Eastern Region
ONTARIO
This winter was typical, with average snowpacks and temperatures, as well as a good continuous frost seal. As spring arrives, recent rains and warmer temperatures have removed almost all of the remaining snow throughout southern Ontario, with the exception of remnant patches in woodlots and forested habitats. Snowpack is still present in northern Ontario, but is quickly subsiding with warmer spring temperatures and rainfall.
All of the near-shore areas of the lower Great Lakes are now ice free, as are most flowing riverine wetland systems throughout southern Ontario. Ice free conditions are also present on roughly 50 per cent of southern Ontario's inland beaver pond wetlands, which are expected to open up completely by the end of the month. As of March 21, average spring runoff conditions are present. Most ditches and wetlands are at 75-100 per cent of full water-holding capacity, with the exeption of two small areas in the eastern and western extremes of southern Ontario.
Since mid March, large flocks of high-flying northbound migrant Canada geese have been seen across southern Ontario, as have large numbers of tundra swans, especially through the Lake Erie area. Dabblers and divers are also starting to build up along open water areas throughout the south, as they migrate northward to breed.
Overall, wetland habitat is in good shape throughout the province. If spring rains continue to occur, conditions are expected to be good to very good for breeding waterfowl.