[Ontbirds]Ruffed Grouse, Merlin and Hoary Redpoll

[Ott User]

Hi OntBirders:
                        The tame Ruffed Grouse continues to show.  Early 
morning is the best time to see it at the corner of Hilda and Lois 
(Shirley's Bay area).  When I arrived there later in the morning, 8-10 
photographers were already there taking photos of the Ruffed Grouse (since 
8am from what I was told and it was still there at 9:30am).  Mornings seem 
to be the most reliable for seeing the Grouse these days.
                        A Hoary Redpoll continues to be seen with great 
frequency at the Hilda Road Feeder.  It associates with a small flock of 
Common Redpolls.  Some there claim to have seen more than one Hoary at the 
feeder.
                        A Merlin put on quite the show at the Hilda Road 
feeders late morning today.  It was in the vicinity of the Hilda Road 
feeders for well over 30 minutes flying to different perches.  At one point 
it was perched low and offered great views.  See photo.  It was last seen 
chasing after what looked like a Mourning Dove.
                       In addition to the above, various woodpeckesr came to 
check out the feeders including a 2 Pileated.

Very tame Ruffed Grouse.
http://www.pbase.com/golfpic/image/91278029/original

Merlin.
http://www.pbase.com/golfpic/image/91278030

Pileated in flight
http://www.pbase.com/golfpic/image/91278961

Photo of a Hoary Redpoll from past days
http://www.pbase.com/golfpic/image/91001676




W. Hum
www.pbase.com/golfpic

Directions to Shirley's Bay area (Rifle Road, Hild Road feeders) courtesy
http://ca.geocities.com/larry.neily@rogers.com/orwo21.htm

Going west on Carling Avenue.  Go past Andrew Haydon Park, past Moodie Drive 
and past where Carling narrows to one lane each way.  At the large sign 
(Rifle Range) turn right onto Rifle Road.  Continue along Rifle Road to 
almost the end and turn right on Lois.  Continue on Lois and turn onto Hilda 
to the feeders.