A Day With The UTRCA Species at Risk Reptile Team

As a nature lover, I am a huge fan of the Thames River that flows through London, Ontario. The river itself, and the various habitat along its banks, make it the perfect location to find birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles. Among these reptiles is the Spiny Softshell Turtle, a Species At Risk in Ontario. With their leathery shells and snorkel-like noses, these unique turtles are my favourite reptile residing in the Thames River. Spiny Softshell Turtles spend much of their time in the water, but can be observed basking on rocks and logs.

IMG 1086 1 - A Day With The UTRCA Species at Risk Reptile Team — The newly released turtles quickly made their way into the water from this log they were placed on.

The Ontario Fish and Wildlife Protection Act currently protects these turtles from being harassed in any way. Failure to comply with this can result in large fines and even jail time. Although habitat loss is their biggest threat, other human activity such as poaching threatens this species. These turtles are known to be collected for the food and pet trade and also medicinal purposes. In an effort to reduce poaching, it is advised that specific locations of these turtles not be published on the internet. Both the Species at Risk Act and Endangered Species Act list the Spiny Softshell Turtle as threatened in Ontario. Any illegal activity regarding this or other threatened species should be reported to the Ministry Of Natural Resources 1-877-TIPS-MNR.

IMG 1034 1 - A Day With The UTRCA Species at Risk Reptile Team — It was quite an incredible experience witnessing these Species At Risk being released. Thanks to Scott Gillingwater and the team for inviting me to come along.

The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) led by Species at Risk Biologist Scott Gillingwater are doing incredible work in preserving this species in the Thames River watershed. Scott and his Species At Risk Reptile Team have protected 175 Softshell Turtle nests this year alone and are hopeful that 2000 young turtles will be returned to the Thames River. Some nests have been protected from predators such as raccoons by placing wire cages over them, other nests are carefully excavated and the eggs taken to the Species at Risk Reptile Team’s lab where they are placed in incubators and hatched there. Upon hatching the young turtles are measured, weighed and returned within days to the location where the eggs were removed from. It is here they are released back into the river. It is estimated that only 1% of unprotected turtle eggs will reach adulthood. The Species at Risk Reptile Team ensures the majority of eggs at least hatch, helping the Spiny Softshell Turtle overcome their first obstacle.

If you are exploring along the Thames River you may notice this species or efforts to protect it. Please respect both the turtles and hard work of the team. Remember tampering with a nest is considered harassment and charges can be laid.

IMG 1031 1 - A Day With The UTRCA Species at Risk Reptile Team — The young turtles being released are about the size of a loonie; the females can grow to be more than 45cm in length.

The majority of this season’s protected eggs have already hatched and the young have been released into the river. I was recently invited by Scott Gillingwater out to see some of the recent hatchlings and tour the lab. As an avid fan of these turtles I jumped at the opportunity. Upon arriving at the UTRCA building I was greeted by Scott and introduced to Kaela and Krista, members of his team. All three of them were warm and inviting, and even though we had just met I felt like I had known them for years.

First, I was shown a group of recently hatched Spiny Softshell Turtles no bigger than a loonie that were ready to be released. The team educated me on everything about the turtles from habitat, to behaviour and how to distinguish between sexes. The incubators holding containers of eggs waiting to hatch were then explained. An interesting display of various turtle shells, skulls and other educational material that has been collected over the years was then presented. Scott, Kaela, and Krista’s passion for these turtles and what they do was evident as they spoke. This whole experience and the education I was given was truly fascinating and I am incredibly grateful for being invited to spend the morning with the team.

IMG 1109 1 - A Day With The UTRCA Species at Risk Reptile Team — This particular turtle paused briefly on the surface before diving to the bottom of the river.

Next I was asked by Scott if I wanted to accompany him and the team on the release of the young turtles. I responded with a definite yes and was excited to witness these young turtles begin their journey in the Thames. I followed the team by truck to the location where the eggs had been collected earlier this year. The river was quite high after receiving 4 1/2 inches of rain during the previous week’s thunderstorms. The normal bank area was underwater and the river was flowing fast. Finding a place where our feet would stay dry wasn’t going to happen, so we waded through the flooded grasses that under normal water levels would have been dry. We remained a safe distance from the rushing river in an area that provided cover for the turtles in the form of a muddy bottom and plenty of vegetation.

I was able to photograph these turtles as the team placed them on a log surrounded by vegetation. Upon being released, the turtles quickly entered the water and disappeared towards the bottom. It was quite a thrill being permitted to release the last turtle as Scott snapped a picture. We carefully exited the area and left the turtles to begin their journey in the wild.

Scott Gillingwater has written an incredible book entitled “Stewardship Of The Spiny Softshell Turtle” that is loaded full of information about these and other turtles which I referenced for the purpose of this blog. Photographs of larger Spiny Softshell Turtles in the Thames River can be found in my earlier blog post Unique Reptiles Found in London, Ontario.

IMG 1040 1 - A Day With The UTRCA Species at Risk Reptile Team — The Spiny Softshell Turtles quickly headed to the ample vegetation and muddy bottom for cover upon being released.

For more information on the Spiny Softshell Turtle and the Species at Risk Reptile Team visit the UTRCA website here. Funding for this project is critical to its success so private donations are always appreciated. Donations can easily be made online by clicking here. Be sure to like UTRCA on Facebook and follow them on Twitter.

Once again I would like to thank Scott, Kaela and Krista for the incredible work they do preserving this amazing species and for providing me with such an amazing experience.

Good birding,
Paul

Sanderling and Sunsets Along Beautiful 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

An Incredible Day Releasing A Common Nighthawk With Swift Care Ontario

Swift Care Ontario, located in Komoka, is a wildlife rehabilitation center that specializes in Species At Risk with Chimney Swifts, Bank Swallows, Barn Swallows, Common Nighthawks, and Eastern Whip-poor-wills being their main focus. Licensed by both the the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Canadian Wildlife Service, they are a nonprofit organization that rescue and rehabilitate these beautiful birds in an effort to preserve their declining numbers.

IMG 9827 1 - An Incredible Day Releasing A Common Nighthawk With Swift Care Ontario — Debbie from Swift Care Ontario displays the wing pattern of a Common Nighthawk.

Common Nighthawks feed almost exclusively on insects and are beginning their 5000km migration to South America, where they will spend the winter. These birds roost during the day on tree branches, fence posts or on the ground. Their incredible camouflage and motionless behaviour make daytime sightings nearly impossible. Your best chance to observe a Common Nighthawk is at dusk or dawn when they are most active, circling the skies feeding on flying insects.

I was recently contacted by Swift Care Ontario asking if I knew of any local areas that still had Common Nighthawks present. A young, fully grown Common Nighthawk they had raised this year was ready for release and they were looking for an optimal release site where other Common Nighthawks were present. I was happy to provide Swift Care Ontario with a location where I was still observing Common Nighthawks actively feeding at dusk as a potential release site.

IMG 9818 1 - An Incredible Day Releasing A Common Nighthawk With Swift Care Ontario — What an experience seeing a Common Nighthawk this close and witnessing its release. I am truly grateful Swift Care Ontario invited me to come along.

Words cannot even begin to describe my excitement when I was once again contacted by Swift Care Ontario and asked if I would accompany them on the release to show them the exact location. Having never seen one of these birds close up and to witness one of these incredible Species At Risk being released into the wild, I knew this was going to be an amazing experience. When I spoke with Debbie from Swift Care Ontario on the phone, she asked if I could meet her on Friday August 29 at 11am for the release. She would need to feed the Common Nighthawk every hour, beginning at 6am the morning of the release, in order for it to be properly nourished. She felt that a late morning release would provide enough feedings. I graciously accepted and still couldn’t believe that I had been invited to the release. I have to admit, I felt a little bit like a child again on Christmas Eve that Thursday evening, as my excitement kept me awake most of the night.

IMG 9840 1 2 - An Incredible Day Releasing A Common Nighthawk With Swift Care Ontario — The young female raised and released by Swift Care Ontario seemed quite content in her new surroundings.

The Common Nighthawk was transported to the selected release site in a special container which provided ventilation and the soft mesh material prevented any wing or feather damage in transit. A soft blanket was placed over the container to keep the bird calm. Debbie scouted the site and I answered her questions about the area. Her knowledge of birds is incredible and I could really sense her passion and genuine love for what she does. I pointed to the specific area I thought would make an ideal release location. As we walked closer, Debbie described the preferred habitat of the Common Nighthawk. Hearing this, I was feeling more and more confident of the location. Debbie wanted to place the bird on a fallen log with the intent of it sitting there for several hours while it got its bearings. She was confident that the young bird would hear the other Common Nighthawks calling at dusk as they emerged to feed, and join the group. I mentioned to her that there were some logs under a Willow tree just on the edge of the wooded area that was surrounded by mixed meadow, consisting of tall grasses, Goldenrod, and Milkweed. I was delighted to hear Debbie describe the location as “perfect”.

IMG 9882 1 - An Incredible Day Releasing A Common Nighthawk With Swift Care Ontario — As we walked away the incredible camouflage became more apparent. Even though I knew where the bird was, she was still hard to distinguish from the forest floor.

Debbie opened the container and gently picked up the Common Nighthawk. I photographed this beautiful bird as it watched intently from her hands. The colour pattern and camouflage was simply amazing. It is no wonder these birds are seldom seen when roosting. The bird was then placed on one of the fallen logs where it sat quite content while looking around. I must say, I was expecting the bird to immediately fly up into the trees to roost, but it was comfortable down on the log surveying the area and Debbie informed me this was normal behaviour when releasing this species. After several minutes, the bird fluttered, briefly hovered, then set down on the forest floor next to the fallen logs amongst the various ground cover. It was here that the incredible camouflage was once again displayed. This is when we walked away, leaving the bird to begin it’s journey in the wild.

0 - An Incredible Day Releasing A Common Nighthawk With Swift Care Ontario

Watch this video on YouTube

As I mentioned, Swift Care Ontario is a nonprofit organization. Carolyn and Debbie are the two primary caregivers and neither one takes home a paycheque. They simply do it for their love of birds. Many of the birds they rehabilitate require feeding every hour, 14-16 hours a day. The time, effort and dedication these women put into ensuring the future of these Species At Risk is phenomenal. Wildlife rehabilitation centers in Ontario do not receive funding from the government and operate solely on private donations. These birds require a special diet, and many of the injured and abandoned birds received are malnourished, so vitamin supplements and probiotics are given. With veterinary costs, travel, proper enclosures, and supplies, the operating costs incurred by Swift Care Ontario are quite large. If you love birds as much as I do and wish to continue observing these Species At Risk, please consider making a donation. No amount is too small, as it all adds up. To keep up to date with Swift Care Ontario’s latest patients and releases, like them on Facebook, follow them on Twitter, or visit their website. Donations can easily be made by clicking here.

Good birding,
Paul

Raptor Migration Getting Ready To Take Flight

As the days become shorter and summer slowly winds down, bird migration begins. Raptor migration is getting underway now and stretches right into December, with peak numbers being observed in mid September. One of the best places to view large quantities of migrating raptors is at Hawk Cliff in Port Stanley, Ontario. Hawk Cliff Hawkwatch begins September 1st and runs until November 30th. During this time, daily counts of each species of raptor are recorded. As part of Hawkwatch, there are two Hawk Cliff weekends in mid September with ground displays featuring live birds, information sessions, and hawk banding. For more on Hawk Cliff Hawkwatch, including directions to the cliff, click here.

Mid September is the best time to go if you wish to see the most hawks. September 16, 2013 saw over forty six thousand hawks counted, while on September 15, 2012 over twenty thousand hawks were counted. I was there on that day in 2012, and let me tell you, it was a sight to see. The sky was filled with hawks, falcons and eagles, as far as the eye could see. Some, like the Sharp-shinned Hawks and Northern Harriers pass by low overhead, while buteos like Broad-winged Hawks can be seen circling high overhead in large flocks, also known as kettles. Large kettles of Broad-winged Hawks can be made up of thousands of birds. It is these large kettles that lead to daily counts being so high.

9371729791 eabcd48a9b o - Raptor Migration Getting Ready To Take Flight — If the thought of crowds at Hawk Cliff may deter you, raptors can be found throughout the area. This American Kestrel, along with many others, was located west of town resting on a hydro pole.

Hawk Cliff is located at the end of Hawk Cliff Road overlooking Lake Erie. Parking is permitted at the sides of the road and this area gets quite busy especially during peak migration times. Carpooling is a good idea as I have heard complaints in the past about parking and accessibility at these times. Don’t let the crowds keep you from experiencing this incredible event. Crowds are much lighter during week days, so keep this in mind. You do not need to be right at the cliff to observe the migrating hawks. Great views of the birds are had along many of the county roads to the east and west of Port Stanley or from within the town itself. In fact, many species like Cooper’s Hawks, Sharp-shinned Hawks, and Northern Harriers pass by inland of the cliff itself.

Songbirds and butterflies also migrate through this area as they too follow the north shore of Lake Erie. Warblers, swallows, and vireos are among the many bird species that are observed. Before their decline, hundreds of Monarch Butterflies could be seen migrating through.

11240676706 4a518fb5fe o - Raptor Migration Getting Ready To Take Flight — On cloudy or foggy days, raptor migration is slower. Birds like this Cooper’s Hawk will wait in the area for more favourable flight conditions.

9675028020 d03cfa095c o 267x300 - Raptor Migration Getting Ready To Take Flight — Osprey prefer to migrate during a southwest wind. The wind hitting the bank at Hawk Cliff creates lift for them

Weather plays an important role in raptor migration. Wind, cloud cover and rain all factor in. Birds follow the shoreline looking for a the shortest distance to cross over. This typically occurs at the western basin of Lake Erie. Many hawks use northwest winds to push them towards the shoreline of the lake. They then lower their altitude to avoid being pushed out over the lake, making for excellent views. Falcons, Eagles, and Osprey tend to prefer a southwest wind as they use the lift created by the wind hitting the cliff to push them along. Migration slows on rainy, foggy days as most birds wait for more navigable conditions. If planning a trip, pay close attention to the weather. Look for a northwest wind following a couple days of rain to produce the best flight.

For me, no trip to Port Stanley is complete without a visit to the sewage lagoons. Located on the cliff west of town, great views of raptors can be seen soaring over the open fields. Two large observation towers overlook four lagoons, a great place to observe migrating shorebirds. Yellowlegs, sandpipers, and Great Egrets can all be seen. Many waterfowl species also stop over to rest and feed on the lagoons. As is the case near Hawk Cliff, Eastern Bluebirds are present in this area. Keeping an eye on the wire fences and power lines overhead often produces good views. To access the lagoons, turn west on Warren Street from Colborne Street (Highway 4). Go straight up the hill at the four way stop. Here it turns into Lake Line. From Lake Line turn right onto Scotch Line and follow the curve in the road. The first observation tower will be visible on your left.

IMG 6374 1 - Raptor Migration Getting Ready To Take Flight — Lesser Yellowlegs foraging along the mud bank at the Port Stanley Sewage Lagoons.

If you are looking for a great place to do some late summer and fall birding, then check out the Port Stanley Lagoons and Hawk Cliff. Given the right weather conditions, you could be in for some of your highest day counts ever.

Good birding,
Paul

The Coves: Displaying Excellent Views For Nature Lovers

The Coves, located a mere minutes from downtown London, is a subwatershed of the Thames River and an excellent place to observe nature. This area is one of the city’s sixteen ESAs, and even though the majority of the land making up what is known as “The Coves” is privately owned, unique birds and wildlife are readily observed from within the public areas. One of the public areas that has produced great views for me recently is the north pond between Springbank Drive and Greenway Park. There are houses backing onto the pond on both the east and west side, so please be aware of and respect private property. To access this area, turn onto Greenside Avenue from Springbank Drive. Parking is permitted on the east side of Greenside Avenue or there is a large lot on the right hand side further up the road.

IMG 9312 1 - The Coves: Displaying Excellent Views For Nature Lovers — Great Egret preparing to land at the Coves.

The pond itself and the area that surrounds it is home to a variety of wildlife species. Birds, reptiles, butterflies, dragonflies, and mammals can be seen in the area. Water in the pond is fairly shallow and during low water times large mud flats form, making perfect habitat for shorebirds and herons. This past week while birding in the area Great Blue Herons, a Solitary Sandpiper, and a Great Egret were observed. The best views of these birds were from the bridge on Springbank Drive looking north across the pond. Songbirds were prevalent in the trees surrounding the pond, as were birds of prey. Red-tailed Hawks and Cooper’s Hawks were seen flying over the meadow next to the pond and adjacent soccer field. Ospreys were also frequently seen flying up and down the Thames River in search of fish. Waterfowl species on the pond included Mallards and Wood Ducks. Several Painted Turtles were seen basking on rocks and logs around the pond.

IMG 9310 1 2 - The Coves: Displaying Excellent Views For Nature Lovers — Great Egret wading through the water.

Cove Trail across Greenside Avenue from the pond is an excellent place to see songbirds, butterflies and White-tailed Deer. Monarchs, Red-spotted Purples, Cabbage Whites, Clouded Sulphurs, and various Hairstreaks were among the butterfly species observed. Three dragonfly species were also counted: Twelve Spotted Skimmer, White-faced Meadowhawk, and Common Whitetail.

IMG 8515 1 - The Coves: Displaying Excellent Views For Nature Lovers — Twelve Spotted Skimmer

With shorebird migration getting underway, look for a greater variety to frequent the mudflats of the pond. In previous years, Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs, Semipalmated Plovers, Killdeer, and Spotted Sandpipers have been observed feeding on these mudflats in preparation of their long flight south.

IMG 8910 1 - The Coves: Displaying Excellent Views For Nature Lovers — The muddy bottom and mud flats of the pond are perfect habitat for shorebirds. This Solitary Sandpiper wades the shallows in search of food.

Walking trails on the south side of Springbank Drive are also available to nature lovers. The Thames Valley Trail Association is having an open, guided hike this coming Sunday August 24, 2014 for anyone not familiar, but wishing to become so with this area. More information on the hike can be found here.

The Coves is a great place for birding, and many interesting and unique views can be observed especially when it comes to shorebirds, waterfowl and wading birds. During migration, this area is popular for not only shorebirds, but warblers and other songbirds too. Familiarizing yourself with The Coves will likely lead to a few species being crossed off your life list.

Good birding,
Paul

Great Experiences For Summer Birders

Many consider this time of year slow for birding, which I think is both untrue and unfair. With so many resident birds, and birds that breed in our area, there is always plenty to see. Just because we are not in a peak migration period doesn’t mean birding is slow, it just means the variety of birds isn’t as great. To call it slow, doesn’t promote year round birding in a positive way.

IMG 6899 1 - Great Experiences For Summer Birders — Watching this Red-winged Blackbird fledgling flutter only a few feet at a time as it takes it first flight is only experienced during summer birding.

Summer birding has perks of it’s own. It is only during this time of year that certain behaviours can be seen. Interactions between adults and babies are always fun to observe. Watching the young fledglings calling with their mouths wide open for food is not something you will experience during spring or fall migration. First flights are always entertaining and sometimes humorous to watch. It is these first short excursions, that quite often only last a few seconds, that make summer birding so enjoyable.

14656868979 f785ce36e5 o - Great Experiences For Summer Birders — An inexperienced flyer, this juvenile Red-tailed Hawk passed by low overhead. Within a short period of time, this hawk will be soaring high above and such close encounters will be less likely.

Following the breeding season is one of the times when we see a plumage change in birds. As birds molt, their appearance drastically changes making it a great time of year to practice and perfect identification skills. This is especially true in waterfowl as males enter their eclipse plumage, which again is something not seen during migration.

IMG 7819 1 - Great Experiences For Summer Birders — Plumage changes like this male Mallard showing eclipse plumage are observed during summer months.

Closer views of birds are also had during these summer months. As the season progresses, birds become more accustomed to human activity and are less wary. This is especially true with birds that migrate into our region to breed. Orioles, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, and warbler species are all much more skittish in early spring when they first arrive back in our area. Take the opportunity now to get a bird’s eye view of these species.

14447580018 fd37d5706f o - Great Experiences For Summer Birders — Seeing this Gray Catbird call at close range makes sound and sight identification unmistakable.

Traffic from other birders is also less during the summer months. Many of my favourite birding hotspots are absent of other birders at this time of year. Less people moving about makes hearing the various songs and calls easier. With the closer views mentioned earlier, quite often birds can be seen singing or calling, making summer the perfect time to learn identification by sound.

IMG 4719 1 2 - Great Experiences For Summer Birders — More runners than flyers, Killdeer chicks are always fun to observe.

Bird activity is always greatest during cooler periods of the day, making early morning and evening the better times to go. Dress appropriately, making sure to protect yourself from the sun and insects. Sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellant should all be worn during summer birding.

Get out there and make the most of summer birding. Take in the once a year experiences that are happening right now. I’m sure you will agree that summer birding is hardly slow.

Good birding,
Paul

Butterflies Galore at Rayner Gardens

Located in the city’s west end lies a butterfly enthusiasts dream. Loaded with a variety of annuals and perennials, the gardens at Elmo W. Curtis and Rayner Gardens are in full bloom right now and loaded with butterflies. Located at the corner of Springbank Drive and Wonderland Road, these conjoined parks are often referred to as the rose gardens. Admission is free and parking is available off Springbank Drive or Wonderland Road. These gardens can also be accessed on foot from the Maurice Chapman Walkway if you happen to be walking between Springbank and Greenway Parks. The area features several gardens, arbours with hanging baskets, benches, native trees and a reflecting pond. The grounds are meticulously maintained, making it a popular summer place for wedding parties to be photographed.

IMG 7742 1 - Butterflies Galore at Rayner Gardens — This Monarch Butterfly was one of several feeding on the nectar from an Echinacea flower.

IMG 7559 1 - Butterflies Galore at Rayner Gardens — Eastern Tiger Swallowtail Butterfly

IMG 7621 1 - Butterflies Galore at Rayner Gardens — Red Admiral Butterfly

IMG 7433 1 - Butterflies Galore at Rayner Gardens — Red-spotted Purple Butterfly

On a recent visit, butterflies of all sizes and colours were present. Monarchs, Swallowtails, Red-spotted Purple, Red Admiral, as well as Cabbage White and Clouded Sulphur were all seen. Smaller specimens such as Skippers and Hairstreaks were also observed. Many of the gardens feature flowers of the genus Echinacea which were drawing these butterflies to their nectar.

IMG 7449 1 - Butterflies Galore at Rayner Gardens — Not to be outdone by the beauty of the butterflies, this American Goldfinch struck a pose.

These gardens also attract birds and several species were seen on this day. American Goldfinches could be seen feeding on the various flowers that had gone to seed. Northern Cardinals, Bluejays, Woodpeckers, and Black-capped Chickadees were also present. A juvenile Red-tailed Hawk screeched as it few overhead. Although none were seen on this particular visit, Ruby-throated Hummingbird likely are drawn to the array of flowers. Several mammal species were seen including the Eastern Grey Squirrel, Eastern Chipmunk, and Eastern Cottontail.

Next time you find yourself in this part of town, stop in and check out the beautiful gardens and the incredible nature that calls Rayner Gardens home.

Good birding,
Paul

Looking for Raptors? Start With The Red-Tailed Hawk

If seeing a large raptor is on your birding wish list, look to the sky for the Red-tailed Hawk. They are equally at home in an urban or rural environment and can be found throughout a wide variety of habitat including forest edges, farmland, city parks, and even backyards. These large raptors are frequently seen perched on fence posts, hydro poles, or in large trees, and are the bird of prey that is most frequently seen when traveling along any highway.

Red tailed Hawk - Looking for Raptors? Start With The Red-Tailed Hawk — **The reddish orange highlights of an adult Red-tailed Hawk’s tail are visible from underneath when in flight.**

For the most part, Red-tailed Hawks are easily identified. Large stocky bodies, rounded wings, and a short wide tail are key features that assist in positive identification. Adult birds have dark brown backs and are streaked brown and white underneath. As the name suggests, adult Red-tailed Hawks display a reddish-orange tail most visible from the topside. In flight, the reddish highlights of the tail are visible from the underside. Juveniles, as with many raptors, are a little tougher to identify. Their tails lack the reddish colour and are dark brown with narrow darker bars. Sometimes a view of the tail is not always available. If this is the case, juveniles are also distinguished from adult birds by their eye colour. A yellow iris indicates a young bird. As the birds mature, the iris becomes a reddish-brown.

IMG 7018 1 - Looking for Raptors? Start With The Red-Tailed Hawk — **The brown tail with dark narrow bars combined with the yellow iris of its eye, identify this as a juvenile Red-tailed Hawk.**

Small mammals including rabbits, squirrels, mice, and voles make up the majority of the Red-tailed Hawks diet, but they will also consume birds and reptiles. Their diet varies depending on range and season. In my travels, I have personally seen Red-tailed Hawks eating squirrels, rabbits, starlings, and frogs. Their varied diet and habitat are things that lead to their wide range and abundance.

IMG 7022 1 - Looking for Raptors? Start With The Red-Tailed Hawk — **The loud screech of this juvenile Red-tailed Hawk quickly gave away it’s location.**

The loud screeching call of this raptor is most often heard during courtship and when juveniles leave the nest. If you hear this call look up, as this large hawk is most likely overhead. On one of my recent walks through a city park, I came across a group of young hawks that had recently fledged. Their sharp calls quickly gave away their location and their short flights were a joy to watch and photograph.

10380144924 2b2773292a o - Looking for Raptors? Start With The Red-Tailed Hawk — **The red tail for which this hawk is named is most visible from the topside.**

Keep an eye to the sky and treeline next time you are out for a walk or traveling down your local highway. Chances are you will see one of these beautiful raptors.

Good birding,
Paul

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Nature, Fun and Free; The Perfect Family Activity

Are you looking for an activity this long weekend that is fun for the entire family and doesn’t cost a thing? Then why not explore nature? City parks and ESAs are loaded with all kinds of wildlife and admission to them is free. Regardless of where you live in the city, a park or ESA is just minutes away. These areas provide hours of entertainment for all ages and a quick walk though will reveal an abundance of nature.

IMG 4330 1 - Nature, Fun and Free; The Perfect Family Activity — White-tailed Deer are prevalent in many city parks and all the ESAs within the city.

Nature in the city comes in all shapes and sizes. From the tiniest of insects, to the largest of mammals, London has it all. Birds, butterflies, snakes, turtles, and deer make up only a portion of the beautiful wildlife our great city has to offer.

IMG 6960 1 - Nature, Fun and Free; The Perfect Family Activity — Groundhogs are one of the many mammals found in the city. They can be found in open areas, such as fields and meadows.

Any park will do, but ones with mixed habitat will produce the best variety of wildlife. If quantity is what you desire, look for parks that have a combination of forests, meadows, and a water source, such as a pond or river. Greenway, Springbank, and Gibbons along the Thames River are perfect examples of parks with mixed habitat. London’s seven public ESAs all have mixed habitat, making any one of them a great choice. If you are unfamiliar with London’s ESAs, a complete list as well as locations and maps can be found here.

IMG 6365 1 - Nature, Fun and Free; The Perfect Family Activity — Butterflies such as this Black Swallowtail can be found feeding on nectar from the various wildflowers throughout the city.

No special equipment is required to enjoy nature, just your eyes and ears. A digital camera will capture and save the memories of your encounters, but is not necessary. If you happen to own a pair of binoculars take them along. They can be advantageous when viewing smaller animals such as birds or ones at a distance, but again not a necessity. Much of the wildlife in the city is accustomed to human activity and close encounters are often had. The key thing to remember when searching for wildlife, especially with excited children is to stay quiet. Animals will quickly run, fly, slither, or swim away at the sound of shouting children.

IMG 6899 1 - Nature, Fun and Free; The Perfect Family Activity — Encounters with baby animals are always exciting, like the one I had with this Red-winged Blackbird fledgling. Wild animals can become aggressive protecting their young, so viewing from a distance is best. Approaching too closely puts added stress on the parents, which in some animals can cause the young to be abandoned.

Exploring nature is a fun and relaxing activity that can be enjoyed by all ages. The physical and mental health benefits are tremendous. Combine that with the look on a child’s face when an animal is encountered, make this an activity all families should try at least once. I am willing to bet that you will be hooked, just as I was many years ago when my Dad first introduced me to nature. So give it a try, put down the smartphones, Xboxes and other electronic devices this weekend and explore the beautiful nature that London has to offer. I would be happy to hear about your encounters with nature in the comment section below.

Good birding,
Paul

Dragonflies Play An Important Role In Our Ecosytem

So many insects these days seem to be frowned upon. They are quickly swatted or sprayed in an effort to rid them from our homes and gardens because they bite, sting, eat our flowers and vegetables, or to many just simply appear gross.

One group of insects that play an important role in controlling the population unwanted insects are Dragonflies. These fast flying insects are incredibly maneuverable and do an excellent job of naturally controlling the numbers of many unwanted insects, including mosquitoes. Dragonflies are voracious eaters and can consume their own body weight in as little as thirty minutes. This translates to hundreds of mosquitoes a day. The diet of a Dragonfly is not limited to mosquitoes, as they eat other insects including flies and ants.

IMG 6187 1 - Dragonflies Play An Important Role In Our Ecosytem — Dragonflies play an important role in naturally controlling unwanted insects and are beneficial to our ecosystem.

With the increased risk of West Nile Virus in Southwestern Ontario, mosquito control is on the minds of everyone. What better way to control these pesky insects than a chemical free natural approach? If see a Dragonfly on your property, consider yourself lucky. It is likely there because it has found a source of food and is probably ridding your yard of unwanted insects. Admire it’s beauty and leave it be. Appreciate the fact that Dragonflies are not only saving your garden plants from destruction caused by other insects, but you from mosquito bites as well.

Good birding,
Paul