A list of the breeding birds of the Marlborough Forest is presented in Table 1. 
This list is based on observations from the 1988 inventory, an earlier inventory 
conducted for the Ministry of Natural Resources (White, 1985), and the On¬ 
tario Breeding Bird Atlas (OBBA) which was done from 1981-1985. For each 
species, data are presented for common names, regional, provincial and/or na¬ 
tional significance, observed abundance, and the current breeding status in the 
Marlborough Forest. Breeding status was determined according to the methods 
used in the Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas (Cadman et al., 1987). 
Annotated List of the More Interesting and Noteworthy Bird Species 
Observed During the 1988 Survey 
OBBA in parentheses after a record indicates that breeding status was determined 
by researchers for the Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas. Figure l shows the location of 
roads, trails and other areas in the Forest mentioned in this article. 
Pied-billed Grebe - A rare inhabitant of the Marlborough Forest, this species is 
restricted to open ponds surrounded by marsh vegetation. It has been found in 
one of several “Ducks Unlimited” ponds within the Forest and in Brassil’s 
Creek. 
Great Blue Heron - This species is frequently observed in flight overhead or 
feeding in a swampy area along the Rideau trail in the northern section of the 
Forest, approximately one concession north of Roger Stevens Drive. 
Green-backed Heron - Although the preliminary survey indicates that this 
species is rare within the Forest, breeding in swampy areas has been confirmed 
(OBBA). 
Least Bittern - Rare summer resident. This species is only known to occur in 
the Richmond Fen (OBBA). 
American Bittern - Rarely encountered during the inventory. An individual was 
heard calling in a marsh adjacent to Flood Road. Breeding has been confirmed 
for the Marlborough Forest (OBBA). 
Canada Goose - Although this species is rare within the Forest, breeding near 
Brassil’s Creek has been confirmed. 
Wood Duck - An uncommon breeding bird found in wooded swamps. Wood 
Ducks have recently nested successfully in boxes erected by landowners living 
adjacent to the Steven’s Creek wetland. 
Red-tailed Hawk - An uncommon resident of the Marlborough Forest. In early 
June a pair was observed near the hydro line at O’Neil Road. A family was ob¬ 
served in the same area in late June. 
Sora - This species is known to breed in the Richmond Fen (OBBA) and is 
presently considered an uncommon summer resident in the Forest. A Sora was 
8 
