Friday-Saturday: June 2-3
Leaders: Colleen Reilly, Geordie Ray
Contacts: to reach Colleen, email colleenplus2@gmail.com, or text 289.795.6537
Trip Description: Meet 7:00 a.m. each day at the junction of Worthington 3 Road and Highway 11 east of Rainy River. Mainly roadside birding, but some offroad walking to sites is possible, depending on conditions. We will search for breeding American White Pelican, Sharp-tailed Grouse, Marbled Godwit, Sandhill Crane, Black-billed Magpie, Connecticut Warbler and Le Conte’s Sparrow. Possible Great Gray Owl, Western Kingbird, Eared Grebe, Yellow Rail, Franklin's Gull and Piping Plover.
Who Should Come? Field trips are for OFO members; one guest is allowed, if required. New birders and photographers are welcome.
Type of Trip: Breeding birds, spring migrants, photography. A scope will be useful. Rubber boots recommended. Pack a lunch and drinks. Bring sunscreen and insect repellent. It is also important that participants start out on Friday with a full tank of gas in their vehicles.
Location and Directions: The meeting point is approximately 10 kilometres east of Rainy River. Turn north from Highway 11 on Worthington 3 Road, cross the train tracks and then meet the leaders. Worthington 3 Road is the third sideroad out from Rainy River. Caution: There are also roads called Worthington 1 and Worthington 2, leading to possible confusion.
Important Note: To book your accomodations in advance, the trip leaders have arranged special rates for OFO members at the Walla Walla Inn, 400 Atwood Avenue in Rainy River. A total of 15 discounted rooms are available starting on June 1 with checkout on June 4. Do not book online. Instead, call the Inn's Beatrice: 807-271-1029. If you wish to stay longer, discuss your needs with Beatrice, who is happy to help. Note that the Walla Walla Inn is under new management and currently does not have an active website.
Public Transportation: None.
Duration: 7:00 a.m. — 4:00 p.m. each day. Rest stops and lunch breaks will occur throughout each day.
Approximate Distance: Distances driven depend on local birding info at time of the trip; there is the possibility of flooding in some areas which will determine where we go.
Terrain: Variety of habitats including flat farmland, boreal forest and marsh, but good footwear required.
Gradient: Mostly level, with one small hill.
Trail Surfaces: Mostly pavement with sand or boardwalks at some sites.
Accessibility: Wet conditions probable.
Washrooms: En route.
Land Acknowledgement: We acknowledge that we are meeting on the territory of Treaty 3, the traditional land of the Anishinabe people. We also recognize our local Metis Nation that shares the spiritual history of this land.
What 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.
Beginner Birders: Most OFO trips are suitable for beginner birders. Please let the trip leaders 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.
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 leaders.
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 leaders, so they can 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 leaders 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.
