The Rut Is On For White-tailed Deer

White-tailed deer sightings in our area are quite common. Southwestern Ontario has a rather large population and with not a lot of natural predators, their numbers are on the rise. Deer can be found in every Environmentally Significant Area in the city as well as many parks and cemeteries. This time of year is a special time for the deer as it what is called the rut or simply mating season.

Bucks have only one thing on their minds at this time of year, and that is finding as many does as they can. This makes them much more active and less cautious then usual so an encounter with one is much greater. Keep this in mind when driving in the dark as these bucks travel many kilometers in search of does and collisions with cars increase at this time of year.

During this rutting period bucks will mark their territory by rubbing their antlers on trees and making scrapes on the ground with their hooves. These are excellent indications that a buck in the area so keep an out for these signs if you are wishing to encounter a mature buck. Watching a buck chase a group of does is quite a sight to see. Seeing two bucks lock antlers and fight over a territory is even more impressive. The best times to view this activity is at first and last light of the day as bucks are most active at night.

I like to head out first thing in the morning just as the sun is coming up and get into a location to photograph these animals. Morning works best for me because I find the animals are already out and there is less human activity than in the evening. I like to position myself on the edge of an open field where I know there are good numbers of deer. Keep in mind that a deer’s sense of smell is incredible, so position yourself downwind to avoid alerting the deer to you presence. Remember to keep still and quiet and you will likely be rewarded by witnessing some of the deer’s rutting behavior first hand.

Good birding,
Paul

Bald Eagles Call London Home

Bald Eagles have always impressed me. Their massive bodies, thick beaks, and incredible wingspans are a real sight to see. Luckily I don’t have to travel very far to do so. More and more Bald Eagles are calling London and area home. With several nest sites in our area and many birds overwintering here, Eagle sightings are becoming more frequent. Eagles nest in forested areas in close proximity to water as their main food source is fish. Look for them near lakes, rivers or reservoirs. Eagles like to perch in the tallest trees with a wide view of their surroundings so when looking for them make sure you are looking high in the trees. These birds are huge and their white heads and tails make identification easy. In flight look for their wings to be held straight and not in a V which will at a distance distinguish the Bald Eagle from a Turkey Vulture.

I have the most success finding Eagles during the fall and winter months once all the leaves have fallen from the trees. Spotting the birds in a leafless tree is quite easy due to their size. Many Eagles can be found up and down the Thames River from Delaware to Fanshawe Lake. The river’s current keeps it from freezing so it provides an excellent source of food for the Eagles. Fresh fish is not the only food that Eagles consume. They will also eat birds, small mammals, and are excellent scavengers so not all meals are live caught. In winter months look for Eagles outside the city in fields on the ground feeding on various carcasses.

The sight of a Bald Eagle is truly remarkable. If you have never seen one you will be amazed at the sheer size of this raptor. I have seen and photographed these birds numerous times and still get excited whenever I come across one. My biggest challenge is holding the camera steady as I tend to shake a bit due to the excitement. If adding the Bald Eagle to your life list is something you are having trouble with, try walking the banks of the Thames River before you go booking your Alaska vacation.

Good birding,
Paul

No Time Like The Present For Spotting Kinglets

One of my favorite species of bird to photograph this time of year are Kinglets. With Warbler and Raptor migration having already peaked, and the winter species not overly abundant yet, with the exception of Juncos and Sparrows, I switch my attention to these colourful little birds. Both species of Kinglets; the Ruby-crowned, and Golden-crowned can be found in large numbers right now in our area.

The Ruby-crowned Kinglet is a stocky, olive-gray coloured bird with bright yellow on its wings, distinct white eye ring and wing bars. Males are identified from females by their scarlet crown patch. The Golden-crowned Kinglet is slightly smaller than the Ruby-crowned and lacks the white eye ring. The real distinguishing feature is of course the golden crown for which it is named. Look for this yellow crown patch surrounded by black and a contrasting white eyebrow. Males have a small orange patch mixed in with the yellow.

golden - No Time Like The Present For Spotting Kinglets — **Golden-crowned Kinglet**

Both species of Kinglets are tiny birds with the Ruby- crowned being smaller than a Chickadee and the Golden-crowned not much bigger than a Hummingbird. Fortunately both species flick their wings and move almost constantly which gives their location away. The disadvantage of this is it makes photographing them extremely difficult. Patience is key because eventually a clear still shot will present itself.

ruby - No Time Like The Present For Spotting Kinglets — **Ruby-crowned Kinglet**

Kinglets primarily feed on insects, but at this time of year when insects can be scarce, they will consume the seeds of wild plants. My best advice to you right now if you are looking for Kinglets is to look low to the ground, particularly in Golden Rod fields with a mixture of shrubs surrounding them. Many of the city parks and Environmentally Significant Areas are loaded with Kinglets right now. Look for their almost constant wing movements, and shaking Golden Rod stalks as they fly from plant to plant. Another dead give away that Kinglets are in an area is their high pitched ascending songs and calls. Learn to identify their sound and locating them will be much easier. I mentioned in a previous blog post the All About Birds website where the various calls and songs of over 589 birds can be played. This is a valuable tool to any birder.

http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/golden-crowned_kinglet/sounds

http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/ruby-crowned_kinglet/sounds

Good birding,
Paul

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Provide Your Backyard Birds With High Energy Suet

Suet is an excellent food to offer birds in your backyard. It is made up of beef fat and is a high energy, easily digested food especially valuable to birds in winter. Common backyard birds that readily eat suet are Woodpeckers, Chickadees, Nuthatches, and Wrens to name a few. Suet cakes are blocks of suet that are mixed with other ingredients such as corn, peanuts or fruit. Suet mixtures are also available in ball or bell form that can be hung anywhere and can be purchased at your local bird food retailer.

Providing suet cakes requires a special feeder. These range from larger wooden feeders with a built in tail rest for the larger species of Woodpeckers to small cages ideal for Chickadees and Downy Woodpeckers. Either of these styles I like to hang from a tree branch because it is simple to do and the birds will find it quite quickly. Many of the hopper style feeders come with suet cages on either end.

Starlings are also big fans of suet. A group of these birds can devour a suet cake in less than a day. As a result my favorite way to offer suet is in a feeder that requires the birds to hang upside down. Starlings have a hard time hanging upside down and therefore will not be able to just sit and gorge themselves on your suet. Woodpeckers, Chickadees, Nuthatches, and Wrens have no problem hanging upside down so your feeder will attract the more desirable birds and your suet will last much longer. Make sure your feeder is hung high enough that Starlings can’t make repeated short flutters form the ground or a lower branch to your suet.

If you don’t already have a suet feeder in your backyard, talk to your local bird feed retailer and tell them you are interested in one. They will be able to provide you with a feeder and suet mixture that will work best for you. By offering suet you may just attract a couple of new species to your yard.

Good birding,
Paul

Fall Migration: It’s More Than Just Birds Leaving

With fall upon us bird migration is well underway and many people believe it to be over. Sure the big numbers of Warblers and Shorebirds have moved through and Raptor numbers peaked about a month ago, but there is still plenty out there to see. In fact fall migration isn’t just about what’s leaving or moving through, but what calls our area home for the winter. Several species of birds that spend their summers north of here have started moving in. Dark-eyed Juncos have appeared in good numbers this past week. Other species that can be seen are the various Sparrow species such as, White-throated, White-crowned, and American Tree Sparrows to name a few.

As fall progresses and turns to winter watch for more and more birds to arrive. Raptors like the Rough-legged Hawk and Owls such as the Snowy generally set up shop for winter in our area sometime in December. Bald Eagle numbers also increase in our area during winter months. Eagles are less territorial in winter and several can be seen in the same area. Many species of waterfowl will show up as cooler weather arrives. Buffleheads, Mergansers, and Goldeneye are all duck species I’ve photographed all winter long on the Thames River. Each of these species of duck dives for it’s food so they require open water for survival. The Thames River with it’s constant flow provides just that.

Winter months provide an amazing opportunity to see several bird species that just are not around at other times of the year. Pick a species that resides here for the winter that you have never seen before. Do a little research as to what type of habitat it prefers and think of places you know that fit that description. Bundle up and head out to those places and see if you can locate one. If you prefer the comforts of a warm car and a Timmies many of these species can be found while driving on county roads. It is a great way to make the winter feel shorter and you’ll be surprised at how rewarded you feel when your hard work pays off.

Good birding,
Paul

Westminster Ponds ESA

Nestled in the heart of south London lies a real wildlife gem. Westminster Ponds ESA is bordered by Commissioners Rd, Wellington Rd, Southdale Rd and Highbury Ave. At roughly 200 hectares it is the largest Environmentally Significant Area in the city. Five ponds and 11kms of trails make it an outdoor enthusiasts paradise. Hiking, birding and fishing are some of the activities that can be enjoyed there. Keep in mind this area is not a dog park so leashes no longer than 6ft must be used, and biking is not permitted.

The mixed habitat is home to several species of wildlife and is a favourite spot of mine to hike and take pictures. During some of my hikes there I have encountered White-tailed Deer, Coyotes, Beavers, and numerous bird species, both migrating and resident. This time of year is a great time to visit because the fall colours around the ponds are amazing. Several types of sparrows including White-crowned, and White throated can be seen by the hundreds. Ruby-crowned, and Golden-crowned Kinglets are other species that can be seen quite readily this time of year. The five ponds are good stop over places for migrating waterfowl too. Loons, grebes, and many duck species can be seen.

All trails are clearly marked and vary in length. Anything from a quick stroll to a full on hike can be enjoyed. Remember to stick to the trails and obey the trail closed signs as reforestation is taking place in some areas. Trails can become quite muddy after a rain so make sure to wear appropriate footwear.

If spotting wildlife is your goal remember to walk quietly. This is another great reason your dog should be on a leash. I take my dog with me all the time on a leash and see something interesting every time I go. I’ve had people see me with my camera and ask what I photograph. When I tell them they sound surprised and respond by telling me they never see anything. These are the same people whose dogs are 20-30 feet ahead of them on the trails. As I mentioned earlier Coyotes are prevalent in the area and I have seen them try to lure small dogs away from their owners. If a Coyote is encountered and you feel unsafe shout loudly and make a throwing motion at it. This has worked for me in the past.

If you’ve never visited Westminster Ponds ESA you are truly missing out. It is one of my favourite places in the city. Please make sure to read and obey the rules and remember the old saying, ” Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints”.

http://www.thamesriver.on.ca/Wetlands_and_Natural_Areas/westminster.htm

Good birding,
Paul

The Best Place to Start Birding Is Your Own Backyard

If you are thinking about getting into birding try starting close to home. Really close. You will be amazed at how easy it is to attract a variety of species to your yard regardless of whether you live on a country estate, or in an urban neighbourhood. Attracting birds to your yard is simple, inexpensive and watching them can provide great fun for the whole family.

Visit your local independent bird feed retailer and let them know you are interested in feeding the birds. Their friendly, knowledgeable staff will be able to help you with a set up that fits your space and budget. Feeders range from small hanging feeders, to large wooden ones that are mounted on a pole. The possibilities with feeders is virtually endless. Your local shop will also be able to advise you on seed mixture that will attract the most birds that live in your area.

I started out with just a small hopper feeder mounted on a pole when I bought my first house. As more and more birds came I quickly added more feeders and variety of seed. During winter months I will have as many as ten feeders spread out around my yard. Each type of bird has it’s favorite seed and I like to provide them with it. You don’t have to be as fanatical as I am. One feeder and a good quality seed mix will provide something for everyone.

If you don’t own a house and live in an apartment or condo there are several feeder options available for you. A small hanging tube feeder works great and can be hung anywhere. Plastic stick on feeders can be mounted to any window with the suction cups provided, and provide a “birds eye view.”

Once the birds become accustomed to your feeder they will feed at it everyday. You will notice that birds come most at certain times of the day. Make sure your feeder is full at these times and sit back and enjoy their beauty. Birds will become very tolerant of people and will still visit the feeder if you are out enjoying your yard. Some species of birds such as Chickadees, Woodpeckers, and Nuthatches will even take seed from your hand if you work at it. This is always fun for children and people new to birding.

If feeding the birds in your yard is something you don’t already do, give it a try. I know you will enjoy it. I have yet to meet anyone that once they put a feeder up, takes it back down.

Good birding,
Paul

Help Birds Find Shelter This Winter By Adding Roost Boxes To Your Yard

Roost boxes are an excellent addition to any bird lovers yard. They are similar to a birdhouse, but serve a different purpose altogether. Instead of building a nest inside them and raising their young, birds use a roost box to provide them with shelter and warmth during winter. I’ve watched Chickadees enter mine during freezing rain, and heavy snowfalls. Birds will also roost in them at night. When you look at a roost box you will notice the entrance hole is at the bottom, this is to prevent the warm air that rises inside them from escaping. They also have fewer ventilation holes to conserve heat. The inside of a roost box will generally have rows of perches to accommodate more birds, and they are usually made from rough sawn wood so birds can cling to the inside walls easier. Depending on the species and the size of the box multiple birds will use it to share body heat. Some species of birds that will use a roost box are; Downy Woodpecker, Chickadees, Titmice, Nuthatches, and Wrens.

Roost boxes should be mounted in a protected area out of prevailing winds. Some afternoon sunshine will help warm up the box so it retains more heat. Facing the box to the south will also help the box gather heat. I have my roost boxes mounted among my cedars for optimal cover. Most roost boxes have hinged sides to allow for easy cleaning. They should be checked and cleaned regularly. Droppings can accumulate quickly if several birds use it.

I made my roost boxes in my workshop with these free plans I found on the internet. The fronts are removable, so they can be reversed and used as birdhouses come spring. They are quick, easy, and inexpensive to make. It is also a fun project to do on a rainy weekend, and you don’t have to be real handy to make one. If you don’t have any tools, are not real handy, or just value all ten of your fingers, they can be purchased at any local birding shop.

Cold weather is on the way, so think about adding a few roost boxes to your yard to provide the birds with shelter. Getting them up now will ensure the birds know where to find them when they really need them.

Good Birding,
Paul

Think About the Birds When Doing Your Fall Yard Clean Up

By this time of year fall yard clean up is well underway. Many people are spending their weekends cleaning out their gardens of perennials that have succumbed to the cooler temperatures. Before you go cutting, bagging, and bundling everything, stop and think about our feathered friends. Lots of things in your yard can be more beneficial to birds than to the inside of a brown paper bag. Look at what you are about to cut back and see if any of it has produced seeds. Coneflowers and Sedum are examples of common garden plants that birds, especially Goldfinches will feed on in the fall and throughout winter once they’ve gone to seed. By leaving these natural foods for the birds, you are making your yard more attractive to them than your neighbours. I like to leave my Coneflowers, Sedums, and some grasses because not only do they provide food, but the dead stalks and stems also provide excellent nesting material come spring. These can then be cut back and bagged in the spring for collection when the new growth appears.

Dead branches are another thing to consider leaving in your yard, provided they are not at risk of falling and injuring people, or damaging property. Larger birds such as Mourning Doves prefer a dead limb to a live one as a perch, because there is more room for them to land. You will notice this more when the leaves are still on the trees. Dead braches also slowly decay which attracts insects and in return birds. Woodpeckers, and Nuthatches can quite often be seen looking for insects on dead branches. These same dead branches make it easier for birds that excavate a nest site to do so.

Many people put their bird baths away in their sheds at the same time as they do their patio furniture. Consider leaving your birdbath out right up until it freezes. Birds, like all living things require water, and a decent source will attract more birds than food. Moving water is recognized as fresh by birds, so if you have a pond, waterfall, or other type of water feature think about leaving the pump running. If you are serious about providing water for the birds year round, birdbath heaters are available at your local birding shop.

Hopefully this fall you will reconsider some of your old habits when cleaning up your yard and preparing for winter. Some simple practices can make the life of a bird a little easier. When you are all finished sit back and these peaceful little creatures will be the reward for all your hard work.

Good Birding,
Paul

Bird Identification

With so many species, and slight variations in size and colour, identifying birds can be quite difficult. There are many great printed guides available, but one of my favorites is available online. All About Birds is an online guide presented by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Information on 589 species is provided in this guide. The guide is simple to use just like a paper copy, but has some distinct advantages. Birds are listed in alphabetical order by common name, but if the name is not known you can search by shape or taxonomy. Colour photographs are provided of both sexes of the species in their various plumages. Habitat, food, nesting, and behavioral information is all provided, as well as range maps. Another nice feature of this guide is that photos of similar species are listed for side by side comparison. No more flipping back and forth between pages. What really sets this guide apart from the paper guides is that you can actually play audio clips of the various calls and songs of each species. I have discovered that being able to identify the distinct sounds of each bird in the wild has really helped me with my photography. I now know what I am looking for, and am more patient if it is a species I have never photographed. So next time you are stuck identifying what you saw, give All About Birds online guide a try.

http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/search

Good Birding,
Paul