Glen Morris and Surrounding Area - Waterloo Region Nature

DATE: MAY 27, 2026

LOCATION: GLEN MORRIS AND SURROUNDING AREA

LEADER: STEWART MACDONALD

On Wednesday, May 27th, 2026, a group of 16 Outdoor Enthusiasts, joined Stewart for a Fun excursion and were greeted with sunny skies and mild temperatures.

Our Group identified over 50 Species of birds, plus some mammal, turtle and amphibian sightings on this day. Below are some of the day’s highlights.

The Outing commenced at the Glen Morris Trailhead where the group departed to see the local colony of Cliff Swallows. During this walk, we were serenaded by Baltimore Orioles and spotted groups of Cedar Waxwings moving through the area.

Next, we carpooled to the “Glen Morris Pond” where we were graciously allowed by both adjoining property owners to park our vehicles as well as to observe from their property.

A nesting Pied-Billed Grebe was observed along with it’s mate which was diligently catching a meal for it’s partner. Wonderful views were then seen of the Virginia Rail, after we were able to coax it out of the weeds to say Hello to us! There was an active Common Gallinule nest as well in the Pond, but although we did not see one of the Gallinule’s on it’s nest, we had good views of one of them in the Pond.

A large family of Wood Ducks was observed, along with a Female Hooded Merganser. A hungry Muskrat entertained us while having a meal.

We then proceeded to the residence of Ellen and Jerry Horak (extraordinary birders in their own right!) for a bathroom break, which also allowed us to observe their feeders, which attracted Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds and Baltimore Orioles.

The next stop on our journey was the Grass Lake area and the surrounding grassland habitat. The Group was able to spot Bobolink, Eastern Meadowlark, Savannah Sparrow and Eastern Bluebird during our walk. An active Osprey Nest was close by and the songs of Indigo Buntings filled the air during our stay there.

The Outing finished at the FWR Dickson Wilderness Area. As it was mid-day and quite warm, the bird activity had slowed down. Sightings of Swamp Sparrow and Great Crested Flycatcher were notable.

After attempts to attract one of the local Tufted Titmice by the Group were unsuccessful, some departed and others stayed behind to enjoy their lunches. And this is where birding can provide some surprises!

A Tufted Titmouse was spotted at the far end of the Parking Lot by one of our group at his vehicle. Rushing over to that spot, those that remained tried to attract it, but to no avail. Meanwhile, the original spotter (Our Bird Whisperer of the day) went to the other side of the parking lot, to enjoy his lunch followed closely by the Leader. The said Titmouse then came within a few feet of our “Bird Whisperer” and wanted to have some of his lunch (at least from where I was standing). The Leader then called the remainder of the Group over who then had excellent views of one of our target birds of the day!

Thanks to our photographers (Dave and Jim) and Lisa for helping with the Blue Tooth calls and to all of the participants for a great day in the Outdoors.