Trent University - Continuing Education

Fall migration is one of the greatest highlights for birdwatching. Observing the coordinated mass of wild birds traveling to their wintering grounds is an incredible experience. The opportunity comes as a transition between the seasons as fall progresses into the winter; a final goodbye before these birds leave for the season. One iconic sight during migration is the formation of waterfowl flying in distinctive "V" shapes. The Otonabee River serves as a welcome stopover site for these migrating birds as they follow their established migration routes. Spend a morning on the banks of the Otonabee River exploring the many waterfowl species traversing these waters during their migration. Participants will have the opportunity to spend a morning observing a variety of waterfowl found in Ontario during the fall. Waterfowl are a diverse order of birds encompassing ducks, geese, and swans; each with unique adaptations to support their aquatic habitats. Participants will learn how to identify waterfowl species and recognize the distinct features that support their aquatic lifestyle. We will kick off the day at Traill College with a brief introduction (20 minutes) and head out to the Otonabee. Our first stop will be Little Lake, to observe waterfowl species in a more developed site (40 minutes). Afterward, we will head out to Katchewanooka Lake and observe waterfowl found there and along the Lakefield Marsh (1.5 hours). Finally, we will end our day at Lakefield Lagoons (30 minutes). While waterfowl will be our focus, we will observe the diversity of species found along the Otonabee River. Bird lovers of all levels of experience are welcome. Binoculars (and cameras) are highly recommended.

Location:

Little Lake; Katchewanooka Lake; Lakefield Lagoons

Please Note:

1) A signed risk waiver is required to participate in this workshop and will be provided for review and signature prior to departure.

2) Participants will require their own mode of transportation.

Map Coordinates:

Site 1: Little Lake (44.2996043, -78.3053273)

Site 2: Katchewanooka Lake (44.4259756, -78.2759296)

Site 3: Lakefield Lagoons (44.4181993, -78.2588775)