Welcome to Eastern Ontario Birding. My name is Jon Ruddy, and I am an Ottawa-based freelance birding guide, specializing in birding tours throughout eastern Ontario. I have birding outings fit for all levels of birders, from beginner to expert. For a list of up-coming regularly schedule outings, as well as my Private Tour availability, please visit my Outing Schedule. I hope you enjoy the site!
Overview of Spring Arrivals in Eastern Ontario - Overview of Spring Arrivals in Eastern Ontario As winter gives way to spring, our bird-nerd minds cannot help but begin to daydream about the wonderful birding days soon to come! Here’s a rough overview of when some of your favourite bird species arrive back en masse to eastern Ontario. Outliers, i.e. “early birds,” surely will occur!
Winter records of the Red-shouldered Hawk in Eastern Ontario - The following post is a summary of the wintertime records (as 6 February 2023) of Red-shouldered Hawk (RSHA) in eastern Ontario; the winter birding season extends from December 1st to February 28th. The data used is available on eBird.
Western Meadowlark Field Mark Checklist - Western Meadowlark Field Mark Checklist In Winter (Basic) Plumage Head Detail Head detail in winter Western Meadowlark (WEME) is key. The lateral crown stripes and post-ocular wedge are typically medium-brown, which contributes to weakened contrast with the adjacent areas of the head. In Eastern Meadowlark (EAME), the lateral crown stripes and post-ocular wedge are quite blackish; … Continue reading Western Meadowlark Field Mark Checklist
“Cold morning” birding tip - Early in the morning, especially after a particularly cold night, it’s a good idea to check southeast-facing tree lines, especially those consisting of conifers, for hawks and owls keeping clear of the wind and sunning themselves in the morning sun.
Quick Guide to the Flight Calls of Eastern Shorebirds - Hi everyone, Below I share sound clips of the flight calls of eastern shorebirds. All sound clips are available via xenocanto. A written description, taken from those described in the Sibley Guide to the Birds of Eastern North America, of the call will also be included.