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Ontario Field Ornithologists

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Upcoming events

  • Durham / Lake Ontario Marshes

    • 11 Aug 2024
    • 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM
    • Location : Lynde Shores Conservation Area
    • 21
    • 14 registrants
    Register

    Sunday, August 11

    Leaders: Dave Worthington, Carolyn Bennett.

    Meet 7:30 a.m. at Lynde Shores Conservation Area parking lot on Halls Road (east side ) just south of Victoria Street  in Whitby. Exit Hwy. 401 at Brock Street (Exit 410). Turn left (south) onto Brock Street. Turn right (west) onto Victoria. Go 2.5 km to Halls Road on the south side. Visits to Cranberry Marsh, Oshawa Second Marsh, Corner Marsh & Frenchman’s Bay. Early Fall migrant warblers, vireos, flycatchers, shorebirds, butterflies.

    Type of trip: Breeding birds, fall migrants,  photography. 

    Location and Directions: see above.

    Public Transportation: n/a.

    Duration: Rest stops and coffee/lunch breaks will occur throughout the day.

    Approximate Distance: Distances driven depend on local birding info at time of the trip.

    Terrain:  mostly flat but good footwear required.

    Gradient: Flat.

    Trail Surfaces: paved/grass. Some walking involved.

    Accessibility: wet conditions possible. 

    Washrooms: at Tim Horton's and other locations.

    Land Acknowledgement for Durham

    We respectfully acknowledge that we are on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation. This territory is covered by the Upper Canada Treaties.  We offer our gratitude to our First Nations for their care for, and teachings about, our earth and our relations. May we continue to honour those teachings.

    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.
    Show details

  • Algonquin Park

    • 11 Aug 2024
    • 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM
    • Location : Algonquin Park Visitor Centre
    • 26
    • 4 registrants
    Register

    Sunday, August 11

    Leader: Sarah Lamond

    Meet 8:00 a.m. at Visitor Centre parking lot.

    Type of trip: Breeding birds, migrants,  photography. 

    Location and Directions: see above.

    Public Transportation: n/a.

    Duration: Rest stops and breaks will occur throughout the day.

    Approximate Distance: Distances driven depend on local birding info at time of the trip.

    Terrain:  mostly flat but good footwear required.

    Gradient: Flat.

    Trail Surfaces: paved/grass. Some walking involved.

    Accessibility: wet conditions possible. 

    Washrooms: at Visitor Centre and other locations.

    Land Acknowledgement : We acknowledge that Algonquin Park is situated on the traditional lands of the diverse Algonquin Nation. We acknowledge that our fiedtrip today is located on the traditional lands of the Anishinabek and Huron-Wendat Peoples.

    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.
    Show details

  • Palgrave, Beeton Sod Farms, Alliston Gravel Pits

    • 17 Aug 2024
    • 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM
    • Location : Palgrave
    • 11
    • 19 registrants
    Register

    Saturday, August  17

    Leaders: John Schmelefske, Carolyn Bennett.

    Meet 8:00 a.m. at Patterson Sideroad and Hwy. 50 in the village of Palgrave. Fall migrants - warblers, flycatchers, shorebirds. Possible plovers, Buff-breasted Sandpipers, Baird’s Sandpipers.

    Type of trip: Breeding birds, migrants,  photography. 

    Location and Directions: see above.

    Public Transportation: n/a.

    Duration: Rest stops and coffee/lunch breaks will occur throughout the day.

    Approximate Distance: Distances driven depend on local birding info at time of the trip.

    Terrain:  mostly flat but good footwear required.

    Gradient: Flat.

    Trail Surfaces: paved/grass. Some walking involved.

    Accessibility: wet conditions possible. 

    Washrooms: at Tims and other locations.

    Land Acknowledgement:  As we gather, we are reminded that we are here on the Treaty Lands and Territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. In particular we acknowledge the territory of the Huron-Wendat, and Haudenosaunee peoples.

    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.
    Show details

  • Southbound Shorebird ID Workshop

    • 18 Aug 2024
    • 8:00 AM - 12:30 PM
    • Presqu’ile Provincial Park
    • 1
    • 17 registrants
    Register

    Sunday, August 18

    Leader: Jean Iron

    Description: Meet at Presqu’ile Provincial Park at Owen Point Trail parking lot at 8:00 a.m. Workshop will focus on identification, plumages and aging southbound shorebirds. Expect to walk between viewing points along beaches to Owen Point. Scope recommended. Vehicle daily entry fee or provincial park pass required. Morning only. Water levels on Lake Ontario may change itinerary. 

    Location: Presqu'ile Provincial Park :  Registrants MUST have a reservation ahead of time with Ontario Parks to be presented on arrival at the gate and posted in the car. This applies to day pass and season pass holders. You must book your reservation 5 days ahead to be sure to obtain a spot in the park. To reserve, go to: https://www.ontarioparks.com/reservations or Reservations by Phone. Call Toll Free: 1-888-ONT-PARK  (1-888-668-7275).

    Ontario Parks requires advanced bookings for day use at Presqu’ile Provincial Park either online or by phone. Please obtain your daily vehicle permit reservation 5 DAYS IN ADVANCE for Saturday, 21 August 2021. Go online to Ontario Parks Reservation System and select Day Use. You will need to create an account to purchase a daily vehicle permit or to register if you already have an Ontario Parks seasonal pass. Follow instructions either to purchase a daily vehicle permit or to enter your seasonal pass number. You also need your vehicle licence plate number. Ontario Parks Reservation phone number 1-888-668-7275.

    Ontario Parks Reservation System

    What to bring: Binoculars, scope (optional), water, sunscreen, insect repellant, snacks. Please contact trip leader in advance if you require loaner binoculars or accommodations by sending email to: admin@ofo.ca.

    Facilities: Public restrooms available.

    Terrain: Flat terrain. Slow pace.

    Land Acknowledgement:  Visitors today to Northumberland County respectfully acknowledge that Northumberland County is located on the Mississauga Anishinaabek territory and is the traditional territory of the Mississauga.

    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.
    Show details

  • Ottawa

    • 24 Aug 2024
    • 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
    • Ottawa
    • 22
    • 13 registrants
    Register

    Saturday, August 24

    Leaders: Jeff Skevington, Michelle Martin

    Meet at 7:30 a.m. along Cassels Road, outside the gate to the Britannia Filtration Plant. Experience the diversity of Ottawa’s avifauna. You can expect to see warblers, sparrows, waterfowl, shorebirds, gulls and others. Study the subtle differences between similar species as we explore the Ottawa River from different vantage points. We start at Britannia, and move slowly west, visiting some of Eastern Ontario’s best migratory staging areas. Bring a lunch.

    Land Acknowledgement for Ottawa: We acknowledge that we are settlers living on the unceded territory of the Anishinaabe Algonquin Nation whose presence here reaches back to time immemorial. We recognize the Algonquins as the customary keepers and defenders of the Ottawa River Watershed and its tributaries. We honour their long history of welcoming many Nations to this beautiful territory and uphold and uplift the voice and values of our Host Nation.

    Further, we respect and affirm the inherent and Treaty Rights of all Indigenous Peoples across this land, and will continue to honour the commitments to self-determination and sovereignty we have made to Indigenous Nations and Peoples.

    Directions: Meet at 7:30 a.m. along Cassels Road, outside the gate to the Britannia Filtration Plant.

    Public Transportation: Ottawa bus transportation is available to the meeting place and car pooling will be encouraged from the meeting place.

    Accessibility: Generally flat trail surfaces. Washrooms are available enroute. Leaders will provide washroom breaks at suitable locations.

    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.
    Show details

  • Rotary Greenway Trail, Peterborough

    • 25 Aug 2024
    • 8:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Peterborough
    • 19
    • 1 registrant
    Register

    Sunday, August 25

    Leaders: Dave Milsom, Cathy Douglas, Brian Wales

    Meet in Auburn Street car parking area alongside Otonabee River on north side of Parkhill Road bridge at Auburn Street opposite Nicholls Oval Park.

    What to bring: Water, sunscreen, insect repellent, snacks. Please contact trip leader in advance if you require loaner binoculars or accommodations by sending email to: admin@ofo.ca. 

    Terrain: Flat terrain. Wheelchair accessible. Slow pace. 

    Facilities: Restrooms available nearby. 

    Land Acknowledgement for Peterborough:

    We respectfully acknowledge that we are on the traditional territory of the Mississauga Anishinaabe. We offer our gratitude to our First Nations for their care for, and teachings about, our earth and our relations. May we continue to honour those teachings.

    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.
    Show details

  • Toronto Islands

    • 07 Sep 2024
    • 6:45 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Location : Toronto
    • 19
    • 16 registrants
    Register

    September 7 (Saturday): Toronto Islands

    Leader: Gavin Platt

    From Harbourfront in Toronto, catch the 6:45 a.m. Ferry to Hanlan's Point. Ferry tickets ($8.50 adult, $5.50 senior/youth), can be purchased in advance online or at the ferry terminal on the day of. The trip involves slow walking all day long. Please bring a lunch if you plan to stay all day (some food is also available to purchase on the island).

    Type of Trip : Fall migrants,  photography. 

    Location and Directions: see above.

    Public Transportation: Available in Toronto to ferry terminal.

    Duration: Rest stops and lunch breaks will occur throughout the day.


    Acessibility: Possibly 7 kms of walking. The terrain is flat. Trails are paved or sand. Wet conditions are possible. Washrooms are available at the ferry terminal and on the islands.


    Land Acknowledgement for Toronto:

    The land in Toronto  in what we now know as Canada, includes the traditional territories of many nations including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples and is now home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. 

    We also acknowledge that Toronto and this area of Toronto have been included under the Williams Treaty, the Toronto Purchase - Treaty 13 with the Mississaugas of the Credit and the “Dish With One Spoon” wampum inter-nation peace agreement. 

     We are doing a land acknowledgement today to recognize the communities of peoples that were present and inhabited the lands before us and the traditional territories of the peoples whose lands we are fortunate to share, live on and enjoy nature today.  Together, may we care for this land and each other. 

    About OFO Field Trips

    OFO trips are for OFO members and one guest only.

    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.

    Trip :   

    August 28 (Sunday) Toronto Islands

    Leader: Gavin Platt. From Harbourfront in Toronto, catch 7:15 a.m. Ferry to Ward’s Island. You will need $7.50 in coins ($5.00 seniors and students). Early Fall migrants. The trip involves a lot of walking all day long. Please bring a lunch if you plan to stay all day (some food is also available to purchase on the island).

    Fieldtrips are for OFO members One guest is allowed if required.  New birders and photographers are welcome.

    Type of Trip : Fall migrants,  photography. 

    Location and Directions: see above.

    Public Transportation: available in Toronto to ferry terminal.

    Duration: Rest stops and lunch breaks will occur throughout the day.

    Approximate Distance: Possibly 7 kms of walking.

    Terrain:  flat but good footwear required. 

    Gradient: Flat.

    Trail Surfaces: paved/sand.

    Accessibility: wet conditions possible. 

    Washrooms: at ferry/terminal  and on islands .

    Land Acknowledgement for Toronto :

    The land in Toronto  in what we now know as Canada, includes the traditional territories of many nations including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples and is now home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. 

     We also acknowledge that Toronto and this area of Toronto have been included under the Williams Treaty, the Toronto Purchase - Treaty 13 with the Mississaugas of the Credit and the “Dish With One Spoon” wampum inter-nation peace agreement. 

     We are doing a land acknowledgement today to recognize the communities of peoples that were present and inhabited the lands before us and the traditional territories of the peoples whose lands we are fortunate to share, live on and enjoy nature today.  Together, may we care for this land and each other. 

    Show details

  • Waterloo Region Fall Migrants

    • 08 Sep 2024
    • 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM
    • Waterloo
    • 24
    • 6 registrants
    Register

    September 8 (Sunday): Waterloo Region Fall Migrants

    Leader: Gis Segler

    Meet at 7:30 a.m. 

    What to bring: Water, sunscreen, insect repellent, snacks. Please contact trip leader in advance if you require loaner binoculars or accommodations by sending email to: fieldtrips@ofo.ca. 

    Terrain: Steep hills included with dirt trails.

    Facilities: Restrooms available nearby. 

    About OFO Field Trips

    OFO trips are for OFO members and one guest only.

    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.



    Show details

  • Hamilton, Burlington and Vicinity

    • 08 Sep 2024
    • 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM
    • Hamilton
    • 27
    • 8 registrants
    Register

    September 8 (Sunday): Hamilton, Burlington & Vicinity

    Leaders: Rob Porter, Barry Coombs

    Meet 8:00 a.m. in Hutch’s Restaurant parking lot at Van Wagners Beach on Lake Ontario in Hamilton. From Niagara on QEW, exit at Centennial Parkway, go left onto North Service Road and follow to Van Wagners Beach Road to the restaurant. From Toronto on QEW, exit at Woodward Avenue, turn right at lights, then right at next lights, go under bridge, turn right onto Van Wagners Beach Road to the restaurant. Fall migrant passerines, shorebirds.

    Terrain: Flat terrain. Slow pace. 4-5 kms of walking. Driving between sites.

    Facilities: Washrooms onsite. 

    Land Acknowledgement for Hamilton: 

    We respectfully acknowledge that we are on the traditional territory of the Haudensaunee Iroquois and Anishnaabe. This territory is covered by the Upper Canada Treaties and directly adjacent to Haldiman Treaty territory.  We thank our indigenous communities for their teachings and care for our mother earth.  May we continue to honour those teachings.

    About OFO Field Trips

    OFO trips are for OFO members and one guest only unless they are public 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.



    Show details

  • Fall Birding at Moosonee/Moose Factory 2024

    • 09 Sep 2024
    • 8:00 AM
    • 13 Sep 2024
    • 10:00 PM
    • Meet at Cochrane train station
    • 0
    • 15 registrants
    Join waitlist

    Fall Birding at Moosonee/Moose Factory

    September 9 (Monday) to September 13 (Friday), 2024


    Leaders: Martin & Kathy Parker


    This annual OFO trip to Moosonee & Moose Factory permits one to explore the bird life of Ontario’s salt water coast.  Highlights will include Snow Geese, shorebirds, Sandhill Cranes, and one or two surprises.  The trip costs include a full day boat trip to the coast of James Bay.  Other birding locations in Moosonee and Moose Factory Island will be visited.  An introduction to Cree culture will also occur. 


    Meet at the train station early on Monday, Sept. 9th.The group boards the train in Cochrane. The trip endslate on Friday when the train returns to Cochrane. 


    The trip cost is $1,350 based on double occupancy.  The trip package includes train travel from Cochrane to Moosonee and return, four night’s motel accommodation in Moosonee with breakfasts, the all day trip to the Bay and mouth of the Moose River which includes a hot field lunch, boat transportation, and full day at Moose Factory which includes boat transport to the island, some travel on the island and special Cree lunch.  Travel in the Moosonee area will be primarily on foot. Terrain is moderate. 


    Participation limited to 14 participants.  Full details and background information on this special trip will be provided to all participants once they have contacted the leaders.   Space is limited due to boat capacity and availability of rooms.  Contact the leaders at mparker19@cogeco.ca


    Land Acknowledgement for Moosonee:

    We begin by acknowledging that we are meeting on aboriginal land that has been inhabited by Indigenous peoples from the beginning. As settlers, we’re grateful for the opportunity to meet here and we thank all the generations of people who have taken care of this land – for thousands of years. In particular, we acknowledge that we are in Treaty 9 territory and the land on which we gather is the traditional territory of Ojibway/Chippewa, Oji-Cree, Mushkegowuk (Cree), Algonquin. Kapuskasing – we are in Treaty 9 territory and the land on which we gather today is the traditional territory of Cree, Moose Cree. 


    About OFO Field Trips

    OFO trips are for OFO members and one guest only.

    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.

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  • Killbear Provincial Park

    • 14 Sep 2024
    • 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM
    • Killbear Provincial Park
    • 12
    • Be the first
    Register

    September 14 (Saturday): Killbear Provincial Park near Parry Sound

    Leader: Mark Calhoun

    Meet 8:00 a.m at the parking lot at the Lookout Trail at the park. Park entry fee is required. We will hike three of the park trails and visit several habitats in search of fall migrants. We will enjoy views of Georgian Bay. 


    Type of trip: Resident birds, Fall migrants, photography.


    What to bring: Bring a packed lunch. A scope is useful.


    Location and Directions: see above. 


    Public Transportation: n/a


    Duration: Full day trip. Rest stops will be available through the morning. THere will be a lunch break.


    Approximate Distance: 5 kms of walking. 


    Terrain: Mostly flat but good footwear required. Trails are mostly grassy. 


    Washrooms: several in the park.


    Land Acknowledgement : The District of Parry Sound  wishes to acknowledge that we work on and enjoy the lands that have been inhabited by Indigenous peoples from the beginning. Indigenous families know these lands as the hunting grounds, medicine areas, and gathering places. The District of Parry Sound is home of the Anishinaabeg/Anishinaabek – Ojibway, Odawa and Potawatomi peoples, and the territory of the Wasauksing, Shawanaga, Magnetawan, Dokis and Henvey Inlet First Nations and is under the Robinson-Huron Treaty. As we are all treaty people, it is important to learn about the lands we stand on and the people who live here.


    About OFO Field Trips


    OFO trips are for OFO members and one guest only unless they are public 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.

    Show details

  • Public Event: Cochrane

    • 14 Sep 2024
    • 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
    • Cochrane
    • 14
    • 11 registrants
    Register

    Saturday, September 14: Cochrane


    Trip Leaders: Rhonda Donley, Ken and Angie Williams


    Contact info: 226-378-1245, rrhondarat@yahoo.ca


    Trip Description: Meet 8:30 a.m. at the lobby of the Station Inn in Cochrane. We'll spend 1-2 hours in the agricultural area north of town looking for staging sandhill cranes and a Bald Eagle nest. Then we'll drive an hour into the boreal forest east of town to the site of a recent forest fire to look for Spruce Grouse, Black-backed Woodpecker, American Three-toed Woodpecker, Boreal Chickadee and other northern specialties. 


    What to bring: water, lunch, snacks, insect repellent, rain gear, sturdy boots/shoes, extra shoes and socks, whistle, full tank of gas (no gas stations once we leave town).


    Facilities: None once the trip begins.


    Terrain: Moderate. Rough dirt roads, some off road walking in recently logged or burned areas with lots of fallen logs. Slow pace.


    Land Acknowledgement for Cochrane
    Our group honours and acknowledges that we are situated on Treaty 7 territory, traditional lands of the Stoney Nakoda peoples of the Chiniki, Bearspaw and Wesley Bands, the Tsuut’ina, the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) peoples of Siksika, Piikani and Kainai Band. We also respectfully acknowledge that we are on the homelands of the Métis Nation within Region III.


    About OFO Field Trips


    OFO trips are for OFO members and one guest only unless they are public 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.

    Show details

  • Algonquin Provincial Park: Late Migrants and Park Specialties

    • 15 Sep 2024
    • 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Algonquin Provincial Park (West Gate) and Wildlife Research Station
    Registration is closed

    Sunday, September 15: Algonquin Provincial Park: Late Migrants and Park Specialties

    Leader: Alexander Skevington

    Meet 9 am at parking lot at West gate. Park entry fee required. Trip ends at approximately 3 pm. 

    Visit local hotspots such as Spruce Bog searching for boreal residents and late migrants. Walk the old airfield at Mew Lake searching for bluebirds, sparrows, pipits and other grassland birds.

    Lunch at the Wildlife Research Station: Participants will eat lunch at the Wildlife Research Station, a private research facility nestled beside a private lake in virgin forest. This is where the OFO Young Birders Camp is held and this is your chance to visit. Lunch is $15 payable in cash or by etransfer to the Wildlife Research Station.


    Accessibility: Washrooms are available throughout the park. Trails are unpaved.

    Land Acknowledgement : We acknowledge that Algonquin Park is situated on the traditional lands of the diverse Algonquin Nation. We acknowledge that our fiedtrip today is located on the traditional lands of the Anishinabek and Huron-Wendat Peoples.

    About OFO Field Trips

    OFO trips are for OFO members and one guest only.

    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.



    Show details

  • 2024 OFO Convention: Sept 27-29, Point Pelee and Surrounding Region

    • 27 Sep 2024
    • 7:00 AM
    • 29 Sep 2024
    • 4:00 PM
    • Point Pelee and Surrounding Area
    • 245
    Register

    2024 OFO Convention


    Join OFO members and guests for three days of birding, celebration and enjoyment in Point Pelee National Park and surrounding birding destinations.

    At this time of year you can expect to see migrating songbirds, waterfowl, shorebirds, and abundant raptors. Many people consider September to be the best birding month of all!


    Evening activities include Friday night's Birds and Beers -- a casual dinner followed by a short presentation of Essex Field Naturalist Club, Certificates of Appreciation and the famous Bird Quiz hosted by Sarah Rupert!


    Join us on Saturday evening for the Silent Auction followed by a sit-down Banquet and the Annual Meeting. Celebrate out 2024 Distinguished Ornithologist, Mark Peck! Mark follows in the footsteps of many outstanding recipients of this award.  


    We are also very pleased to announce our Keynote Speakers from Creators Garden, Joseph Pitawanakwat, Andres Jimenz Monge and Junaid Shahzad Khan.  They will be sharing their knowledge on the work they've done cataloguing the Anishinaabe traditional names of birds.  Please visit their website for further information:  Creator's Garden (creatorsgardenmarket.ca)   

    NOTE: Registration Deadline is September 15, 2024, or earlier once we reach our capacity of 300.


    Both evening events take place at the Portuguese Club, located at 217 Talbot St., West in Leamington, Ontario. The club has ample parking and is wheelchair accessible. Evening events are preceded by vendor exhibits, and a chance to vie for one of the fabulous door prizes. A cash bar will be available at each event.


    Where to Stay


    For a limited time, group rates are available at local hotels and other venues in the area. Please go http://wp.ofo.ca/2024-convention-where-to-stay/ for the details. 

    For more Field Trip information please click the link below: 

    Friday September 27th All Day 

    St Clair NWR and Vicinity.  Leader: Pete Read. Meet 9:00AM at St Clair NWR headquarters at #5633 Balmoral Line off Town Line Road. Stay right at Balmoral Line to reach parking area. 

    Ojibway Nature Centre and Essex Sewage Lagoons. Leader: Paul Pratt. Meet 9:00AM in main parking lot at Ojibway Centre in Windsor. 

    Big Creek and Holiday Beach Conservation Area. Leader: Alessandra Wilcox/Kiah Jasper. Meet 9:00AM at Holiday Beach Conservation Area main gate.  

    Wheatley area and  Kopegaron Woods. Leaders: Jeremy Hatt. Meet 9:00 am at parking area for Kopegaron Woods, off #34, west of Wheatley.

    Friday September 27th Morning Only 

    Birding at the Tip of Point Pelee National Park. Leader: Jeff Skevington, Stewart MacDonald. Meet 7:00 am at Point Pelee National Park Visitor’s Centre Tram.

    West Beach Trail. Leader: Geordie Ray/Colleen Reilly. Meet 8:00am at Point Pelee National Park Visitor Centre. 

    Birding Point Pelee National Park Trails. Leader Jeremy Bensette.  Meet at Point Pelee Marsh Boardwalk at 8:30AM. Birding locations with PPNP dependent on current weather and birding conditions.

    Friday September 27th Afternoon Only 

    Birding Point Pelee National Park Tilden’s Woods. Leader: Geordie Ray/Colleen Reilly. Meet 1:30PM at Point Pelee National Park Visitor Centre, 

    Birding Onion Fields and Hillman Marsh. Leader: Jeff Skevington, Gis Segler. Meet 1:30PM in Roma Club parking area in Leamington. 

    Saturday September 28th All Day

    Harrow Sewage Lagoons to Amherst Point on the Detroit River. Leader: Gis Segler. Meet 8:30 am at entrance to Harrow Sewage Lagoons, Concession Road 3, just north of Harrow. 

    Kayak/canoe trip on Pelee Marsh. Leaders: Cam Chevalier. Meet 8:30 am at Marsh Boardwalk parking area in Point Pelee National Park. Bring own canoe/kayak or rent at the Marsh Rental Centre. Maximum 15 boats. Separate registration on OFO website is required. 

    Point Pelee National Park Tip and Trails. Leaders: Pete Read, Stewart MacDonald. Meet 7AM at Point Pelee National Park Visitor’s Centre for first tram. 

    Kopegaron Woods, Wheatley area, Onion Fields, Hillman Marsh. Leader:  Jeremy Bensette. Meet 8:30AM at Hillman Marsh CA parking lot (1826 Mersea Rd 2).

    Wheatley Area. Leader: Paul Pratt. Meet 9AM at Wheatley Provincial Park, 21116 Klindyke Rd., S. Wheatley, ON

    Point Pelee National Park Trails. Leaders:  Sarah Lamond. Meet 8:00 am at Point Pelee National Park Visitor’s Centre

    Sunday, September 29th All Day 

    Rondeau Provincial Park and Blenheim Lagoons. Leaders: Alessandra Wilcox/Kiah Jasper; Stewart MacDonald. Meet 8:30AM at Rondeau Park gates.

    Erieau Area. Leaders: Leaders: Geordie Ray/Colleen Reilly. Meet at Erieau Harbour at 8.30 am.  

    Point Pelee National Park Tip & Trails. Leader: Jeremy Bensette. Meet at 8:30AM Point Pelee National Park Visitor’s Centre for tram. 

    Point Pelee National Park Trails. Leader: Kate Derbyshire. Meet at 8AM Point Pelee National Park Visitor’s Centre.

    Onion Fields, Hillman Marsh, Wheatley. Leader: Pete Read. Meet 7:30 am at Roma Club parking lot. End time flexible based on location activity.

    Young Birders 

    Saturday September 28th

    Point Pelee and area. Leader: Mike Burrell et al. Meet 7:30AM at Park Point Pelee National Park Visitor’s Centre. Day ends at 3 pm. 

    Sunday September 29th

    Birding Point Pelee Tip and Trails. Leader: Mike Burrell et al. Meet 7:30 am at Tip. Day ends at 12:00 pm. 

    At this time of year you can expect to see migrating songbirds, waterfowl, shorebirds, and abundant raptors. Many people consider September to be the best birding month of all!

    Banquet Location:

    Portuguese Community Club, Leamington, ON

    217 Talbot St., W. Leamington, ON N8H 1N8

    Evening activities include Friday night's Birds and Beers -- a casual buffet dinner followed by Certificates of Appreciation, a short presentation of local interest, and the famous Bird Quiz.

    The Saturday Banquet and AGM is the heart of the convention. A sit down meal is followed by the roundup Ron Tozer, the OFO Annual General Meeting with Jeff Skevington, presentation of the Distinguished Ornithologist Award - TBA and the Keynote Speaker, TBA.

    Code of Conduct and Code of Birding Ethics: Participants are expected to review OFO’s Code of Conduct and Code of Ethics before the trip.

    Need information?

    If you are unable to register online, please contact  

    Sue Suess E: ssuess@rogers.com or M: 519-852-3409 

    Dan Suess E: dansuess@rogers.com or M: 519-860-7895 

    For details on where to stay, the venues, and activities, please view the convention details on OFO's website under Events/Convention. 

    Questions?  Email convention@ofo.ca



      Show details

    • 2024 OFO Convention, Northern Edition, at Hilliardton Marsh Research and Education Centre

      • 27 Sep 2024
      • 8:00 AM
      • 30 Sep 2024
      • 9:30 PM
      • New Liskeard; Temiskaming Shores; Hilliardton
      • 23
      Register

      Please Note:   Members and non-members are welcome to register for trips and the evening programs. Most trips are open to the public, no registration required. *Trips that involve bird banding are open to paid registrants only.


      Join OFO members and guests for three days of birding, celebration and enjoyment at Hilliardton Marsh Research and Education Centre and surrounding birding destinations.

      The Hilliardton Marsh is a provincially significant wildlife area located near Temiskaming Shores in Northeastern Ontario, about 6.5 hours drive north of Toronto. While it boasts 1800 acres of beautiful birding habitat and trails, Hilliardton is most famous as a bird banding station.  Convention participants may choose from a variety of trips in the Temiskaming Shores region, including spending some time at the banding station.


      Birding trips are open to the public at no cost, with the exception of trips that involve bird banding; you must be a paid registrant to take part in those trips.


      Important Information for Visitors

      ● Accommodations: there is plenty of lodging, as well as restaurants and shopping in Temiskaming Shores about 20 minutes away from Hilliardton.

      ● Other Amenities: you should fill your car’s gas tank before leaving town. Bring a packed lunch. There are no places to buy gas or food in Hilliardton. Supper is included in your registration.

      ● Other Safety Information: check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. Cell service may be inconsistent. There could be bears around; if you have bear spray, please bring it along.

      At this time of year you can expect to see migrating songbirds, waterfowl, shorebirds, and abundant raptors. Many people consider September to be the best birding month of all!


      For further Field Trip information:  

      After a fun day of birding, registrants are invited to gather at the HIlliardton Marsh Visitor Centre, which will be open at 5:00 pm for beverages and socializing.  We will have a table set up for people to sell/give away used books and optics.  Supper will be served at 6, followed by the evening program to be live streamed from the main convention in Leamington.


      Registering for the Convention:  If you need help with the registration page, please email membership@ofo.ca .  You must be a paid registrant to attend the evening programs and suppers.


      Code of Conduct and Code of Birding Ethics: Participants are expected to review OFO’s Code of Conduct and Code of Ethics before the trip.

      Need information?


      For details on where to stay, the venues, and activities, please view the convention details on OFO's website under Events/Convention.


      Questions?  Email convention@ofo.ca


      Show details

    • Westmeath Park & Lac Dore

      • 28 Sep 2024
      • 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
      • Cobden
      • 29
      • 1 registrant
      Register

      September 28th (Saturday): Westmeath Park and Lac Dore


      Leaders: Christian Renault, Dan Simpson


      Situated on the Ottawa River near Pembroke, Westmeath Park is a noted migration stopover for Nelson’s Sparrow and occasionally Le Conte’s Sparrow. Lac Dore, a fish-filled lake, regularly attracts many small gulls, grebes, and loons along with the occasional rarity. Meet 8:00 a.m. in Cobden at the Cobden Boat Launch.


      Type of trip: Search for fall migrants by car and on foot. Locations visited will depend on conditions on the day.


      Location and Directions: Meet at Cobden at the Cobden Boat Launch


      Public Transportation: Not available


      Duration: Rest stops and coffee/lunch breaks will occur throughout the day.


      Accessibility: Distances driven depend on local birding info at time of the trip. Flat terrain but there may be some difficult walking in search of rare sparrows. Trail surfaces can be wet and muddy. Bring rubber boots or other appropriate footwear. 


      Land Acknowledgement: We acknowledge today that we are on the unceded, unsurrendered Territory of the Anishinaabe Algonquin Nation whose presence here reaches back to time immemorial. We recognize the Algonquins as the customary keepers and defenders of the Ottawa River Watershed and its tributaries.

      About OFO Field Trips

      OFO trips are for OFO members and one guest only.

      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.

      Show details

    • Fall Migration on Pelee Island

      • 29 Sep 2024
      • 9:00 AM
      • 01 Oct 2024
      • 4:30 PM
      • Location : Pelee Island
      • 0
      • 14 registrants
      Join waitlist

      Fall Migration on Pelee Island

      Sunday, September 29th to Tuesday, October 1st

      Leaders: Martin and Kathy Parker

      This is a post-Convention opportunity to experience an outing to Pelee Island in order to sample the fall migration of both birds and butterflies on Canada’s southern island.  We will also discover some of the other special features of this place. The bird migration will be well underway at this time of the year.

      On Sept. 29 meet at the Kingsville ferry terminal prior to the ferry departure to Pelee Island. While on the island the group will visit Fish Point and Lighthouse Point Provincial Nature Reserves, the Stone Road Alvar and the NCC Constructed Wetland Complex.   For those interested, a visit to the Pelee Island Bird Banding Station is available.

      The cost of this trip is $395 per person based on double occupancy and includes two nights accommodation and breakfast at the Wandering Dog Inn.  Lunches and suppers will be responsibility of each participant.

      Registration with the trip leaders, Martin and Kathy Parker at mparker19@cogeco.ca is required at least one month before the start of the trip.  A detailed information package will be provided to those who register with the Parkers.  Space is limited due to accommodation.

      Type of trip: Fall migrants, photography. Scope useful.


      Accessibility: Terrain is flat and varies from open ground, boardwalks to sandy beaches. Wet conditions possible. Walking on open sandy beach may be a challenge for some. Washrooms are available at the West Dock, Scudders, at the meal stops and at the inn.


      Land Acknowledgement:  Ontario’s Southwest is on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabeg/Anishnabek/Anishinabek, Haudenosaunee (Iroquois), Huron-Wendt/Huron-Wendat, Attawandaron (Neutral), Lenape, Ojibway/Chippewa, and Wendat Indigenous Peoples. This territory is covered by the Upper Canada Treaties. 

      About OFO Field Trips

      OFO trips are for OFO members and one guest only.

      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.

      Show details

    • Owl Foundation Visit in Vineland

      • 01 Oct 2024
      • 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
      • Vineland near Niagara Falls
      • 14
      • 6 registrants
      Register

      Visit to the Owl Foundation in Vineland

      Tuesday Oct 1 10:30 a.m. If there is enough interest, a second tour will be arranged at 1 p.m. Maximum of 20 guests per tour

      Leader: Marcie Jacklin

      The Owl Foundation began in the 1970’s and was started to help owls and other raptors that are injured, diseased or starving. Injuries are most often the result of being hit by a car. Ideally the birds will be released by into the wild but some birds that can’t survive because of their injuries are kept and become foster parents for orphans.

      The tour cost is $25 per person. Visitors are also asked to provide their names and addresses. The cost of the tour can be e-transferred directly to the Owl Foundation using owlmail@sympatico.ca.

      Please keep in mind that these owls are allowed to live as normal a life as possible and the opportunity to take photographs may be limited.

      Type of Trip: Walking. There is some uneven ground and there are some stairs which could be slippery if it has rained.

      Location and Directions: Details about the tour will be provided once participants have registered and paid their fee. There is no public transportation to this area.

      Duration: 1 ½ to 2 hours.

      Approximate distance: About .5 Kilometre. Pace is slow.

      Visit to the Owl Foundation in Vineland

      Tuesday Oct 1 10:30 a.m. If there is enough interest a second tour will be arranged at 1 p.m. Maximum of 20 guests per tour

      Land Acknowledgement:  We acknowledge that the land on which we gather is the traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabe peoples, many of whom continue to live and work here today. This territory is covered by the Upper Canada Treaties and is within the land protected by the Dish With One Spoon Wampum agreement.

      Show details

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