Huron Fringe Birding Festival

Thanks to our friend, Anne who has been attending the festival since 2008, several local birders made the trek to McGregor Point Provincial Park at the end of May.

Many of the 90+ events occur within the boundaries of the Provincial Park, but several activities allow birders to explore the surrounding "fringe" of Lake Huron and include the Bruce Peninsula. On one tour, we were entertained by a Grasshopper Sparrow who flitted between fence posts along the roadside.

We didn't focus exclusively on birds; some tours included other flora and fauna. Fringed Polygala was abundant in the park. Although it resembles an orchid, it is actually a member of the milkwort family.

The carnivorous Pitcher Plant can be found in nutrient deficient soils in bogs and fens across Canada. Their leaves have evolved to be tubular, collecting rainwater within the "pitcher". Insects attracted by the scent, slide down the slippery lip of the plant and become trapped in the rainwater. Pitcher Plants absorb nutrients derived from their prey to supplement those lacking in the soil.  

https://www.natureconservancy.ca/en/what-we-do/resource-centre/featured-species/plants/pitcher-plant.html

A "late" flock of Canada Geese headed north in a well-formed 'V'

Several Eastern Kingbirds could be seen from the viewing tower. The scientific name, "Tyrannus tyrannus" means tyrant, despot, or king. The name refers to the aggression Kingbirds exhibit with each other and with other species. When defending their nests, they will attack much larger predators like hawks, crows, and squirrels. They have been known to knock unsuspecting Blue Jays out of trees. Cornell Lab, All About Birds

View of Lake Huron from the rocky shore of McGregor Point Provincial Park.

Greenoch Swamp Wetland Complex is the largest forested wetland in Ontario. The 8,000 hectare natural area includes a walking trail and boardwalk to the Schmidt Lake Lookout.

https://explorethebruce.com/place/greenock-swamp-tours/

While standing on the lookout, a Northern Watersnake came for a visit. This was surprising behavior since it must have sensed that 5 people were standing on the deck. I wonder if it was trying to escape a predator from below? It left as quickly as it arrived.

Lake Huron sunset at Port Elgin.