Saturday, May 18
Leaders: Rhonda Donley, Angie Williams, Ken Williams
Meet 7:30 a.m. at 188 Ross Road in Smooth Rock Falls. We will drive to various birding locations in the vicinity. Our goal is to find boreal birds such as Black-backed Woodpecker, Boreal Chickadee, Olive-sided Flycatcher and Spruce Grouse. We will stay within cell service at least for the first hour in the event that some participants arrive late and need to locate the group. Contacts for Angie and Ken: Phone or text 905-870-8583 or email aw8675334@gmail.com.
Type of Trip: Search for boreal birds. Participants should bring adequate clothing, understanding that the weather, while variable, is usually much cooler than in southern Ontario. A visibility vest or hunter orange garment is highly recommended, because it is hunting season. Rubber boots are a good idea. Insect repellent may be helpful. Also bring a lunch, drinks and snacks. If you have bear spray, bring it for safety.
Location and Directions: Smooth Rock Falls is in the Cochrane District of northern Ontario, about 4-5 hours north of North Bay via highway 11, or about 4.5 hours north of Sudbury via highways 144, 655, and 11.
Public Transportation: None.
Duration: 7:30 a.m. — 2:00 p.m. Rest stops and lunch breaks will occur throughout the day.
Approximate Distance: Distances driven depend on local birding info at time of the trip.
Terrain: This trip will mainly involve walking on ATV tracks, so is not suitable for those who rely on mobility aids. Conditions may be muddy.
Accessibility: Given the challenges of the tracks, participants who wish to bird from their car or in town will be accommodated, with guidance regarding good places to look for birds.
Washrooms: Once we leave Smooth Rock Falls, there are no washrooms or other amenities. Our home washroom will be available for use before and after the trip. If a wheelchair accessible washroom is required, then guests will be directed to public washrooms elsewhere in Smooth Rock Falls. We are happy to help with enquiries regarding lodgings, restaurants, etc. in the area.
Land Acknowledgement: The district of Timmins acknowledges that we are situated in Treaty 9 territory that is steeped in rich Indigenous history and that the lands on which we operate are the traditional territory of many First Nations, Metis and Inuit People today. We also acknowledge Mattagami First Nation, on whose traditional land we gather.
About OFO Field Trips
OFO strives to create an inclusive, comfortable and enjoyable experience for all. Trip leaders are volunteers who generously offer their time to share their knowledge and passion for birds with others. 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.
Cancellation Policy: Space is limited so please cancel your registration if you cannot attend. If you need to cancel your registration on an outing, please go to the Events Registration page at https://ofo25.wildapricot.org/events. If you are registered for an event, you will see "Already registered" on the left side of the brief outing summary. Click on this, and you will see a button you can click to CANCEL REGISTRATION.
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.
What to Bring: Dress appropriately for the weather and wear sturdy, closed toe footwear. Bring ID and health card, water, a packed lunch for longer trips, 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.
Loaner Binoculars: Email fieldtrips@ofo.caif 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 before you go.
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.
If you have any questions or concerns, email fieldtrips@ofo.ca.
