[Ontbirds]Spring migrants at Rattray Marsh, Mississauga

[Wayne Renaud]

Last night I birded Rattray Marsh had a few interesting birds.  Two Eastern
Screech-Owls were at the north end of the marsh off just west of the lower
bridge of Sheridan Creek; one perched on the Wood Duck nest box, the other
in a tree about 20 feet away (this was around 7:40 pm).  Also two Eastern
Phoebes were found: one near the bridge just mentioned, the other in the
flooded woods at the trail leading down to the lake just se of the marsh.
There was also one Wilson's Snipe on the flooded area of the creek visible
from the Knoll walk (which is 'technically' blocked off for construction of
the new lookout bridge which is all but complete).   The Tufted Titmouse is
still hanging around the woods just east of the just-mentioned bridge,
obviously on territory.  There also four Carolina Wrens (two singing) in
dense undergrowth between the bridge and lake both yesterday and day before.

Directions:
Go south down to the end Bexhill which runs south of Lakeshore about 5 long
blocks east Erin Mills Parkway; park at the metal gate  The marsh and knoll
trail start at the bottom of hill from the parking area.  This gets you
into, more or less, the middle of main area of the marsh.  Find a street map
to orient yourself and/or follow the the trail map inside the park.

Wayne Renaud