Mon Sept 9, 2024 - Cochrane to Moosonee train and on foot

 This morning we left at 9 am on the Polar Bear Express Northland train to Moosonee.  The scenery was mainly bush up close and coniferous and deciduous trees.  We went by large ponds and the beautiful Coral Otter Rapids and the spectacular Moose River.  The train was comfortable and we were seated by a large window.  It was just lovely to stare outside and gaze at the September Scenery flying by.  We did not see many birds on the train.  Some Sandhill Cranes flying and other on the train had Red tailed Hawks and Canada Jays.  Emily and I went for breakfast in the dining car.  My breakfast was delicious and Emily enjoyed hers also.  We arrived in Moosonee around 1:45 pm.  It was warm and sunny but there was a brisk chilly wind.  Our luggage was picked up and brought to the hotel and we walked the three or four short blocks to the Super 8 Motel.  We quickly got settled in our room and we were out the door to walk down to the Moose River flats.  

We could see the ferry carrying cars to the island of Moose Factory.  We had a Yellow bellied Sapsucker, Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers along with a Yellow Warbler along the trees by the water.  We scanned the water and saw a small bird on the sand beach in the distance.  It was identified as an American Pipit.  Up in the sky we saw several Bald Eagles flying around.  Three Sandhill Cranes flew onto the island and disappeared in the high grass.  We spent a good hour here.  We saw an Black Bear across from us on the opposite shore.   A Bearded Seal also appeared in front of us in the water.  We saw several Cloud Sulphur, Morning Cloak and Tricoloured Bees.  

From here we walked around the soccer field and down the two blocks back to the hotel around 5:30 pm.  We were tired but it was good to walk after sitting for almost five hours today.  Supper was pork loin roast, Greek salad, peas and mashed potatoes.  It was delicious.  For dessert it was cake squares that were very good.  A bottle of Maple syrup and Blueberry Liqueur was offered.  I did not want a sweet drink so did not partake.  But Emily had a splash.  After supper we did the bird list for the day.

The hotel here is only a couple of years old so everything is very nice.  Supper was prepared by a cook for us.  I am tired tonight and hope to get through my photos before I get too tired.  It was a long day and we did a lot.