Northern Shoveler, Aaron Rusak, Bracebridge (2019)

Another PEREGRINE FALCON was seen in Georgian Bay at South Bay, but other than that, few unusual raptors were seen. COOPER’S, SHARP-SHINNED, and RED-TAILED HAWKS are being seen somewhat regularly throughout Muskoka, so be sure to check any larger perching birds you see. Owls have been heard calling as well, so if you stay up a bit later you may hear a few.

The AMERICAN COOT continued into the week and several more BLACK-BELLIED PLOVERS were seen flying over the Bracebridge Sewage Lagoons. Unfortunately, with the water level of the lagoons so high, the birds aren’t stopping and are only flying over. A trio of PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen near Baysville and a few other shorebirds are lingering. Shorebird migration is coming to a close in the next few weeks, but there’s still a chance for a few late arrivals.



RED-BELLIED WOODPECKERS are still being reported at select feeders in Georgian Bay and you may still luck out with a RED-HEADED WOODPECKER if you check the areas as well. Some lingering SANDHILL CRANES were also seen by Bala. Additionally, a lone MARSH WREN was seen by Janice House up on Raymond Road; a fantastic sighting at this time of year!

Red-bellied Woodpecker, Aaron Rusak, Bracebridge (2019)

Several rarer robin-sized birds were also observed this week. GRAY-CHEEKED THRUSHES are still being seen in woodlots around Muskoka. LAPLAND LONGSPURS, HORNED LARKS, and AMERICAN PIPITS have shown up at the Bracebridge Sewage Lagoons, Limberlost Reserve, and at Gray Island in Georgian Bay. Now is the time to be checking fields, gravel pits, or other areas were they’re historically seen.

Horned Lark (left) and Lapland Longspur (right), Aaron Rusak, Gray Island

We’re still seeing some smaller birds migrating, with many species of warblers and both kinglets being recorded this week. A couple late PHILADELPHIA VIREOS were observed at the Bracebridge Sewage Lagoons as well. However, warbler migration is almost completed, so your chances of finding those pockets of migrating warblers is getting lower.

What to Look for this Week

Farm fields and open water are the keys to finding rare birds this week. HORNED LARKS and LAPLAND LONGSPURS have had steady movements this past week and should be continuing for awhile. Raptor migration is ongoing, so farm fields are good places to get a view of the largest amount of sky and may turn up some rarities. Waterfowl may start making an appearance and you might be able to find an early SCOTER species or RED-BREASTED MERGANSER. There have also been three different NORTHERN WHEATEARS across Ontario is the last week, so checking a farm field may turn up that mega-rarity.

Lapland Longspur, Aaron Rusak, Gray Island

Checking those small birds flitting through the alders is still worth it as well. There have been reports of both WHITE-EYED and PLUMBEOUS VIREOS in Ontario recently, so it’s possibly one might make the trek up to Muskoka. Late warblers are always a possibility and there’s still chances to get a rare sparrow.

Finally, turning your eyes to the skies to catch migrating flocks is always a good habit in the fall. BRANT, CACKLING, and SNOW GEESE are continuing possibilities, as are TUNDRA SWANS or early winter gulls. Check all your flocks carefully for any odd looking birds.

Got a rare sighting of your own? Feel free to send it to aaron@shrikebirding.com and it may be used in our next weekly report. We’re hoping to add additional information in our future weekly reports, so unusual sightings within Muskoka are hugely appreciated.

Happy birding!