Conditions Are Ideal For Locating Snowy Owls

While many people may have been dreaming of a white Christmas, the lack of snow in our area has made locating one bird much easier. Snowy Owls have returned to overwinter and new sightings are being reported daily throughout Southwestern Ontario. These large owls are often found sitting on the ground in open fields and are much easier to locate without any snow. Increased sightings and a lack of snow make now the perfect time to search for these owls.

I decided to check out a well-known wintering area west of London for Snowy Owls last week, and quickly located three in a couple of kilometer stretch of road. Knowing that Snowy Owls also like to perch high up on hydro poles, on fences posts, and even on top of agricultural buildings, I scanned high and low searching for these owls. Two of the birds were perched high up on hydro poles, and one was on a fence post. The bird on the fence post could have easily gone unnoticed if there was snow in the background. With no snow accumulation in the forecast for our area until late in the week, I recommend getting out there and searching for Snowy Owls.

IMG 8377 1 - Conditions Are Ideal For Locating Snowy Owls — When searching for Snowy Owls it is important to look high and low. These owls often perch on hydro poles, fence posts, agricultural buildings, and even on the ground.

When searching for Snowy Owls there are a few things to keep in mind. Patience is key. Snowy Owls will stay in the same area until February or March if not disturbed. Once an owl is located, be prepared to return to the same location many times to achieve and optimal view or photo. Many times these birds will be too far from the road to get a great look or a decent photo. By simply returning another day the same bird may be in a better location providing excellent views and photo opportunities. Remember to be respectful of property owners, fellow birders, and most importantly the owls. So often I see people chasing the owls out in the fields or from post to post hoping to get an optimal look or photo. Keep in mind many of these birds are on private property and land owners do not want birders trespassing on their land. Chasing the owls puts unnecessary stress on the birds, and denies other birders the opportunity to observe the bird. If the view or photo you are hoping for doesn’t present itself, return another day.

11408596914 f515214053 b - Conditions Are Ideal For Locating Snowy Owls — This Snowy Owl, photographed last winter, demonstrates how well camouflaged they are in a snow covered field. Increased sightings and a lack of snow make now the perfect time to search for these owls.

When you do come across a Snowy Owl and wish to photograph it, stay in your car. Snowy Owls are less stressed by humans in cars and you will be able to achieve better and longer views than if you try to approach on foot. If needed, circle back to position your vehicle in an ideal location so you are not shooting into the sun, but stay in your car. Again be patient. If you need to drive down the road to safely turn around, do so. There is no need to jam on the brakes and pull a U turn if you suddenly spot a Snowy Owl on top of a hydro pole. In fact, erratic car movements such as quickly braking, accelerating or turning are more likely to startle the owl causing it to fly. Once in position, roll your window down and shut off your car. Use the top of your door to help steady your camera. Turning the car off will eliminate any camera shake caused by engine vibrations.

By staying in my vehicle I was able to achieve great views of this Snowy Owl and managed several photos. The owl was not stressed by my presence and casually turned its head from side to side as other vehicles passed. Satisfied with my views and photos, I carried on leaving the owl unstressed and in the same location for others to enjoy. Would I have preferred a more dramatic background than a cloudy, rainy sky? Of course I would, but I know I can return multiple times this winter to this area and find the same owls perhaps against a different backdrop. It is more important to me as a birder to put the best interest of the birds first, than to achieve the “perfect shot” as a photographer.

Good birding,
Paul

American Robins

American Robin

American Robins

American Robin

The Red-Bellied Woodpecker Is Tops On My Bird List

When it comes to birds and birding, “What is your favourite bird” is the question I am asked most frequently. It is a difficult question to answer because I can honestly say I love all birds. Some I prefer more than others but I do love them all, even Starlings and Grackles.

If I had name a bird as my favourite, it would be the Red-bellied Woodpecker. I find their black and white feather pattern combined with their red crowns and napes simply striking. Their ascending, rolling call is music to my ears. The fact that these birds are easily found clinging to tree trunks in plain view, is another point in favour for this bird. Their medium size, colour, and call make locating and photographing these birds much easier than smaller birds that prefer a more dense habitat. Red-bellied Woodpeckers are often called Red Headed Woodpeckers by mistake, a separate species of woodpecker. The reddish belly for which they are named is most often held close to tree trunks and therefore is seldom seen.

12055495213 19dcffb885 o - The Red-Bellied Woodpecker Is Tops On My Bird List — Red-bellied Woodpeckers are often found clinging to tree trunks and stumps searching for food.

Red-bellied Woodpeckers are year round residents in our area and can be found in most forests and wooded areas. These birds also regularly frequent city parks and backyards. If you wish to attract these and other woodpeckers to your property, the addition of a peanut and suet feeder will certainly help.

12935884575 670f788bdd o1 - The Red-Bellied Woodpecker Is Tops On My Bird List — Red-bellied and other woodpeckers use their powerful beaks to excavate food from trees. The solid red crown indicates that this bird is a male.

Red-bellied Woodpeckers feed on insects, nuts, seeds and berries and are most often seen clinging to tree trunks searching for food. Woodpeckers listen for insects and other arthropods living behind the tree’s bark. Once food is located, they use their powerful beaks to move the bark or excavate a hole in the trunk. Next their long, sticky tongue is used to remove their meal. Red-bellied and other woodpeckers can also be seen storing food such as seeds and nuts behind tree bark and in cavities to be consumed later.

IMG 7103 1 2 - The Red-Bellied Woodpecker Is Tops On My Bird List — Woodpeckers use their long sticky tongues to extract insects and other arthropods from tree cavities.

IMG 7108 1 - The Red-Bellied Woodpecker Is Tops On My Bird List — Success! Today’s meal appears to be some type of larva or grub.

If finding one of these woodpeckers is something you wish to do, start by learning their call. I say this about a lot of birds, but in the case of the Red-bellied Woodpecker their call is easily recognized and they are not shy about using it to give away their location. If one of these birds is in the area you will hear it. Next time you come across a Red-bellied Woodpecker, admire their beautiful colours, markings and call. Once you do, it may become one of your favourite birds as well.

Good birding,
Paul

A Search For Waxwings Starts With A Search For Berries

If you are looking for excellent views of the beautiful Cedar Waxwing, late fall, and early winter is the perfect time. These colourful birds are a year-round resident of our area, but with leafless trees and predictable movements at this time of year, some of the best views are now achievable.

Cedar Waxwings can be found in a wide variety of habitats including deciduous, coniferous, and mixed forests, city parks, backyards, and alongside rivers and ponds. Their diet mainly consists of fruits and berries, but during summer months insects are also consumed. Waxwings are a common backyard visitor if you happen to have Serviceberry, Mountain Ash, Dogwoods, or other fruit-producing trees and shrubs in your yard. Unless you have a large property with several fruit trees, visits will likely be short-lived as these birds quickly devour all the fruit from a tree and then move on.

IMG 5508 1 - A Search For Waxwings Starts With A Search For Berries — **The diet of a Cedar Waxwing consists solely of berries during winter months.**

During late fall and winter, large flocks of Cedar Waxwings can be found feeding on remaining berries on various trees and shrubs. With a limited diet and food sources this time of year, locating these birds is quite easy. Find berries and you will find Cedar Waxwings. Once a flock is located, they can be observed feeding in the same location for days until all of the fruit is consumed. In areas where fruit trees are abundant, Cedar Waxwings will be found all winter, only moving short distances to search for food.

This past week I discovered a large flock of Cedar Waxwings feeding on berries in Springbank Park. The flock was observed feeding daily in the same group of trees. The birds were more interested in feeding than they were concerned with my presence, and many views were had from merely an arm’s length away. In fact, I had to step back in order to photograph the birds with a 400mm lens. The week passed and the trees are now completely void of berries. Fortunately, the area is full of fruit trees and I located the flock only a short distance away. Knowing these predictable feeding areas and movements will provide excellent views, and photo opportunities all winter as the birds move along the river.

IMG 5512 1 - A Search For Waxwings Starts With A Search For Berries — **Cedar Waxwing reaching for a berry.**

The silent movements of Cedar Waxwings often go unnoticed as they flit around consuming berries. It is not uncommon to be right next to these birds without detecting their presence. Learning their soft whistling call is a great help in locating Cedar Waxwings. Flocks of Waxwings will regularly perch high in trees letting out their soft calls while others feed closer to the ground. It is these faint whistles that will alert you of Cedar Waxwings in the area.

Pay close attention to trees and shrubs that still contain fruit next time you are out birding. When an area is discovered, listen for the soft whistles of the Cedar Waxwing. Once located, these birds will provide colourful views for you all winter long.

Good birding,
Paul

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Sparrows

White-throated Sparrow

American Tree Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Fox Sparrow

Song Sparrow

White-crowned Sparrow (juvenile)

House Sparrow

Field Sparrow

Song Sparrow

American Tree Sparrow

Winter Blast Drastically Changes Birding Conditions

What a difference a week makes. Last Tuesday, temperatures in London spiked to 16°C. For many, outdoor activities were enjoyed in a light jacket or sweater. So far this week, we’ve seen a light dusting of snow and daytime highs hovering around -6°C. Add in the windchill and it feels more like -19°C.

IMG 5299 1 - Winter Blast Drastically Changes Birding Conditions — Birds use several techniques to keep warm in cold weather. Feather puffing, demonstrated by this Song Sparrow, creates pockets of air which act as insulation. Shivering increases their metabolism, generating more body heat.

Not one to let the cold keep me indoors and needing my daily fix of birds, I headed to Westminster Ponds ESA. I knew the strong southwest wind blowing at 35kmh and gusting to over 50kmh would make the birding a bit tricky. Finding areas that provide shelter from the wind and a source of food for the birds would be key to having success. Fortunately there are plenty of such areas within the ESA.

I decided to start my walk in the woods knowing that the row of Eastern White Pine trees on the edge of the forest would provide an excellent wind break. Among the pines I could hear the calls of the Black-capped Chickadee. Pausing briefly, I could see several birds flitting amongst the branches, inspecting the cones for any remaining seeds. As I entered the mixed deciduous forest behind the row of pines, more Chickadees appeared. Also present were Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers and a White-breasted Nuthatch.

IMG 5381 1 - Winter Blast Drastically Changes Birding Conditions — Male Northern Cardinal feeding on a Common Buckthorn berry.

The back edge of the forest is overgrown with Common Buckthorn, an invasive species in Ontario. Despite the fact that they are not native, several bird species feed on their berries during winter months when other food becomes scarce. I have read mixed reports on whether or not buckthorn berries are healthy for birds. Some suggest the berries give birds diarrhea and can lead to dehydration, others claim only unripe berries cause diarrhea. It is believed that buckthorn berries are less nutritious than native berries because they are higher in carbohydrates and lower in protein and fat. Regardless of which theory is true, you cannot argue the fact that birds eat buckthorn berries. Among the tangles of buckthorn branches, several Northern Cardinals were present feeding on the bounty of fruit.

Following the trail through the buckthorn thicket, I could hear the high pitched notes of the Golden-crowned Kinglet. Glancing amongst the maze of branches revealed two of these birds. As is the case with all birds, learning their songs and calls is the best way to locate them. If not for hearing them, these tiny little birds would have gone unnoticed.

IMG 5236 1 - Winter Blast Drastically Changes Birding Conditions — Berries from the Common Buckthorn tree, an invasive species in Ontario, are a popular food of the American Robin during winter.

The stand of trees on the west side of Saunders Pond yielded a sufficient wind break for a group of Mallards making their way along the thin ice at the ponds edge. Hooded Mergansers could be seen further out toward the north shore. The row of Common Buckthorn alongside the boardwalk revealed a flock of American Robins feeding on the berries. A single Song Sparrow was present seeking refuge from the wind.

IMG 5305 1 - Winter Blast Drastically Changes Birding Conditions — The winter range of the American Robin stretches across our region and even into Quebec and the Maritimes. Look for them in winter along forest edges, rivers, and ponds where berry trees and shrubs are present.

After circling the pond, I came to the open meadow on the east side. The wind was howling across the pond, but I managed to find shelter behind a row of trees. Scanning over what was left of this year’s grasses and wildflowers, I could hear the tweets and chirps of several birds. The most abundant were Northern Cardinals and Dark-eyed Juncos. Further scanning of the area produced a lone Fox Sparrow feeding close to the ground. Having never managed a clear photograph of one of these birds, I was excited for the opportunity. Unfortunately, it never ventured far enough out of the thick cover for me to obtain an obstruction free shot.

IMG 5347 1 2 - Winter Blast Drastically Changes Birding Conditions — Getting a clear shot of this Fox Sparrow was made difficult by the thick cover.

Dressed properly, I was quite comfortable despite the frigid temperatures and strong wind. Even with less than ideal conditions, I still enjoyed a productive day birding. It is important when faced with difficult conditions to always put the odds in your favour. Paying close attention to the conditions and my surroundings, combined with finding locations that provided food and shelter are what made made this outing successful and enjoyable. Keep these factors in mind when you go birding and I think you too will have similar success.

Good birding,
Paul

Reap the Rewards of Cold Weather Birding

For avid birders like myself, birding in cold weather is a given. Others who are new to birding, or not as fanatical as I am, may not realize the full potential of winter birding. For me winter birding has several benefits. First it keeps me active. Finding a place outdoors with a network of paths or trails to walk and plenty of birds to see is a great way to combine my favourite hobby with exercise. The combination of the two helps not only my physical health, but my mental health as well. Birding and being active in the outdoors is the perfect cure for the winter blues. Take last winter for instance; so many people were unhappy with the cold weather and relentless snowfall, but I embraced it. I found myself outdoors every chance I had, searching for bird species that overwinter across our region. Without my connection to the outdoors, I definitely would have been left feeling rather down with winter.

During extreme weather, the chances for rare or unusual sightings are much greater. Some birds that do not typically migrate to our area may find themselves here in search of food. This was the case last winter when I observed two Red-throated Loons on the Thames River, the first recorded sighting of this species in Middlesex County since 1898. Irruptions, the sudden increase in a bird population in an area, also can take place during extreme weather conditions as birds follow or search for a food source.

IMG 5504 1 - Reap the Rewards of Cold Weather Birding — The sighting of two Red-throated Loons on the Thames River in London, Ontario was the first winter sighting in Middlesex County since 1898.

Several bird species do migrate annually into our area to spend the winter. Getting out in the cold is a necessity if we want to view these birds close to home. London is blessed with the Thames River. The number of waterfowl species that migrate from the far north to spend winter on the open river and feed is remarkable. It is only during winter months we can observe White-winged Scoters, Long-tailed Ducks, and Common Goldeneye to name a few along the river. The narrow watercourse provides excellent views, even without the use of a spotting scope or binoculars.

12076214086 29ed7f410c b - Reap the Rewards of Cold Weather Birding — Observing Snowy Owls is a great reason to get out birding during winter months.

Snowy Owls are frequently seen across our area during winter months. Last season’s irruption was quite spectacular. These large white Owls were seen north, south, east, and west of the city, with a few reported sightings within the city limits. The greatest numbers were to the south of the city, with several sightings coming from the Scotland Drive and Old Victoria Road area, and around the city dump on Manning Drive. Another popular location to observe Snowy Owls is in the Strathroy area. Snowy Owls often return to the same area each winter and have been recorded in this location annually for several years. A local birder reported seeing one along Egremont Drive outside of Strathroy on Friday.

IMG 9423 1 21 - Reap the Rewards of Cold Weather Birding — The Northern Shrike, a predatory songbird, is only found in our area during winter months.

Northern Shrikes are another fascinating bird that inhabit London during winter. Westminster Ponds, Fanshawe Conservation Area and Greenway Park are all locations where I have observed these birds. Shrikes are unique in that they are a predatory songbird, feeding on small birds and rodents, often impaling them on thorny trees and wire fences. Roughly the size of a Blue Jay, they can be found over open fields, and along forest edges where they prefer tall trees for perching. Shrikes will often kill more prey than they can consume and store their prey for a later meal.

11595403066 937574f9d2 b - Reap the Rewards of Cold Weather Birding — Bald Eagles are readily observed along the Thames River throughout the winter.

Winter is also a great time of year to view raptors. These large birds are more easily viewed at this time of year when there are no leaves on the trees. Owls are often sought out by winter birders for this reason. Among the largest Owls in our area, the Great Horned, begins nesting as early as February. Listening for pairs hooting back and forth at dusk is great way to locate these birds in winter. Returning under better light conditions to the same area often results in nice views. Remember to respect the birds and not approach too closely especially during nesting season.

11737259234 3dc3e591e4 o - Reap the Rewards of Cold Weather Birding — Juvenile Bald Eagle

Bald Eagles are a large raptor that are more readily observed during winter months in the city. They too use the Thames River as a food source and are easily found on various stretches of the river. One of my favourite places to view Eagles is at Greenway Park. These birds often perch in the tall Poplar trees directly across from the Greenway Pollution Control Plant, providing excellent views.

10612027495 d7e52089e1 b - Reap the Rewards of Cold Weather Birding — American Tree Sparrows are one of several songbirds present only during the winter in our area.

Winter birding is quite enjoyable when dressed for the weather. Let’s face it, no activity is fun if you are not comfortable. Investing in some quality winter clothing is the first step to successful winter birding. If you are wondering what I recommend wearing to stay warm, I wrote a post last winter on this subject which can be read here.

With winter days so short and much of our time spent indoors at work or the hockey arena, getting outside can be a huge benefit. I think if you try it, you will agree that partaking in an outdoor hobby is a great way to enjoy winter. Birding is a low impact, inexpensive, physical activity that is fun for the whole family, regardless of age or gender. If you are looking for new past time this winter, then why not give birding a try?

Good birding,
Paul

Creating a Nest Site For a Species at Risk

With six subspecies found worldwide, the Barn Swallow is the most widespread species of Swallow in the world. They are found on six continents; breeding in the Northern Hemisphere and wintering across the Southern Hemisphere. These birds are aerial insectivores, feeding on insects captured in flight.

Hirundo rustica, the Barn Swallow subspecies that breeds in our area, can be observed most years from late April until early September. They prefer open habitat to forage and can be found across farmland, city parks, sports fields, lakes, rivers and ponds. Barn Swallows are so named because their nests are often constructed on narrow ledges inside covered structures such as barns or sheds. Other popular nest sites include: under eaves trough, beneath bridges, and inside culverts. Nests are constructed of mud and attached both to horizontal and vertical surfaces. When positioned on vertical surfaces nests are semicircular in shape, while those on horizontal surfaces are completely round. Feathers and grasses are used to line the nest.

14738812678 a6c686e392 b - Creating a Nest Site For a Species at Risk — Three young Barn Swallows sit in their semicircular nest constructed on a beam beneath a bridge.

Despite their wide range, Barn Swallows close to home are in trouble. These birds are now listed as a threatened species on the Species at Risk list across Canada. In Ontario, between 1966 and 2009, Barn Swallow populations decreased by 65% with the largest decreases happening most recently. Several factors are to blame including: habitat loss, pollution and climate change. The increased use of pesticides in the agriculture industry has significantly reduced the number of insects in many areas, resulting in a lack of food. Chemical pollution results in several health problems including neurological disorders, birth defects and death. Modernization of structures has also contributed to habitat loss. Wooden barns, sheds and boathouses that Barn Swallows previously could find access to and nest in, are being replaced with metal structures that are completely sealed. Barn Swallows are often seen making failed attempts to gain access to these buildings. Even if access is achieved, these modern structures, with their thin metal roofs, are often too hot in their upper sections where nesting would occur and therefore not desirable nesting locations.

IMG 4778 1 - Creating a Nest Site For a Species at Risk — Platform nest boxes specifically designed for Barn Swallows provide nesting habitat where older structures have been removed or replaced.

If you have Barn Swallows on your property, consider leaving these old wooden structures for them to nest in. If you need to replace or have already replaced them, than consider adding a nesting platform to the outside of your new structure. Barn Swallows will quickly accept a nest platform placed under a roof overhang on the side or end of a building. Successful broods have been raised in the presence of humans, where these platforms have been installed. Barn Swallows are quite tolerant of human activity, and watching adults raise their brood is both educational and entertaining. I have constructed such platforms to be installed on the property of landowners where Barn Swallows have previously nested and these modern metal buildings now exist. These nesting platforms are specifically designed for Barn Swallows and differ from other platforms in that the ledge for nesting is only 2.5″ wide. This narrow ledge allows enough room for the Barn Swallow to attach its mud nest, but will prevent other birds that use a platform, such as the American Robin and Mourning Dove, from occupying them.

7331670990 d654eff2f8 o 1 - Creating a Nest Site For a Species at Risk — This Barn Swallow was photographed perched on the same 1 3/4″ wide rafter as its nest sits on. A narrow ledge is all that is required for these birds to nest.

The biggest problem I have seen with artificial nest boxes and platforms is that they are not put up early enough. The intentions of installing them in spring are great, but too often people wait for nice weather and are too late. The nesting platforms must be installed before the Barn Swallows return, in late April. Birds begin searching for an adequate nest site immediately after returning in the spring and it is never too early to put up a nesting platform. Installing one now will ensure it is ready when Barn Swallows return.

If you are interested in one of these nesting platforms for your property, I am currently selling them for $20 each. Platforms measure 13″H x 7.25″W x 3.25″D and are made from Eastern White Pine. Platforms are left rough and unpainted, making it easier for the mud that Barn Swallows use to make their nests adhere. They are easily mounted to any vertical surface with two screws. For more information on these platforms or to purchase please contact me.

Negative human intervention has led to the decline of Barn Swallows and several other species. Now is the time for positive human intervention to help save a Species at Risk. Consider providing adequate nesting habitat for Barn Swallows if they happen to frequent your property. Simple practices like these are something everyone can do to make a difference.

Good birding,
Paul

Waterfowl Numbers Increasing Across The Area

As fall migration continues, the variety of waterfowl observed throughout the London area increased this past week. In my travels, several species that both pass through and overwinter in the area were recorded on local bodies of water.

IMG 4521 1 - Waterfowl Numbers Increasing Across The Area — Resident species like this male Mallard can be found throughout the area year round. Preening, as shown here, is a necessary task for waterfowl to keep their feathers waterproof.

Starting in the city on the Thames River, Common Mergansers and Buffleheads were seen in the section of river between Springbank Park and the forks. Mostly individual birds were present, easily distinguished from the resident Mallards and American Black Ducks.

At Fanshawe Lake, two Horned Grebes and a single Red-necked Grebe were visible from the roadway along the dam. Singles of both Greater Scaup and Bufflehead were observed farther out in the lake across from the docks at the rowing club. Further up the lake, two Tundra Swans were present. Looking in the river below the dam revealed several Mallards, but no notable migrants.

The sewage lagoons located in Port Stanley had good numbers of both Bufflehead and Ruddy Ducks in cell number one. A large flock of Bonaparte’s Gulls was seen floating at the far end of the cell, as well as three Tundra Swans. The Bonaparte’s Gulls and Buffleheads will most likely overwinter in the area, while the Ruddy Ducks and Tundra Swans have stopped to rest and feed before carrying on further south to their wintering grounds.

IMG 4624 1 - Waterfowl Numbers Increasing Across The Area — This male Gadwall was among the waterfowl present at Dorchester Mill Pond.

Remembrance Day saw sunny skies and temperatures of sixteen degrees Celsius. After paying my respects to our veterans, I decided to head to Dorchester Mill Pond for an afternoon walk. Present were Canada Geese, a Pied-billed Grebe, Mallards and American Black Ducks. I was also treated to nice views of two Gadwall. The shallow, heavily vegetated pond provides perfect habitat for this species. There is enough current at the south end of Dorchester Mill Pond to prevent it from fully freezing during winter months. It is likely these ducks will spend the winter here, as Gadwalls have overwintered at Dorchester Mill Pond in the past.

IMG 4636 1 - Waterfowl Numbers Increasing Across The Area — Female Gadwall at Dorchester Mill Pond.

With below seasonal temperatures along with west and northwest winds in the forecast for the next week, waterfowl numbers will likely increase further. To better your chances of observing these fall migrants, pay close attention along the Thames River and local ponds, as well as recently harvested farm fields where waterfowl will rest and feed.

Good birding,
Paul

Winter Sparrows Return To Southwestern Ontario

Now is the perfect time to get out and search for Sparrows. Several species breed to our north but spend winter months across our region, making fall and winter the only times to see these birds in our area. Among these are the American Tree Sparrow, White-Crowned Sparrow and White-Throated Sparrow. Good numbers of these Sparrows can now be observed across the region.

10842326674 929a74b4d7 b - Winter Sparrows Return To Southwestern Ontario — The winter range of the American Tree Sparrow includes Southwestern Ontario.

Sparrows are an easy bird to find. They prefer a habitat that consists of open areas, thickets, and undergrowth, making forest edges an excellent place to locate them. As with most birds, their diet varies depending on season and is comprised of insects, seeds, and berries. This time of year I prefer to search Goldenrod fields on the edge of a forest for Sparrows, as they can be found feeding heavily on the seeds from this common wild flower.

8736967852 f1a4080180 z - Winter Sparrows Return To Southwestern Ontario — White-Crowned Sparrows are another species that breed far to our north, but overwinter throughout the area.

Sparrows forage on, or close to the ground so looking low will yield the best results. These birds, especially the ones that have recently migrated from the north can be extremely skittish, so walk slowly and quietly while searching for them. Sparrows can also be located by listening for their songs and calls which consist of various chirps, tweets and whistles. The songs of these birds are quite beautiful, making listening to them as rewarding as observing them.

IMG 3938 1 - Winter Sparrows Return To Southwestern Ontario — Juvenile White-Crowned Sparrow

Identifying Sparrows can be far more difficult than locating them. At a quick glance, Sparrows appear as a brown flash, but subtle differences are key to proper identification. In particular, pay attention to crown colour, beak colour, throat and chest colour, wing bars and breast markings. Many Sparrows at this time of year are still displaying juvenile plumage making identification even more confusing. For more advanced birders, Sparrows can also be identified by their song.

15429572330 fcc627d727 b - Winter Sparrows Return To Southwestern Ontario — House Sparrows are year round residents in our area.

Resident Sparrows are also found throughout our area. These species include: House Sparrows, Song Sparrows, Field Sparrows, and Swamp Sparrows. These birds can be found in the same habitat as overwintering Sparrows, with the exception of Swamp Sparrows which prefer areas consisting of marshes, ponds and wet areas.

IMG 1482 1 - Winter Sparrows Return To Southwestern Ontario — Field Sparrows are short distance migrators. Some will leave the area, but their winter range extends along the north shore of Lake Erie making winter sightings not uncommon.

Many Sparrows, including the winter species often visit backyards and can be observed around feeders. Most species prefer to feed on the ground consuming seed that other birds have scattered, but some will land directly on a feeder, especially platform feeders. A quality mixed feed consisting of sunflower seed, cut corn, white millet, and peanuts will attract Sparrows. Having cover around your yard will make it more attractive to Sparrows. Hedges, small shrubs and dense gardens are much more appealing to them than an open yard. If your yard lacks cover, but you wish to attract more Sparrows consider adding a brush pile. Instead of bundling sticks from around your yard and placing them to the curb for collection, create a pile of them in one area of your yard. Not only will Sparrows be attracted to a brush pile, other birds including Juncos, Wrens and Cardinals will too. Brush piles provide shelter from the elements and predators and are a great addition to any bird lovers yard.

Song Sparrow 1 - Winter Sparrows Return To Southwestern Ontario — Song Sparrows can also be found year round in Southwestern Ontario.

If you are like me and keep a life list of birds, then watching for Sparrows and properly identifying them is a great way to add several species to your list. Sparrows are much more colourful than many may realize. Feather colours consist of white, yellow, tan, and rust; in addition their various streaked and striped markings make them a beautiful bird. Next time you are out, pay attention to Sparrows and see how many different species you can identify and add to your own list.

Good birding,
Paul