Spring Has Sprung And The Birds Are Arriving On Cue

For most of us, we are facing an unprecedented amount of uncertainty in our lives due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Working from home, not working at all, and worrying about loved ones has added stress to our lives. For me, despite working from home already as a medical transcriptionist, I too find myself without work as hospitals have canceled all nonurgent surgeries, consultations, and other visit types I would typically transcribe.  

To alleviate my increased stress I turn to the one thing that has always helped, nature. For me, enjoying nature has always been my go-to whenever times are tough. No matter what the situation, nature has been my remedy. One thing in life right now is certain, spring has arrived and with it has come many spring migrants.  

Many early migrants have already appeared here in the city of London. Red-winged Blackbirds, Common Grackles, and Killdeer have all arrived. A wide variety of waterfowl, both dabblers and divers, can be found on area lakes and ponds that are now void of ice. Species that overwinter in the city, albeit in lesser quantities including Great Blue Herons and American Robins have seen a large bump in their numbers in recent weeks. 

I am taking social distancing very seriously. All of my groceries are now ordered online for delivery, and I only leave home to get out for a walk and some fresh air. When it comes to social distancing and birding, I was pretty good at this even before COVID-19 as I have always preferred birding in secluded situations and have since kicked this up a notch. In my opinion, city parks, ESAs, and conservation areas are likely too crowded and the narrow trails could present a challenge keeping the recommended 6 feet apart from others. This is precisely why provincial parks and some conservation areas have decided to close as distancing can be an issue. As a result, my birding is taking place in some of my “secret areas” where I have no interaction with others. 

Area stormwater ponds are great places to check for early spring migrants. Waterfowl, shorebirds, and blackbirds are just a few of the species attracted to these human-made wetlands. A recent check of a few of these ponds near me revealed several Great Blue Herons. Birds can be viewed at many of these ponds without even exiting the car with most having a trail around them if a short walk is desired.  

Resident birds have been plentiful in one particular location I have been visiting recently. The mixed habitat in this area provides something for every species and therefore attracts a wide variety of birds. The forest, meadow, thickets, and water source at this spot is home to waterfowl, songbirds, and even birds of prey, and I have been treated to some great views.   

I have also enjoyed great views of several mammals including White-tailed Deer. Our city has a large population and these creatures can be found in most areas if you move quietly. Now is the time of year when bucks begin to shed their antlers and so far I have found one small set. This sort of scavenger hunt has added to the fun of being outdoors. Many of the bucks I have seen still have their antlers so there will be plenty of opportunities to find larger sheds. 

During this time, I have found my appreciation for nature to be even greater. I often stop to watch a squirrel feeding on maple keys or hopping along the forest floor. These small things I previously overlooked somehow seem even more important. Given the circumstances the world is facing, it would be easy to go into a tailspin of depression but fortunately as in the past nature has kept me grounded. As long as we are allowed outdoors I will continue to visit these areas and practice self-isolation and social distancing. 

If you are getting out and enjoying nature at this time, please heed the advice of experts and avoid crowded parks, keep 6 feet apart, and wash your hands often. If we all follow these simple steps our lives will return to normal much faster. Regardless of the state of the world, spring migration will still happen and if we are all smart with our practices we will all be able to continue to get out and enjoy this amazing spectacle. Stay safe, stay healthy, and as always

Good birding,
Paul