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• Whimbrel Watch - Colonel Samuel Smith Park - Wednesday May 25

  • When
    25 May 2022
  •  
    9:00 AM - 12:30 PM
  • Location
    Colonel Samuel Smith Park, 3145 Lake Shore Blvd W, Etobicoke, ON M8V 4B6
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  • Registered
    15 registrants

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  Colonel Sam Smith Park. Whimbrel Watch
  Wednesday May 25, 2022, 9:00am to 12:30pm.

  Leaders:  Nancy Barrett, Monika Croydon, Adam Solomon

  Description: This outing is primarily focused on seeing Whimbrel passing through the park on their long journey north to nesting grounds in the tundra.  This park is one of the only places they gather in southern Ontario.  We'll also be looking for late spring migrants and resident species along the way to Whimbrel Point, along with other shorebird species.  Suitable for all birders.  

  Route: We will head southeast around the wetland to the lake, then walk west along the main lakeside trail to the "baselands" area of Whimbrel Point, maybe even do a loop through the inner peninsula trail, checking for birds along the way and always checking the sky for incoming whimbrels. We will then stake out Whimbrel Point for a while. We will likely return via a similar route, with a detour to walk through Swallow Field to see the nesting Tree Swallows, ending again at the traffic circle. 
  

  Target species: Whimbrels, other shorebirds, spring migrants 

  eBird Toronto--Colonel Samuel Smith Park: 

  https://ebird.org/hotspot/L421884  

  Park address:  2 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Drive Etobicoke, ON M8V 4B6

  Meeting place: At the "traffic circle" by the southernmost parking lot, at the bottom of Colonel Samuel Smith Drive. 

  Public transit directions: The Kipling 44 and 944 South bus from Kipling Station on Line 1 ends at the bus loop in front of Father John Redmond Secondary School. Walk southeast about 400 m along Colonel Samuel Smith Park Drive which terminates at the south parking lot and "traffic circle". The Park is also accessible from the TTC 501 streetcar/bus stop located at Lake Shore Boulevard West at Kipling Avenue.

  Driving directions: The park entrance is located south of the intersection at Lake Shore Boulevard West at Kipling Avenue. South of Lake Shore, Kipling Avenue becomes Colonel Sam Samuel Smith Park Drive.   

  Parking: There is paid ($1.00/half hour) parking available at the southernmost parking lot. Additional paid parking is available in the north parking lot of the Park and on Humber College campus. Two accessible parking spaces are available in the southernmost parking lot.

  Approximate distance covered on foot: 2 to 4 km.

  Accessibility and Amenities: Flat terrain, along gravel and dirt paths which may be muddy after recent rains.  There is one bench at Whimbrel Point; people who cannot stand for long periods may want to bring a portable beach towel or blanket to sit on the grass while watching for whimbrels.  There are benches and flat-topped rocks throughout the rest of the park.

  Note that there are no washrooms inside the park. Washrooms are available inside the Humber College campus buildings, at the Tim Horton's, and the Ken Cox Community Centre inside Father John Redmond Catholic Secondary School, all about 400 m north of the parking lot.  

  What to wear: Wear sturdy waterproof footwear and dress appropriately for the weather, season, and terrain. Layers are recommended winds off the lake can be colder than expected. 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 a mask, enough water for the duration of the trip, snacks or a packed lunch. Please bring your choice of binoculars, scope, and/or camera.

  
  

  COVID-19 Guidelines

  Leaders and participants must comply with local Public Health guidelines at the time of the event. Leaders and participants are encouraged to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, maintain physical distance and wear masks, as needed.

  Anyone experiencing any possible symptoms, who has met someone with COVID-19 or who is being tested for COVID-19, must stay home. Please use the Government of Ontario COVID-19 self-assessment https://covid-19.ontario.ca/self-assessment/ to find out if you are at risk.

  
  

  TOC Outings

  TOC aims to provide birding outings which are welcoming and enjoyable for all. If you have any questions about the event, or require accommodations, please contact the trip leader in advance, by emailing outings@torontobirding.ca. Please allow a few days for a response.

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• Nature Outing: A TOC/OFO Pride Birding Walk - June 11 - Public

  • When
    11 Jun 2022
  •  
    9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    Tommy Thompson Park, 1 Leslie Street, Toronto, ON M4M 3M2

  
  

  CLICK to register on OFO.ca! Open to the public!

  Nature Outing: A TOC/OFO Pride Birding Walk - June 11 (Saturday)

  Leader: Maxwell Matchim (he/they) and John Nishikawa (he/him)

  In an exciting collaboration between the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) and the Toronto Ornithological Club (TOC), we’re introducing our first ever Pride Month Walk! We will meet at the front gate of Tommy Thompson Park (43°39'08.2"N 79°19'22.5"W) at 9:00 am on June 11th. The walk runs until 12:00, with an optional extension to 2:00.

  This walk is a celebration of the LGBTQ2S+ community, but all are welcome. Creating a respectful, welcoming, and accessible environment is our first priority. We encourage newer birders and first-timers to come along, all skill levels are welcome!

  Type of trip: Walking

  Meeting location and directions: Front gates of Tommy Thompson Park. Foot of Leslie St. at Unwin Ave.

  Public transportation: The 83 Jones Bus (southbound) stops at Leslie Street and Commissioners Street, an approx. 8 minute walk from our meeting point. The 83 Jones Bus can be caught at Donlands Station. 

  Duration and rest stops: Three hours with rest stops if needed. 

  Approximate distance: 6 km walking.

  Terrain: Mostly flat, with small hills in wooded areas and the possibility of some flooding on trails, close-toed shoes or rubber boots recommended. 

  Trail surfaces: Mostly paved, with some unpaved forest trails. 

  Accessibility: We may leave the paved path to explore wooded trails, the walk can be modified on the day of in accordance with any mobility needs. A drinking water station is located near our meeting point. 

  Washrooms: There are multiple portable toilets along the route and a wheelchair accessible washroom at the entrance to the park.

  What you need to know

  OFO and TOC welcome all people who are interested in birds and birding and strives to create an inclusive, comfortable, and enjoyable experience. OFO and TOC trip leaders are volunteers who generously offer their time to share their knowledge and passion for birds with others. 

  Meeting Time: Please arrive a few minutes before the start time. Please contact the trip leader 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 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 OFO 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 leader. 

  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 leader, 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: TOC and OFO aim 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 leader 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.

  Land Acknowledgement for Toronto: The land in Toronto (Tkaronto) in what we now know as Canada, from where we are  meeting, 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 present from today. Also, in effort to continue to improve our ongoing inter-relations with members of First Nations and Indigenous communities today. We are mindful of broken covenants and the need to reconcile with all our relations. Together, may we care for this land and each other, drawing on the strengths of our mutual nation building through peace and friendship being mindful of generations to come." 

  
  

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• "Naked Birding": A TOC/OFO feld trip - June 12 - Public

  • When
    12 Jun 2022
  •  
    9:00 AM - 11:30 AM
  • Location
    Evergreen Brick Works, 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON M4W 3X8

  CLICK to register on OFO.ca! Open to the public!
  

  "Naked Birding" at Evergreen Brick Works - June 12 (Sunday) 

  Leaders: Lynne Freeman and Joanne Brathwaite

  In an exciting collaboration between the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) and the Toronto Ornithological Club (TOC), join us for a little "Naked Birding"! "Naked birding" means birding without binoculars. Yes, you are asked to wear clothing :) Birds are all around us, even in the middle of a big city and we can all enjoy and identify many birds without binoculars.

  This walk will focus on what we can notice with our eyes and ears so we can better appreciate and understand the richness of nature all around us. 

  Bring binoculars and a camera if you have them, but more importantly, bring your curiosity and an open mind!

  Who should come? This event is open to everyone. You do not need to be a member of OFO or TOC.

  Type of trip: Birding basics, behavior, and vocalizations.

  Type of trip: Enjoying whatever comes our way and birding basics  

  Location and Directions: Evergreen Brick Works is located at 550 Bayview Ave. Parking on site. https://www.evergreen.ca/evergreen-brick-works/visitor-info/getting-here/

  Public Transportation: Shuttlebus available from Broadview station. The earliest shuttle arrives at 7:45. If you are taking the shuttle, please contact the trip leader at 416-671-0325.

  Duration: Two-and-a-half hour leisurely walk with frequent stops to look at interesting things.

  Approximate Distance: 2 km

  Terrain: Mostly paved trails and boardwalk. Possibility of short distance on forest trails.

  Gradient: Mostly flat, however, there are some small hills.

  Accessibility: Suitable for people using mobility aids.

  Washrooms: on site.

  Land Acknowledgement for Toronto :"The land in Toronto (Tkaronto) in what we now know as Canada, from where we are  meeting, 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 present from today. Also, in effort to continue to improve our ongoing inter-relations with members of First Nations and Indigenous communities today. We are mindful of broken covenants and the need to reconcile with all our relations. Together, may we care for this land and each other, drawing on the strengths of our mutual nation building through peace and friendship being mindful of generations to come." 

  What you need to know

  
  

  TOC and OFO welcome all people who are interested in birds and birding and strives to create an inclusive, comfortable, and enjoyable experience. TOC and OFO trip leaders are volunteers who generously offer their time to share their knowledge and passion for birds with others. 

  
  

  Beginner Birders: Most TOC and OFO trips are suitable for beginner birders. Please let the trip leader 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 own transportation to and from the field trip. Public transit information, if available, is included in the trip description. Car pooling is not encouraged at this time due to COVID-19.

  
  

  Meeting Time: Please arrive a few minutes before the start time. Please contact the trip leader 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 leader. 

  
  

  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 leader, 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: TOC and OFO aim 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 leader 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.

  
  

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