Bald Eagles Return to the Grand River Watershed
It’s really great to see Bald Eagles are returning to the Grand River Watershed in southern Ontario, Canada. The population of this raptor was decimated in the 60’s and 70’s. In survey’s done each winter between Paris and Brantford it has been determined that their numbers are increasing. In the winter of 2005/2006 three were counted, in 2006/2007 there were 4 and so far in 2008 there have been 4 different birds sighted.
I personally had the privilege of getting close to a juvenile Bald Eagle while paddling just up river of Glen Morris on a guided canoe trip with Heritage River Canoe & Kayak Company, an outfitter located in Brantford, Ontario. Their website is www.heritageriver.com; they have lots of great pictures of wildlife on their site. I was also awe struck to see an adult Bald Eagle fly by at eye level while I was taking a hike along the river bank on Feb. 6, 2007. Three years earlier I was able to take a picture of an adult in the same area of the Grand River. Other raptors like the Osprey too are making their come back.
The Great Blue Heron has also made a strong comeback and can be seen fishing from the bank and perched on boulders in the river. Just south of the Hwy 403 Bridge on the west side of the Grand River is a Great Blue Heron Rookery with over 20 nests. These nests are visible from the highway but are best seen when paddling by on the river.
Other wildlife common to the Grand River Watershed are Whitetail Deer, Mink and Beaver.
The Grand River watershed is making a wonderful comeback with not only the raptors but with other birds and wildlife. It’s becoming a birdwatchers’ haven with over 160 species of birds and a fisherman’s paradise with over 80 species of fish. Game fish like Steelhead, Large and Small Mouth Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye, Rainbow, Brown and Brooke Trout. The stretch of the Grand River at Whiteman’s Creek is now one of the 10 best Trout fisheries in Ontario. The stretch of river between Paris and Brantford has been designated an “Exceptional Waterway”.
As was mentioned earlier one of the best ways to enjoy this amazing river is by canoe, kayak or raft. There a several outfitting companies on the Grand River who can supply canoe, kayak and raft rentals. I’ve used Heritage River Canoe & Kayak Company several times in the past and have always had great service. They do guided and self-guided trips on the Grand between Cambridge and Brantford. Heritage River even rent kayaks specially designed for fishing with rod holders and so forth.
The experiences I’ve had on the Grand have given me memories I’ll cherish. So if you’re looking for things to do this summer with your family and friends, go experience what the Grand River Watershed has to offer. It’s a great eco adventure.