Sunday, February 23
Leader: Mike Burrell
Trip Description: Meet 8:00 a.m. at the Amherst Island ferry dock to catch the 8.30 ferry. Carpooling is recommended before boarding the ferry to reduce number of vehicles.
We will focus on wintering owls and raptors. We will likely come off the island early afternoon with an optional extension to Kingston (weather/birding permitting). Because we will be visiting the Owl Woods, we must cap participation at 20 OFO members on a first-come basis.
What to bring: Money is required to pay the ferry fee. Bring a packed lunch and hot drinks.
Who Should Come? Field trips are for OFO members; one guest is allowed, if required. New birders and photographers are welcome.
Type of Trip: Driving, hiking on snow-covered trails.
Location and Directions: The ferry docks are in Millhaven:
(44.193057, -76.741106). Fee required.
Public Transportation: None.
Duration and Rest Stops: 8:00 a.m. — 4:00 p.m. Morning visit to Owl Woods. Remainder of day will involve driving to best birding spots on island, then to Kingston for the optional extension after leaving Amherst by ferry.
Approximate Distance: Up to 15 kilometres of driving on Amherst Island; walking distance to Owl Woods depends on the conditions.
Terrain: Level. Trail surfaces are pavement and dirt. Could be icy and snow-packed.
Accessibility: Depending on weather conditions, it may be necessary to hike into owl woods from the main road.
Washrooms: At ferry docks on mainland and the island.
Land Acknowledgement: We acknowledge that the community foundation for Lennox & Addington serves communities that are situated on the traditional territories of the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabe and is home to many diverse Indigenous people from across Turtle Island.
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 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 leaders (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.
