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

Record Fall For Butterfly Sightings

October has seen temperatures slightly greater than what we usually expect. Daytime highs and nighttime lows have been a few degrees warmer than normal and as a result, have extended the butterfly season across our area. Butterflies that both hibernate and migrate are still being observed and a couple happen to be records when it comes to late in the year sightings.

Butterflies are cold blooded creatures, meaning they lack the internal capabilities of keeping their bodies at a constant temperature. In order to become active and fly, they require an outside source to warm their bodies. This source is often the sun. Late this past week saw sunny skies and highs in the mid to upper teens, producing some nice butterfly activity.

IMG 2003 1 - Record Fall For Butterfly Sightings — A record late Milbert’s Tortoiseshell was also observed this past week.

In order to survive our cold winter, butterflies either hibernate or migrate depending on the species. Hibernation can occur at various stages in their life cycle. Some hibernate as adults, while others hibernate as eggs, larvae, or pupa. As is the case with other hibernating animals, butterflies remain dormant throughout the winter months using very little energy, emerging in the spring when temperatures rise. Monarch Butterflies are well known migrators, as they travel thousands of kilometers in the fall to Mexico, where they overwinter.

According to local records, late sightings were recorded for two species this past week. On October 22, a Milbert’s Tortoiseshell, a species that hibernates as an adult, was reported by a gentleman working in his garden. On October 23, I was happy to report my record sighting of a Painted Lady, a species that migrates, observed in my backyard. The previous record for the Painted Lady was October 21. One day later, I discovered another Painted Lady while walking at Fanshawe Conservation area, breaking my previous day’s record.

To keep track of these record butterfly sightings, or to report your own, join the Middlesex/Elgin/Oxford Natural History Observations Group. If you are looking for more information on butterflies, including help with identification, then I recommend checking out Butterflies of Ontario.

IMG 3462 1 - Record Fall For Butterfly Sightings — Monarch Butterflies are still present in our region. The latest record for them in our area is November 5.

With temperatures expected to remain warm for the next week, more record sightings are quite possible. Butterflies that were still present this past week that are approaching record late observations include: Eastern Comma, Monarch and Cabbage White. The records for these three are October 29, November 5, and November 8 respectively. Check open meadows while out hiking and be observant in your own yard. If you are doing fall yard clean up, be sure to leave any late blooming flowers as lingering butterflies may be attracted to them as a nectar source. If you do happen to come across any of these species, please report them to the group.

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

Good Birding Report: London, ON April 13-19 2014

This past week saw more consistency to the daytime highs and consequently more migrating bird species arriving in our area. Several first of year species were seen and with the weather looking to remain stable for the upcoming week, more will follow.

I finally saw my first Yellow-rumped Warblers of the year this past week after mentioning them as early returnees in previous posts. The number of sparrow species that have returned continues to grow with Field Sparrows now being added to the list. Chipping Sparrows have been regular morning visitors to my feeders this past week and White-throated Sparrows are more abundant. Northern Rough-winged Swallows can now be seen, along with increased numbers of Tree Swallows flying overhead in search of insects in areas close to water.

Many of the local ponds in the area are turning up several waterfowl species. Saunders Pond located in the Westminster Ponds ESA is a perfect example of this. Wood Ducks, Horned Grebes, American Coots, Common Mergansers, and Pied-billed Grebes were all present. A Great Egret was also observed on the north side of the pond, visible from the lookout behind Tourist Information on Wellington Road. In fact, the entire Westminster Ponds ESA provided great looks at many birds. The forest floor was alive with activity, with Hermit Thrushes and Brown Thrashers sifting though the leaf matter in search of insects. Eastern Meadowlarks could be seen and heard in the open field areas within the ESA. Five woodpecker species, the highlight being a pair of Pileated Woodpeckers, were also found deep in the forests. A rather early Blue-headed Vireo was seen on the edge of the forest capturing insects. Vireos typically arrive later in April or early May, so this was a nice surprise.

IMG 1795 1 2 - Good Birding Report: London, ON April 13-19 2014 — This Blue-headed Vireo was seen at Westminster Ponds ESA.

A complete list of birds observed this week is as follows:

IMG 1985 1 - Good Birding Report: London, ON April 13-19 2014 — Brown Thrashers could be seen sifting through leaves on forest floors in search of insects.

American Coot
American Crow
American Goldfinch
American Robin
American Wigeon
Bald Eagle
Black-capped Chickadee
Blue-headed Vireo
Blue Jay
Brown Headed Cowbird
Brown Thrasher
Canada Goose
Carolina Wren
Chipping Sparrow
Common Grackle
Common Merganser
Dark-eyed Junco
Double-crested Cormorant
Downy Woodpecker
Eastern Meadowlark
Eastern Phoebe
European Starling
Field Sparrow
Golden-crowned Kinglet
Great Egret
Hairy Woodpecker

Hermit Thrush
Horned Grebe
House Finch
House Sparrow
Killdeer
Mallard
Mourning Dove

IMG 1825 1 2 - Good Birding Report: London, ON April 13-19 2014 — Hermit Thrushes are another species that can be found on or near the forest floor searching for insects.

Merlin
Northern Cardinal
Northern Flicker
Northern Rough-winged Swallow
Osprey
Pied-billed Grebe
Pileated Woodpecker
Song Sparrow
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Red-breasted Nuthatch
Red-tailed Hawk
Red-winged Blackbird
Ring-billed Gull
Tree Swallow
Turkey Vulture
White-breasted Nuthatch
White-throated Sparrow
Wood Duck
Yellow-rumped Warbler

IMG 2003 1 - Good Birding Report: London, ON April 13-19 2014 — Several Butterfly species emerged this past week including this Milbert’s Tortoiseshell.

It wasn’t just bird activity that increased this past week. Reptiles, amphibians, and butterflies were all more prevalent. The calls of Spring Peepers and Chorus Frogs echoed from within flooded wooded areas. Painted Turtles could be seen basking on logs in the warm sun, and several butterfly species including Mourning Cloaks and Milbert’s Tortoiseshells emerged.

Spring Migration is really starting to pick up now that spring-like weather is finally here. The numbers of species previously reported will increase and new arrivals will be appearing over the next couple of weeks. If you get the chance over this period, head out to your local park, ESA, or Conservation Area and see what incredible nature we have right here in our own backyard.

Good birding,
Paul

The Early Days Of Spring Can Produce Great Counts For Birders

The change in seasons can be an excellent time for birders to see an incredible number of species, with winter to spring being no exception. As the days warm and get longer, migration is triggered and new arrivals start to appear in our area. This combined with the species that have wintered here still lingering, and the resident species, makes the variety and number of birds for birders to view optimal.

This past week, saw a few warmer days and some south winds, which brought with them good numbers of blackbirds. Red-winged, grackles and cowbirds were all reported. Walks along the river produced the sight and sound of Killdeer, and Tundra Swans started to show up in Aylmer and the Thedford bog. Along with the swans, migrating dabbling ducks started to appear, including Wood Ducks and American Wigeons which are now both present on the Thames River. Pied-billed Grebes and American Coots were also observed. Many Sparrow species will soon follow, with Chipping and Savannah possible any day now.

IMG 9582 11 - The Early Days Of Spring Can Produce Great Counts For Birders — The American Wigeon is a dabbling duck that has returned from it’s wintering grounds in the southern United States.

Several wintering species can still be viewed in the area, including many waterfowl. The Thames River still has a nice variety, with most of the species reported this past winter still present, albeit the numbers and concentrations are much lower. Sparrows, including White-throated, White-crowned and American Tree, can still be found around thickets and field edges and Dark-eyed Juncos are still present at most backyard feeders. A walk at my local park turned up a Northern Shrike that has not begun it’s migration north to the Taiga, where it breeds.

IMG 9423 1 2 - The Early Days Of Spring Can Produce Great Counts For Birders — Species such as this Northern Shrike that overwinter in our area are still present.

Many of the resident species are extremely active these days. Northern Cardinals are aggressively singing, marking their territory in preparation for the upcoming breeding season. Woodpeckers, Nuthatches and Brown Creepers can all be seen foraging on tree trunks for the recently emerging insects.

The weather for our area is not supposed to stabilize for a while yet, so great birding opportunities for viewing these overlapping species should exist for a while. Any day is a great day to bird, but if numbers are what you seek, look for the warmest day with a south wind. If such a day arises, grab your binoculars and head for your favourite birding spot and you may just have one of your best days birding.

Good birding,
Paul

Red-necked Grebe Provides Interesting Views

As many of you know, I am a huge fan of birding along the Thames River. The series of paths and trails are easily navigated and the birds and wildlife along the river are remarkable. The Red-necked Grebe is a bird that I just added to my life list this year, thanks to the extremely cold temperatures we have experienced. These birds usually winter on the Great Lakes, but with so much ice coverage many have moved inland in search of open water.

On recent walks along the river I have viewed as many as four Red-necked Grebes in the section of river between Greenway and Springbank Parks. These birds don’t seem to be too shy around humans as many times I’ve had some pretty good views from close range. On one particular day I got quite lucky as one of these grebes was feeding in the shallow water right next to the bank. I managed to get in a position where there was a clearing in the shrubs and watched as the grebe hunted for food. Red-necked Grebes feed on small fish, aquatic insects, and crustaceans and must dive underwater in order to catch it. For whatever reason this grebe liked this small section between a sheet of ice and the river bank. I watched as it dove repeatedly in search of food, but unfortunately for the grebe it came up short every time. It was interesting to watch the grebe swim with its face in the water searching before every dive and as it cruised along the bottom in the shallow water.

IMG 9000 1 - Red-necked Grebe Provides Interesting Views — Grebe’s bodies are designed for diving and swimming underwater. The rear placement of their legs makes walking on land quite difficult.

Grebe’s legs are set back far on their bodies which helps them dive and swim underwater but makes walking on dry land extremely difficult for them. It puts their balance off and they tend to fall on their breast as they try to walk. This particular grebe saw an open section of water in the middle of the sheet of ice and decided to try it’s luck there. Reluctant to dive and try to resurface in the hole further out in the ice, the grebe decided to walk. The grebe popped up on the ice and tried walking. Between it’s front-heavy body and the slippery ice it wasn’t making much progress. It reminded me of watching a child on skates for the first time. It tried using it’s wings for balance, but still continued to fall forward. The grebe eventually gave up and got back into the river alongside the sheet of ice. it was clearly hungry and was trying anything to find something to eat. I carried on with my walk and hoped that the grebe would soon find something to appease it’s hunger. These birds have travelled many kilometers this winter in search of food and mortality rates among all waterfowl are up due to starvation in many areas.

IMG 9014 11 - Red-necked Grebe Provides Interesting Views — Struggling to walk across the slippery ice, this Red-necked Grebe tried using it’s wings to help balance.

If you have yet to see a Red-necked Grebe or some of the other waterfowl species that have overwintered on the Thames River, time is running out. As the Great Lakes thaw these birds will be making their way northwest back to their breeding grounds. Try to get out next week and experience some of the wonderful birding we have close to home.

Good birding,
Paul