The proposed development of a new campus for Canadore College is set to be located on the north side of Parry Sound Drive where it meets Joseph Street in Parry Sound. As most projects involve a general overview of the environmental values on site, this project was unique in the fact that it required specific studies on breeding birds in the area with particular attention paid to Whip-poor-will, as well as a survey of Brigg’s Lake (located adjacent to the property) to identify the presence/absence of Blanding’s Turtles. These two species were flagged by the local MNR as they are considered “Threatened” Species at Risk (SAR) that had the potential to exist at this location. Whip-poor-will can be found in Parry Sound and surrounding areas and the mix of open and forested habitats on site were thought to match the habitat requirements of this species well. Blanding’s Turtles, which are also known to exist within the Parry Sound area, are typically found in shallow, slow moving waters with abundant aquatic vegetation similar to that of Brigg’s Lake.

During a week-long study, all breeding birds were surveyed in the early morning hours when they most actively bare their songs and Whip-poor-will were surveyed in the evening and night hours as they are nocturnal and typically only active and heard at night (if any of you have ever heard one, you know!). Although Whip-poor-will were not identified within the area of the site, a variety of other species (and some I had yet to have the pleasure of hearing or seeing) were observed. One that was quite a joy to watch was the Caspian Tern which I initially dismissed as a common seagull. Upon closer inspection, you could distinguish this white bird based on its bright red-orange bill and black cap and mask. Although it’s typically considered a coastal bird, it is known to migrate to inland wetlands in the summer. It was observed patrolling the wetland associated with Brigg’s Lake and would hover in an area momentarily before plunging into the water for prey at great speeds. This is similar to the diving displays of the Belted Kingfisher which is more common and which was also observed within this wetland.

Our survey for Blanding’s Turtles took us to the shores of Brigg’s Lake, a small water body that empties into the much larger, and more commonly known, Darlington’s Lake. Common species such as Snapping Turtles and Midland Painted Turtles were observed throughout the wetland and the spot of choice for most appeared to be a small log within a fen community. Although fairly elusive during the first few days, a single Blanding’s Turtle was finally observed basking on that favourite log on the last two days of the survey. The lovely summer weather has definitely allowed for some excellent field days and prime basking conditions!