Early spring is certainly an exciting time to get out birding. After all, now is when we start to see evidence of migration getting underway here in Southwestern Ontario with many first-of-year species observed. I look for my first Red-winged Blackbird, Tundra Swan, or Killdeer to signify migration has begun. For others, it might be the robin, grackle, or some other species of waterfowl. Fortunately, these familiar faces can all be found once again in our area.
Throughout March I visited many of my favourite birding locations. The results of these jaunts were rewarding regardless of where I went. When searching for spring migrants in March wetlands are where I often first focus my attention. These habitats attract most of the early migrants and therefore should not be overlooked. Waterfowl, Killdeer, and Red-winged Blackbirds can all be found around wetlands.
A flooded field is often all that is required to attract Tundra Swans and other waterfowl to stop for a rest on their migration north. The shallow water provides a familiar setting while the remnants of last year’s crop replenishes spent calories. Once again this year I made my way to the Thedford Bog to see the thousands of Tundra Swans that stop here each year. To see some of the action from the Thedford Bog check out my YouTube video.
When driving to places I am going to bird, I always keep my camera at the ready on the passenger seat as I never know what I might come across. A white bird mixed in with some Canada Geese next to a farm pond caught my eye as I drove to a wetland. To my delight, it was a Snow Goose. After slowing down and making a safe U-turn I stopped at the side of the road and snapped a few photos before carrying on.
Some wildlife that remains in the area year-round but has been nonvisible for several months have once again emerged. Chipmunks and several butterfly species have come out of hibernation and can be readily seen. Mourning Cloak Butterflies overwinter in our area as adults spending the cold months in woodpiles or behind tree bark and are quick to take flight on a warm spring day. Sunny forests are where I often find my first Mourning Cloak of the year.
As you can see it’s a great time to get out birding. With migrants trickling in and an abundance of resident birds around being outdoors surrounded by nature soaking up the sun is a great way to shake the winter blues. With so much uncertainty in our lives these days, many are turning to nature and the great outdoors to get through these difficult times. Personally, I haven’t felt the impacts of the pandemic as much as others have. I worked from home before and always spent time in nature to keep my head in a good place. If you are finding these times of isolation and closures tough, try spending time in nature. The fresh air and calming effects nature has are immeasurable. For me, seeing these familiar faces while enjoying the spring sunshine always leaves a smile on mine.
Good birding,
Paul
*I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has been using my Amazon links to purchase products. This is a simple way to support my blog at no additional cost to you. I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases and it doesn’t cost you a thing. This support allows me to devote more time to my photography and blog and I appreciate it very much!*
Your beautiful images and interesting commentary brought a smile to my face. I have been enjoying the sounds of Canada Geese flying over my home on a regular basis. A traveling choir – maybe singing about Spring’s return or maybe some are like backseat driver’s shouting directions to the birds leading the flock🤪
I’m happy this brought a smile to your face Debbie. Keep an eye out in those flocks of Canada Geese, so far this spring I’ve seen eight Snow Geese including the one in this post travelling with flocks of Canada Geese.
Interesting as usual Paul…..saw the butterflies and wondered about those!!
I have some pileated peckers here if you want to wander out.
Thanks Sue, that sounds great. I’ll have to make my way out there!
I do so enjoy your pictures and comments.Thanks Paul
Thank you very much Peg I’m happy to hear that!
Hello! I have been using a Nikon D3100 and a
Nikon ED 70-300mm VR 1:4.5-5.6G as a beginner camera- I did no research and just asked to be set up with a good camera- it has been challenging to learn and I love your advice on settings and any teaching on photography- I learned to make your settings before you go outside- I’m not sure this zoom is enough for bird photography but I do need to figure out the sharp clear edge focusing and it could be depth of field I don’t set correctly . I am a new subscriber- I absolutely love your photos and info- thank you!! I have a lot of great bird photos taken from where I live mainly and I have learned also that birds are VERY smart!- Jill
Thanks Jill for subscribing! I’m glad to hear you love my photos and info that I share. It sounds like you have a nice setup for bird photography. Getting the edges clear and sharp is a matter of depth of field and is challenging. You can either shoot at a bit narrower aperture, I like f/8, or get closer to the bird. If you focus on the bird’s eye and make sure that it is good and sharp you won’t notice as much that the edges are slightly out of focus due to depth of field as your eye will be drawn to how sharp the bird’s eye is.