrine Falcon          A pair has nested for several years now on the Crowne Plaza Hotel in downtown Ottawa. Individuals are often seen roosting on the Coats Building, Tunney's Pasture. They are seen from time to time hunting along the Ottawa River (Deschênes Rapids, Shirley's Bay).       Return to Main Menu
Yellow Rail          Richmond Fen has a small breeding population. Listen for their clicking notes at night from late May to the end of June. To actually see one, you'll need a miracle. Approaches to the fen include, from Richmond, from Joy's Road by canoe, and from Kettles Road.       Return to Main Menu
Virginia Rail          A common breeding bird in area marshes. Will respond to imitations of its call, even in the daytime. Often comes out to the marsh edge to investigate. Also found in cattail areas of local sewage lagoons.       Return to Main Menu
Sora          A common breeding bird in area marshes. Will respond to imitations of its call, even in the daytime. Also found in cattail areas of local sewage lagoons.       Return to Main Menu
Common Moorhen          Breeds locally in certain marshes and sewage lagoons. Check Casselman, Marais aux Grenouillettes, etc.       Return to Main Menu
American Coot          Breeds locally in certain marshes and sewage lagoons. Sizable flocks gather in the late fall at Shirley's Bay.       Return to Main Menu
Sandhill Crane          Mer Bleue has a small, but growing, breeding population and other colonies may be beginning in other parts of Eastern Ontario and nearby Quebec. Sometimes seen in summer along Anderson Road, between Renaud and Dolman Ridge Roads. Often seen in large groups along Milton Road in the late fall, where up to 75 birds can be seen at once. Can also be seen in fields nearby such as those south of Navan along Trim Road where up to 71 were seen in Oct. 2009.       Return to Main Menu
American Golden-Plover          Seen mainly in August and September on freshly plowed area agricultural fields or sod farms such as those along the South Gower Boundary Road. Found uncommonly at local sewage lagoons.       Return to Main Menu
Upland Sandpiper          Breeds locally in appropriate habitat. Prefers open pasture-like areas, such as those along the Dywer Hill Road and Fitzroy Harbour. Check the South Gower Boundary Road (Sod & Turf Farms) for post-breeding birds of this species in August.       Return to Main Menu
Whimbrel          These birds pass over Ottawa, often along the Ottawa River, in small numbers; but rarely touch down here. You are more likely to hear them passing over than see them, unless you are "lucky" enough to be at Ottawa Beach, Shirley's Bay or the right sewage lagoon when a thunderstorm brings down a flock or individual briefly. One bird, possibly confused or sick, stayed at Remic Rapids for an extended period (Aug. 30 to at least Sept. 21, 2004).       Return to Main Menu
Hudsonian Godwit          These birds pass through the Ottawa River Valley in small numbers, but rarely touch down here. You are most likely to find one at Shirley's Bay, Ottawa Beach or one of the local sewage lagoons.       Return to Main Menu
Marbled Godwit          These birds pass through the Ottawa River Valley in small numbers, but rarely touch down here. You are most likely to find one at Shirley's Bay or one of the local sewage lagoons.       Return to Main Menu
Red Knot          These birds pass through the Ottawa River Valley in small numbers, but rarely touch down here. You are most likely to find one at Shirley's Bay, Ottawa Beach or one of the local sewage lagoons.       Return to Main Menu
Western Sandpiper          Rare visitor, and challenge to ID, in August and September to Shirley's Bay, Ottawa Beach or one of the local sewage lagoons.       Return to Main Menu
Baird's Sandpiper          Uncommon but regular migrant from August through mid-October to Shirley's Bay, Ottawa Beach or one of the local sewage lagoons.       Return to Main Menu
Purple Sandpiper          Rare migrant around the first week of November. Best seen on rocky shore areas of the Ottawa River. The best spots are the jetties at Britannia Pier and Dick Bell Park. These birds like promontories and are often found quietly feeding at the very end of the point or jetty. They are so well camouflaged that unless you scan carefully, or they fly, you might not see them despite the fact they are only a few metres away.       Return to Main Menu
Stilt Sandpiper          Scarce but regular migrant from mid-July through September to Shirley's Bay or one of the local sewage lagoons.       Return to Main Menu
Buff-breasted Sandpiper          Rare, seen mainly in August and September on freshly plowed area agricultural fields or sod farms. Perhaps the best site for this species is the South Gower Boundary Road (Sod & Turf Farms). More rarely, but sometimes more accessible, single birds visit local sewage lagoons.       Return to Main Menu
Ruff          Very rare, seen more often here in spring migration, mostly May, but sometimes in the southward passage. Check Shirley's Bay or one of the local sewage lagoons, especially Embrun.       Return to Main Menu
Long-billed Dowitcher          Rare but annual visitor from mid-September through October, appearing after the peak of Short-billed Dowitcher migrants has moved on. Check Shirley's Bay or one of the local sewage lagoons.       Return to Main Menu
American Woodcock          This common breeder is found in appropriate habitat from March to November. Easiest to find in April, when it does its fabulous mating flight from its chosen woodland opening or edge area. Check Shirley's Bay or March Valley Road (Fourth Line) - Klondike at dusk in spring, listening for the twittering flight "song" (really tail-feathers) or the repeated "peent" given when it returns to the chosen spot on the ground. A good way to actually see this bird when you have located a calling bird is to wait for it to do its flight, then move closer to the "peent"ing area, stopping before the bird returns. Freeze as soon as you can no longer hear the twittering sound. Repeat this several times and you will soon find yourself standing next to the "peent"ing bird. They do not land in exactly the same spot each time, but it is usually within 10 metres.       Return to Main Menu
Wilson's Phalarope          Breeds locally in certain sewage lagoons. Becoming more widespread. Check Casselman and St. Albert.       Return to Main Menu
Red-necked Phalarope          Rare migrant, usually found in local sewage lagoons in May and again in August and September. Some of the better spots, over the years, have been the sewage lagoons at Embrun and Russell and the Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds.       Return to Main Menu
Red Phalarope          Very rare, most often found in local sewage lagoons in September.       Return to Main Menu
Pomarine Jaeger          Casual along the Ottawa River in October and November. Keep your eye out for birds winging downriver or chasing gulls. Watch from Deschênes Rapids (QC), Deschênes Rapids (ON), the point at Britannia, Parc Brébeuf, Bate Island or Kitchissippi Lookout.       Return to Main Menu
Parasitic Jaeger          This is the most likely of the jaegers to be seen in the Ottawa area. Seen occasionally in June and slightly more often in September. Keep your eye out for birds winging along the river or chasing gulls. Watch from Deschênes Rapids (QC), Deschênes Rapids (ON), the point at Britannia, Parc Brébeuf, Bate Island or Kitchissippi Lookout.       Return to Main Menu
Long-tailed Jaeger          Least likely jaeger here, but it has occurred several times in June along the Ottawa River. Watch from Deschênes Rapids (QC), Deschênes Rapids (ON), the point at Britannia, Parc Brébeuf, Bate Island or Kitchissippi Lookout.       Return to Main Menu
Franklin's Gull          A few records for each month from May to November, slightly more likely around the first of June. Check the swirling flocks of gulls off the point at Britannia and the roosts at Ottawa Beach, Bate Island and Shirley's Bay.       Return to Main Menu
Little Gull          Rare in late May and early June, with a few record later in the summer. Check the swirling flocks of gulls off the point at Britannia and the roosts at Ottawa Beach and Shirley's Bay.       Return to Main Menu
Black-headed Gull          A few records (fall and early winter) along the Ottawa River. Check the roosts on the rocks at Deschênes Rapids or the spit at Ottawa Beach.       Return to Main Menu
Bonaparte's Gull          Uncommon along the Ottawa River in May-June and August to November. Check the swirling flocks of gulls off the point at Britannia and the roosts at Ottawa Beach and Shirley's Bay. Shows up at local sewage lagoons occasionally, especially Winchester in the fall.       Return to Main Menu
Thayer's Gull          Scarce October through December, casual in spring. Look for these birds in roosts on the rocks at Deschênes Rapids, the spit at Ottawa Beach and especially at the Nepean Dump. Identifying these birds is a challenge, so study hard.       Return to Main Menu
Iceland Gull          Uncommon October through mid-January, rare in spring. Look for these birds in roosts on the rocks at Deschênes Rapids, the spit at Ottawa Beach and especially at the Nepean Dump. Most easily found in November and December.       Return to Main Menu
Lesser Black-backed Gull          Scarce to uncommon late August through November, rare in December and spring. Look for these birds in roosts on the rocks at Deschênes Rapids, the spit at Ottawa Beach and especially at the Nepean Dump.       Return to Main Menu
Glaucous Gull          Uncommon October through mid-January, scarce in spring. Look for these birds in roosts on the rocks at Deschênes Rapids, the spit at Ottawa Beach and especially at the Nepean Dump. Most easily found in November and December.       Return to Main Menu
Black-legged Kittiwake          A few records along the Ottawa River, mostly in fall and early winter. Check the roosts on the rocks at Deschênes Rapids or the spit at Ottawa Beach. In an unprecedented (and widespread) event, up to 4 juvelines spent a week at the Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds in Aug. 2008.       Return to Main Menu
Caspian Tern          A scattering of records each year from mid-April to mid-October, with peaks in late May/early June and again in August and September. Most often seen winging along the Ottawa River, sometimes found resting with gulls at their roosts along the river. Watch from Deschênes Rapids (QC), Deschênes Rapids (ON), the point at Britannia, Parc Brébeuf, Bate Island or Kitchissippi Lookout. More recently, the Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds have attracted this species a number of times.       Return to Main Menu
Arctic Tern          A scarce northbound migrant in late May and early June. Most often seen winging along the Ottawa River, sometimes in small flocks (once a flock of 90). Watch from Deschênes Rapids (QC), Deschênes Rapids (ON), the point at Britannia, Parc Brébeuf, Bate Island or Kitchissippi Lookout.       Return to Main Menu
Forster's Tern          Casual in May and June, and again in the autumn. Check the swirling flocks of gulls off the point at Britannia and the roosts at Ottawa Beach and Shirley's Bay.       Return to Main Menu
Black Tern          Common at breeding colonies from May to August. A sizable colony exists at Baie Noire West and one exists at Marais aux Grenouillettes also. Small numbers occur at some local sewage lagoons and smaller marshes. Migrants occur at Shirley's Bay.       Return to Main Menu
Black-billed Cuckoo          Uncommon and sometimes hard to see breeder in scrubby or open woodlands from mid-May to the beginning of September. Stop in appropriate habitat in late May or June and listen for their repetitive "hoo-hoo-hoo" call. With luck and persistence you may even see it. Try places like Leitrim Road West.       Return to Main Menu
Yellow-billed Cuckoo          Rare and often hard to see breeder in scrubby or open woodlands from mid-May to the mid-August. Stop in appropriate habitat in late May or June and listen for their "kakakakaka-kow-kow-kow-kowp-kowp-kowp" call. Beware though, the Black-billed Cuckoo has a similar call it uses to attract a mate. Try to confirm this bird with a sighting. The Champlain Lookout and other areas in Gatineau Park have been the most consistant for this species. In the summer of 2008 a pair was seen a kilometer past the gate at the end of Cowden Road on the east side of Gatineau Park along Meech Creek.       Return to Main Menu
Eastern Screech-Owl - Ottawa West - Feb. or Mar. 2007 - photo by Saul Bocian
Eastern Screech-Owl          Scarce permanent resident. Widespread in area woodlands, nesting and roosting in tree cavities. When out after dark on an owling expedition, listen in appropriate woodland for the low, descending whinny or long, low trill given by these birds. They will often approach within 10 metres in response to imitations of their call. At that distance it can reduce the volume of its trill to the point where it still sounds far away. Sometimes can be seen in daytime roosting in the entrance of its hole. Reliable spots have been the Cambrian & New Cedarview Roads area, Old Carp Road and Richardson Side Road.
Photo courtesy Saul Bocian - taken in Ottawa West - Mar. 12, 2007.       Return to Main Menu
Snowy Owl          One of our northern visitors, the scarce Snowy Owl is found here from November until April. It is diurnal (active in the daytime) and prefers the open agricultural land south and east of Ottawa. Spots where these birds are found nearly every winter are the area north of Richmond (Shea & Akins Roads and Rushmore Road); the area northeast of Navan (Sarsfield and Regimbald Roads, Dunning and Regimbald Roads, Giroux & Dunning Roads and Frank Kenny and Wall Roads); the area south of the International Airport (Earl Armstrong Road and Limebank Road); and the area along Highway 417 near Casselman. Unfortunately, the best area locally to see them is just outside the Ottawa circle, in the Ste-Rose-de-Prescott area east of Casselman. Take exit 58 from the 417 and go north on Regional 8 to Concession 20, turn right and keep your eyes peeled. Check adjacent concession to the north as well.       Return to Main Menu
Northern Hawk-Owl          A rare visitor from farther north, from mid-November to mid-March. Has bred in both Mer Bleue and the Alfred Bog (last in 2001), but this is exceptional - usually after a major invasion year. As these owls are diurnal (active in the daytime) and prefer open land or woodland edge, they are often spotted along roads. Just keep your eyes open when out birding in winter and listen faithfully to the local bird lines - they will report any of these birds that are seen as there is no likelihood of them being disturbed by humans - they simply ignore us.       Return to Main Menu
Barred Owl          Next to the Great Horned Owl, our most common owl; and becoming more common. Breeds in forest and woodlands and is a permanent resident. When out after dark on an owling expedition, listen in woodlands for the 8 note "Who cooks for you, who cooks for you-all" call given by these birds. They will often approach within 10 metres in response to imitations of their call. Sometimes can be seen in daytime roosting in a tree. Reliable spots have been Bleeks Road near Munster, Malakoff Road south of Richmond, the Luskville area, Old Carp Road, March Valley Road, and Riddell Road.       Return to Main Menu
Great Gray Owl          A very rare visitor from farther north, from late December to late March. Usually there are only one or two birds seen in our circle each winter. Every few years there may be several in the area, but only in invasion years. Exceptionally, an invasion can bring large numbers into the local patch. This might happen once in 20 years, the winter of 2004 - 2005 being the latest. As these owls are diurnal (active in the daytime) and prefer open land or woodland edge, they are often spotted from roads. They are most active around dusk and dawn, and on cloudy days. On sunny days, they are harder to find. The Great Gray is not as happy on roadsides as the Northern Hawk-Owl, but does not fear people in the least. They will perch in both deciduous and conifer trees. Just scan field edges when out birding in winter and listen faithfully to the local bird lines - they will report any of these birds that are seen as there is little likelihood of them being disturbed by humans - they simply ignore us. Their biggest threat is starvation, so they keep moving south until they find an adequate food supply (voles) or succumb. The next most lethal danger to them is the motor vehicle. The aren't used to traffic where the come from and drivers sometimes don't see them in dawn or dusk conditions.       Return to Main Menu
Long-eared Owl          Breeds in forest and woodlands and is a scarce permanent resident. When out after dark on an owling expedition, listen in woodlands for the mournful howl or variety of hoots, whistles and shrieks given by these birds. Reliable spots have been Bleeks Road near Munster and the Richmond Fen. Sometimes can be seen in daytime roosting in a cedar. Clyde Woods in April is a good spot to check, or Amherst Island (outside the circle).       Return to Main Menu
Short-eared Owl          This owl breeds locally and some years some birds winter here, depending on availability of food. Most easily seen when they come out at dusk on Wall Road during breeding season. Earl Armstrong Road, south of the airport, is a good place to check in winter. Sometimes they will be perched in daylight on the fence posts along the road. Urban sprawl will soon destroy this site. Also seen on Amherst Island.       Return to Main Menu
Boreal Owl          Casual to very rare in winter. Clyde Woods in March is a good spot to check, or Amherst Island (outside the circle). Listen faithfully to the local bird lines - they will report any of these birds that are seen as there is no likelihood of them being disturbed by humans - they simply ignore us.       Return to Main Menu
Northern Saw-whet Owl          Uncommon during migration, otherwise scarce year round. When out after dark on an owling expedition, listen in woodlands for the extended repetition of "Too-too-too-too-too-..." called in a monotonous series. It is difficult to tell how far away the calling bird is. They will often approach within 10 metres in response to imitations of their call. Breeding birds can be heard on the Old Carp Road, the Malakoff Road or on the tracks into the Richmond Fen. Young birds just out of the nest give an repeated, insect-like "zzitt" call. Hint: These owls are usually heard shortly after dusk and tend to be quieter later on in the night. Clyde Woods in March is a good spot to check, or Amherst Island (outside the circle).       Return to Main Menu
Common Nighthawk          During the breeding season, though they have been seen in outlying towns, such as Pakenham and Carp, downtown Ottawa has the best bet. Just go for a stroll at dusk and listen for their nasal flight call far above. One site where they have been heard is the Crowne Plaza Hotel area. Toward the end of summer, in August, they can be seen hawking for insects over the suburbs, as they gather and fatten up for the trip south. One area to check is the Carp Ridge on Thomas Dolan Parkway site, where birds were seen several times during the summer of 2008. Much less common in recent years; suffering decline along with other insectivores.       Return to Main Menu
Whip-poor-will          These uncommon woodland birds, while present from May to September, are only easily located in May and June when they conscientiously repeat their name all night and sometimes after dawn. Breeding sites include Constance Creek at Vances Side Road, Munster Road & Soldier's Line and Huntmar Drive.       Return to Main Menu
Red-headed Woodpecker          Rare from mid-May to the beginning of September. One current known breeding site (2002 to at least 2010) is the old burn area at Constance Bay. Another is the Shaw Road & N. Pakenham Conc. 12 site (2002 to at least 2008). Breeding sites in the recent past have been Chemin de la Rivière (very consistent in the '80s and '90s), Limebank Road, Tom Roberts Avenue and the Davidson-Longfield Storm Water Overflow Area. This species is declining in southern Ontario and these breeding sites represent remnants.       Return to Main Menu
Red-bellied Woodpecker          Casual from November through March, this southern woodpecker sometimes wanders north in winter and is hardy enough to survive. Often hangs around a feeding station though for easy pickings. Makes it easier to find also - just listen faithfully to the local bird lines - they will report any of these birds that are seen and provide directions.       Return to Main Menu
American Three-toed Woodpecker          A very rare winter visitor, though seen nearly every winter (November through March). The best spots to check recently are Kerwin (River) Road and Riddell Road. Other sites worth checking are Ramsey Lake Road, the Jack Pine Trail and any site disturbed by a forest fire or some other natural or man-induced tree kill-off. Listen faithfully to the local bird lines - they will report any of these birds that are seen and provide directions. Check for appropriately pecked trees and listen attentively for the quiet tapping. (See here for more information on woodpecker workings.)       Return to Main Menu
Black-backed Woodpecker          A rare winter visitor, November through April, and casual breeder. The best spots to check recently are Kerwin (River) Road and Riddell Road. Other sites worth checking are Ramsey Lake Road, the Jack Pine Trail and any site disturbed by a forest fire or some other natural or man-induced tree kill-off. Listen faithfully to the local bird lines - they will report any of these birds that are seen and provide directions. Check for appropriately pecked trees and listen attentively for the quiet tapping. (See here for more information on woodpecker workings.)      Return to Main Menu
Olive-sided Flycatcher          Scarce, but present in small numbers late May through August. In our area breeds very locally in woodland openings (swamps, marshes or beaver ponds) that have sufficient snags for flycatching. Check burnt over areas and clearcut edges as well. More likely in the northern portion of the circle, in Canadian Shield forest. But has occurred in similar areas in the southern part of the circle. Sometimes uses the same opening for several years for breeding purposes. Known locations used in the past are Gatineau Park, MacLaren's Landing, etc. More recently, this species is seen only on migration (late May to early June and mid-August to early September). Can occur anywhere, but recent spots have included Indian Creek Road in the Larose Forest, Thomas Dolan Parkway west of Dunrobin Road, and various spots along the Ottawa River.       Return to Main Menu
Yellow-bellied Flycatcher          Rare, but present in small numbers mid-May through mid-September. In our area breeds very locally in boggy, swampy and marshy areas. More likely in the northern portion of the circle, in Canadian Shield forest. But has occurred in similar areas in the southern part of the circle. Known locations recently are Gatineau Park, ...       Return to Main Menu
Willow Flycatcher          Scarce from late May through August. Most easily recognized, and told from its very common cousin the Alder Flycatcher, by its song, accented on the first note, "Fitz'-byew". The Alder accents the second note and often drops the 3rd, calling "Rrree-bee'(-a)". Nests in scrubby wetland areas, sometimes adjacent Alders. Two good places in the circle to compare their respective songs are the Huntmar Drive and the Leitrim Road West sites. Other spots for Willow include Richmond Lagoons.       Return to Main Menu
Northern Shrike          Arrives in small numbers in late October and tarries, usually in the same spot all winter, until mid-April, when it heads back north to breed. Likes partly open areas, often overgrown fields, where it can perch in the open and scan for food. Its colouration is such that you can easily miss seeing it on a cursory scan. Since they sit still and say nothing, you have to find them. Repeat sites are March Valley Road (Fourth Line) west of Klondike, near the Moodie Drive Quarry Ponds, Dolman Ridge Road at Mer Bleue, etc.       Return to Main Menu
Loggerhead Shrike          Our rare and endangered "southern" shrike is at the northern edge of its contracting range here in the Ottawa area. It is increasingly hard to find here, but several pairs may still hang on here. One of our earliest migrants, some appearing in March, this species is usually ensconced on its breeding grounds by early to mid-April. And it usually gone by mid-August. Care should be taken in shrike identification, especially during the brief overlap period in spring. The Loggerhead is smaller, has a darker head and upper back, and the black mask extends over the bill. The Northern often has faint barring on the sides and likes to raise and lower its tail. A good article on shrike identification exists on the OFO site. Breeding sites used in recent years are William Campbell Road, Old Almonte Road and Ramsey Concession 12, Richardson Side Road, etc. A reintroduction attempt is being made near Luskville, QC. The countability of birds of this species will now depend on the population from which they derive. If they belong to the previously established group of birds, mostly in the southwestern portion of the circle, they are still countable. If they belong to the recently introduced population in the Pontiac, they are not until reintroduction cease and the population is deemed self-sustaining. This group produced at least one breeding pair in 2010, just NW of Quyon, QC.       Return to Main Menu
Yellow-throated Vireo          A rare breeder in our area, present from mid-May to early September. Listen for a burry Red-eyed Vireo song and investigate. Breeding sites: Champlain Lookout, Boulevard Lucerne (aka the Lower Aylmer Road) near Chaudière Golf Club, Lac Philippe, etc. South of the circle, they are common in the Chaffey's Locks area.       Return to Main Menu
Blue-headed (Solitary) Vireo          This bird is an uncommon migrant and rare breeder in our area. Easily encountered in passage in May and again in mid-September to early October in such places as Britannia. Breeds locally through the forested, mostly northern areas, but also in the Larose Forest. Listen for a slow Red-eyed Vireo call and investigate.       Return to Main Menu
Philadelphia Vireo          A rare breeder in our area, present from early May through September, but somewhat more common in late May and more common yet in late August to mid-September. Breeding sites: Champlain Lookout, Lac Philippe, etc. Britannia is the best bet during migration.       Return to Main Menu
Gray Jay          This is a rare winter bird in our area, mid-November to mid-March. It has nested in the circle, but normally breeds farther north. Some winters there are a few of these birds around, while other years they are nearly absent. There are probably many more present than discovered though, as they are generally quiet and stay in the shelter of the coniferous forest. Fortunately, they are not shy of humans and exhibit a healthy curiosity, especially if food is involved. They shared enough meals with men working in the woods to earn the name "Whiskeyjack". If present, they can often be coaxed into the open by jay-like whistles or by an impromptu picnic. Good areas within the circle recently have been Kerwin (River) Road, Ramsey Lake Road and the Low-Poltimore Road. Farther afield Algonquin Provincial Park is an excellent spot to see these birds.       Return to Main Menu
Northern Rough-winged Swallow          Local breeder, found here from mid-April through September. Prefers nesting under bridges. In migration, it can be found in mixed flocks with other species of swallows. Breeding areas have included: Huntmar Drive and Lac Leamy Ecological Park. Check Britannia during migration. Suffering decline along with other insectivores.       Return to Main Menu
Boreal Chickadee          This is a rare winter bird in our area, November through March. Never easy to find, but less difficult in invasion years. As the name suggests, this bird is usually found in our northern conifer forest. Not very responsive to swishing, unlike the Black-capped Chickadee. Usually quietly at work on the cones in the upper branches. Good areas recently have been Kerwin (River) Road, Ramsey Lake Road and the Low-Poltimore Road. Rarely comes to feeding stations.       Return to Main Menu
Tufted Titmouse          Casual winter visitor, November through March. As this species is expanding northward, we can look forward to seeing increasing numbers. For now though, it is still an event. As such, it will be reported on the local bird lines. When one is present, it will often settle in a neighbourhood and spend some time there - sometimes all winter.       Return to Main Menu
Carolina Wren          Rare, more so in summer, but is known to have bred here and seems to becoming more common. It is an urbanized wren and is usually reported from backyards in suburbia. Prefers brushy shelter to hide in. In winter it sometimes visits feeding stations, concentrating on the suet balls. Lakeview Terrace is a repeat spot for this activity. Toward spring, when irrational exuberance brings forth its song, it is easier to locate; but still not easy to see. One has wintered recently for a couple of years at 868 Acadian Gardens in Orleans.       Return to Main Menu
Sedge Wren          Breeds very locally from May through August in the circle. These scarce birds sing both day and night in their chosen sedge area or scrubby field. A good sized colony can be found at Richmond Fen, while small colonies exist at Marais aux Grenouillettes, Torbolton Ridge Road, Moodie Drive Marsh & Trails, Munster Road at Soldier's Line, and Norway Bay.       Return to Main Menu
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher          This May through August rarity for Ottawa has bred several times at Huntmar Drive and in the Deschênes Rapids - Rue Lamoureux area (it has been seen along the bike path, west of the rapids). Reported during migration every year from Britannia. Also reported from Lac Leamy Ecological Park, Shirley's Bay, etc. South of the circle, they are common in the Chaffey's Locks area.       Return to Main Menu
Eastern Bluebird          Uncommon and local breeder in open pasture land. Watch for areas where bluebird nesting boxes have been installed, these initiatives have begun to have a positive effect on the declining bluebird population. It is countered, however, by the loss of appropriate habitat to new and ever-expanding sub-divisions. These birds like to perch on hydro or fence wires or dead branches from which they can hunt insects. They arrive in late March or early April and disappear by the end of October. Reliable sites have been Constance Creek at Thomas Dolan Parkway, High Road, Ramsey Lake Road, etc., etc.       Return to Main Menu
Townsend's Solitaire          A casual winter visitor, mid-November to mid-March, wandering east to the Ottawa circle every few years. If the bird finds a good supply of food, it will stay put for weeks. So check the local bird lines and if one is reported search the area it was spotted as well as any adjacent areas with appropriate food sources. Solitaires eat berries, especially from ornamental junipers. Has wintered at the Arboretum and in the Sherwood Drive area where there is lots of ornamental shrubbery.       Return to Main Menu
Gray-cheeked Thrush          A rare to scarce migrant in late May to early June and again in September. Places like Britannia are the most likely to shelter one of these birds. They are fly-by-night skulkers though and you will need both patience and persistence to bag one. If you are sufficiently skilled to distinguish the nocturnal flight calls of migrant thrushes, just wait outside and listen. For a discussion of Gray-cheeked Thrush identification, click here. Be aware that there is a population of Bicknell's Thrush that nests on Mont Sir-Wilfrid, near Mont-Laurier, QC, directly north of the Ottawa checklist circle. These birds almost certainly pass through the area in small numbers, but are not yet confirmed.       Return to Main Menu
Bicknell's Thrush          Not on the Ottawa checklist since its split from the Gray-cheeked Thrush, this species has a very small outlying breeding colony on Mont Sir-Wilfred, near Mont-Laurier, QC. As this is a mere 140 km due north of Ottawa, and this species migrates south; it is fair to assume it passes through the Ottawa checklist circle. It would likely be a very rare migrant in late May to early June and again in September. It is rumoured that one was banded at the Innis Point Banding Station and other observations have likely been made; but so far no records have been accepted by the OFNC's Rare Birds Subcommittee. Places like Britannia are likely spots to look for one of these birds. They are fly-by-night skulkers though and you will need both patience and persistence to bag one. If you are sufficiently skilled to distinguish the nocturnal flight calls of migrant thrushes, just wait outside and listen. For a discussion of Gray-cheeked Thrush identification, click here.       Return to Main Menu
Varied Thrush          A very rare winter visitor, mid-November to mid-April, wandering east to the Ottawa circle every couple of years. If the bird finds a good supply of food, it will stay put for weeks. So check the local bird lines and if one is reported search the area it was spotted as well as any adjacent areas with appropriate food sources. They eat fruit, so check places where there are trees with hanging fruit. Has wintered at the Arboretum and along the Lac des Fees Blvd alongside Gatineau Park.       Return to Main Menu
Northern Mockingbird          This rare resident is usually found, in our area, in suburban green spaces that provide it both sufficient food and properly impregnable thickets for shelter. Places like the Crestview Greenspace, Central Experimental Farm and Alert Road have been repeat breeding sights. Birds have also been seen in the Nepean Dump area along Trail Road in summer (most recently in July 2004). There seems to be a local seasonal migration to dependable food sources. So winter birds often frequent areas different from summer birds, for instance, Dolman Ridge Road at Mer Bleue. But Crestview Greenspace also has had winter sightings.       Return to Main Menu
Water Pipit          Pipits migrate through in spring and fall, but are much more common in autumn. Scarce from mid-April through May and again in November, they are uncommon to common in September and October. Most often seen in open farmland, but also along the Ottawa River. Often reported from sewage lagoons (those being mostly in the country and attracting birdwatchers). Listen for them calling their name, they are usually heard before seen.       Return to Main Menu
Bohemian Waxwing          Present in varying numbers from November to mid-April. Some years they are abundant, some years scarce, but never absent. As they feed on fruit and berries in winter, they are fairly easy to find. When they find a good food supply, they will stay put until it is exhausted. This gives you a good chance of finding them by asking other birders or checking the bird lines. Good sites to check are Boulevard Lucerne (aka the Lower Aylmer Road) near Chaudière Golf Club, the Arboretum, Britannia, etc.       Return to Main Menu
Blue-winged Warbler          Occasional visitor during spring migration. In 1999, and again (very briefly) in 2002, one held forth on territory at the Huntmar Drive site.       Return to Main Menu
Golden-winged Warbler          Scarce breeder from mid-May to mid-July and very rare until mid-September. Seen in deciduous canopy in migration in places like Britannia. Breeds in second growth, overgrown fields and open woodland with scattered small trees. The main breeding area in the circle is the Carp Ridge on Thomas Dolan Parkway site, where several pairs are found each year. Other sites include Huntmar Drive, etc. South of the circle, they are common in the Chaffey's Locks area.       Return to Main Menu
Orange-crowned Warbler          A rare migrant only, in May and again in mid-September to mid-October. This bird is slightly more common in the autumn and is one of the later warbler migrants. Again Britannia is a good place to try to find one. Be aware that records from August and early September are, according to experts, suspect.       Return to Main Menu
Northern Parula          A scarce spring and scarce to uncommon fall migrant, summers very rarely. Peak dates are the middle two weeks of May and the middle two weeks of September, though in fall is seen rarely from mid-August to early October. Best bet is the middle of September at, you guessed it, Britannia.       Return to Main Menu
Cape May Warbler          An uncommon migrant and scarce breeder in the Ottawa circle. Found throughout May in spring, but most common toward mid-May. In fall it passes from early August to early October, but is most likely from mid-August through the third week in September. During migration look for this species in Britannia (check the conifers at the east end of the ridge). Nests in areas of mature spruce to the northern side of the circle and in black spruce stands along Nine Mile (or Bertrand) Road in the Larose Forest.       Return to Main Menu
Yellow-throated Warbler          This species has the oddest temporal distribution of any warbler on our checklist. Apparently some of these birds, who breed only as far north as central Pennsylvania, decide to wander north instead of migrating south as would seem prudent. Every few years one reaches us in mid-November and stays until it freezes to death in December. Curiously, this counter-intuitive behavior doesn't seem to have hurt the species generally. They continue to expand the range northward. To see this bird, listen to the bird line for reports of one and head out immediately. One cold night could finish it. If you see a warbler flitting around the walls of a building in late November, check it out, it may be a Yellow-throated. It can only find insects to eat in cracks in walls and around windows where there is enough warmth for them to survive.       Return to Main Menu
Pine Warbler          Usually the second warbler back in spring (after the Yellow-rumped), arriving at its breeding sites in mid-April. Scarce throughout the summer and disappearing by the end of September. It breeds locally in, 3 guesses, pines. Area breeding sites include the pine stand in Britannia, Constance Bay, Wychwood, etc. When you see a stand of pines, listen for the junco- or chipping sparrow-like song of this warbler. They are separable, but inexperienced birders should get visual confirmation. The Pine Warbler, though not deliberately evasive, is very hard to get a good look at because of its habit of picking about in the upper branches of tall pines. Where there is sufficient understory to provide them cover, as in Britannia, they can be persuaded to come down to investigate persistent swishing or pishing sounds.       Return to Main Menu
Prairie Warbler          These birds have a breeding range that extends northward to within 70 kilometres of the Ottawa circle near Chaffey's Locks. During migrations they occasionally reach Ottawa, scattered records through May and again in the latter part of August to the first part of September. In spring the males sometimes sing on appropriate looking territory in hopes of attracting a mate, such as in 1996 off Rue Gibeault at the Deschênes Rapids site. So far breeding has not been confirmed in the circle. Prefers second growth habitat with scattered pine or cedar.       Return to Main Menu
Palm Warbler          This uncommon migrant arrives in late April during the spring passage, peaks in the first two weeks of May and becomes less numerous through to the end of May, when the last birds pass north. They pass south from late August to mid-October, peaking in mid-September. Breeding occurs in the circle, but is the exception. The most recent example of this is is a pair breeding along the Mer Bleue Boardwalk & Trail since the summer of 2004. On migration, look for this tail-wagging bird near pond margins, around boggy areas, at sewage lagoons, etc. You should find this bird at Britannia in mid-September. Try also Ramsey Lake Road.       Return to Main Menu
Bay-breasted Warbler          A fairly common migrant in the Ottawa circle. Found throughout May and into mid-June in spring, but most common toward late May. In fall it passes from early August to early October, but is most likely from mid-August through mid-September. During migration look for this species in Britannia and such spots.       Return to Main Menu
Blackpoll Warbler          A uncommon migrant in the Ottawa circle. This is the latest warbler coming through in spring. Found from early May to mid-June in spring, most common around the last two weeks of May and beginning of June. In fall it passes from late August to mid-October, but is most likely in the first three weeks of September. During migration look for this species in Britannia and such spots.       Return to Main Menu
Cerulean Warbler          This is a bird of tall deciduous forest and we are on the northern edge of its breeding range here in Ottawa. Has bred for several years now at the Champlain Lookout and Étienne-Brûlé Lookout areas in Gatineau Park, but is still considered very rare in this area. Somewhat farther south at Chaffey's Locks it is more common. Arrives about the second week of May and sings into mid-June on territory. It is found by listening for its song along trail number 2 heading toward the western shelter. It is rarely seen in fall migration.       Return to Main Menu
Louisiana Waterthrush          This retiring southeastern warbler prefers streamside ravines. As the northern edge of its breeding site is just south of us (see Canoe Lake), adventurous birds sometimes end up inside our circle. This has happened several times in recent years along the Larriault Falls Trail in Gatineau Park (and may happen elsewhere along the escarpment). Once a bird calling on what appeared to be appropriate habitat for the entire breeding season, and finding a mate the following year - persistance does pay sometimes. Though somewhat similar in appearance to the common Northern Waterthrush, the songs are quite different. The Northern has a very loud, evenly-spaced, three part song "whit, whit, whit, sweet, sweet, sweet, chew, chew, chew", dropping in pitch at the end; while the Louisiana's musical and ringing song consists of 3 or 4 slow, high, slurred whistles followed by a short, rapid jumble of descending, twittering notes. Since this bird is almost always heard before it's seen, study the songs. For a good review of ID points go to Louisiana vs Northern Waterthrushes by Jochen Roeder and Charlie Moores.       Return to Main Menu
Connecticut Warbler          This occasional visitor during migration is an elusive skulker. Stays on the ground in the densest brushy thickets available. Beware of cheap substitutes (Mourning Warblers). An experienced birder once observed "The easiest time to see a Connecticut Warbler in Ottawa is in your first year of birding." However unlikely, Britannia is probably the best bet.       Return to Main Menu
Mourning Warbler          This uncommon breeder is a skulker and is often hard to actually see. Prefers dense, low thickets of woodland edges, often near wet areas - swamp edges, damp woodland edges and such places. Gatineau Park is a good place to see these birds, as is the Larose Forest. The Champlain Lookout area is one of the easiest spots. Arrives early May, all gone by the end of September.       Return to Main Menu
Wilson's Warbler          Uncommon in spring and fall migrations, seen early May through the first week of June and again from the second week of August to the end of September. The peaks are the last two weeks of May and late August through the third week of September. At Britannia, on a fallout day several may be seen.       Return to Main Menu
Canada Warbler          This bird is an uncommon migrant and scarce breeder in our area. Observed in the circle from the second week of May to the end of September. Peak migration dates are the last week of May and the last week of August through to mid-September. Breeds in forest undergrowth, often near swamps or bogs.       Return to Main Menu
Eastern Towhee          Towhees are scarce and local breeders in our area. They are early migrants, arriving in mid-April, and are mostly gone by mid-September. The best place to see one is at their small colony on the Carp Ridge on Thomas Dolan Parkway site, where several pairs are found each year. Other spots to check include The Burnt Lands via Ramsey Conc. 12 North.       Return to Main Menu
Clay-coloured Sparrow          This scarce breeder arrives with May and is gone by mid-September. It is most easily found during nesting season when it sings from bush tops in scrubby open areas such as overgrown fields. The song is similar in nature to that of the Golden-winged Warbler, in that buzzy notes are repeated. But in the warbler's case, one higher note is followed by 3 or 4 others; while the sparrow gives four (usually) notes all on the same pitch. Sites where you can find this bird on territory are Leitrim Road West, Pinhey Point, etc.       Return to Main Menu
Grasshopper Sparrow          This uncommon breeder prefers open grassland. Since most open grassland is mowed during breeding season, it is successful only in very local areas. Airport grounds are one such place and, in our area, the airport is the easiest spot to find this bird. Check any road around the perimeter of the airport, such as Tom Roberts Avenue, Leitrim Road West and Alert Road. Check the sparrows on the perimeter fence and listen for the insect-like call, 2 or 3 faint ticks followed by a louder "bzzzzeeeeeee" (you may only hear the latter). Begins to arrive in late April, peaks by mid-May; and is absent by mid-September, most by late August.       Return to Main Menu
Henslow's Sparrow          This bird has been disappearing from the Northern portions of its range, including Ottawa - where it is now only casual. Because it is scarce and very local even in the center of its eastern prairie range, as well as very retiring, it may be possible, however unlikely, that some of these birds still breed in our area; or will in the future. It needs large areas of moist, old meadows and uncultivated farm land for nesting and breeding. Reforestation, intensive farming practices and urban sprawl have destroyed much of the habitat preferred by this bird. In 1993, COSWIC designated the species as "endangered". Another habit that makes them more difficult to find than many birds is that they sing before dawn and often stop singing very early in the day (sometimes just after dawn). On the positive side of the ledger, when they do sing their flat "hsslick", it is usually from an bush or shrub rising above the other vegetation in their overgrown field. In Ottawa, they have bred along the Dolman Ridge Road near Mer Bleue in the distant past. However, a singing bird was seen there as recently as June 1999.       Return to Main Menu
Leconte's Sparrow          Another casual to accidental Ottawa sparrow which has been caught breeding here once in 1987. Prefers damp fields or shallow marshes and normally breeds only as far east as Sault Ste. Marie, though stretching northeast through the Abitibi region and as far as Lac St.-Jean. It is not impossible that there are more isolated pairs around, since it is not a particularly obvious bird.       Return to Main Menu
Nelson's Sharp-tailed Sparrow          Casual migrant in our area, mainly in autumn; mostly late September to mid-October. It is probably more common than observations indicate, because of its narrow migratory window, its secretive nature and its habitat preferences. It likes weedy fields near small ponds (especially with a few inches of standing water), the edges of cattail marshes (between the shore and the cattails), or even borders of seasonally wet fields. When flushed, these birds fly on a straight plane with no tail pumping as with Song and Swamp Sparrows. Infrequently, they will perch in nearby cattails or on top of sedges, allowing closer study of their field marks. In the last few years, it has been seen in the marshy areas at the Bruce Pit, Ottawa Beach and Britannia Pier. Outside the area, one of the best spots is the Westmeath Provincial Park shoreline, where 9 were found on Oct. 2, 2005. An interesting and suggestive sighting took place at Dundas Marsh on Oct. 15, 2005. There were no fewer than 6, possibly double that number, of these birds all feeding within 5 feet of one another amongst a graveyard of carp bones. Perhaps, with the proper bait...?       Return to Main Menu
Fox Sparrow          Uncommon migrant passing through Ottawa from early April to the first week of May and again in from late September through early November. Peak passage in the second half of April and the last three weeks of October. Found with migrant groups of sparrows. In spring check the northeast corner of Clyde Woods and in fall check the ditches along Cassels Road at Britannia and Range Road on the way to Shirley's Bay.       Return to Main Menu
Lincoln's Sparrow          A very rare breeder in our area, this bird nests in dense low thickets along bogs and streams. During migration it is scarce and found skulking in brush piles and tangles, often near ponds (as in the one between the ridge and Cassels Road at Britannia, where it is sometimes seen). Has been seen in the circle from the second week of April to the end of October, but peaks in migration for the two weeks in mid-May and again in the last half of September to mid-October. One to three pairs have bred near the Mer Bleue Boardwalk & Trail for several years now.       Return to Main Menu
Harris' Sparrow          This western sparrow occasionally turns up in Ottawa in the winter, sometimes staying put at one feeding station the entire season. Seen from late October to mid-April. Listen faithfully to the local bird lines, any of these birds that are found will be reported there.       Return to Main Menu
White-crowned Sparrow          Uncommon migrant for the month of May, peaking for the two middle weeks; and from early September through November, peaking late September to mid-October. Stragglers sometimes stay later, few survive. In spring check the northeast corner of Clyde Woods and in fall check the ditches along Cassels Road at Britannia and Range Road on the way to Shirley's Bay. Often shows up at backyard feeders.       Return to Main Menu
Lapland Longspur          This bird is seen in our area from the beginning of October until the end of April. It is usually rare in winter and scarce during migrations, peaking mid-March to mid-April in spring and mid-October to mid-November in autumn. Look for it in plowed fields, especially those freshly manured. It often hangs out with Snow Buntings and Horned Larks, so if you see a flock of those birds, check carefully for an odd-man-out. Listen for its dry rattling call in flight, distinctly different than the other two species. Sometimes seen along the Ottawa River shoreline, but the best spots are the extensive farm fields around the Shea & Akins Roads and Rushmore Road areas in the southwest quadrant. Unfortunately, the best area locally to see them is just outside the Ottawa circle, in the Ste-Rose-de-Prescott area east of Casselman. Take exit 58 from the 417 and go north on Regional 8 to Concession 20, turn right and keep your eyes peeled. Check adjacent concessions to the north and Renaud Road as well.       Return to Main Menu
Western Meadowlark          This western version of our familiar Eastern Meadowlark has shown up in our area a few times and can be expected to do so again. Its breeding range has expanded eastward until it is now only about a 100 kilometres southwest of our circle. Has been seen from early May through the end of September, with some birds setting up territories. One such was at Bennett and Boundary Roads near South Gower in July 1990. As yet, breeding has not been confirmed. Listen faithfully to the local bird lines, any of these birds that are found will be reported there. If you are searching on your own, listen carefully to every Meadowlark - the songs are quite distinct. The Eastern does a clear whistled "te-seeyeer seeeyaayy", while the Western gives a series of short, rich whistles speeding up to a rapid bubbling jumble.       Return to Main Menu
Rusty Blackbird          An uncommon migrant and very rare overwinterer in our area, this blackbird doesn't mix with his close relatives who flock up in the local farm fields, but hangs about the edges of swampy or other wet areas in small flocks. Migrants come through from late March to mid-May in spring, and peak from mid-April through the first week of May. In autumn, they pass from early September to early December, peaking from the second week of September to the end of October. One good spot is Shirley's Bay, in the woods near the base of the dyke.       Return to Main Menu
Winter Finches          Please refer to Ron Pittaway's Winter Finch Forecast to gain some terrific insights into these winter wanderers.       Return to Main Menu
Pine Grosbeak          This is a winter bird here in the Ottawa area, arriving as early as the second week of October and usually gone by the end of March. It rates as uncommon from the second week of December to mid-March. Some years it is nearly absent, while other years fairly common, though usually only in the northern portion of the circle. This coniferous forest bird resorts to eating berries and fruit in winter, thus should be looked for in places with these types of vegetation in the southern part of the circle. The Low-Poltimore Road is a good northern coniferous area to check for these birds, while places like the Arboretum on the Central Experimental Farm are prime spots in the city.       Return to Main Menu
Red Crossbill          These birds with unusual bills are scarce in winter and rare (except in exceptional years) in summer in our area. They are irruptive, much less likely some years than others. This coniferous forest bird is not normally a feeder bird, so a trip to the woods is in order. Good places are the Ramsey Lake Road, the Low-Poltimore Road, Larose Forest and Kerwin (River) Road. The most common type of this crossbill species prefers pines and is sometimes found in suburban yards that sport pine trees. Up to 8 types of Red Crossbills are found in North America and up to 5 are possible in the Ottawa area. Birders should be aware that this species may be split at some point, creating new species and new identifation challenges. A great help in resolving this dilemma is the Red Crossbill Audiovisual Guide.       Return to Main Menu
White-winged Crossbill          These cousins of the Red Crossbill are scarce in winter and accidental (except in exceptional years) in summer in our area. They are irruptive, much less likely some years than others. This coniferous forest bird is not normally a feeder bird, so a trip to the woods is in order. Good places are the Ramsey Lake Road, the Low-Poltimore Road, Larose Forest and Kerwin (River) Road. This crossbill prefers spruces and is sometimes found in suburban yards that sport spruce trees.       Return to Main Menu
Common Redpoll          These irruptive birds are common some winters and very rare other years. They travel in flocks, sometimes by the hundreds, foraging for seeds in weedy fields. They often perch together in the same tree near these fields. In good redpoll years they can be found almost anywhere in the circle. They are seen from early October to mid-May, but rarely in the couple weeks at either end.       Return to Main Menu
Hoary Redpoll          These rare winter birds are irruptive, absent some years and present in very small numbers others. The best bet for seeing one of these birds well enough to distinguish it from the much more likely Common Redpoll, with which it often associates, is to locate one that is frequenting a feeder. To do this, listen faithfully to the local bird lines for any reports. Mid-December to late April is the time frame for this species. The feeders at the Shirleys Bay Cottage Area have had repeat visits.       Return to Main Menu
Evening Grosbeak          These winter birds are irruptive, almost absent some years and present in very large numbers others. To see this species on a year when they are common, simply put out sunflower seeds in your feeding station. And be prepared to go through a lot of seed if you attract a flock. A good area to look for this species is the Larose Forest.       Return to Main Menu

Check the Birding Ottawa Winter Specialty Status page.
Check the Winter Finch Forecast courtesy Ron Pittaway.
Check the Birding Ottawa  Current Year's RBA.
Review the Birding Ottawa  Past Years' RBAs.
Review Past Years' Winter Specialty Status Pages.
Review the Birding Ottawa Past Years' Pittaway's Winter Finch Forecasts pages.
Return to Birding Ottawa  Table of Contents.


Copyright © 2000 - 2016    Larry E. Neily
Last update:  March 27, 2016