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Record Fall For Butterfly Sightings

IMG 3837 1 - Record Fall For Butterfly Sightings
This Painted Lady Butterfly visiting a Marigold flower in my backyard happened to be a late season record for our area.

October has seen temperatures slightly greater than what we usually expect. Daytime highs and nighttime lows have been a few degrees warmer than normal and as a result, have extended the butterfly season across our area. Butterflies that both hibernate and migrate are still being observed and a couple happen to be records when it comes to late in the year sightings.

Butterflies are cold blooded creatures, meaning they lack the internal capabilities of keeping their bodies at a constant temperature. In order to become active and fly, they require an outside source to warm their bodies. This source is often the sun. Late this past week saw sunny skies and highs in the mid to upper teens, producing some nice butterfly activity.

IMG 2003 1 - Record Fall For Butterfly Sightings
A record late Milbert’s Tortoiseshell was also observed this past week.

In order to survive our cold winter, butterflies either hibernate or migrate depending on the species. Hibernation can occur at various stages in their life cycle. Some hibernate as adults, while others hibernate as eggs, larvae, or pupa. As is the case with other hibernating animals, butterflies remain dormant throughout the winter months using very little energy, emerging in the spring when temperatures rise. Monarch Butterflies are well known migrators, as they travel thousands of kilometers in the fall to Mexico, where they overwinter.

According to local records, late sightings were recorded for two species this past week. On October 22, a Milbert’s Tortoiseshell, a species that hibernates as an adult, was reported by a gentleman working in his garden. On October 23, I was happy to report my record sighting of a Painted Lady, a species that migrates, observed in my backyard. The previous record for the Painted Lady was October 21. One day later, I discovered another Painted Lady while walking at Fanshawe Conservation area, breaking my previous day’s record.

To keep track of these record butterfly sightings, or to report your own, join the Middlesex/Elgin/Oxford Natural History Observations Group. If you are looking for more information on butterflies, including help with identification, then I recommend checking out Butterflies of Ontario.

IMG 3462 1 - Record Fall For Butterfly Sightings
Monarch Butterflies are still present in our region. The latest record for them in our area is November 5.

With temperatures expected to remain warm for the next week, more record sightings are quite possible. Butterflies that were still present this past week that are approaching record late observations include: Eastern Comma, Monarch and Cabbage White. The records for these three are October 29, November 5, and November 8 respectively. Check open meadows while out hiking and be observant in your own yard. If you are doing fall yard clean up, be sure to leave any late blooming flowers as lingering butterflies may be attracted to them as a nectar source. If you do happen to come across any of these species, please report them to the group.

Good birding,
Paul

 

Good Birding Report: London, Ontario
October 5-12 2014

IMG 2598 1 - Good Birding Report: London, Ontario <br> October 5-12 2014
This past week saw increased numbers of Yellow-rumped Warblers. Southwestern Ontario falls in the northernmost portion of their winter range.

October is one of my favourite months to get out birding. By now migration is well underway and although many species that move through the area such as Raptors, Warblers and Shorebirds have peaked when it comes to numbers, there are still plenty of birds to see. Several species that spend the winter months in London have started to appear, making fall migration a case of out with the old and in with the new.

Early in the week saw large flocks of migrating blackbirds congregating throughout the city. Red-winged Blackbirds were observed along the Thames River and on the edges of the ponds at Westminster Ponds ESA. Common Grackles were also observed in these same areas and at my feeder. I have read several articles suggesting that safflower seed is less desirable than other seed to Grackles. I can tell you first hand that I watched 35 Grackles in my yard make short work of a feeder full of safflower seed. For many, this would lead to great frustration, but for me I saw it as the fuel they needed to propel them out of the area. After two days my yard was Grackle free.

IMG 2310 1 - Good Birding Report: London, Ontario <br> October 5-12 2014
White-throated Sparrows are another species that overwinter in our area. Like other species, these birds can now be observed throughout the city.
IMG 3090 1 300x200 - Good Birding Report: London, Ontario <br> October 5-12 2014
My first Dark-eyed Junco of the fall was seen Thanksgiving weekend in my backyard.

Of the species that breed to the north, but overwinter in our area, several showed up this past week. Increased numbers of White-throated Sparrows and Yellow-rumped Warblers were observed. The first Dark-eyed Junco I’ve seen this fall paid a visit to my feeder. October is also a the perfect month to see Ruby-crowned and Golden-crowned Kinglets throughout the city. Searching open meadows that contain Goldenrod is a great place to look for these species. The seeds from these and other native wildflowers are a great source of food for these and other songbirds. A highlight for me was seeing both tan and white striped variations of White-throated Sparrows beneath my feeder simultaneously, providing excellent comparison views.

IMG 3000 1 - Good Birding Report: London, Ontario <br> October 5-12 2014
Red-tailed Hawks were observed in various locations around the city.
IMG 2529 1 300x200 - Good Birding Report: London, Ontario <br> October 5-12 2014
Cedar Waxwing in a Buckthorn tree.

Resident birds never disappoint at this time of year either. While walking along the river this week, I had multiple encounters with juvenile Bald Eagles. Their completely dark plumage indicated these large raptors were born this year, likely from one of the nests along the river. Cool mornings made for great birding as this is a prime time to find feeding birds. With so many natural foods available this time of year, locating birds can be easy. Finding a natural food source out of the wind and in the warm morning sun is a great place to find a variety of birds. Again, open meadows with seed producing flowers are a great spot. Another great food source, although an invasive species, is the Common Buckthorn. Birds of all kinds are drawn to the ripe fruit found on this tree. On warm days, insects are also drawn to the fruit, attracting even more birds. Cedar Waxwings and American Robins are two species readily found feeding on Buckthorn Berries.

IMG 2855 1 - Good Birding Report: London, Ontario <br> October 5-12 2014
The male Wood Duck is one of the most colourful birds found in our area. Popular places to find these birds include the Thames River in Greenway Park and Westminster Ponds ESA.
IMG 2794 1 300x200 - Good Birding Report: London, Ontario <br> October 5-12 2014
Male Mallard in breeding plumage.

This past week presented some great looks at waterfowl. Male Mallards and male Wood Ducks were observed both on the Thames River and at Westminster Ponds ESA. Back in their breeding plumage after spending several weeks in the summer in eclipse plumage, these ducks are displaying beautiful colours. Catch them in the right light and the colours are simply amazing. Other birds found in the water at these two locations were Great Blue Herons and Double-crested Cormorants. If you like Woodpeckers than I highly recommend visiting Westminster Ponds ESA, as six species: Downy, Hairy, Red-bellied, Pileated, Northern Flickers and Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers can all be found there, although the Sapsuckers will soon be heading south.

IMG 2423 1 - Good Birding Report: London, Ontario <br> October 5-12 2014
Painted Lady Butterfly feeding on the nectar of a New England Aster.
IMG 2703 1 300x200 - Good Birding Report: London, Ontario <br> October 5-12 2014
Cabbage White Butterfly

Several butterfly species were also found this past week with Painted Lady, Cabbage White, Orange and Clouded Sulphurs being the most prevalent. I also observed both a single Mourning Cloak and Monarch. Asters were the flower of choice for these butterflies, as they were all seen feeding on the nectar of these native wildflowers.

If taking in the beautiful fall leaves while birding is something you are wishing to do, then I would recommend a few places. Along the Thames River across from Springbank Park is currently displaying some brilliant red, yellow and orange leaves. Birding in the park is always good as Blue Jays, Woodpeckers, Eagles and other Raptors, plus Waterfowl are all abundant within its boundaries. The trees surrounding Spettigue Pond in the Westminster Ponds ESA are also showing great colour. Although I have not been yet this fall, Fanshawe Conservation Area and Dorchester Mill Pond are also great places to find outstanding colours and the birding is excellent.

As the month of October presses on, good birding opportunities will continue to present themselves. Leafless trees make for better views and new species will arrive daily. Remember to keep your feeders full, as fall is a great time to add new species to your yard list.

Good birding,
Paul

 

 

Thames River Much Healthier Without Springbank Dam

IMG 1417 1 - Thames River Much Healthier Without Springbank Dam
Dams have several negative effects on rivers. Since Springbank Dam became nonoperational in 2008, the health of the Thames River has improved.

Constructed at its current location in 1929, Springbank Dam was built to create water supply reservoirs and for recreational activities. As the city expanded, means by which water was collected and stored changed, as new technology became available. These obsolete reservoirs have since been replaced by park, and the pump house converted to washrooms. Plenty of recreational activities exist, as canoeing, kayaking and fishing are still enjoyed along the river.

Contrary to what many believe, Springbank Dam serves no purpose in flood control as is evident by London’s famous flood in 1937. In fact, the threat of flooding wasn’t resolved until Fanshawe Dam was completed in 1952. Springbank Dam has been nonoperational since 2008 when after repairs, debris in the river caused one of the gates to shift and bolts securing that gate’s hinge sheared off. Since this time, the health of the river has improved.

IMG 1422 1 - Thames River Much Healthier Without Springbank Dam
Natural water levels make for a much healthier river. Air and water quality is improved, and wildlife habitat increases. Both factors are beneficial to the many Species at Risk residing in and along the Thames River.

Dams are unhealthy for rivers in many ways. They create an unnatural barrier preventing fish and other aquatic life from moving freely up and down stream. The decreased flow of water causes sediment and nutrients to build up and an increase in water temperature. These factors promote the growth of harmful bacteria and algae. When Springbank Dam was operational, stagnant, slow moving water, made the river appear dirty and produced the aroma associated with it for so many years. Glancing at the river when passing by, it now appears much cleaner than it did when the dam was operational. It is not just an appearance, the river is in fact cleaner. The increased flow of water keeps a fresh supply coming from upstream and moves sediment, nutrients, and treated sewage from Greenway Pollution Control Plant out of the city.

Many Species at Risk inhabit the Thames River and its watershed. Ten species of fish and ten species of freshwater mussel currently found in the river are listed as Species at Risk. Seven species of snake and six species of turtle that are currently listed as Species at Risk reside within the Thames River watershed. Several factors have led to the decline of these species including: habitat loss, pollution, and siltation, all negative effects caused by Springbank Dam.

IMG 7854 1 - Thames River Much Healthier Without Springbank Dam
The Northern Map Turtle is a Species At Risk residing in the Thames River. Nesting habitat for these and other turtles has increased without Springbank Dam in operation.
IMG 1086 1 - Thames River Much Healthier Without Springbank Dam
A threatened species, the Spiny Softshell Turtle is benefiting without Springbank Dam. Increased habitat has resulted in the UTRCA Species At Risk Reptile Team protecting 175 nests this year. The most ever!

Seven of the eight turtle species residing in Ontario are now listed as Species At Risk. Six of these species are found within the Thames River Watershed. Among these species is the Spiny Softshell Turtle, currently listed as threatened. Habitat loss and pollution are two of this species biggest threats; both issues have improved since Springbank Dam failed. With the river back at its natural level, nesting habitat for these turtles has greatly increased. The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority’s Species At Risk Reptile Team has been working hard over the years to protect these turtles and their nests. This year saw them protect 175 Spiny Softshell Turtle nests, the most ever, proof this species is benefiting without Springbank Dam.

IMG 6179 1 - Thames River Much Healthier Without Springbank Dam
During spring and fall migration, songbirds and waterfowl follow the Thames River valley. Resting and feeding in and along the river is key to their survival. The healthier river is now attracting more species.

With the Thames River now at its natural level, reforestation is occurring, increasing the size of the riparian zone. A riparian zone is the area of vegetation where the land and river meet. This area helps reduce pollution and improve water quality. Along the Thames, many beneficial native species of tree, shrub, wild flower, and grass, make up this riparian zone. Their root systems stabilize the bank, reducing erosion and the amount of sediment that ends up in the river. Less sediment means a cleaner river bed which improves the habitat where fish spawn.

IMG 9217 1 - Thames River Much Healthier Without Springbank Dam
Wading birds like the Great Blue Heron are attracted to the natural water levels of the Thames River. These birds feed on fish and other aquatic life in the shallow water.

Riparian vegetation also reduces the amount of harmful nutrients and pesticides that enter the river with run off following periods of rain. Although these nutrients occur naturally in aquatic ecosystems, high levels result in nutrient pollution. Many of these nutrients and pesticides are applied to lawns by golf courses, homeowners, and city parks along the river. Most notable are nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium found in fertilizers. Too much nitrogen and phosphorus in the river can cause water to become polluted.

IMG 1551 1 - Thames River Much Healthier Without Springbank Dam
Natural reforestation is occurring along the Thames River in areas that with Springbank Dam operational would otherwise be underwater. Native species such as Poplars, Aspen, and Willow are among the new growth.

Trees in the riparian zone provide nest sites for birds. Wood and debris that fall from these trees into the river provide shelter, current breaks and habitat for fish and aquatic insects. The shade created by these trees regulates the water temperature benefiting several fish species, as most fish, including many on the Species at Risk list, thrive in cooler water.

IMG 1483 1 - Thames River Much Healthier Without Springbank Dam
Riparian vegetation is key to a healthy river. Following periods of rain, this vegetation reduces the amount of harmful nutrients and pesticides entering the river with run off.

Leaves, twigs and other organic matter that fall into the river and riparian zone, provides food for many aquatic organisms. Increased vegetation along the banks helps slow the force of the water after heavy rains, which prevents erosion of the river bed. When a riverbed erodes the local groundwater table is lowered, which has negative effects on the environment. These negative effects include: loss of wetlands and riparian vegetation, more frequent and severe drought, reduced biodiversity and wildlife habitat loss.

Evidence of this reforestation and increased size to the riparian zone is most easily noticed at Springbank Park on both sides of the river, from the dam, upstream to the old pump house. Beneficial reforestation is not limited to this section of the river as it occurs in many areas as you follow the river upstream.

 

IMG 5499 1 - Thames River Much Healthier Without Springbank Dam
Monarch Butterflies are benefiting from Milkweed that has grown in areas that would otherwise be underwater. Milkweed is key to the survival of Monarch Butterflies as it is the only plant their caterpillars eat. These areas of Milkweed will be destroyed if Springbank Dam is repaired.
14979325255 57fe232784 o - Thames River Much Healthier Without Springbank Dam
The Red Osier Dogwood is one of many native plant species to grow in the Riparian area. Not only does this shrub reduce sediment, nutrients, and pesticides from entering the river, its flowers attract beneficial pollinators like butterflies and bees. The fruit is also a favourite of many birds.

Native species in the riparian zone where natural reforestation is occurring along the Thames River include: Poplar, Aspen, Cottonwood, and Sycamore. Smaller fruit bearing trees and shrubs, like Dogwoods and Chokecherries, are also found. Migratory birds use the Thames River as a highway, feeding on various organisms such as insects, fish, and berries. These same organisms provide food year round to resident birds. Birds nest and raise their young in these same trees and shrubs. Native wild flowers such as Milkweed are growing in areas that with Springbank Dam operational would otherwise be underwater. Milkweed is critical to the survival of the Monarch Butterfly, as it is the only plant consumed by Monarch caterpillars. Other wild flowers now abundant along the banks of the Thames River are Joe-Pye-Weed, Goldenrod, and Jewel Weed. Jewel Weed is a magnet for Hummingbirds. A quick look over the large patches, especially during migration, reveals these beautiful little birds. Joe-Pye-Weed, a mid season bloomer, and Goldenrod, a late season bloomer, are both beneficial to pollinators such as Bees and Butterflies. Nectar from the late blooming Goldenrod is a favourite food of adult Monarch Butterflies who begin their 3000km migration to Mexico in early September. Mammals such as Beavers can be found nibbling on the Poplars, American Mink slip through the dense cover within the riparian zone, as do Squirrels and Chipmunks. Reptiles and amphibians such as snakes, frogs, and toads call this area home.

Repairing Springbank Dam will raise water levels to an unnatural level. The natural reforestation and beneficial riparian zone will be flooded and destroyed. Water and air quality will suffer and so too will many plant and animal species, some of them Species at Risk. Nesting habitat of threatened turtles will be unnecessarily submerged, and the slow moving, stagnant water that so many Londoners associate with the Thames will return. Future repairs will cost taxpayers millions, as new studies, research, and engineering will be required as the previous design clearly failed. A $5 million law suit launched by the City of London against the contractors hired to repair Springbank Dam is expected to hit the courts next year. If money previously spent on this project is recouped by this lawsuit, it could be spent addressing the many other issues facing our city. There is no plan for what the city intends to do with Springbank Dam in the future, but with a municipal election on October 27, 2014 it is an issue I will be discussing with my mayoral and ward candidates before I vote. If you wish to keep a healthy and diverse ecosystem and save Species at Risk in the Thames River, then leaving Springbank Dam nonoperational, thus maintaining natural water levels, is the solution.

Good birding,
Paul

 

 

 

Sanderling and Sunsets Along Beautiful Lake Huron

IMG 0733 1 - Sanderling and Sunsets Along Beautiful Lake Huron
Birding along the Great Lakes provides views of many species; this Sanderling was observed foraging amongst the rocks along the shores of Lake Huron.

The Great Lakes are excellent for birding anytime of year, but with fall migration underway now is the perfect time to hit the shores in search of birds. Two flyways, the Atlantic and Mississippi, cross over the Great Lakes with shorebirds, raptors, songbirds, gulls, and waterfowl all following these routes from as far north as the Arctic, all the way to the southern United States, Central and South America. Their shorelines act as natural highways for these birds, as they make their way south to their wintering grounds. Regardless of which Great Lake is nearest you, great birding opportunities await.

IMG 0921 1 - Sanderling and Sunsets Along Beautiful Lake Huron
Birds are not the only things that provide beauty along the Great Lakes; the sunsets are simply stunning.

I recently had a chance to spend some time in Bayfield Ontario, located on the east shore of Lake Huron. The mixed habitat provided a nice variety of birds. Along the lake itself was a typical Great Lake shoreline, consisting of a sand beach with mixed rocks and wood. Adjacent to the beach was a beautiful dune covered in American Beach Grass, new growth Poplars, and White Pines. Behind the dune was a wooded area made up of cedars and a wide variety of deciduous trees.

North winds prevailed during my visit which helped push the migrating birds down the shoreline through the area. Bonaparte’s Gulls, Double-crested Cormorants, and a group of six Blue-winged Teal were observed only a few feet from the beach, flying past in a southerly direction. A lone Sanderling walked down the beach foraging in the sand and stones. Monarch Butterflies were also taking advantage of the north wind; I counted twenty three in just a short period of time which is by far the most I’ve seen in recent years. Birds of prey passed overhead, with counts of Turkey Vultures being highest. A Merlin landed briefly in the top of a dead cedar tree before carrying on.  As the sun dropped low in the sky prior to setting, sixteen Common Nighthawks moved up and down the beach over the dunes feeding all the while.

IMG 0369 1 - Sanderling and Sunsets Along Beautiful Lake Huron
Bonaparte’s Gulls were among the species using the north winds to propel them along the shoreline.

The mixed forest was full of birds, both migrating and resident species. Listening to the various calls was quite enjoyable. Cedar Waxwings, with their high pitched whistling calls seemed to be the most prevalent, while Blue Jays did their best to drown them out. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds moved along the forest edge feeding on the native Jewel Weed. Swainson’s Thrushes could be seen gorging in the tree tops, both on berries and insects. These same mixed forests provided me with views of two new species for my life list, a Philadelphia Vireo, and a Northern Waterthrush. The Philadelphia Vireo was seen overhead moving from tree to tree, ingesting insects along the way. The yellow underparts clearly distinguished it from other vireos. The Northern Waterthrush provided the best view of all birds as this one was observed after striking a cottage window. Concerned for its well being, I didn’t even think to photograph it. I approached it slowly and quietly. Its wings were tucked in and it was sitting upright, although breathing heavily. Once it gathered itself, the bird took flight and headed back into the forest, appearing no worse for wear.

IMG 0566 1 2 - Sanderling and Sunsets Along Beautiful Lake Huron
The sunsets over Lake Huron are truly breathtaking and making the short drive to take them in is well worth it.

As September progresses along and we move into October, migration and birding will get even better. Peak numbers are typically observed mid September, but anytime you can get out is the best time to go. Research conservation areas, parks, and other public areas on the shores of the Great Lakes and find one close to you. Pack your binoculars, field guide, water and a snack and give birding in one these areas a try. Migration along the Great Lakes will not disappoint.

Good birding,
Paul