With spring set to arrive next week, it certainly has not felt that way in Southwestern Ontario as winter is still in full force. After a brief tease of spring-like weather during the final days of February, Mother Nature provided us with a reality check as wintry conditions returned and persisted over the first two weeks of March. For March breakers heading south, I imagine this sat well knowing that warmer temperatures were on the horizon, but for those of us who stayed put and were hoping for a continued early spring migration, well we were left to enjoy a few more weeks of winter birding.
As someone who loves winter birding, I have embraced the fact that winter has hung around in Southwestern Ontario, although I must admit I was ready for spring after the weather we experienced a few weeks ago. Keeping my toque, gloves, and camera at the ready, I have had great views of both migrant and resident species over the past several weeks while birding in the Forest City.
For me, I always look to the return of Red-winged Blackbirds, Killdeer, and Tundra Swans each year to our area as the unofficial arrival of spring and a sign that migration is underway. After seeing these early migrants return to our area the during the final days of February, the recent cold northwest winds and accompanying flurries has all but halted migration. Fortunately there are still plenty of these species around the area to signify spring is right around the corner.
Northern Cardinals have been plentiful on my morning walks with the sights and sounds being a real treat Listening to males sing while chasing other males from their territories under the cover of fresh snow has been particularly enjoyable. Carolina Wrens have also been actively calling most mornings, but their propensity to frequent thick cover makes them challenging to observe.
While walking along an area creek, soft calls of the White-throated Sparrow were heard from within the thicket lining the bank. Stopping for a look, several of these birds provided excellent views and photo opportunities.
On cooler mornings, the water at a small wetland I like to visit was frozen. Regardless of whether there was open water or not Canada Geese and Mallards were present. Often overlooked due their abundance throughout the region, the Mallard’s beauty really stands out during sunny conditions.
For those of you looking to hone your photography skills, Mallards are the perfect subject for practicing exposure, focus, and even flight shots.
Several songbird species were also found foraging within the vegetation surrounding the small wetland including Common Grackles, Dark-eyed Juncos, and American Robins.
Throughout the wooded areas I birded, chickadees, nuthatches, and Golden-crowned Kinglets were found as they moved through a stand of cedar and spruce trees. In my opinion, kinglets are the most challenging bird to photograph and they almost never stop moving.
During the 109th London Christmas Bird Count held back in December, a record high number of Red-bellied Woodpeckers were reported. This is great news as not only is the Red-bellied Woodpecker my favourite bird, with so many other species in decline it’s nice to hear this species may be experiencing a population increase. I certainly have noticed more of these birds in recent years including several over the past few weeks. Learning and listening for their loud rolling call is the easiest way to locate this medium-sized woodpecker.
With warmer temperatures and some southwest winds in the forecast for next week, look for migration to resume once again. In particular more Tundra Swans should make their way across Southwestern Ontario. If you haven’t paid a visit to the Aylmer Wildlife Management Area, a popular annual stopover for these birds, it’s well worth the drive. Be sure to call the swan line before you go for an an update on the current numbers. Other waterfowl including Cackling Geese, Snow Geese, a Greater white-fronted Goose, and several duck species were reported this past week.
Regardless of what Mother Nature has in store for us in the coming weeks, March is a great month to get out birding. Resident and migrating birds can be found across the region in good numbers. Getting outside in the fresh air and enjoying a hike while connecting with nature is the perfect way to ring in a new season. If you get the chance, visit your favourite natural area, take in the beauty of these birds, and make the most of our great outdoors.
Good birding,
Paul
