[Ontbirds]Snowy Owl and Hoary Redpoll at St. Isidore

[PETER HALL]

Hi Ontbirders:
   
  I apologize for the delay in this report, but I am only today getting access to a computer as I have been travelling.
   
  On December 30 between about 1:30 and 2:30 my wife and I drove the concession roads to the west of St. Isidore de Prescott just off Hwy 417 east of Ottawa. There was a black-flecked Snowy Owl sitting in full view on top of a tin shed on the south side of Concession Road 19. While driving this and Concession Roads 20 and 21, we came across a number of small to large flocks of birds picking at seeds and gravel along the sides of the road. These included about 50 Common Redpolls with a very distinct Hoary Redpoll among them. There were several large flocks of Snow Buntings (about 300 birds total) with one very dark bird among them that I am assuming was probably a Lapland Longspur, but never saw it landed. Finally, there was a flock of about 10 Horned Larks. Most of these birds will still likely be in the area, but they move around considerably.
   
  God birding
   
  Peter Hall 
   
  Directions:
   
  From Ottawa, take 417 east towards Montreal. Take exit number 51 north on number 9 to St. Isidore de Prescott. The third road on the left is Concession Road 19.