Mild temperatures and no snow on the ground continued, with all lakes and ponds free of ice. This is very unusual here for the date. Twenty Canada Geese on Long Lake on November 25 were extremely late for Algonquin, and reflected the open water and mild conditions. The juvenile Brant foraging on lawns near the Oxtongue Lake Highway 60 bridge, west of Algonquin Park, was present until at least November 21. Single Common Loons were on Lake of Two Rivers (November 23) and Lake Opeongo (November 25). A few Ring-billed Gulls were at the Opeongo Access Point dock on November 25 and 26, after this species had seemingly disappeared for the season. A Northern Shrike was at Wolf Howl Pond on November 23. A few Pine Grosbeaks, American Goldfinches and Evening Grosbeaks were seen occasionally near the Visitor Centre feeders. Boreal Species Info: Spruce Grouse: Seen along the old railway near Wolf Howl Pond this week. Gray Jay: Reliable locations are Spruce Bog Boarwalk, Opeongo Road, and the Wolf Howl Pond area of Mizzy Lake Trail. Boreal Chickadee: Heard near Wolf Howl Pond this week. Black-backed Woodpecker: There was one in the Wolf Howl Pond area this week, and one was heard calling near the Jake Lake parking lot on November 26. As always, we would appreciate receiving your observations for our Visitor Centre records. Good birding. Ron Tozer Algonquin Park Naturalist (retired) Dwight, Ontario Directions: Algonquin Park is three hours north of Toronto, via Highways 400, 11 and 60. Follow the signs, which start in Toronto on Highway 400. From Ottawa, take Highway 17 to Renfrew, then follow Highway 60 to the park. Kilometre markers along Highway 60 in the Park go from the West Gate (km 0) to near the East Gate (km 56). Get your park permit and the park tabloid (with a map of birding locations mentioned here) at the gates. The Visitor Centre at km 43 has recent bird sightings, feeders, and information. The centre is open weekends only until December 20, from 10 am to 4 pm. Access to the building through the service entrance to observe the feeders is usually possible on weekdays. Hot and cold drinks and snacks are available in the restaurant this winter on weekends, but not full meal service.