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Ottawa and area bird sightings to 30 July 2026
by Al Caughey at sightings@ofnc.ca
This week’s update comes to you from Saint Andrews New Brunswick!
Once again, shorebirds generated the most excitement over the past several days with at least 4 notable peeps arriving at various locations. This caused the number of notable species to spike up to 17 (vs 10 last week); the total number of reported species in the 50km circle also climbed (from 165 to 169). Six notable species in this update were not in the last one:
- Black-bellied Plover [Ottawa (Jul 29)]
- Red-necked Phalarope [Ottawa (Jul 26), Prescott and Russell (Jul 30)]
- Ruddy Turnstone [Ottawa (Jul 30)]
- Sanderling [Ottawa (Jul 30), Gatineau (Jul 30)]
- Little Gull [Ottawa (Jul 29)]
- Cape May Warbler [Ottawa (Jul 29), Lanark (Jul 29), Renfrew (Jul 29)]
Just one notable species from last update is now being seen as non-notable:
– Sedge Wren → last notable report on Jul 21 with at least 3 recent non-notable reports at locations in Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais [1], Prescott and Russell [1], Ottawa [1]
For the first time since early June, the long-staying Northern Mockingbird has not been reported in Kanata. In addition, the following non-notable species were not seen last week:
– Wilson’s Phalarope [Prescott and Russell (Jul 23)], Clay-colored Sparrow [Ottawa (Jul 19), Renfrew (Jul 21)], Palm Warbler [Ottawa (Jul 19)]
In terms of the coming week, a low-pressure system and steady rain from Saturday evening into Sunday will hopefully ground southbound shorebirds. This means that the best birding spots in the coming days will likely be wet agricultural fields and low-lying mudflats throughout the Ottawa Valley – in particular, I would recommend the creek outlets at the east and west ends of Andrew Haydon Park in Nepean.
Later in the week, post-frontal northerly/northwesterly winds could push more early moving songbirds and swallows through the region.
Semipalmated Plover (Gillian Wright) – these little plovers get their name from the partial webbing between their front toes. The webbing prevents them from sinking into soft mud and sand as they search for food along the shoreline. They often tap one of their feet rapidly against the wet mud to encourage buried worms and crustations to move to the surface.
Caspian Tern (by Gillian Wright) – these terns are found on every continent except Antarctica. They were named by the German naturalist Peter Simon Pallas after he collected specimens near the Caspian Sea in 1770. Fledglings often rely on their parents for food for as long as 6–8 months until they master the diving skills required to catch live fish.
Caspian Tern (by Gillian Wright)
Tennessee Warbler (by Nui Esser) – Nui spotted this visitor in the Joe-Pye Weed in her garden – luckily she had her camera ready as it stuck around for only a few seconds. Joe-Pye Weed is a native perennial plant in the Asteraceae family that is visited by several varieties of butterflies, moths, bees, and flies and is the larval host plant for several moths. Their seed heads provide an important food source for over-wintering songbirds. While on their breeding grounds in the Canadian boreal forests, Tennessee Warblers are predominantly insectivorous but their diet changes to mainly fruit, sap, and nectar when wintering in Central and South America. They got their name in 1811 when Alexander Wilson collected a migrating specimen along the Cumberland River in Tennessee (but they don’t actually spend much time in the state).
Current notable birds
Greater White-fronted Goose: continues with at least 64 reports at at Andrew Haydon Park between Jul 23-30
Trumpeter Swan: a single report of 1 at étang du stationnement P8 [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] on Jul 30; plus a single non-notable report in Ottawa
Gadwall: 6 reports of 7 at Hwy 7 Storm Pond [Lanark] between Jul 28-30; plus 5 non-notable reports in Ottawa
Lesser Scaup: a single report of 1 at Shirley’s Bay (boat launch) [Ottawa] on Jul 27
Black-bellied Plover: 34 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Andrew Haydon Park [Ottawa] (28 times between Jul 28-29); 1 at Moodie Drive Quarry [Ottawa] (6 times between Jul 25-26)
Red-necked Phalarope: 5 reports at 2 locations – as many as 5 at Embrun Sewage Lagoons [Prescott and Russell] (4 times between Jul 29-30); 1 at Moodie Drive Quarry [Ottawa] (on Jul 26)
Ruddy Turnstone: 6 reports of 1 at Andrew Haydon Park east (formerly Ottawa Beach) [Ottawa] on Jul 30
Sanderling: 3 reports at 2 locations – 2 at Rapides Deschênes (incluant Parc) [Gatineau] (on Jul 28); as many as 2 at Parc Brébeuf [Gatineau] (twice on Jul 28); plus 5 non-notable reports in Ottawa
White-rumped Sandpiper: a single report of 1 at Embrun Sewage Lagoons [Prescott and Russell] on Jul 23; plus another non-notable report in Prescott and Russell
Semipalmated Sandpiper: 10 reports at 2 locations – 7 at Rapides Deschênes (incluant Parc) [Gatineau] (on Jul 28); as many as 2 at Parc Brébeuf [Gatineau] (8 times between Jul 24-28); plus at least 11 non-notable reports at locations in Ottawa [7], Prescott and Russell [2], Lanark [2]
Little Gull: 2 reports of 1 at Andrew Haydon Park east (formerly Ottawa Beach) [Ottawa] on Jul 29
Lesser Black-backed Gull: 3 reports of 3 at Moodie Drive Quarry [Ottawa] between Jul 23-27; plus at least 2 non-notable reports at locations in Gatineau [1], Ottawa [1]
Red-headed Woodpecker: 7 continuing reports of as many as 3 in the Constance Bay area [Ottawa] (5 times between Jul 26-30)
Tennessee Warbler: 12 reports at 7 locations – 1 at McRobie Ave [Ottawa] (on Jul 30); as many as 9 at Rockcliffe Airport Woods [Ottawa] (6 times between Jul 23-30); 2 at Stanley Park [Ottawa] (on Jul 29); 2 at Nepean Creek Trail [Ottawa] (on Jul 29); 1 at the Richmond Sewage Lagoons [Ottawa] (on Jul 26); 1 at Richmond SE – Harnett Rd N of Paden [Ottawa] (on Jul 23)
Cape May Warbler: a single report of 1 at Riverfront Trail [Lanark] on Jul 25; plus a single non-notable report in Ottawa
Northern Parula: 4 reports at 4 locations – 1 at Libby Island, North Grenville ON [Leeds and Grenville] (on Jul 29); 2 at Rockcliffe Airport Woods [Ottawa] (on Jul 28); 1 at Andrew Haydon Park east (formerly Ottawa Beach) [Ottawa] (on Jul 28); 2 at Champlain Park Woods [Ottawa] (on Jul 25); plus at least 5 non-notable reports at locations in Gatineau [2], Ottawa [3]
Bay-breasted Warbler: 2 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Spring St [Lanark] (on Jul 29); 1 at Beckwith Park [Lanark] (on Jul 24); plus 2 non-notable reports in Ottawa
As always, send questions, comments or photos to sightings@ofnc.ca. Your feedback is appreciated.
Ottawa and area bird sightings to 23 July 2026
by Al Caughey at sightings@ofnc.ca
Bobolinks (by Karen Vallevand) – since the 1970s, Bobolink populations have dropped steeply – by as much as 50% across North America (and ~80% in Eastern Canada – in large part, because they breed in open grasslands and early mowing for hay crops destroys their nests or kills the flightless chicks. There are an increasing number of programs which compensate farmers to delay mowing until mid July by which time most nestlings have fledged.
Common Gallinule – chick (by Catherine Lawrence).
Common Gallinule – adult (by Catherine Lawrence) – Gallinules hav exceptionally long, slender toes that distribute their body weight like snowshoes and allow them to walk across floating aquatic vegetation (like lily pads, duckweed, and mats of algae) without sinking into the water. The chicks have a claw-like spur at the thumb joint of their wings which helps them climb back into their nest or through dense marsh vegetation if they fall into the water.
Indigo Bunting (by Steve Strauss) – Young male buntings learn their songs from neighboring males. As a result, most males living within a few hundred meters of each other will share a distinct local “dialect” that differs from populations just a few kilometres away. In a few weeks, the males will moult from their breeding coat to their mottled brown & blue winter plumage.
Spotted Sandpiper (by Catherine Lawrence) – Spotted Sandpipers are the most widespread breeding shorebird in North America. They are frequently seen around storm ponds and along and shorelines in the area – easily recognized by their bobbing tails. Females will have broods with as many as 4 males in a single season – leaving the males to incubate and raise their chicks.
This update comes to you from Barrie ON where I stopped in hopes of a miraculous re-appearance of the Kirtland’s Warblers at the Simcoe County Museum (nope!).
In my update last week, I suggested that we should check mudflats, flooded rural fields etc. for returning shorebirds and that came through in spades (esp., later in the week) as there were 8 new species seen in the circle this week (1 notable) and most were shorebirds:
– American Coot [Prescott and Russell (Jul 23)], Short-billed Dowitcher [Prescott and Russell (Jul 23)], Wilson’s Phalarope [Prescott and Russell (Jul 23)], White-rumped Sandpiper🔥 [Prescott and Russell (Jul 23)], Pectoral Sandpiper [Ottawa (Jul 20)], Semipalmated Sandpiper [Ottawa (Jul 23), Prescott and Russell (Jul 23)], Bay-breasted Warbler [Gatineau (Jul 20)], Palm Warbler [Ottawa (Jul 19)]
Otherwise, the total number of species seen remained steady and the number of notables slipped down to 10. The Greater White-fronted Goose continues at Andrew Haydon Park in Nepean and once again accounted for more than 70% of the notable species reports this week. Three notable species from last update are now being seen as non-notable:
– Semipalmated Plover → last notable report on Jul 14 with at least 3 recent non-notable reports at locations in Ottawa [2], Prescott and Russell [1]
– Great Black-backed Gull → last notable report on Jul 11 with 8 recent non-notable reports in Ottawa
– Common Loon → last notable report on Jul 15 with at least 19 recent non-notable reports at locations in Ottawa [6], Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais [9], Lanark [2], Gatineau [2]
One species was not reported at all since the last update: Upland Sandpiper [Lanark (Jul 13)]
In terms of the coming week: warm temps and light-to-moderate westerly/northwesterly winds on Fri & Sat could push more shorebirds into the area; increasing cloud cover & scattered showers/thunderstorms later on might result in ‘fallouts’ along exposed mudflats, river margins, flooded agricultural fields and at local sewage lagoons. Swallows will soon begin to gather at pre-migratory staging roosts so it could be good to check local storm ponds – esp. later in the day.
Current notable birds
Greater White-fronted Goose: 71 reports of 1 at Andrew Haydon Park [Ottawa] between Jul 16-23
Trumpeter Swan: 3 reports of 1 at étang du stationnement P8 [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] between Jul 16-20; plus a single non-notable report in Ottawa
Common Goldeneye: 2 reports of 1 at Andrew Haydon Park [Ottawa] on Jul 16
White-rumped Sandpiper: 2 reports of 1 at Embrun Sewage Lagoons [Prescott and Russell] between Jul 22-23
Lesser Black-backed Gull: 2 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Moodie Drive Quarry [Ottawa] (on Jul 23); 1 at Britannia CA [Ottawa] (on Jul 20)
Red-headed Woodpecker: 7 reports of as many as 4 at 3 locations in the Constance Bay/Torbolton Woods [Ottawa] area between Jul 16-20 – including Goodin St/Spinnaker Way (5 times ) and Doris Currie Rd
Sedge Wren: a single report of 1 at Harbison Rd [Ottawa] on Jul 21
Northern Mockingbird: a single report of 1 at Innovation Dr [Ottawa] on Jul 17
Tennessee Warbler: 3 reports at 3 locations – as many as 9 at Rockcliffe Airport Woods [Ottawa] (on Jul 23); 1 at Richmond SE – Harnett Rd N of Paden [Ottawa] (on Jul 23); 1 at Spring St [Lanark] (on Jul 21)
Northern Parula: 3 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Beacon Hill North-general area [Ottawa] (on Jul 22); 1 at Rockcliffe Airport Woods [Ottawa] (twice between Jul 16-17); plus 2 non-notable reports in Gatineau
An note from Jon Ruddy if anyone is thinking about chasing shorebirds at the Embrum Sewage Lagoons: the lagoons are located along Route 400. The best viewing position is usually along the fence line adjacent to the white municipal building. Access inside the fences around the lagoons themselves is not permitted. A spotting scope is essential.
As always, send questions, comments or photos to sightings@ofnc.ca. Your feedback is appreciated.
Ottawa and area bird sightings to 16 July 2026
by Al Caughey at sightings@ofnc.ca
In my update last week, I boldly (and erroneously) announced that the Greater White-fronted Goose was no longer being seen in the 50km circle. The next morning, it re-appeared at Andrew Haydon Park in Nepean and was the subject of 70% of the notable bird reports this week (in second place, the continuing Red-headed Woodpeckers in Constance Bay accounted for only(?) 8% of the alerts). The excitement around the Greater White-fronted Goose is well warranted because it is the first summer record for this species (and it is being oh-so cooperative for photographers). Otherwise, the number of species seen held steady (162 vs 165 last week) and the number of notable species dipped slightly from 16 to 12.
Other than the ‘celebrity’ goose, new to the notable list this week, we have Common Goldeneye, Bonaparte’s Gull, Sedge Wren & Northern Parula. And, we’re getting non-notable reports again for Horned Larks, Golden-crowned Kinglets, Evening Grosbeaks & White-winged Crossbills.
Birds not reported in the past week include: Brant & Yellow-throated Vireo. On the other hand, the following were reported again, but no longer in regions where they tripped the notable flag: Greater Yellowlegs, Least Bittern, Olive-sided Flycatcher, Carolina Wren, Clay-colored Sparrow & Golden-winged Warbler
The coming week should transition from oppressive heat to more seasonable temperatures with moderate rain forecast on Saturday. This should (re-)flood local fields and replenish storm ponds. Check mudflats, flooded rural fields for sandpipers, yellowlegs, and plovers already beginning their southbound migrations from the high Arctic.
Smoke from the forest fires in Northwestern Ontario & Quebec, on one hand, could silence our resident birds; but on the other, might cause unexpected “fallouts” of shorebirds and early passerines (as they rest and wait out the haze).
A cautionary note to keep an eye on real-time AQHI readings before committing to long treks (esp. if you have any respiratory sensitivities) – see https://weather.gc.ca/airquality/pages/onaq-008_e.html for up to date readings in your area.
Greater White-fronted Goose (by Steve Strauss) – Steve was the first to send a photo of this week’s `celebrity` bird. Many people are getting excellent views (and pictures) as it grazes on the grass and swims in the Ponds at Andrew Haydon Park in Nepean. We often will see them during Spring and Fall migration but this is the first summer sighting in the area!
Hairy Woodpecker (by Chris Brunke) – In Chris’s photo you can see that the juvenile still has its red toupee. By late August, those red crown feathers will start to be replaced by the solid black adult feathers. Their first prebasic (post-juvenal) molt will usually be completed by early November. The red cap might serve as a beacon to the hungry chicks as parents enter the dark nesting cavity.
Pied-billed Grebe (by Sheila Craig) – Sheila caught this pic at the Bruce Pit. The distinctive markings on the young grebes help to the break up the visual outline of their body so that it is harder for predators – like hawks from above or large fish and snapping turtles from below – to see them. The stripes begin to disappear when the chicks are 4-8 weeks old (as they become independent from their parents). By November, they too will have moulted to their non-breeding winter plumage (although, they will still have a plain yellowish-brown bill without the black band)
Brown-headed Cowbird & Chestnut-sided Warbler (by Sheila Craig) – The much larger chick still being fed by its parent. The much maligned Brown-headed Cowbird is a ‘brood parasite’ – they do not build nests or raise their own young. Instead, the females lay eggs in other species’ nests (and Chestnut-sided Warblers are highly susceptible hosts).
Current notable birds
Greater White-fronted Goose: at least 92 reports at Andrew Haydon Park [Ottawa] between Jul 10-16
Trumpeter Swan: 4 reports at 2 locations – 1 at étang du stationnement P8/P8 du par de Gatineau [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] (3 times between Jul 13-16); 2 at Lac au Foin, Pontiac QC [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] (on Jul 15); plus 6 non-notable reports in Ottawa
Common Goldeneye: 2 reports of 1 at Andrew Haydon Park [Ottawa] on Jul 16
Semipalmated Plover: a single report of 1 at Andrew Haydon Park [Ottawa] on Jul 14
Bonaparte’s Gull: a single report of 3 at the Filtration Plan at Mud Lake [Ottawa] on Jul 13
Great Black-backed Gull: 4 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Filtration Plant/Point [Ottawa] (on Jul 13); 1 at Moodie Drive Quarry [Ottawa] (3 times on Jul 11)
Lesser Black-backed Gull: 5 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Moodie Drive Quarry [Ottawa] (4 times between Jul 11-14); 2 at Filtration Plant/Point [Ottawa] (on Jul 11)
Common Loon: 2 reports of 1 at Lac Pink [Gatineau] on Jul 15; plus non-notable reports at locations in Ottawa [5], Lanark [2], Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais [11]
Red-headed Woodpecker: 10 reports of as many as 5 continuing at various locations all in the Constance Bay area (between Jul 10-16)
Sedge Wren: 3 reports at 2 locations – a new individual along Flood Rd [Ottawa] (on Jul 16); another one continuing on Rathwell St [Lanark] (twice on Jul 12); plus non-notable reports at locations in Gatineau [1], Prescott and Russell [2], Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais [2]
Northern Mockingbird: 7 reports of 1 continuing along Innovation Dr in Kanata (between Jul 10-16)
Northern Parula: a single report of 1 at the Rockcliffe Airport Woods [Ottawa] on Jul 16; plus 5 non-notable reports in Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais
As always, send questions, comments or photos to sightings@ofnc.ca. Your feedback is appreciated.
Ottawa and area bird sightings to 9 July 2026
by Al Caughey at sightings@ofnc.ca
The number of reported species in the 50km Circle held steady this week (increasing insignificantly from 164 to 165) and the number of notable species bounced back up to 16 (from 11).
As expected, Canada Day’s heavy rainfall has created good habitat for early returning shorebirds – notable appearances included Semipalmated Plover & Greater Yellowlegs and non-notably, Lesser Yellowlegs and various sandpipers including Solitary & Least.
The Brant is new to the list while the Common Loon, Least Bittern, Carolina Wren, Clay-colored Sparrow, Golden-winged Warbler have shown up (again) in regions where they are not common.
The following were not reported in the past week: Lesser Scaup (although I did see a solitary Scaup at the Moodie Quarry a couple of days ago but it was too far away and there was too much heat haze for me to distinguish between Greater & Lesser)
Caspian Terns & Pine Siskin are still being reported in various regions but are not tripping the notable flag.
It looks like there could be good birding conditions this weekend – light winds from the north will hopefully bring more shorebirds to mud flats, storm ponds and flooded fields. Tuesday/Wednesday look like they’ll be oppressively hot so if you’re going out, I suggest early morning visits to shaded forest interiors & open water boundaries to look for fledglings and adults as they congregate to forage and bathe.
Eastern Wood Pewee (by Janet McCullough) – Pewees hunt for flying insects by ‘hawking’. They sit on a dead branch in the mid-canopy waiting to ‘sally’ up to grab insects that get close enough. They then return to their preferred perch to enjoy their meal. During the non-breeding season, they do this about 36 times an hour; with hungry nestlings, the frequency of hunting flight jumps to 68 time per hour!
Common Loon with chicks (by Tony Beck) – Loon chicks can swim almost immediately after hatching, but they spend up to half their time for the first 2-3 weeks riding on their parents’ backs. After hatching, the parents move the chicks to a shallow/protected “nursery bay” where they are safer from predatory fish and there’s a good supply of chick-sized & easily catchable minnows, aquatic insects, and crayfish. (Tony wants everyone to know that both chicks continue to do well, even after the record-breaking Canada Day storm that terrorized the region.)
Goldenrod Crab Spider (by Al Caughey) – Thanks to Leslie P who pointed out this spider (consuming a bee) to me. These spiders hide in the petals or center of a flower, spread their long front legs wide like a crab, and wait (motionless) until an unsuspecting pollinator lands to drink nectar. They routinely capture bumblebees, honeybees, wasps, and butterflies that are many times their own size & weight.
Current notable birds
Brant (Pale-bellied): a single report of 1 at the White Sands Golf Course [Ottawa] on Jul 3
Trumpeter Swan: 4 reports of 1 at étang du stationnement P8 [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] between Jul 3-8
Semipalmated Plover: 2 reports of 4 along Moodie Dr [Ottawa] on Jul 9
Greater Yellowlegs: a single report of 1 at the Hwy 7 Storm Pond [Lanark] on Jul 5; plus a single non-notable report in Ottawa on Jul 6
Great Black-backed Gull: a single report of 1 at the Moodie Quarry [Ottawa] on Jul 6
Lesser Black-backed Gull: 5 reports of 1 at the Moodie Quarry [Ottawa] between Jul 6-9
Common Loon: 2 reports of 1 at Lac Pink [Gatineau] between Jul 4-8; plus several non-notable reports at locations in Ottawa [3], Lanark [3] & Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais [7]
Least Bittern: a single report of 1 at Hwy 7 Storm Pond [Lanark] on Jul 9; plus several non-notable reports in Ottawa [7] & Gatineau [1]
Red-headed Woodpecker: 5 reports continuing at 2 locations – 1 at Whistler Rd in Constance Bay [Ottawa] (3 times between Jul 4-5); as many as 2 in the Torbolton Forest [Ottawa] (twice on Jul 4)
Olive-sided Flycatcher: a single report of 1 at Gloaming Cres [Ottawa] on Jul 6; plus a single non-notable report in Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais on Jul 4
Yellow-throated Vireo: a single report of 1 at South March Highlands Conservation Forest [Ottawa] on Jul 8; plus 1 non-notable report in Lanark also on Jul 8. Interestingly, no reports from Sheila McKee Park
Carolina Wren: 3 reports of 1 at the Hiking trail in Val des Monts [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] between Jul 3-5; plus several non-notable reports in Ottawa [3] & Gatineau [6]
Northern Mockingbird: 11 reports at 4 locations – as many as 2 continuing along Route 148 in Thurso QC [Papineau] (5 times between Jul 3-8); 1 on Rideau River Ln [Ottawa] (on Jul 7); 1 continuing along Innovation Drive [Ottawa] (3 times between Jul 4-7) & 1 along March Valley Rd [Ottawa] (twice on Jul 4)
Clay-colored Sparrow: 7 reports at 2 locations – 1 on Panmure Rd between Ridge Rd and Con. 12 [Lanark] (5 times between Jul 3-6) & 2 non-notable reports at Burnt Lands Provincial Park in Ottawa on Jul 6
Golden-winged Warbler: 4 reports of 1 at Ch Schnob in La Pêche QC [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] between Jul 5-8
As always, send questions, comments or photos to sightings@ofnc.ca. Your feedback is appreciated.
Ottawa and area bird sightings to 2 July 2026
by Al Caughey at sightings@ofnc.ca
I’ll start with sincere hopes that you, your family, and your property were not (too) badly impacted by the 118mm of rain we received on July 1st.. At our house, some water got into our basement through a problematic window but it ran down a brick wall onto a tile floor so we had no damage. I know that this is truly minor in comparison with what many readers might be dealing with.
Things might be off by a little this week’s report because, in a moment of stupidity, I deleted my tallies from previous updates – doh!
The number of reported species in the 50km Circle crept up a little from 158 to 165 while the number of notable species slipped a little from 13 down to 11. The ‘new’ species on the notables list include: Greater White-fronted Goose at Baie Simard in Gatineau. Lesser Scaup at Shirley’s Bay in Ottawa, Olive-sided Flycatcher at Fitzroy Harbour Provincial Park and Pine Siskins in Ottawa. The only ‘non-notable’ reappearances were Greater Yellowlegs at the Moodie Quarry in Ottawa and a Yellow-bellied Flycatcher in Val des Monts. In terms of departures, last week’s notable Northern Pintail, White-winged Scoter, Common Goldeneye and Tricolored Heron were not reported any where in the 50km Circle this week; while Bonaparte’s Gulls & Common Loons were still being seen but now in regions where they’re not flagged as notable.
The forecast for the coming week, once again, calls for a mix of warm/humid days with some periods of rain. The heavy rainfall on Jul 1 has flooded rivers and streams so trails might be muddy, if not impassible – check conditions before you head out! Songbirds will likely be more active between in the early morning hours before retreating into the shaded understory to stay cool. It might be a good week to cruise rural farm roads with a spotting scope and/or binoculars to look for ducks, herons and/or shorebirds in flooded fields. Who knows what’s hiding in plain sight!
Cooper’s Hawk (by Marie Elaine Abel) – in her backyard in the Beaverbook area of Kanata. Cooper’s Hawks are very hard to distinguish from Sharp-shinned Hawks. This one has a distinct white stripe and rounded outer feathers on its tail which are good field marks for Coopers. Also, they are more likely to hunt at urban/suburban birdfeeders; Sharp-shins typically prefer denser woodland areas.
Barn Swallows (by A Caughey) – these fledglings were actively begging to be fed as parents flew past them (presumably with food in their beaks). The `fly-bys` encourage the young birds to practice wing movements and learn how to balance on a perch. In short order, their parents will force them to leave the comfort of the branch and learn how to accept food transfers while actively flying.
A mystery bird! Any guesses was to what it is? Only hint, it was seen at Holland’s Marsh (near Kinburn Side Rd and Old Hwy 17).
Current notable birds
Greater White-fronted Goose: 7 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Baie Simard [Gatineau] (6 times on Jun 29); 1 at Rapides Deschênes (incluant Parc) [Gatineau] (on Jun 29)
Trumpeter Swan: 5 reports of 1 at étang du stationnement P8 [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] between Jun 25-Jul 2; plus 6 non-notable reports in Ottawa
Lesser Scaup: a single report of 2 at Shirley’s Bay [Ottawa] on Jun 26
Caspian Tern: 2 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Mud Lake [Ottawa] (on Jun 30); 1 at Shirley’s Bay [Ottawa] (on Jun 28)
Red-headed Woodpecker: 9 reports at 3 locations – as many as 2 at Torbolton Forest [Ottawa] (7 times between Jun 26-Jul 2); 2 at Constance Bay [Ottawa] (on Jun 30); 2 at Bayview Dr [Ottawa] (on Jun 29)
Olive-sided Flycatcher: a single report of 1 at Fitzroy Provincial Park [Ottawa] on Jun 26
Yellow-throated Vireo: 8 reports at 4 locations – 1 at Sheila McKee Park [Ottawa] (3 times between Jun 26-Jul 2); 1 at Richmond W – Huntley Rd [Ottawa] (on Jun 28); 1 at Heaphy Rd [Ottawa] (on Jun 27); 1 at Heaphy Rd [Ottawa] (3 times on Jun 27); plus 1 non-notable report in Lanark
Sedge Wren: a single report of 1 at Saint Fillans Rd, Carleton Place ON [Lanark] on Jul 2; plus non-notable reports at locations in Ottawa [2], Prescott and Russell [1], Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais [5]
Northern Mockingbird: 7 reports at 2 locations – as many as 2 at Route 148 Estate, Thurso QC [Papineau] (twice between Jul 1-2); 1 at Innovation Dr/Innovation Way Cisco [Ottawa] (5 times between Jun 26-27)
Pine Siskin: a single report of 1 at Richmond SE – Malakoff Rd [Ottawa] on Jun 29 and another report of 1 at Merivale Rd [Ottawa] on Jun 27
As always, send questions, comments or photos to sightings@ofnc.ca. Your feedback is appreciated.
Ottawa and area bird sightings to 25 June 2026
by Al Caughey at sightings@ofnc.ca
This week, it’s a short update: we’re down to 158 reported species and another new low of just 13 notables in the 50km circle (down from 167 and 16 in my last update). There was one glimmer of excitement on Monday evening when Vincent Fyson spotted a Tricolored Heron flying over Innes Rd in Gloucester. Unfortunately, it has not been relocated. Likewise, the Long-tailed Duck, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Semipalmated Plover, Lesser Black-backed Gull, White-rumped Sandpipers, Tennessee Warblers & Northern Parula in last weeks update haven’t been reported again. Red-breasted Mergansers & Red-bellied Woodpeckers are still being reported but in not in regions where they are notable.
It looks like we’re in for a hot, humid week with periodic light rain. Best birding will likely be in the early morning hours (before it gets too stinking hot!). Many of our local breeders have hatched their first (and perhaps only) broods so keep an eye out for awkward and noisy fledglings demanding to be fed. Shockingly, the “fall” migration for shorebirds will be underway very soon – starting with failed breeders or adults that have already completed their parental duties – so it’s also time to start checking mudflats and shorelines for earlier returnees.
Black-billed Cuckoo (by Karen Vallevand) – Karen found this cuckoo in the Gatineau Park. Their numbers and movements are tied closely to outbreaks of Forest Tent Caterpillars and Spongy Moths – which they swallow whole. To prevent digestive blockages caused by the caterpillars’ hairy spines, cuckoos can shed their entire stomach lining and cough it up as a pellet – just like owls!
Blue Jay (by Chris Brunke) – Look for Jays “anting” in your yard. They’ll lie on an active anthill, grab ants in their bills and aggressively rub them onto their wings and tail. The ants secrete formic acid which is a natural insecticide and fungicide for the mites and lice in the Jay’s feathers Once the ant has expended all of its acid , the jay will often eat them.
Gray Catbird (by Christopher Clunas) – Christopher found this catbird at the Fletcher Wildlife Gardens. They belong to the family Mimidae (along with the other mimics – mockingbirds & thrashers) and have a specialized syrinx (the avian vocal organ) that allows them to make two independent sounds at the same time. At the moment, their diet consists primarily of beetles and ants; later in the summer it will shift to wild grapes, elderberries, and dogwood berries. They’ll distributing the seeds contained in the fruit – thereby regenerating the thickets in which they live.
Canada Warbler (by Karen Vallevand) – Karen also found this little warbler in the Gatineau Park. They are designated as a `Species of Special Concern` under the Canadian Species at Risk Act (SARA) because they rely heavily on structurally complex forest floors (tangled underbrush, fallen logs, and swampy thickets). The Gatineau park and other areas in the National Capital Greenbelt provide the undisturbed wetland-edge habitat they require to breed.
Eastern Kingbird (by Christopher Clunas) – Christopher found this Kingbird at the Fletcher Wildlife Gardens. Kingbirds defend their their nesting territories ferociously. They’ll repeated dive-bomb birds many times their size; even landing directly onto their backs to peck at their head.
Northern Parula (by Manson Fleguel) – Manson found this Parula nesting along the Madawaska River in Renfrew County. They are dependent on specific hanging epiphytes to build their nests (i.e., plants that grow on other plants – in this area, Usnea lichens like Beard Lichen or “Old Man’s Beard”). It looks like Manson’s bird is removing egg fragments from the nest.
Red-winged Blackbird (by Deborah Mosher) – Deborah photographed this fledgling – still showing its developing stubby tail feathers – at the former Richmond sewage lagoons. They leave their nests just 11 to 14 days after hatching and then flutter, hop, and scramble through dense reeds and cattails to stay hidden until their flight feathers develop. If/when they fall into the water, they’ll swim with their wings to nearby low-hanging vegetation.
Current notable birds
Trumpeter Swan: 4 reports of 1 at étang du stationnement P8 [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] between Jun 20-25; plus non-notable reports in Ottawa [6] & Lanark [1]
Northern Pintail: 2 reports of 2 at Ottawa River Pathway (view of Britannia Bay) [Ottawa] on Jun 20
White-winged Scoter: a single report of 1 at Bernie’s balcony – facing East by northeast [Ottawa] on Jun 22
Common Goldeneye: a single report of 2 at Bernie’s balcony – facing East by northeast [Ottawa] on Jun 21
Bonaparte’s Gull: 4 reports of as many as 2 at Britannia Filtration Plant/Point [Ottawa] (3 times between Jun 19-21); plus a single non-notable report in Gatineau
Caspian Tern: 2 reports at 2 locations – 2 at Bernie’s balcony – facing East by northeast [Ottawa] (on Jun 22); 1 at Shirley’s Bay (Dyke – restricted access) [Ottawa] (on Jun 22); plus 1 non-notable report in Gatineau
Common Loon: a single report of 1 at Lac Pink [Gatineau] on Jun 22; plus non-notable reports at locations in Ottawa [8], Lanark [3], Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais [10], Leeds and Grenville [1]
Tricolored Heron: a single report of 1 at Innes Rd [Ottawa] on Jun 22
Red-headed Woodpecker: 3 reports of 2 at Torbolton Forest [Ottawa] between Jun 20-22
Yellow-throated Vireo: 11 reports at 2 locations – as many as 3 at Heaphy Rd [Ottawa] (5 times between Jun 23-25); 1 at Sheila McKee Memorial Park/Sheila McKee Park [Ottawa] (5 times between Jun 20-24); plus 2 non-notable reports in Lanark
Sedge Wren: a single report of 1 at Rathwell St, Carleton Place ON [Lanark] on Jun 19; plus non-notable reports at locations in Ottawa [7], Prescott and Russell [1], Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais [2]
Northern Mockingbird: 33 reports close to the parking lots at 4000 Innovation Dr [Ottawa]; 1 at Route 148 Estate, Thurso QC [Papineau] (twice between Jun 22-25); 1 at , Route 148, Thurso Qc [Papineau] (on Jun 21)
Dark-eyed Junco: 2 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Big Treehouse [Ottawa] (on Jun 25); 1 at Birchgove Rd, Sarsfield [Ottawa] (on Jun 24); plus non-notable reports in Gatineau [1] & Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais [1]
One last reminder that 5:00PM on June 30 is the deadline to submit your best pics to the the Ottawa Valley Wild Bird Care Centre photo contest . For details, see https://www.wildbirdcarecentre.org/photo-contest
As always, send questions, comments or photos to sightings@ofnc.ca. Your feedback is appreciated.
Ottawa and area bird sightings to 18 June 2026
by Al Caughey at sightings@ofnc.ca
First, congrats to the Canadian Men’s Soccer team for their World Cup victory over Qatar tonight (Thursday)!
This week, we’re down to 167 reported species and a new low of just 16 notables in the 50km circle (down from 180 and 25 in my last update). In spite of the decline in notables, there were three that were not on the list last week: a Long-tailed Duck in Gatineau, Red-breasted Mergansers in Ottawa and Gatineau and finally, White-rumped Sandpipers in both Ottawa and Carleton Place.
Several notables in last week’s update were not reported this week – including: Brant, Mallard x American Black Duck (hybrid), Great Black-backed Gull, Greater Yellowlegs, Ruddy Turnstone, Arctic Tern, American White Pelican, Loggerhead Shrike and Gray-cheeked Thrush. The following were still seen but not in regions where they are notable: Trumpeter Swans, Black-crowned Night Heron, Dark-eyed Junco, Golden-winged Warbler, Brewster’s Warbler (hybrid).
The forecast for the coming week is unsettled conditions & periodic rain over the weekend changing to clearer, warmer weather midweek. With most of our residents in peak breeding/nesting season, songbirds will likely hunker down over the weekend but the low-pressure system could drop late-migrating shorebirds and waterfowl into mudflats and shorelines. Once conditions improve, local breeders will be active in woodlots; while wetlands and marshes could good spots to find bitterns, rails and who knows what else!
Indigo Bunting (by Karen Vallevand & Peter Pilgrim) – first, Karen got a picture of the couple, then the female on her own and finally, Peter got the immature male. The female chooses the site, builds the nest, and incubates the eggs. The male often takes over full-time parenting of the fledglings while the female builds a new nest and starts a second brood.
Female Rose-breasted Grosbeak (by TJ Way).
Male Rose-breasted Grosbeak (by TJ Way) – It is not difficult to identify the male but there is often confusion about the female. In very rare circumstances, they’ll demonstrate a phenomenon called bilateral gynandromorphism where one side of the body is brown and streaked (like the female) while the other half is genetically male (with black feathers and a red breast patch)
Eastern Bluebird (by Al C) – both share the characteristic blue, rufous-orange, and white palette, the coloration for the males is deeper and more saturated. In the coming weeks, the nestlings will fledge with heavy spotting on their breasts and backs
Northern Cardinal (by Chris Brunke) – There’s nothing wrong with this male cardinal! Some, but not all, cardinals undergo a `synchronous moult` and lose all of their head feathers at the same time instead of staggering the losses over a few weeks. It is not known why this happens in some individuals and not others.
Dragonfly (by Christopher Clunas) – unless I’m mistaken, this is a Four-spotted Chaser (or Four-spotted Skimmer). The males are intensely territorial and will aggressively chase away competing males, other dragonflies, and even small birds before returning to their favourite perch.
Current notable birds
White-winged Scoter: 12 reports at 8 locations – 1 at Bernie’s balcony [Ottawa] (twice between Jun 15-18); 1 at Britannia CA/Filtration Plant/Point [Ottawa] (on Jun 15); 8 at Shirley’s Bay (boat launch) [Ottawa] (on Jun 14); 1 at Andrew Haydon Park [Ottawa] (twice between Jun 12-14); 1 at Rue Beaulac [Gatineau] (on Jun 13); 1 at Rapides Deschênes (incluant Parc) [Gatineau] (3 times between Jun 11-12); 6 at Ch. de la Sapinière [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] (on Jun 12)
Long-tailed Duck: a single report of 1 at Parc des Cèdres [Gatineau] on Jun 13
Common Goldeneye: a single report of 1 at Filtration Plant/Point [Ottawa] on Jun 12; plus 1 non-notable report in Gatineau
Red-breasted Merganser: 8 reports at 3 locations – 1 at Andrew Haydon Park [Ottawa] (6 times between Jun 17-18); 4 at Shirley’s Bay [Ottawa] (on Jun 14); 1 at Rue Beaulac [Gatineau] (on Jun 13); plus non-notable reports at locations in Ottawa [2], Gatineau [3], Papineau [1]
Yellow-billed Cuckoo: 5 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Sheila McKee Park [Ottawa] (on Jun 14); 1 at Richmond CA [Ottawa] (4 times between Jun 12-13); plus 3 non-notable reports in Gatineau
Semipalmated Plover: 4 reports of 1 at Petrie Island [Ottawa] between Jun 13-14
White-rumped Sandpiper: 7 reports of 1 at Hwy 7 Storm Pond [Lanark] on Jun 13; plus a single non-notable report in Prescott and Russell
Bonaparte’s Gull: 6 reports at 2 locations – as many as 5 at Britannia CA/Filtration Plant Point [Ottawa] (4 times between Jun 13-15); as many as 2 at Shirley’s Bay (boat launch) [Ottawa] (twice on Jun 14); plus a single non-notable report in Gatineau
Lesser Black-backed Gull: a single report of 1 at Pioneer Plains Park [Ottawa] on Jun 17
Caspian Tern: 2 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Shirley’s Bay [Ottawa] (on Jun 17); 1 at Petrie Island [Ottawa] (on Jun 13); plus 3 non-notable reports in Gatineau
Red-headed Woodpecker: 7 reports of 2 at Bayview Dr/Torbolton Forest [Ottawa] between Jun 12-17
Red-bellied Woodpecker: a single report of 1 at Forêt Boucher [Gatineau] on Jun 15; plus non-notable reports in Ottawa [1] & Lanark [2]
Yellow-throated Vireo: 9 reports of 2 at Sheila McKee Park [Ottawa] between Jun 12-17; plus 1 non-notable report in Lanark
Northern Mockingbird: 49 reports at 3 locations – 1 at Innovation Drive/Trillium Woods and Monk Experimental Trails/Richcraft Recreation Complex [Ottawa] (37 times between Jun 12-17); as many as 2 at Route 148 Estate, Thurso QC/Thurso [Papineau] (6 times between Jun 13-17); 1 at route 148, Thurso/Thurso, Route 148 [Papineau] (6 times between Jun 13-16)
Tennessee Warbler: 2 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Borrisokane at Barnsdale (woodlot next to small lake) [Ottawa] (on Jun 16); 1 at Twin Elm Rd Wetlands [Ottawa] (on Jun 14)
Northern Parula: a single report of 1 at Alta Vista Dr [Ottawa] on Jun 13; plus non-notable reports at locations in Gatineau [2], Papineau [3], Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais [4]
As always, send questions, comments or photos to sightings@ofnc.ca. Your feedback is appreciated.
Ottawa and area bird sightings to 11 June 2026
by Al Caughey at sightings@ofnc.ca
If you have not done so already, please consider signing this petition to ban the use of anticoagulant and neurotoxic rodenticides (which are widely detected in Canadian wildlife, including owls, hawks, foxes, coyotes, and other predators): https://www.ourcommons.ca/petitions/en/Petition/Details?Petition=e-7000
NB – the deadline to sign is June 12th.
Gray Catbird (by Kam Adliff) – Male Catbirds are masterful mimics that sing to attract a mate or defend their territory, Their songs can last as long as 10 minutes and include a rapid, improvisational stream of whistles, squeaks, meows and calls of up to 100 different species.
Northern Rough-winged Swallow (by Steve Strauss) – Northern Rough-winged Swallows tend to fly much lower to the water’s surface than other swallow species with notably slower and smoother wingbeats. Adults have uniformly brown backs, dingy gray-brown throats, white bellies and a square tail; juveniles (which will fledge in Late June through mid-July) will have a more reddish-brown back and cinnamon/rust colored edges on their wing feathers.
American White Pelican (by Igor Kabic) – American White Pelicans are big! In North America, their 2.4-2.9m wingspan is second only to the California Condor. In the mid-20th century, their numbers dropped by as much as 70% due to DDT and human disturbance of their nesting colonies on the Great Plains. However, between 1980 and 2000 the number of nesting pairs more than doubled and their breeding range is now rapidly expanding eastwards.
Viceroy Butterfly (by Christina Young) – Viceroys can be distinguished from Monarch butterflies by the black horizontal line through the veins of their hindwings (and they are smaller). Like Monarchs, Viceroys are foul-tasting and toxic to predators due to the high amounts of salicylic acid that they accumulate from the willow and poplar leaves that they eat (rather than milkweed for Monarchs).
Cecropia Moth (by Dave Caughey) – This is the largest native moth in North America with a wingspan of 13-18 cm! They are “univoltine,” meaning they have only one generation per year. The moths do not have mouths or digestive systems so they only live for 7-14 days. The females sit patiently in trees releasing pheromones into the night air which the males can detect from several kilometres away with their comb-like antennae. In the fall, the caterpillars spin a large, double-layered silk cocoon on a sturdy tree twig to protect the pupa from freezing temperatures and sharp-beaked woodpeckers until they emerge as moths in the spring.
At the risk of sounding like a broken record, the number of species reported within the 50km Circle declined for the 3rd consecutive week – falling from 196 to 180 – but the number of notable species bounced back from 21 to 25. In terms of interesting new notables, on Jun 5, Igor Kabic and Rodolphe Dubois were (I believe) the first to report an American White Pelican – Igor at Mud Lake and Rod from the Gatineau side of the Deschenes Rapids. A few additional lucky souls saw it flying northwest past Shirley’s Bay a short while later (and it hasn’t been seen since). On Jun 10, Levi and Thomas (no last names provided in their eBird report) saw and photographed a Loggerhead Shrike in Kanata! Otherwise, Brants and White-winged Scoters reappeared on the notable list; while the only other non-notable addition was an American Coot at Parc National de Plaisance on Jun 9.
From the last update, the Red-necked Phalarope, Red-throated Loon, Lincoln’s Sparrow and Blue-winged Warbler were not reported in the 50km Circle this week while Least Bitterns and Gray-cheeked Thrushes are still being seenbut no longer trip a rarity filter.
We are now well past migration and have moved into peak local breeding season. Believe it or not, we’ll soon start seeing early post-breeding returns and dispersals. It the current weather predictions hold, the forecast for the area is a highly variable mix of storms, heavy precipitation, and brief clear breaks. It looks like Monday morning (after the heavy rains on Sunday) might be the best day of the coming week.
Before getting to the Notable birds list, someone asked recently that I clarify the difference between ‘notable’ and `non-notable’ reports – the short explanation (and gross simplification) is that the 50km circle includes parts, or all, of 11 different eBird regions and each region has volunteer reviewers who maintain separate filters that determine whether (and when) birds are deemed to be notable – i.e., the filters will flag reports of birds that are well out of range (e.g., this week’s American White Pelican); well out of season (e.g., the late-staying shorebirds), or simply rare (e.g., the Loggerhead Shrike). The filters divide the calendar into 36 time intervals – so a bird that was rare last week may not be this week (e.g., Least Bitterns) and a rarity in Ottawa may be expected (or non-notable) in Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais (e.g., Northern Parula). Is that now clear as mud?
Current notable birds
Brant: 2 reports at 2 locations – 4 at Aylmer rural – secteur sud-ouest [Gatineau] (on Jun 9); 30 at Almonte Lagoons [Lanark] (on Jun 9); plus 1 non-notable report in Ottawa
Trumpeter Swan: a single report of 2 at Gatineau Park, Pontiac QC [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] on Jun 9; plus non-notable reports at locations in Ottawa [4], Lanark [3], Renfrew [1]
Mallard x American Black Duck (hybrid): a single report of 1 at Barrage Paugan [La Vallée-de-la-Gatineau] on Jun 7; plus a single non-notable report in Ottawa
White-winged Scoter: 10 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Andrew Haydon Park [Ottawa] (9 times between Jun 5-11); 1 at Deschenes Rapids Lookout [Ottawa] (on Jun 11)
Common Goldeneye: 11 reports at 5 locations – 2 at Deschenes Rapids Lookout [Ottawa] (on Jun 11); as many as 2 at Filtration Plant/Point [Ottawa] (3 times between Jun 7-10); 1 at Shirley’s Bay [Ottawa] (on Jun 10); as many as 2 at Mud Lake [Ottawa] (5 times between Jun 5-9); plus 1 non-notable report in Gatineau
Semipalmated Plover: a single report of 1 at Shirley’s Bay [Ottawa] on Jun 9; plus 1 non-notable report in Lanark
Greater Yellowlegs: 5 reports at the Shirley’s Bay (boat launch) [Ottawa] on Jun 6
Ruddy Turnstone: 2 reports of 1 at Parc Brébeuf [Gatineau] on Jun 11
Dunlin: a single report of 1 at Len Purcell Dr [Ottawa] on Jun 11
Least Sandpiper: a single report of 2 at Hwy 7 Storm Pond [Lanark] on Jun 5; plus a single non-notable report in Ottawa
Semipalmated Sandpiper: 2 reports of 1 at Shirley’s Bay (boat launch) [Ottawa] on Jun 10; plus 1 non-notable report in Lanark
Bonaparte’s Gull: 2 reports at 2 locations – 2 at Deschenes Rapids Lookout [Ottawa] (on Jun 11); 5 at Filtration Plant/Point [Ottawa] (on Jun 10); plus a single non-notable report in Gatineau
Lesser Black-backed Gull: a single report of 3 at Moodie Drive Quarry [Ottawa] on Jun 7
Caspian Tern: 3 reports at 3 locations – 3 at Len Purcell Dr [Ottawa] (on Jun 11); 2 at Moodie Drive Quarry [Ottawa] (on Jun 7); 1 at Diamond Jubilee Park [Ottawa] (on Jun 5); plus 1 non-notable report in Gatineau
Arctic Tern: a single report of 1 at Deschenes Rapids Lookout [Ottawa] on Jun 11
Black-crowned Night Heron: a single report of 1 at Wolf Grove Rd [Lanark] on Jun 9; plus non-notable reports in Ottawa [45] & Gatineau [7]
American White Pelican: 5 reports at 4 locations – 1 at Shirley’s Bay (boat launch) [Ottawa] (on Jun 5); 1 at Mud Lake [Ottawa] (on Jun 5); 1 at Rapides Deschênes (incluant Parc) [Gatineau] (on Jun 5); 1 at Shirley’s Bay (Dyke – restricted access) [Ottawa] (on Jun 5)
Red-headed Woodpecker: 7 reports of 2 at Torbolton Forest [Ottawa] between Jun 6-11
Yellow-throated Vireo: 3 reports of 2 at Sheila McKee Park [Ottawa] between Jun 9-11; plus 1 non-notable report in Lanark
Loggerhead Shrike: a single report of 1 at Eagleson Park & Ride [Ottawa] on Jun 10
Northern Mockingbird: 25 reports at 4 locations – 2 along Route 148 in Thurso [Papineau] (on Jun 11); 1 at 4000 Innovation Drive/Richcraft Recreation Complex [Ottawa] (21 times between Jun 7-11); 1 at Fernbank Rd [Ottawa] (twice on Jun 6); 1 at Greenland Rd [Ottawa] (on Jun 5)
Dark-eyed Junco: a single report of 1 at Spadina Ave Ottawa [Ottawa] on Jun 9
Golden-winged Warbler: 2 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Sentier 5 [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] (on Jun 7); 1 at Relais Plein Air [Gatineau] (on Jun 7); plus 4 non-notable reports in Ottawa
Brewster’s Warbler (hybrid): a single report of 1 at Sentier 5 [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] on Jun 7; plus 1 non-notable report in Gatineau
Northern Parula: a single report of 1 at Two Rivers Campground [Ottawa] on Jun 11; plus non-notable reports at locations in Gatineau [2], Papineau [2], Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais [4]
As always, send questions, comments or photos to sightings@ofnc.ca. Your feedback is appreciated.
Ottawa and area bird sightings to 4 June 2026
by Al Caughey at sightings@ofnc.ca
As with last week, number of species and the number of notable species within the 50km Circle both declined – the total species dropped slightly from 198 to 196 and notables, from 25 to 21. In terms of the interesting new arrivals, Richard Rowlee was the first to report a one-day wonder Red-necked Phalarope, Gilles Seutin was the only lucky person to get a Red-necked Loon, and Vincent Fyson & Gabriel Blouin-Demers heard 3 Lincoln Sparrows. Other new notables included: Least Bittern & Gray-cheeked Thrush ; while Great Black-backed Gulls & Red Crossbills were the non-notable additions this weeks list. Sanderlings, the Yellow-bellied x Red-naped Sapsucker (hybrid) and Summer Tanager were not reported since the last update; while White-rumped Sandpipers were still seen but not notable in that county.
Stronger south winds on Friday might push late migrants into the area but that’ll likely be followed by thunderstorms on Saturday and a shift to stronger north winds on Sunday. Light winds and sunny skies on Monday & Tuesday could make them the best days to bird next week; although it’s looking like there’ll be good conditions onThursday as well. Can’t wait to see what shows up!
European Starling (via Tracy Dunn) – Tracy’s uncle had this very interesting Starling visiting his feeder in Orleans recently. While its feathers are almost entirely white, its has a yellow bill that is normally found in their breeding plumage (meaning that it is leucistic rather than albino). Incidentally, their bills turn dark brown or blackish during the non-breeding season.
Turkey Vultures (Gillian Wright) – Gillian found these birds scavenging what appears to be an American Woodcock. Turkey Vultures do not have a “syrinx” (avian voice box) so they can only make low hisses and grunts.
Blue Jay (Tony Beck) – Tony captured this Jay “sunning” itself on their property recently, i.e., it was on the ground with splayed wings, puffed feathers, and open beak. Heat from the sun and their body forces feather mites and lice outwards which makes them easier to spot and remove while preening.
Current notable birds
Northern Pintail: 2 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Britannia Conservation Area [Ottawa] (on Jun 3); 1 at Britannia Park (pier) [Ottawa] (on May 31); plus 1 non-notable report in Gatineau
Lesser Scaup: 11 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Wychwood [Gatineau] (twice on Jun 3); 1 at Hwy 7 Storm Pond [Lanark] (9 times between May 29-30)
Common Goldeneye: 2 reports of 1 at Filtration Plant/Point [Ottawa] between Jun 2-3; plus 2 non-notable reports in Gatineau
Red-necked Phalarope: 3 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Kinburn old rail trail [Ottawa] (on May 30); 1 at Old Railbed West Of Stonecrest Rd/Old railway West of Stonecrest [Ottawa] (twice on May 30)
Lesser Yellowlegs: a single report of 1 at Hwy 7 Storm Pond [Lanark] on Jun 1
Greater Yellowlegs: 3 reports of 2 at Sewage Lagoons [Prescott and Russell] on Jun 2; plus non-notable reports at locations in Ottawa [1], Gatineau [2], Lanark [1]
Caspian Tern: 10 reports at 3 locations – 1 at Rockcliffe Park Pavillion [Ottawa] (on Jun 1); 1 at Shirley’s Bay (boat launch) [Ottawa] (6 times between May 29-Jun 1); 1 at Shirley’s Bay* general (use more precise loc.) [Ottawa] (3 times between May 29-31); plus non-notable reports in Gatineau [1] & Papineau [1]
Arctic Tern: 15 reports at 4 locations – as many as 9 at Filtration Plant/Point/Britannia [Ottawa] (8 times on Jun 2); 1 at Bernie’s balcony – facing East by northeast [Ottawa] (twice on Jun 2); as many as 25 at Shirley’s Bay (boat launch) [Ottawa] (twice between May 31-Jun 2); as many as 2 at Rapides Deschênes (incluant Parc) [Gatineau] (twice on May 31)
Red-throated Loon: a single report of 1 at Rapides Deschênes (incluant Parc) [Gatineau] on Jun 3
Least Bittern: 2 reports of 1 in Clarence-Rockland ON [Prescott and Russell] on May 30; plus non-notable reports at locations in Ottawa [10], Gatineau [1], Papineau [1]
Red-headed Woodpecker: a single report of 1 at Torbolton Forest [Ottawa] on May 30
Yellow-throated Vireo: 2 reports of 1 at Stittsville Backyard [Ottawa] between May 30-Jun 2; plus non-notable reports in Gatineau [1] & Lanark [2]
Sedge Wren: 2 reports of 1 at Rathwell St in Carleton Place [Lanark] between May 29-Jun 1; plus non-notable reports at locations in Ottawa [1], Gatineau [1], Prescott and Russell [1]
Northern Mockingbird: 3 reports at 3 locations – 1 at Beechwood Cemetery [Ottawa] (on Jun 2); 2 at Harwick Cres [Ottawa] (on May 30); 1 at Rideau River Eastern Pathway north of Hurdman Bridge [Ottawa] (on May 29)
Gray-cheeked Thrush: a single report of 1 at Almonte Lagoons [Lanark] on Jun 3; plus a single non-notable report in Ottawa
Grasshopper Sparrow: 2 reports of 1 at Unnamed Rd, Clarence-Rockland ON [Prescott and Russell] on May 30; plus 4 non-notable reports in Ottawa
Lincoln’s Sparrow: 2 reports of 3 at Dolman Ridge Rd [Ottawa] on Jun 2
Golden-winged Warbler: 7 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Sentier 5 [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] (twice between May 29-Jun 4); 1 at Relais Plein Air [Gatineau] (5 times between May 31-Jun 3); plus 11 non-notable reports in Ottawa
Blue-winged Warbler: a single report of 1 at Extrémité Ch. de l’Hôtel de Ville, Luskville [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] on Jun 3
Brewster’s Warbler (hybrid): 4 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Sentier 5 [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] (on Jun 4); 1 at Relais Plein Air [Gatineau] (3 times between May 30-31)
Cape May Warbler: a single report of 1 at Stony Swamp (Chipmunk Trail) [Ottawa] on Jun 4; plus 3 non-notable reports in Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais
Photographers – if you haven’t seen the notification yet, the Ottawa Valley Wild Bird Care Centre photo contest is now open. For details, see https://www.wildbirdcarecentre.org/photo-contest
As always, send questions, comments or photos to sightings@ofnc.ca. Your feedback is appreciated.
Ottawa and area bird sightings to 28 May 2026
by Al Caughey at sightings@ofnc.ca
For the first time in several weeks, both the number of species and the number of notable species within the 50km circle declined – total species dropped from 216 to 198 and notables, from 34 to 25. In spite of the reduced numbers, there were still a couple of particularly exciting finds: Aidan Hamilton spotted what appears to be the region’s second-ever Yellow-bellied x Red-naped Sapsucker hybrid on the Trans Canada Trail in Stittsville; Greg Spira (and several other participants) at a Chimney Swift watch event in Ottawa saw a Summer Tanager – this time, a female to counter the male found by Mario Botros last week, and finally, Stéphane Martineau found a Brewster’s Warbler in Parc de la Gatineau (one of the two recognized hybrids of Blue-winged & Golden-winged warblers). Other new notables included: Sanderlings & Grasshopper Sparrows while the only non-notable arrivals were Red-throated Loons.
The following notable species from the previous update were not reported in the past week: Surf Scoter, Hudsonian Whimbrel, Wilson’s Phalarope, Great Black-backed GullOrange-crowned Warbler. The following were reported but no longer trip the rarity filter: Red-breasted Merganser, Short-billed Dowitcher, Ruddy Turnstone, Olive-sided Flycatcher, Alder Flycatcher, Gray-cheeked Thrush & Clay-colored Sparrow.
In terms of the coming week, we’re now past peak migration but there should still be some late arrivals and our local breeders should be quite vocal and (hopefully) visible as they finalize their nesting territories. Rain and gusty winds over the weekend will likely make forest birding tough but could force late migrating shorebirds onto the mudflats at local wetlands and sheltered bays. Later in the week, calmer and clearer conditions could allow for some better birding opportunities – esp. in the early morning.
Mourning Warbler (by Steve Strauss) – these stealthy warblers are among the last to return to the Ottawa area from their wintering grounds in Ecuador, Colombia, and Venezuela. Some breed locally – building their nests close to the ground in thick briars or ferns. They rarely fly directly to them (instead, they land a short distance away and skulk silently through the vegetation).
Killdeer chicks – these pics (above and two below, taken one week apart) show the dramatic growth rate of young Killdeer. The chicks are `precocial` – i.e., they are born fully feathered and mobile and feeding themselves shortly after emerging from their shells. They’ll hide under a parent if they feel threatened. Their second black breast band will appear as their flight feathers grow in and they should take their first flights 25-31 days after hatching.
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Blanding’s Turtle – their bright yellow chins are remarkable! They are globally endangered because they do not begin to breed until they are ~20yrs old and suffer high road mortality rates as they search increasingly fragmented habitats for mates and suitable nesting sites. If you do encounter an injured turtle (any species), contact the Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre at 705-741-5000. If it is safe to retrieve the turtle, put it into a box or plastic container (perhaps lined with a damp towel) but do not give it water or food. Also, record the exact location where you found the turtle so that it can be released back into its home territory.
Current notable birds
Cackling Goose: a single report of 2 at Mud Lake [Ottawa] on May 28.
Northern Pintail: 2 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Petrie Island [Ottawa] (on May 25); 1 at Britannia Park (pier) [Ottawa] (on May 22).
Redhead: 3 reports of 1 at Hwy 7 Storm Pond [Lanark] between May 24-25.
Lesser Scaup: 10 reports at 5 locations – 1 at Hwy 7 Storm Pond [Lanark] (3 times on May 28); 2 at Prudhomme St, Alfred and Plantagenet ON [Prescott and Russell] (on May 27); 2 at Shirley’s Bay (boat launch) [Ottawa] (on May 26); as many as 2 at Almonte Lagoons [Lanark] (4 times between May 24-25); 2 at Dick Bell Park [Ottawa] (on May 25).
Sanderling: 14 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Forsyth Lane, private location [Ottawa] (on May 28); as many as 2 at Petrie Island [Ottawa] (13 times on May 24).
White-rumped Sandpiper: 5 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Hwy 7 Storm Pond [Lanark] (4 times between May 26-28); 1 at Petrie Island [Ottawa] (on May 26).
Lesser Black-backed Gull: 9 reports at 4 locations – 1 at Astelia Cres [Ottawa] (on May 27); 1 at Moodie Drive Quarry [Ottawa] (3 times between May 23-27); 1 at Woods off of Derreen Ave [Ottawa] (on May 25); as many as 3 at Fernbank Storm Water Pond [Ottawa] (4 times on May 24)
Caspian Tern: 18 reports at 5 locations – as many as 2 at Mud Lake/Britannia CA [Ottawa] (10 times between May 23-28); as many as 2 at Shirley’s Bay [Ottawa] (twice between May 24-25); 1 at Dunrobin (Constance Creek) [Ottawa] (on May 23); 1 at Baie Noire (est et ouest) [Papineau] (4 times on May 23)
Yellow-bellied x Red-naped Sapsucker (hybrid): a single report of 1 at Trans Canada Trail [Ottawa] on May 26.
Red-headed Woodpecker: 6 reports at 2 locations – as many as 2 at Constance Bay [Ottawa] (3 times between May 24-27); 1 at Ch des Muguets, Chelsea QC [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] (on May 23).
Yellow-throated Vireo: 10 reports at 5 locations – 1 at Ch. de la Sapinière [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] (twice between May 22-27); 1 at Sheila McKee Park [Ottawa] (4 times between May 22-26); 1 at Lac la Pêche [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] (on May 26); 1 at Mud Lake [Ottawa] (on May 24); 1 at Jock River Between Munster And Joy. [Ottawa] (on May 22); plus 1 non-notable report in Lanark.
Ruby-crowned Kinglet: a single report of 1 at Acacia Ave [Ottawa] on May 26; plus non-notable reports in Gatineau [1] & Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais [2].
Sedge Wren: 2 reports of 1 at Field behind Rathwell St/Field NE of Rathwell St [Lanark] between May 25-26; plus non-notable reports in Ottawa [2] & Prescott and Russell [2].
Northern Mockingbird: 4 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Burnt Lands Provincial Park [Ottawa] (on May 23); 1 at Petrie Island [Ottawa] (3 times on May 23); plus another probable sighting at the Beechwood Cemetery on May 21.
Evening Grosbeak: 2 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Greenland Rd [Ottawa] (on May 27); 1 at Pioneer Plains Park [Ottawa] (on May 23); plus non-notable reports at locations in Gatineau [1], Prescott and Russell [1], Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais [2].
Grasshopper Sparrow: 2 reports at 2 locations – 2 at Atlas square 18TVR84 [Prescott and Russell] (on May 27); 2 in Clarence-Rockland ON [Prescott and Russell] (on May 27); plus 4 non-notable reports in Ottawa.
Fox Sparrow: a single report of 1 at Mer Bleue Bog [Ottawa] on May 23.
Dark-eyed Junco: 5 reports at 4 locations – 4 at Mud Lake [Ottawa] (on May 28); 1 on Quigley Hill Rd [Ottawa] (twice on May 24); 2 at Sunridge Ln, Nepean ON [Ottawa] (on May 23); 1 at South Island Park Dr [Ottawa] (on May 22); plus non-notable reports in Gatineau [2] & Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais [4].
Eastern Towhee: a single report of 1 in Clarence-Rockland ON [Prescott and Russell] on May 27; plus non-notable reports at locations in Ottawa [23], Lanark [1], Papineau [1], Leeds and Grenville [1].
Golden-winged Warbler: 10 reports at 4 locations – 1 at Extrémité Ch. de l’Hôtel de Ville, Luskville [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] (on May 28); 1 at Sentier 5 [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] (3 times between May 22-27); 1 at Relais Plein Air [Gatineau] (5 times between May 22-26); 1 at Sentier du Ruisseau Leamy [Gatineau] (on May 22); plus non-notable reports in Ottawa [3] & Lanark [2].
Blue-winged Warbler: 4 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Extrémité Ch. de l’Hôtel de Ville, Luskville [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] (3 times between May 27-28); 1 at Vallée Meech [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] (on May 23); plus 1 non-notable report in Lanark.
Brewster’s Warbler (hybrid): a single report of 1 at Sentier 5 [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] on May 26.
Palm Warbler: a single report of 1 at Marais des Laîches [Gatineau] on May 27; plus non-notable reports in Ottawa [9] & Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais [1].
Summer Tanager: a single report of 1 at Swift Park [Ottawa] on May 26.
One last quick reminder that the Merlin app is an excellent tool but it is not infallible. You should be cautious about reporting birds that you did not hear or see yourself – especially rarities. For example, on a couple of occasions recently, my Merlin told me that it had heard a Northern Mockingbird but after several additional minutes of careful listening, it was clear that none were present. Oh, and adding the comment `Confirmed by Merlin` to your eBird report does not make the reviewers happy!
As always, send questions, comments or photos to sightings@ofnc.ca. Your feedback is appreciated.
Ottawa and area bird sightings to 21 May 2026
by Al Caughey at sightings@ofnc.ca
This week, the number of species reported within the 50km circle continued to increase (up from 206 to 216) and the number of notable species rose (slightly) to 34 – several of which were reported just once or twice or just on a single day.
At least thirteen notable species were added to the list since the previous update: Red-breasted Merganser, Hudsonian Whimbrel, Short-billed Dowitcher, Ruddy Turnstone, White-rumped Sandpiper, Caspian Tern, Olive-sided Flycatcher, Alder Flycatcher, Gray-cheeked Thrush, Clay-colored Sparrow, Louisiana Waterthrush, Golden-winged Warbler, Blue-winged Warbler, Summer Tanager. Other ‘non-notable’ arrivals included: Black-billed Cuckoo, Black-bellied Plover, Yellow-bellied Flycatcher, Mourning Warbler.
The following notable species have not been reported in the past week: American Golden-Plover, Glaucous Gull, American Goshawk, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Orchard Oriole, Hooded Warbler, Prairie Warbler. These species are still being seen but are no longer tripping the rarity filter: Common Nighthawk, Willow Flycatcher, Evening Grosbeak, Red Crossbill,
Blackpoll and Canada Warblers have been reported in increased numbers this past week which signals that we are coming to the end of the Spring Warbler migration season. There will still be some stragglers but they’ll likely be harder to find.
The weather for the coming week looks like it’ll be somewhat unsettled but if the forecast stands, warm temps and strong, southwest winds on Tuesday should trigger a wave of late-season nocturnal migrants. Wednesday might be the top birding day when the winds shift to the north.
Last thought about the coming week: larger numbers of shorebirds began to appear late this week, so keep an eye on local storm ponds, muddy shorelines, etc., etc. Who knows what you might find!
Wilson’s Phalarope (by Noah Dore) – Noah found this bird on the Twin Elm Wetlands near Richmond on May 14th. It stayed around for a couple of days giving many people good views. Coincidentally, Betty Michalowski found one on the same day at Hollands Marsh (Old Highway 17 just north of Kinburn Side Rd). Then later in the week, David Smith found a pair on the Almonte Sewage Lagoons.
Common Grackle (by Catherine Cloutier) – Catherine was able to get a picture of this leucistic grackle at her feeders in Blackburn Hamlet on May 15th. Birds with abnormal plumage are always interesting to see!
Bay-breasted Warbler (Gillian Wright) – Gillian’s photo shows the breeding plumage for both the male and female of this species. The population of these warblers fluctuates dramatically in response to outbreaks of the spruce budworm in their northern habitat. During migration and on their winter grounds in South Central and northern areas of South America, they pivot from a strictly insectivorous diet to eating massive amounts of berries and nectar.
Canada Warbler (Catherine Lawrence) – this species is one of the last to arrive in the Ottawa area because they have to fly thousands of kilometres from their wintering-grounds in the northern Andes of South America (primarily Colombia, Peru, and Ecuador). They’ll be among the first to depart in mid August on their return flights. Unlike many warblers that spend their time high in the tree canopy, Canada Warblers prefer to forage close to ground level in wet tangled shrub layers of mature forests.
Orange-crowned Warbler (Deanna Wright) – Unlike the Canada Warbler, most Orange-crowns winter in the southern United States and Mexico. They are amongst the earliest warblers to arrive in their northern breeding grounds and some of the last to leave. It is usually quite difficult to actually see their orange crowns.
Wilson’s Warbler (Gillian Wright) – Like the Canada Warbler, Wilson’s prefer wet, brushy habitats – in particular willow thickets, alder swamps, and shrubby areas along rivers and streams. They also migrate long distances to their wintering grounds as far south as Panama.
Yellow-throated Vireo (by Al Caughey) – For the third year in a row at Sheila McKee Park in Kanata, this Yellow-throated Vireo is loudly belting out the song of a Blue-headed Vireo – presumably because it hatched in an area heavily dominated by Blue-headed Vireos and learned that song instead of its own.
Current notable birds
Cackling Goose: a single report of 1 at Rue Paradis [Gatineau] on May 15.
Northern Pintail: 3 reports at 3 locations. – 1 at Shirley’s Bay (boat launch) [Ottawa] (twice on May 17); 1 at Britannia CA (general location) [Ottawa] (on May 17); plus another at Etang Grimes [Gatineau] on May 20 where they are not notable.
Surf Scoter: 3 reports at 2 locations. – as many as 2 at Rapides Deschênes (incluant Parc) [Gatineau] (twice on May 18); 2 at Baie Fraser [Gatineau] (on May 18).
Bufflehead: 2 reports of 1 at Mississippi Riverwalk Trail [Lanark] on May 17; plus several reports in Ottawa, Gatineau and Prescott & Russell where they are not notable.
Common Goldeneye: 2 reports of 1 at Mississippi Riverwalk Trail [Lanark] on May 17; plus several reports in Ottawa where they are not notable.
Red-breasted Merganser: 2 reports of 2 at Riverfront Trail [Lanark] on May 19; plus several reports in Ottawa and Gatineau where they are not notable.
Black-necked Stilt: 4 reports of 2 at Sewage Lagoons [Prescott and Russell] on May 15.
Hudsonian Whimbrel: a single report of 1 at Rockcliffe Airport Woods [Ottawa] on May 19.
Short-billed Dowitcher: 3 reports of 1 at Hwy 7 Storm Pond [Lanark] on May 21; plus several reports in Ottawa and Prescott & Russell where they are not notable.
Wilson’s Phalarope: 43 reports at 2 locations. – as many as 2 at Almonte Lagoons/Almonte lagoons [Lanark] (9 times on May 18); 1 at Twin Elm Rd Wetlands/Flooded field [Ottawa] (34 times on May 15).
Ruddy Turnstone: 2 reports of 1 at Holland’s Marsh [Ottawa] on May 19.
White-rumped Sandpiper: 3 reports at 3 locations. – 1 at Marais des Laîches [Gatineau] (on May 21); 7 at Parc Guillot et marais Lamoureux [Gatineau] (on May 19); 4 at Shirley’s Bay [Ottawa] (on May 16).
Lesser Black-backed Gull: 6 reports at 5 locations. – 1 at Woods off of Derreen Ave [Ottawa] (on May 18); 1 at Moodie Drive Quarry [Ottawa] (twice between May 15-17); 1 at Ottawa – field west of Moodie Drive [Ottawa] (on May 17); 2 at Kinburn Side Rd [Ottawa] (on May 16); 2 at Trail Rd Landfill [Ottawa] (on May 15); plus two reports in Gatineau where they are not notable.
Iceland Gull: a single report of 1 at Rapides Deschênes (incluant Parc) [Gatineau] on May 15.
Caspian Tern: 8 reports at 5 locations. – 1 at South Island Park Dr [Ottawa] (on May 21); 1 at Mud Lake [Ottawa] (on May 21); 1 at Rockcliffe Airport Woods [Ottawa] (twice on May 19); 1 at Shirley’s Bay (boat launch) [Ottawa] (5 times between May 16-17); plus another report at the Almonte Lagoons on May 19 [Lanark] where they are not notable.
Red-headed Woodpecker: 7 reports at 5 locations. – 1 at Forest East of Burnt Lands Rd (Private) [Ottawa] (on May 17); 1 at Burnt Lands Provincial Park [Ottawa] (twice on May 17); 1 the Findley Creek area [Ottawa] (on May 17); 1 at Rapides Deschênes (incluant Parc) [Gatineau] (on May 16); 1 at Torbolton Forest [Ottawa] (twice on May 15).
Red-bellied Woodpecker: 3 reports at 3 locations. – 1 at Belvédère Champlain [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] (on May 19); 1 at Relais Shilly-Shallly [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] (on May 16); 1 at Promenade Fortune [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] (on May 16); plus several reports in Ottawa, Lanark and Leeds & Grenville where they are not notable.
Black-backed Woodpecker: 4 reports of 1 at Sheila McKee Park [Ottawa] on May 16.
Olive-sided Flycatcher: 6 reports at 5 locations. – 1 at Stanley Park [Ottawa] (twice on May 18); 1 at Thessaly Woods [Ottawa] (on May 18); 1 at Hanson Side Rd [Ottawa] (on May 18); 1 at Greenbelt pathway south of Davidson Rd [Ottawa] (on May 17); 1 at Almonte Lagoons [Lanark] (on May 16)
Alder Flycatcher: a single report of 1 at Sentier des Outaouais [Papineau] on May 16; plus many reports in several counties where they are not notable
Yellow-throated Vireo: 52 reports at 5 locations. – 1 at Sheila McKee Park [Ottawa] (23 times between May 16-21); 1 at Greenbelt pathway south of Davidson Rd [Ottawa] (23 times between May 16-20); 1 at Pine Grove Forestry Trail/Pine Grove Trail [Ottawa] (6 times between May 16-18); plus another report in Lanark where they are not notable
Sedge Wren: a single report of 1 at Marais aux Grenouillettes [Gatineau] on May 17; plus additional reports on the TransCanada Trail in Stittsville [Ottawa] where they are not notable.
Northern Mockingbird: 5 reports at 2 locations. – 1 at Sneddon Casey Park/Country St, Mississippi Mills ON [Lanark] (4 times on May 17); 1 at Marais aux Grenouillettes [Gatineau] (on May 17); plus additional reports in Ottawa where they are not notable.
Gray-cheeked Thrush: a single report of 1 at Boisé, Musée canadien de la nature [Gatineau] on May 21; plus at least 4 additional reports in Ottawa where they are not notable.
Evening Grosbeak: 9 reports at 6 locations. – as many as 2 at Dewer Side Rd, Beckwith ON/Dewer Side Rd, Ashton ON [Lanark] (twice between May 18-19); 1 at a home in Manotick [Ottawa] (on May 18); as many as 2 at Forest East of Burnt Lands Rd [Ottawa] (3 times between May 16-17); 1 at Greenland Rd [Ottawa] (on May 17); 1 at Monty Drive [Ottawa] (on May 15); 1 at Cumberland Village [Ottawa] (on May 15); several additional reports in other counties where they are not notable
Lapland Longspur: 2 reports of 2 at Marais des Laîches [Gatineau] on May 21.
Clay-colored Sparrow: a single report of 1 at Willoway [Lanark] on May 17; plus at least 8 reports in Ottawa where they are not notable.
Dark-eyed Junco: a single report of 1 at Mer Bleue Bog [Ottawa] on May 21; plus several other reports from Ottawa prior to May 21 (when apparently, they became notable) and several other counties where they are not notable.
Louisiana Waterthrush: a single report of 1 at Belvédère Champlain [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] on May 16.
Golden-winged Warbler: 5 reports at 2 locations. – as many as 2 at Relais Plein Air [Gatineau] (4 times between May 19-21); 1 at Sentier 5 [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] (on May 21); plus several additional reports in Lanark and Ottawa where they are not notable.
Blue-winged Warbler: 4 reports of 1 at Extrémité Ch. de l’Hôtel de Ville, Luskville [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] on May 19; plus a handful of additional reports in Ottawa & Lanark where they are not notable.
Orange-crowned Warbler: 10 reports at 4 locations. – 1 at Gloucester-Southgate [Ottawa] (on May 21); 1 at Britannia CA (general location)/Mud Lake [Ottawa] (7 times between May 15-16); 1 at Fletcher Wildlife Garden [Ottawa] (on May 15).
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida): a single report of 1 at Britannia CA (general location) [Ottawa] on May 15; plus several reports in Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais, Papineau and Prescott & Russell where they are not notable.
Summer Tanager: 18 reports of 1 at Britannia CA (general location); unfortunately, it was a one day wonder.
As always, send questions, comments or photos to sightings@ofnc.ca. Your feedback is appreciated.
Remember that it is Ottawa Race Weekend so traffic will be disrupted (badly) in downtown Ottawa!
Ottawa and area bird sightings to 14 May 2026
by Al Caughey at sightings@ofnc.ca
This week I’m back after my first-ever trip to Point Pelee. Wow!!! We saw more than 100 species inside the park and over 50 more at other locations – highlights included: Prothonotary & Yellow-throated Warblers, Yellow-breasted Chat, White-eyed Vireo, Black-headed Gull, Least Bittern, White-faced Ibis, etc., etc. Huge thank-yous to Martha, Alex, Jakob & Jamie for making it so enjoyable (even though being away meant that I missed out on the Hooded Warbler and Orchard Oriole).
Lincoln Sparrow (by Gabrielle Dewalt) – Gabrielle found this little sparrow sulking around the water feature in her native wildlife garden in the Sandy Hill area. Note the fine pencil-thin streaking on the chest and flanks as compared to the coarser patterns that you’ll see on a Song Sparrow.
Tennessee Warbler (by Emilia Michaud) – Emilia found this warbler – her first of the year – on the east side of the Rideau River in the Overbrook area. Note the sharp thin bill and white eyebrow (supercilium); you can also just make out its bright white undertail coverts – all keys to identifying this non-descript warbler. They are frequently confused with Red-eyed Vireos (which are larger and have a thicker “hooked” bill).
Hooded Warbler (by Sheila Craig). Unlike the Tennessee Warbler which forages high up in the tree canopies, Hooded Warblers prefer mature forests where large fallen trees create openings that allow sunlight to hit the floor and produce dense, scrubby regrowth (which is exactly the habitat where Sheila captured this picture). Unfortunately, this gem has not been seen since May 9.
Once again, the number of species reported within the 50km Circle increased – from 190 to 206 – but, again, the number of notable species decreased – from 37 to 30. Warblers have returned to the area with people reporting significant numbers & species, especially later in the week. The biggest excitement was reserved until Thurs when Betty M and Noah D found Wilson’s Phalaropes at two separate locations. And late in the day, Eric B and Steph P found a Blue-gray Gnatcatcher at the Dow’s Lake Arboretum.
Ten notable species arrived in the 50km Circle since the last update: Common Nighthawk, American Golden-Plover, Wilson’s Phalarope, Glaucous Gull, American Goshawk, Willow Flycatcher, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Sedge Wren, Hooded Warbler, Prairie Warbler. Other ‘non-notable’ arrivals included: White-winged Scoter, Gray Partridge, Semipalmated Plover, Semipalmated Sandpiper, Black Tern, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Alder Flycatcher, Philadelphia Vireo, Swainson’s Thrush, Blackpoll Warbler, Canada Warbler, Wilson’s Warbler.
The only notable species from last week that is not longer being seen is the Violet-green Swallow (although the Hooded Warbler and Orchard Oriole have not been reported for several days now). The following are still being seen but are no longer notable: Least Flycatcher, Marsh Wren, Lincoln’s Sparrow, Tennessee Warbler, Indigo Bunting
In terms of the coming week, strong south winds between Sat and Mon should continue the migratory push. Stormy weather on Tues will likely (hopefully) produce a significant fallout. Sunday and Wednesday could be the most productive days next week but be aware that high humidity and soaring temperatures means that birds will likely be more active at dawn before they hunker down during the afternoon heat.
Current notable birds
Surf Scoter: 4 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Club de Voile Grande Rivière [Gatineau] (twice on May 14); as many as 6 at Shirley’s Bay [Ottawa] (on May 14).
Bufflehead: 2 reports at 2 locations – 2 at Stonewater Bay stormwater pond [Lanark] (on May 14); 7 at Mississippi Riverwalk Trail [Lanark] (on May 12); plus several other reports in other counties where they are not flagged as notable.
Common Goldeneye: 3 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Stonewater Bay stormwater pond [Lanark] (twice between May 10-14); 1 at Mississippi Riverwalk Trail [Lanark] (on May 12); plus several other reports in Lanark, Gatineau and Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais where they are not flagged as notable.
Common Nighthawk: a single report of 1 at Dunrobin (Carp Hills) [Ottawa] on May 9.
American Golden-Plover: 2 reports of 1 at Martin St North, Mississippi Mills ON [Lanark] on May 9.
Wilson’s Phalarope: 12 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Holland’s Marsh [Ottawa] (6 times on May 14); 1 at Twin Elm Rd Wetlands [Ottawa] (6 times on May 14).
Glaucous Gull: 2 reports of 1 at Trail Rd Landfill [Ottawa] on May 9.
Lesser Black-backed Gull: 16 reports at 5 locations – 2 at Herzberg and Carling Ponds [Ottawa] (on May 13); 1 at Moodie Drive Quarry [Ottawa] (4 times between May 9-13); as many as 11 at Twin Elm Rd Wetlands [Ottawa] (9 times between May 8-11); 1 at Trail Rd Landfill [Ottawa] (on May 9); 2 at Britannia and area [Ottawa] (on May 9).
Iceland Gull: 2 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Moodie Drive Quarry [Ottawa] (on May 13); 1 at Rapides Deschênes (incluant Parc) [Gatineau] (on May 12).
American Goshawk: a single report of 1 at rue des Chardonnerets [Gatineau] on May 10.
Rough-legged Hawk: a single report of 1 at Marais des Laîches [Gatineau] on May 14.
Red-headed Woodpecker: 9 reports at 5 locations – 1 at Du Quai Av, Wendover ON/Eglise Saint-Benoit-Labre, Wendover ON [Prescott and Russell] (twice on May 13); as many as 2 at Torbolton Forest [Ottawa] (3 times between May 9-11); 1 on Stonecrest Rd [Ottawa] (on May 9); as many as 2 in Constance Bay [Ottawa] (twice on May 8); 1 at Ch Station, Chelsea QC [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] (on May 8).
Red-bellied Woodpecker: 2 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Parc Guillot & Marais Lamoureux [Gatineau] (on May 11); 1 at Macnamara Trail [Renfrew] (on May 9); plus several reports in Lanark, Leeds and Grenville and Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry where they are not flagged as notable
Black-backed Woodpecker: 6 reports at 5 locations – 1 at Greenbelt Pathway (East/West of Conroy) [Ottawa] (on May 12); 1 at Greenbelt pathway south of Davidson Rd [Ottawa] (on May 12); 1 at Gagnon Trail [Prescott and Russell] (on May 9); 1 at Stony Swamp (Jack Pine Trail)/Stony Creek [Ottawa] (twice between May 8-9); 1 at Russell Rd [Ottawa] (on May 8).
Willow Flycatcher: a single report of 1 at Findlay Creek stormwater finishing ponds [Ottawa] on May 9.
Yellow-throated Vireo: 4 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Sheila McKee Park [Ottawa] (3 times between May 12-13); 1 at Richmond CA (formerly Richmond Sewage Lagoons) [Ottawa] (on May 11); plus a couple of reports in Lanark and Gatineau where they are not flagged as notable.
Red-eyed Vireo: a single report of 1 at Luskville [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] on May 9; plus several other reports in other counties where they are not flagged as notable.
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher: 3 reports of 1 at Fletcher Wildlife Garden/Central Experimental Farm Arboretum [Ottawa] on May 14.
Sedge Wren: 3 reports along the Trans Canada Trail [Ottawa] (between May 12-13).
Northern Mockingbird: a single report of 1 at Clarke Bellinger Environmental Facility [Ottawa] on May 9; plus 2 additional reports in Ottawa after May 10 when they stopped being flagged as notable.
Evening Grosbeak: 9 reports at 9 locations – 1 at Homebase [Ottawa] (on May 14); 1 at Pine grove trail [Ottawa] (on May 14); 2 at 1644 Burnt Lands Rd (Private Backyard) [Ottawa] (on May 14); 2 at Richmond – Yard [Ottawa] (on May 13); 1 at Alta Vista Dr [Ottawa] (on May 13); 3 at Alexander Grove Park [Ottawa] (on May 12); 2 at Home [Ottawa] (on May 11); at least 1 at farm woodlot [Ottawa] (on May 11); 1 at Richmond CA (formerly Richmond Sewage Lagoons) [Ottawa] (on May 11) plus several other reports in other counties where they are not flagged as notable.
Red Crossbill: a single report of 8 at Gagnon Trail [Prescott and Russell] on May 9.
American Tree Sparrow: 7 reports at 4 locations – as many as 2 at Mud Lake/Britannia CA (general location) [Ottawa] (3 times between May 9-12); 1 at Mer Bleue Bog [Ottawa] (twice on May 9); 1 at home [Ottawa] (on May 9); 1 at Nepean Tent and Trailer Campgrounds [Ottawa] (on May 9); plus several reports in Gatineau where they are not notable.
Fox Sparrow: 2 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Forêt Boucher [Gatineau] (on May 14); 1 at Greenbelt Pathway off Conroy [Ottawa] (on May 10); plus a report in Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais where they are not notable.
Orchard Oriole: a single report of 1 at Forest Hill Ave [Ottawa] on May 12.
Orange-crowned Warbler: 20 reports at 11 locations – 1 at Central Experimental Farm Arboretum [Ottawa] (twice on May 14); as many as 2 at Mud Lake [Ottawa] (9 times between May 12-14); 1 at Rideau River Western Pathway north of Hurdman Bridge [Ottawa] (on May 14); 1 at Strathcona Park [Ottawa] (twice between May 12-14); 1 at Stanley Park [Ottawa] (on May 13); 1 at Harwick Cres [Ottawa] (on May 12); 1 at Twin Elm Rd Wetlands [Ottawa] (on May 11); 1 at Pine Grove Trailhead P19 [Ottawa] (on May 10); 1 at Colchester Sq [Ottawa] (on May 9); 1 at Ramsayville-Hawthorne pathway [Ottawa] (on May 9); plus a report in Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais where they are not notable.
Hooded Warbler: 99 reports of 1 at Stony Swamp (Jack Pine Trail) [Ottawa] between May 7-9.
Bay-breasted Warbler: a single report of 1 at Atlas square 18TVR43 – NR Park [Ottawa] on May 8; plus reports between May 11-14 in Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais & Papineau (where they are not notable).
Prairie Warbler: a single report of 1 at Sentier du Ruisseau-de-la-Brasserie [Gatineau] on May 12.
As always, send questions, comments or photos to sightings@ofnc.ca. Your feedback is appreciated.
Ottawa and area bird sightings to 7 May 2026
by Al Caughey at sightings@ofnc.ca
This week, I am sending you the update from Leamington ON because I’m on the OFNC trip to Point Pelee. A huge thanks goes out to Martha for organizing everything and to our exceptionally knowledgeable guides: Alex, Jakob and Jamie.
The OFNC group on our way to Point Pelee. At our first stop – the Second Marsh near Oshawa – we saw 36 species, including two Piping Plovers and 7 Harlequin Ducks.
As with the past several updates, the number of species reported within the 50-km circle had grown – this week from 178 to 190 – but counter-intuitively, the number of notable species has dropped from 50 to 37 (because many are now in their expected arrival time frames). Yesterday, I was planning to say that the exciting find of the week was the Orchard Oriole found by Mark Gawn on Twin Elm Rd but just as I sat down to prepare the report, I started to get notifications that a Hooded Warbler had been found on the Jack Pine NCC trail in Nepean (I believe by Richard Rowlee) – both are really good finds!
New arrivals since the last update: Surf Scoter, Least Sandpiper, Red-headed Woodpecker, Yellow-throated Vireo, Lincoln’s Sparrow, Orchard Oriole, Hooded Warbler, Tennessee Warbler, American Redstart, Magnolia Warbler, Indigo Bunting
Not reported since the last update: Golden Eagle, Swainson’s Thrush
Still being seen but no longer notable: Eastern Whip-poor-will, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Bonaparte’s Gull, Gray Catbird, Evening Grosbeak, Grasshopper Sparrow, White-crowned Sparrow, Bobolink, Baltimore Oriole, Ovenbird, Nashville Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Blackburnian Warbler, Northern Yellow Warbler, Black-throated Blue Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Rose-breasted Grosbeak
In terms of the coming week, south winds and warm temps on Saturday could result in another big push before cooler temps, precipitation and winds swinging to the west/northwest stalls movement midweek. All that to say, it could be another exciting week! I’m tempted to say that it’ll be hard to top the Orchard Oriole and Hooded Warbler but we’ve had a good string of exceptional finds. I just hope they stick around until I return from Pelee.
Ring-necked Duck (by Ielca Torok) – Most Ring-necked Ducks are passing through the Ottawa Valley towards their northern breeding grounds; a small population will stay in the area to breed in acidic wetlands and boggy marshes.
Gadwall (by Ielca Torok) – Gadwalls are common migrants through the Ottawa Valley but are also common nesters in the Ottawa area. They often wait until June to begin nesting to take advantage of lush vegetation growth to hide their nests on the ground.
Northern Waterthrush (by Gillian Wright) – Waterthrushes are actually members of the wood-warbler family rather than thrushes. In the right locations (wooded swamps, bogs, and thickets near standing or slow-moving water), they are relatively easy to find (because they sing loudly) but are often hard to see (because they skulk about low in the shadows)
Eastern Towhee (Gillian Wright) – They are actually members of the sparrow family. The males can be distinguished from the females due to their blacker appearance.
Snapping Turtle (by Al Caughey) – not a bird but they do lay eggs… just a quick reminder that you’ll frequently see them on roads from late May through June, They can live to 100+ yrs old in the wild. and do not breed until they’re 15-20 yrs old (so every loss can have a major impact on the local population). If you come across one on a road, simply “herding” them from a distance is often the best strategy!
Current notable birds
Cackling Goose: 3 reports of 3 at Hwy 7 Storm Pond [Lanark] on May 6.
Redhead: 3 reports of 2 at Almonte Lagoons [Lanark] on May 1.
Greater Scaup: a single report of 1 at Almonte Lagoons [Lanark] on May 6; plus several other reports in several counties where they are not flagged as notable.
Surf Scoter: 5 reports at 2 locations – 4 at Rapides Deschênes (incluant Parc) [Gatineau] (on May 6); as many as 4 at Shirley’s Bay [Ottawa] (4 times on May 6).
Dunlin: 10 reports of 2 at Holland’s Marsh [Ottawa] between May 1-2.
Least Sandpiper: a single report of 1 at Hwy 7 Storm Pond [Lanark] on May 5; plus several other reports in several counties where they are not flagged as notable.
Lesser Black-backed Gull: 2 reports at 2 locations – 9 at Cambrian Rd W [Ottawa] (on May 6); 1 at Woods off of Derreen Ave [Ottawa] (on May 5).
Iceland Gull: 3 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Cambrian Rd W [Ottawa] (on May 6); 1 at Rapides Deschênes (incluant Parc) [Gatineau] (twice on May 6).
Rough-legged Hawk: a single report of 1 at Aut Guy-Lafleur E [Gatineau] on May 2; plus another report in Ottawa county (where they are not notable).
Red-headed Woodpecker: 10 reports at 4 locations – 1 at Chelsea [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] (twice on May 7); 1 at Route 105, Chelsea QCCh du Vallon/Ch Station/Ch Station, Chelsea Quebec [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] (4 times between May 3-6); 1 at Cottage [Ottawa] (3 times between May 4-5); 1 at Marais aux Grenouillettes [Gatineau] (on May 3).
Red-bellied Woodpecker: 3 reports at 3 locations – 1 at Rue Paradis [Gatineau] (on May 7); 1 at Macnamara Trail [Renfrew] (on May 3); 1 at Parc Queen [Gatineau] (on May 2); plus several other reports in several counties where they are not flagged as notable.
Black-backed Woodpecker: a single report of 1 at Trans Canada Trail [Ottawa] on May 4.
Least Flycatcher: a single report of 1 at Spring St [Lanark] on May 1; plus several other reports in several counties where they are not flagged as notable.
Yellow-throated Vireo: 7 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Rapides Deschênes (incluant Parc) [Gatineau] (twice on May 6); 1 at Richmond CA (formerly Richmond Sewage Lagoons) [Ottawa] (5 times on May 5).
Eastern Warbling Vireo: a single report of 1 at Grenville St [Leeds and Grenville] on May 1; plus several other reports in several counties where they are not flagged as notabl.
Violet-green Swallow: 5 reports of 1 at Britannia CA (general location)/Mud Lake [Ottawa] between May 1-2.
Marsh Wren: a single report of 1 at Trans Canada Trail [Ottawa] on May 4; plus several other reports in several counties where they are not flagged as notable.
Northern Mockingbird: 3 reports at 3 locations – 1 at Moodie Drive Quarry [Ottawa] (on May 6); 1 at Harwick Cres [Ottawa] (on May 5); 1 at Ch Thérien, Luskville [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] (on May 2).
Bohemian Waxwing: 6 reports at 5 locations – as many as 8 at Bruce Pit [Ottawa] (twice between May 2-5); 4 at Richmond CA (formerly Richmond Sewage Lagoons) [Ottawa] (on May 3); 1 at Greenbelt Trail 10 [Ottawa] (on May 2); 1 at CarpBarrens Trail [Ottawa] (on May 2); 1 at Dunrobin (Carp Hills) [Ottawa] (on May 2); plus a couple of reports in Gatineau where they are not considered to be notable.
Evening Grosbeak: 3 reports at 3 locations – 2 at Beckwith Park [Lanark] (on May 5); 2 at Backyard Feeder [Lanark] (on May 2); 1 at Riverfront Trail [Lanark] (on May 1); plus several other reports in several counties where they are not flagged as notable.
Redpoll: a single report of 15 at Greenbelt Pathway West [Ottawa] on May 5.
American Tree Sparrow: 3 reports at 3 locations – 1 at Tree grove in park [Ottawa] (on May 6); 1 at Ottawa ON [Ottawa] (on May 5); 2 at Old Quarry Trail [Ottawa] (on May 5); one in the Beacon Hill area (May 1-5); plus several other reports in several counties where they are not flagged as notable.
Fox Sparrow: 7 reports at 5 locations – 1 at Green’s Creek Sewage Treatment Facility [Ottawa] (on May 6); 1 at Britannia CA (general location)/Mud Lake [Ottawa] (twice on May 3); 1 at home [Ottawa] (on May 3); 1 at Richmond CA (formerly Richmond Sewage Lagoons) [Ottawa] (twice on May 3); 1 at path of stonecrest [Ottawa] (on May 3); plus several other reports in several counties where they are not flagged as notable.
Lincoln’s Sparrow: a single report of 1 at Domaine de la ferme Moore [Gatineau] on May 3; plus another report in Ottawa county (where they are not considered to be notable).
Orchard Oriole: 8 reports at the Twin Elm Rd Wetlands [Ottawa] (all on May 6).
Tennessee Warbler: 2 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Ottawa — Briargreen (general location) [Ottawa] (on May 6); 1 at Richmond CA (formerly Richmond Sewage Lagoons) [Ottawa] (on May 5).
Orange-crowned Warbler: 3 reports at 2 locations – 1 at Fletcher Wildlife Garden [Ottawa] (on May 7); 1 at Rapides Deschênes (incluant Parc) [Gatineau] (twice on May 6).
Hooded Warbler: at least 11 reports of 1 at Stony Swamp (Jack Pine Trail) [Ottawa] on May 7
American Redstart: 4 reports at 3 locations – as many as 3 at Parc Guillot & Marais Lamoureux [Gatineau] (twice on May 5); 1 at Ch. de la Sapinière [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] (on May 5); 1 at Forêt Boucher [Gatineau] (on May 5); plus several other reports in several counties where they are not flagged as notable.
Cape May Warbler: 7 reports at 4 locations – 1 at Settlers Way, North Grenville ON [Leeds and Grenville] (on May 4); 1 at Bruce Pit/Trails North of Stony Swamp [Ottawa] (twice on May 2); 1 at Britannia CA (general location) [Ottawa] (3 times on May 1); 1 at Stanley Park [Ottawa] (on May 1); plus several other reports in several counties where they are not flagged as notable.
Northern Parula: 16 reports at 9 locations – 3 at Shirley’s Bay [Ottawa] (on May 2); 2 at Greenbelt Pathway West [Ottawa] (on May 2); 1 at Nortel Marsh [Ottawa] (on May 2); as many as 2 at Stanley Park [Ottawa] (4 times between May 1-2); 1 at Hurdman Woods (feeders) [Ottawa] (on May 1); as many as 2 at Britannia CA (general location) [Ottawa] (5 times on May 1); 1 at Twin Elm Rd Wetlands [Ottawa] (on May 1); 1 at Filtration Plant/Point [Ottawa] (on May 1); 1 at Wolf Grove Rd [Lanark] (on May 1); plus several other reports in several counties where they are not flagged as notable.
Magnolia Warbler: 2 reports at 2 locations – 2 at Ch Cowden, Chelsea QC [Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais] (on May 6); 2 at Atlas square 18TVR42 – Linda Thom Park [Ottawa] (on May 3).
Indigo Bunting: a single report of 1 at Hamlet Rd [Ottawa] on May 5; plus another on May 6 at the Richmond Sewage Lagoons (after they stopped being reported as notable in Ottawa county).
As always, send questions, comments or photos to sightings@ofnc.ca. Your feedback is appreciated.