April 10th (Sunday): Algonquin Provincial Park
Leaders: Ron Tozer, Dawn Sherman
Trip Duration: 9:00 - Late Afternoon
Description: Meet 9:00 am at the Visitor Centre (km 43 on Highway 60). Trip will end in late afternoon. We will search for Spruce Grouse, Black-backed Woodpecker, Canada Jay, Boreal Chickadee and other species.
Daily Permit Must be Reserved between April 5 - 9: Trip registrants are required to reserve a daily permit for April 10th. This can only be done between April 5 - 9. Reserve online at OntarioParks.com or by phone at 1-888-668-7275. Daily permits are not available at the Visitor Centre. If you have an annual 2022 Ontario Parks permit, you still need to reserve day use, but there will be no charge.
Who Should Come? Field trips are for OFO members. One guest is allowed if the participant requires assistance during the outing. New birders and photographers are welcome.
Type of Trip: Winter and boreal birds, photography. Suitable for people new to birding.
Public Transportation: N/A
Approximate Distance: Distances driven depend on local birding info at time of the trip.
Trail Surfaces: None of the trails are paved and there will be considerable walking necessary and relatively little birding from the vehicle. Icy and snow-packed areas where we will walk should be expected. Some trails are moderately sloped.
Accessibility: Not suitable for people requiring mobility aids.
Washrooms: Washrooms available at Visitor's Centre and Spruce Bog Trail. Pit toilets elsewhere.
Food and Drink: The Visitor Centre restaurant does not operate anymore. So, neither lunch nor coffee can be purchased at the Visitor Centre or anywhere else in the park. Please bring your lunch, snacks and beverages.
What Else You Need to Know:
OFO welcomes all people who are interested in birds and birding and strives to create an inclusive, comfortable, and enjoyable experience. OFO trip leaders are volunteers who generously offer their time to share their knowledge and passion for birds with others.
COVID-19 Rules: All trip leaders are vaccinated. We preferthat all trip attendees are fully vaccinated. The trip will comply with current government COVID-19 rules. Before the trip, please use the Government of Ontario COVID-19 Self Assessment to determine if you should attend. Please cancel your registration if Government of Ontario COVID-19 Self Assessment recommends that you stay home, if you have symptoms, have been exposed to a person with COVID, or are waiting for test results.
Beginner Birders: Most OFO trips are suitable for beginner birders. Please let the trip leader know if you are new to birding when you arrive.
Code of Conduct and Code of Birding Ethics: Participants are expected to review OFO’s Code of Conduct and Code of Birding Ethics before the trip.
Transportation: All participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from the field trip. Public transit information, if available, is included in the trip description. Car pooling is not encouraged at this time due to COVID-19.
Meeting Time: Please arrive a few minutes before the start time. Please contact the trip leader if a cell number is provided, If you are running late or cannot attend.
What to Wear: Wear sturdy footwear and dress appropriately for the weather, season, and terrain. Long pants and closed shoes or boots are recommended as protection from the elements, ticks, and other biting insects. In bright light, a hat with a large brim will make it easier to see birds.
What to Bring: Please bring your ID and health card, a mask, enough water for the duration of the trip, snacks, a packed lunch for a longer trip, and money for park entrance and ferry fees. Depending on the season, sunscreen, insect repellant, and a topical insect bite treatment such as Afterbite or Benadryl are recommended.
Optics and Cameras: Please bring your choice of binoculars, optional scope, and camera. Please contact the Field Trips Coordinator in advance by email at fieldtrips@ofo.ca if you require loaner binoculars. We will do our best to provide a pair.
Leaving Early: Trip leaders understand that not everyone will be able to stay for the duration of the trip. If you must leave early, please inform the trip leader.
Rest Stops and Lunch Breaks: Trip leaders will include rest stops and lunch breaks but if you require additional rest stops, please inform the trip leader, so they can attempt to accommodate your request.
Safety and First Aid: Trip leaders are volunteers. They are not trained in first aid and cannot provide medical help in the case of an accident or administer medication. When driving, please follow the rules of the road. Exercise caution when parking on the side of the road and getting out of your car.
Accessibility: OFO aims to provide accessible birding trips which are welcoming and enjoyable for all. If you have any questions about the trip, or require accommodations, please contact the trip leader in advance, by emailing fieldtrips@ofo.ca. Please allow a few days for a response.
Contact: Please email fieldtrips@ofo.ca if you have any questions or concerns.
