-- 70.27.92.173
I have a family of Canada geese at work that appear to have young with deformed or broken wings. I have watched the family grow from nest to young adults. They nested in a tree and had to drop about 10 ft. to the ground which is when I assume 2 of the young damaged their wings the other 4 are fine. I have only noticed the deformed wings as they have gotten older and begun to get their flight feathers any ideas of anybody to contact to get them checked out? The birds are swimming and eating and doing fine but I doubt they will ever be able to fly. ANyone interested can come by Edwards Gardens to see for themselves the situation thanks for any help.
Kevin
Edward's gardens is located in North York at Lawrence Ave. east and Leslie.
-- 69.158.125.82
In Reply to: Long eared or Screech Owl? posted by Curt Braswell on June 27, 2005 at 04:52:47:
Hey..
Long eared owl is going to be larger than a Screech owl. Long ears is similar to Great horned in appearance Great Horned has very distinctive brow and is larger. You have to look at these images. I saw an owl this past January in the middle of a snow storm at night I could not tell if it was a Great Horned or a Long Eared.
http://www.birds.cornell.edu/programs/AllAboutBirds/BirdGuide/Long-eared_Owl.html
and
http://www.birds.cornell.edu/programs/AllAboutBirds/BirdGuide/Great_Horned_Owl.html
and
http://www.birds.cornell.edu/programs/AllAboutBirds/BirdGuide/Eastern_Screech-Owl.html
-- 209.47.31.6
We have on Buckhorn Lake (Kawartha Hideaway)a pair of Bald eagles nesting with one new addition They have nested in a old Osprey nest
June 27 2005
-- 129.97.180.232
In Reply to: Owl sighting posted by John Mckernan on June 24, 2005 at 19:23:40:
Given that they were small, and have yellow in the eyes, I think they are probably Eastern Screech Owls. These take a while to develop 'ear' tufts, and even in adults, the tufts are sometimes inconspicuous.
Peter
-- 70.25.31.195
Walking the dog around 10 PM on Sunday evening, alongside Glen Manor Rd (which borders Glen Stewart ravine), I spotted what I initially thought was a Screech Owl. However, the ambient light provided by the streetlights (which is why I walk the dog there) gave just enough illumination to think I may have seen a Long-eared owl - it had raised tufts, and a reddish-golden coloured face. The illumination was not good enough to distinguish more than that. I know Screech owls have a red phase, but the raised tufts were very distinct. I'm not an expert birder (obviously), but if anyone could help me distinguish between the two I'd be grateful.
Thanks for listening.
Curt
-- 64.228.212.223
In Reply to: Northern Mockingbird sing posted by Craig McLauchlan on June 26, 2005 at 16:49:05:
Please post to this sight !!
thanks
Carig
-- 69.156.149.116
Excuse my spelling and Grammar, I am Dyslexic thank you.
Today while shopping in a garden center in the Dominion located on Saint Clair, west of Keele, Bev and I had the great pleasure of listening to a Northern Mockingbird sing; 5 of the calls we were able to identify:
They were: A. Robin, Gulls, N Cardinal, Killdeer and a duck (probably a mallard).
If anyone else has a mocking bird near by that is mimicking other notable birds, I wood love to know. Please email me privately. Thank you.
Craig
Craig & Bev McLauchlan Toronto, Ont, Canada the World
-- 209.226.175.59
In Reply to: White goose at Spit posted by John Ashton on June 25, 2005 at 13:43:28:
John, assuming it didn't have black primaries it was probably a domestic goose. Al
-- 69.192.122.184
Today there was a pure white goose, yellow/orange bill, in with the Canadas on the centre lagoon at the Spit. Same size as a Canada. Can anyone identify.
-- 24.42.69.180
In Reply to: Owl sighting posted by John Mckernan on June 24, 2005 at 19:23:40:
How big were they? Can you post or email the photos?
David
-- 24.156.8.52
On June 23 between 11:30 - 11:45 pm my daughter and I saw three(3) small owls. The sightings were at the front of my house. One was sitting on the veranda railing, one was sitting in the tree and the third was sitting on the telephone lines above the street. They appeared to be young birds and did not fly off when I shone a flashlight at them. The owls were small, grey in colour with large yellow and black eyes. There appeared to be no tufts on their heads. I could not tell if the bill was greenish or yellowish. Checking my Sibley Bird Guide, the fledglings look like a Barn, Spotted or Barred owl. We were able to photograph 2 of them. Any suggestions on how to identify would be appreciated.
John
Novice Birder
-- 209.29.97.13
In Reply to: Re: Indigo Buntings finally back in High Park posted by frank on June 24, 2005 at 06:00:27:
"Dog Hill" is the familiar term for the dog off-leash area. It's just north of the Dream in High Park stage. The allotment Gardens are at the bottom of Dog Hill. You can't go inside them without a permit, but the area is very open and birds don't tend to pay attention to five foot fences. We get a lot of birds there because of all the good eatin' from the worms and seeds and berries and vegetables and stuff. Listen for the buntings and you'll find them (they sing very loudly and the song varies, but often ends in a low "choo-choo-choo"). They're the only birds really vocalizing non-stop right now so they'll stand out.
Julia
-- 149.99.112.128
In Reply to: Indigo Buntings finally back in High Park posted by julia on June 22, 2005 at 11:32:24:
Where are the allotment gardens and dog Hill?
-- 70.49.101.92
In Reply to: RFI- singing bird posted by Heather Peterson on June 21, 2005 at 21:36:06:
It might be a Hermit Thrush. They often sing late in the evening. Here is a webpage with some pretty good recordings of its song:
http://www.geocities.com/birdwatchernj/birdpages/thrush_hermit.htm
-- 24.42.69.180
In Reply to: Re: egret in Rouge marsh posted by westie on June 23, 2005 at 11:05:49:
The Cliff Swallows are back? Great! They use a site for a few years, then go elsewhere. I didn't know they were back here, then I don't go as much as I used to.
Their "mud jug" nests are great to see.
D
-- 64.12.116.198
In Reply to: Re: Indigo Buntings finally back in High Park posted by Sierra on June 23, 2005 at 04:14:41:
I think I saw the indigo buntings in high park. They were not quite in full sunlught and appeared light blue in front and dark in back, they are smaller than a sparrow, is this the indigo bunting? they were also making a chipping sound.
-- 24.102.252.117
In Reply to: Re: egret in Rouge marsh posted by David Shilman on June 22, 2005 at 14:48:23:
Yes, the Rouge Marsh can be reached by driving down Port Union rd to Lawrence ave. and travelling east to the park. Only a small part of the marsh is visible from the parking lot but it is a lovely spot. Lots of terns fishing as well and a colony of swallows nesting under the iron trestle bridge.
-- 209.29.97.64
In Reply to: Neighbourhood Great Blue Heron posted by westie on June 23, 2005 at 05:28:10:
I had an experience fishing on the Indian River off of Rice Lake. The herons there would stand a couple of feet away from your boat and wait for you to catch a small sunfish or crappy. After you got it off the hook if you tossed it in their direction they'd snatch it out of the air, swallow it, and wait for the next one. Absolutely no fear of people, and an innovative way for a free lunch.
Julia
-- 192.75.48.150
In Reply to: egret in Rouge marsh posted by westie on June 22, 2005 at 10:37:35:
Great Egrets are nesting in the Leslie St Spit again this year - I saw a pair of them there last Sunday. Beautiful.
-- 24.102.252.117
Had an interesting encounter with a blue heron. I was visiting a friend in a typical suburban neighbourhood backyard (Ajax) when a huge heron landed a few houses away on a gazebo. My friend informed me that these people had just built an ornamental pond stocked with fish. It then became clear that the heron had stopped by for lunch. I found it interesting in that the heron had no fear or hesitation being in the middle of all these homes and stayed around for at least half an hour. Perhaps the growing popularity of these ponds will impact herons so that they will become a more familiar fixture around suburbia!! Doesn't seem right.
-- 69.197.135.24
In Reply to: Indigo Buntings finally back in High Park posted by julia on June 22, 2005 at 11:32:24:
tks.. I have never seen one and must go down to High Park soon.
was hoping to see some at Lawrence Park Yonge and Lawrence area.
Sierra
-- 209.29.166.114
Took the canoe out for a spin on the humber this evening just before sunset and watched a pair of Great Egrets hunting in the marsh. We also saw a great blue heron and a red-headed woodpecker, and some very very tiny ducklings who must have hatched a little late.
Julia
-- 66.48.160.12
At 4 PM today, there was a Krider's hawk perched on a fence post on Lakeridge Rd 1/2km north of Hwy 2. It was being harassed by an unusual number of very persistent blackbirds. It finally took off, and circled to the south-west. Many of the blackbirds followed it.
There is also a Lawrence's Warbler on territory at Glen Major Forest. It is singing constantly as a Blue-winged Warbler.
-- 24.42.69.180
In Reply to: egret in Rouge marsh posted by westie on June 22, 2005 at 10:37:35:
Is this the mouth of the Rouge, at the end of Lawrence Ave E?
Good sighting.
David
-- 209.29.82.10
This week I saw and/or heard at least four Indigo Buntings near the allotment gardens (by Dog Hill) in High Park. We had at least that many nesting in the area last summer, and since I'd seen no sign of them all spring I was a little worried they wouldn't be back this year. They are fairly conspicuous, so I'm pretty sure they just showed up. Are they usually late migrants? Or maybe this group just got blown off course or caught some bad weather on the way.
Indigo Buntings are what got me into birding, when I saw one in the gardens last summer I thought for sure it was an escapee - what a surprise to learn such a vibrantly coloured bird lives in Canada. Awesome little guys they are.
Julia
-- 24.102.252.117
Recently at the rouge river marsh I observed a tall pure white bird wading in the water, I presume a great egret (or possibly a snowy egret). It was there Monday night and Tuesday morning. Truly a beautiful sighting. Has anyone else seen an egret this year. A friend, about a month ago, saw one wading in a marsh in Whitby.
-- 69.158.163.246
In Reply to: RFI- singing bird posted by Heather Peterson on June 21, 2005 at 21:36:06:
Northern Mockingbirds will sing through the night,especially if there is a full moon. This year, for the first time, I heard male Mockers singing. They are incredibles mimics.
-- 65.95.121.219
Hi. I live at Islington/401 near the Humber ravine.
This is the third or fourth season that I have heard a bird singing in the evening, well after dark. It seems to sing a lot of diffrent songs so I wondered if it is a Mockingbird but I am confused about it singing at night. We don't have Nightengales here do we?
This bird always seems to be singing from the same area but I have not yet been able to spot it. The song is very melodious but has different phrases to it.
Thanks for any info.
-- 66.11.164.150
In Reply to: RFA.. any other birding near Lynde Shores Plse.. posted by Sierra on June 21, 2005 at 13:39:38:
If you go early enough, just stand still at the north platform on Hall's Road and you'll possibly see the Virginia Rails going thru the cattails. I've seen them every time I've been out there this month.
At Frenchman's Bay in Pickering, the tern raft should have some activity.
Thicksons Woods and Second Marsh can have a few interesting birds, but keep in mind that the migration is over, and with the growth in the tree canopy, most birds are now rather hard to see.
-- 69.197.135.24
if so, could you plse post
I am going there this week
thanks.. I have been to Hall's Road..
Sierra..
-- 24.226.10.99
In Reply to: RFI: Birding in Toronto in mid-July posted by Gary Babic on June 20, 2005 at 03:45:07:
Try Carden Alvar Gary ,it is a 2 hour drive north of Toronto ,i was there saturday and saw sedge wrens, black-billed cuckoo, Ruffed grouse ,mourning warbler, american bittern, upland sandpiper, snipe, loggerhead shrikes, sandhill cranes, common nighthawk , grasshopper sparrow and many other birds.
Check http://www.ofo.ca/CardenAlvar/ for more info and maps.
Hope this helps and have fun birding
-- 206.186.105.50
In Reply to: Mockingbirds at Downsview posted by John Teshima on June 21, 2005 at 06:47:45:
We've seen Mockingbirds in Col Sam Smith park in Etobicoke quite often.
-- 64.231.16.139
In Reply to: Re: What to do for abandoned baby falcon posted by Christine on June 19, 2005 at 13:37:00:
imageshack.com
-- 64.231.16.139
In Reply to: Mockingbirds at Downsview posted by John Teshima on June 21, 2005 at 06:47:45:
I have also seen Kestrel's in that area, specifically at Keele and 401.(many times since December 04)
victor
-- 142.76.1.62
Last evening we were driving in Downsview Park and saw a group of at least 4 northern mockingbirds, the first we've seen in Toronto. We also saw a brown thrasher, several robins, mourning doves, swifts, and an American kestrel hunting. We've seen the kestrel there before, so it is likely a resident. The mockingbirds were near the drive test centre on Carl Hall Road. The kestrel was hunting in the fields in the northwest corner, beside Sheppard Ave.
-- 202.142.216.134
I will be travelling to North America from my home in Thailand on business and will spend July 16 and 17 in Toronto. I have spent time in the USA birding but some birds (migrants such as Connecticut, Cape May and Mourning Warblers, Harris and LeConte's Sparrows,Sedge Wren, N.Saw-whet and Long-eared Owl plus residents Whip-poor-whil, A. Woodcock, Ruffed Grouse and Black-billed Cuckoo) remain elusive. I wonder if the migrants are in the Toronto area or if they continue farther north in summar, and if any of the others can be seen around Toronto?
I will have a car but with only a single weekend the distances cannot be too great. If there is a chance for any of these birds, what locations would be recommended? Many thanks for any advice! Best regards, Gary Babic
-- 69.156.29.32
In Reply to: Re: What to do for abandoned baby falcon posted by christie on June 19, 2005 at 10:11:38:
Thank-you to everyone for their replies.
I took the falcon to a Wild Life Centre. They confirmed that it is a falcon (American Kesteril - hopefully I spelt it right). It is a fledgling and would not have survived otherwise. They have another one similar in age and plan to pair them up until they can be released.
I am happy to provide a "thus far" positive update.
Also have a beautiful picture of the falcon but not sure how to post it? If anyone is interested and can tell me how to do so, I would be happy to do so.
Thank-you again, Christine
-- 69.156.29.32
In Reply to: What to do for abandoned baby falcon posted by Christine on June 18, 2005 at 17:51:57:
Thank-you to everyone for their replies.
I took the falcon to a Wild Life Centre. They confirmed that it is a falcon (American Kesteril - hopefully I spelt it right). It is a fledgling and would not have survived otherwise. They have another one similar in age and plan to pair them up until they can be released.
I am happy to provide a "thus far" positive update.
Also have a beautiful picture of the falcon but not sure how to post it? If anyone is interested and can tell me how to do so, I would be happy to do so.
Thank-you again,
Christine
-- 205.188.117.5
In Reply to: Re: What to do for abandoned baby falcon posted by Kevin on June 18, 2005 at 18:47:25:
if you're in the toronto area call the toronto wildlife center 416-631-0662
-- 70.27.50.104
In Reply to: What to do for abandoned baby falcon posted by Christine on June 18, 2005 at 17:51:57:
Maybe you can take it to Mountsberg Wildlife Conservation Center in Cambellville. They have all kind of raptors which were injured. It is locate west of Milton.
-- 70.27.92.173
In Reply to: What to do for abandoned baby falcon posted by Christine on June 18, 2005 at 17:51:57:
Not sure what to do Christine but take a look at this site and get in touch with someone there they will be able to tell you what to do. Here is the address http://www.peregrine-foundation.ca/
Kevin
-- 67.71.40.50
Hoping someone can help. My husband found a baby falcon in the train yard where he works - it was found on a train that came in from Quebec. Maximum size of 6". Not sure if it would need extra care for a while????
Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated,
Christine
-- 69.197.135.24
In Reply to: Great Horned Owl posted by Scott Brooks on June 16, 2005 at 17:25:40:
Can you please say exactly where you were .. and what time of day.. curious.. feel free to write private
Sierra
they sure are an awesome bird..
would love to view one..
-- 69.197.135.24
I would like to know if anyone here has ever seen a Gyrfalcon and if you can share with me what it was like. Thank you. Yes, I realize there are links to read, but am interested in personal stories.
Before I receive a blast for asking.
Sierra
-- 65.48.208.96
The great horned owl sat in large tree in the beaches area of Toronto for well over 5 hours. Although harrassed by the crows, the owl barley flinched. It flew off during the night.
-- 69.156.148.35
In Reply to: Night Herons posted by Tony Johnson on June 08, 2005 at 06:23:38:
kjuh/jlnm kjkn
-- 149.99.193.53
In Reply to: Baby Wood Ducks Dying posted by Julie on June 15, 2005 at 22:17:24:
I sent your question to a friend who helps with wildlife rehab in North Carolina, and she wrote back, "I asked, and apparently, the wood ducks die for them too." She wrote a bit later to add the following:
"I just called the wildlife vet himself. He says that wood ducks are tough. They don't need any different care from any other duck. If you can take care of a mallard, you can rehab a wood duck. The key is that they get soooo stressed out and they are so fearful that you have to change their habitat.
They need hiding places, wild leaves and branches to hide in, a place to stay warm (we use upside down feather dusters attached to the roof or walls so they can walk inside them), water to wash and swim in. Not too much if any wide open area. They eat the same gamebird starter mash as any duck, plus chopped greens in the water, floating, and mealworms if you like. If the bird is really not eating, tube feed for a bit, and give sub-Q LRS (lactated ringers solution) until it's stable, then make sure it has this optimized habitat."
Good luck with it!
-- 216.249.9.109
In Reply to: Re: Cedar Wax Wings posted by Sierra on June 13, 2005 at 05:08:18:
I have only seen singles this year but one Spring I had 14 cedar waxwings on my sunburst locust in my backyard (Brampton). Quite a sight.
The blue bird I saw at my finch feeder Mother's Day weekend was definitely an indigo bunting, not a blue grosbeak. The latter is larger. I saw one in Costa Rica. The bunting was on the feeder with American goldfinches. A friend in Bramalea also had an indigo bunting in her backyard in Bramalea (east Brampton. I'm on the west side of Brampton)
-- 64.66.192.62
Hello,
I have been looking for answers and am hoping someone here can help me. I take in abandoned or injured baby ducks & geese for a wildlife organization here in my area. Right now, I have 43 birds that are doing well and we're getting ready to release some this weekend.
My problem is we always seem to loose (die) the baby wood ducks. They come to us looking healthy with a lot of energy but they never eat. I can't seem to get them interested in food. They will drink water. After about 3 or 4 days, they die.
I've tried dropping them into water(like their mother does) to try to stimulate them to eat, I've forced fed them and I've even borrowed other baby ducks to teach them to eat. Nothing has worked.
We hatched 6 baby wood ducks ourselves and they are doing great so I know we are doing something right. Does anyone have any insight as to why these woodies are not eating and dying?
We figured they were found without their siblings and mother so they must have been sick or couldn't keep up. Any thoughts? I appreciate it.
-- 209.29.166.227
In Reply to: Night Herons posted by Tony Johnson on June 08, 2005 at 06:23:38:
It seems there are a lot of them around this year - I counted five one evening near the High Park duck pond and have also seen them in the Humber Marshes, at Humber Bay, and at Sam Smith. A lot of Baltimore orioles this year too, High Park is crawling with them - but I haven't seen any Indigo Buntings, and we had at least four nesting by the allotment gardens last year. Funny how these cycles work.
Julia
-- 69.158.117.169
In Reply to: Re: Cedar Wax Wings posted by Sierra on June 13, 2005 at 05:08:18:
Thanx.
I was surprised to find two in a tree beside my house. I was confused at first then When I realized what they might be I ran for my camera. I did notice that they are very shy.
victor
-- 69.197.135.24
In Reply to: Cedar Wax Wings posted by victor milton, Ont on June 10, 2005 at 16:40:03:
Thanks for posting this Victor, an absolutely beautiful bird I once saw several at the park in trees at Yonge/Lawrence area.. but only the one time.. Do they not seem to be in groups.. often..
Sierra :)
-- 209.226.175.59
In Reply to: Re: Strange sounding bird posted by rob on June 10, 2005 at 05:54:04:
They're feeding on high-flying insects. Al
-- 69.158.101.65
In Reply to: Cedar Wax Wings posted by victor milton, Ont on June 10, 2005 at 16:40:03:
Never seen one before
-- 69.158.101.65
Hello All
Had a Surprise yesterday, a couple of Cedar Wax Wings in and around our house. Very shy, hiding in trees behind leaves and branches. Sweet sounding and beautiful bird . To bad no berry's or fruits around. Got and Image or two. I didn't know what they were until I snapped a shot. Victor
-- 64.228.52.47
there is an abandoned duckling in High Park in the north east corner of Grenadier pond, I am not sure what to do about it and am concerned with it's safety, if anyone can help this poor creature please let me know...
-- 65.93.217.202
In Reply to: Re: Strange sounding bird posted by Gerard on June 09, 2005 at 07:31:51:
why do you hear them late eve. and even well into the night? I guess they're pretty much nocturnal?
-- 209.226.175.59
In Reply to: Re: Strange sounding bird posted by rob on June 09, 2005 at 08:12:54:
Rob, if you listen carefully, you'll probably hear it make a sound not unlike a bronx cheer which is made by the wind vibrating through it's wing feathers as it pulls out of a dive.
Al
-- 65.94.218.236
In Reply to: Re: Strange sounding bird posted by Gerard on June 09, 2005 at 07:31:51:
yes definitely...the building are all pretty much flat there, especially the triplexes and duplexes in the city... i didn't know they preferred the flat roof.
-- 70.28.153.140
In Reply to: Re: Strange sounding bird posted by Rob on June 09, 2005 at 04:58:09:
I definitely saw/heard more of them in Montreal than here, maybe because Mtl has so many gravel-topped flat-roofed buildings, which apparently they like. But they're around here too, for sure.
gerard
-- 67.68.52.15
In Reply to: Re: Strange sounding bird posted by Brian Bailey on June 08, 2005 at 19:55:43:
thta's it!! are they common in urban centres? haven't read the whole bio as i am out the door.. like i said, i also heard them very often in mtl from june till july or so.. and i lived right in the city just a couple of k from the downtown core..
rob
-- 70.49.173.203
In Reply to: Strange sounding bird posted by Rob on June 08, 2005 at 19:05:19:
I certainly sounds like a Common Nighthawk. I hear and sometimes see them around my house every evening now.
You can get more info including a recoring of the call here: http://www.birds.cornell.edu/programs/AllAboutBirds/BirdGuide/Common_Nighthawk_dtl.html
BB
-- 67.68.55.83
I saw/heard a rather odd bird around 8:30 this eve. pretty high in the sky. I made a rather strange, unceremonious sound. It was a decent size almost like a large swallow. I think it had a longish tail and it circled erratically.
I lived in Montreal lat summer and heard the same bird every eve. and often into the night.
any idea? might it be a nighthawk?
-- 67.68.55.83
I saw/heard a rather odd bird around 8:30 this eve. pretty high in the sky. I made a rather strange, unceremonious sound. It was a decent size almost like a large swallow. I think it had a longish tail and it circled erratically.
I lived in Montreal lat summer and heard the same bird every eve. and often into the night.
any idea?
-- 65.48.98.233
Over the past week or so I've had the pleasure of following the progress of a woodpecker and his/her/their offspring. I can't actually see the offspring, but I can hear them just fine.
Not sure how common it is, but the offspring were hatched inside a hollow tree. The mother is constantly pecking nearby trees grabbing what appear to be small grubs of some sort, then quickly flying back to the hole in her tree where the babies are eagerly waiting.
Never seen this before, thought it was pretty cool.
-- 66.20.27.68
Yesterday, June 7 at sunset, we saw a pair of Black-crowned Night Herons over Lake Aquitaine, in NW Mississauga. They landed on ther spillway for about 5 minutes and then left headed west. Probably not unusual, but we have not seen them in this area before.
Tony Johnson
-- 70.49.177.166
In Reply to: Re: ID help please - Warbler? or ??? posted by Leslie Kinrys on June 07, 2005 at 07:45:34:
But it didn't sound like a vireo... sounded closer to Nashville.
-- 69.156.37.228
In Reply to: ID help please - Warbler? or ??? posted by Carolyn on June 06, 2005 at 06:35:05:
Take a look at the descriptions for vireos. I have seen and heard Red-Eyed Vireos on a hot day, moving and singing in low trees. They are also slower movers than warblers. Hope this helps.
-- 70.49.177.166
I have one that stumped me yesterday:
On the roadside in fairly short trees - maybe 20 ft. - out in the open. Stayed still most of the time - not flitting about like Nashville or Tennessee - singing away at 2pm on a hot day. Also it was across from a farmhouse. Warbler size - slim (not chunky), longish pointed beak. I couldn't get a good look because he was right in the sun but at one point I thought I detected a bit of buff or orange on the chest. The song was similar to Nashville or Tennessee - sounded like 'tsz - tsz - then a trill going down in pitch'
Bird was east of Peterborough.
Hope somebody can help!
Carolyn
Toronto
-- 67.43.133.89
In Reply to: Re: Semi-Albino Canada Goose (picture) posted by Zeuser on May 15, 2005 at 20:11:00:
It is a Snow Goose in blue phase and seems to be a year round resident.
My guess is that it lost contact with it's flock during a prior year's migration (injured?) and now has become a permanent resident of the Bronte area with the flock of Canada Geese. It was here last Summer and all Winter too....
A number of Geese have several goslings and the poor Snow Goose seems left out of all the fun.
-- 70.25.31.195
In Reply to: Re: Immature young - to assist or not? posted by David Shilman on June 05, 2005 at 11:12:04:
Thanks for the affirmation. I watched (and hoped for) parental assistance, but none appeared forthcoming. I would have enclosed a pic of the bird but I haven't figured that part out yet.
Curt
-- 24.42.69.180
In Reply to: Immature young - to assist or not? posted by Curt Braswell on June 05, 2005 at 10:33:57:
I think you did the right thing. Most "downed" baby birds continue to be looked after by their parents. Since it was in no immediate, obvious danger, leaving it alone is the thing to do.
David
-- 70.25.31.195
First message so be gentle. I discovered an immature robin in my backyard, resting on a small pile of twigs. Flight feathers not yet developed, it was alert and agile, but uncared for. It had some protection in that it could scurry under the pile of twigs. Rather than try and assist, I left him alone, but observed him for three days (backyard is completely enclosed by a wood fence, relative saftey from cats). On the evening of day three, letting the dog out the back before heading off to bed, the dog (totally uninterested in birds) charged after a raccoon who scurried up the fence and into surrounding old growth trees. Fearing the worst, I ventured forth and discovered only a few feathers on the ground - a not unexpected fate. My question is: Should I have intervened and attempted to save the robin? I'm in the Beaches area of Toronto - is assitance for this type of thing available, or am I just being foolish?
Thanks for listening,
Curt
-- 67.43.133.89
A nesting pair at the Bronte Marina, (1 of 4 pairs in the area) were invaded by another female grebe. At the first approach the nesting female left the nest to help fend off the approach, which allowed the intruder onto the nest. The pair managed to get her off the nest with aggressive pecking. On the second approach she again got into the nest and was again viciously pecked by the pair. This time, she seemed more determined to hold her ground. We thought at first the intruder wanted to destroy the eggs or take ownership, but it turned out she needed a nest to lay one of her own. We couldn't believe what we were seeing. After she laid a single egg, she left the nest and the pair regained it. The nesting pair seemed to accept the stranger's egg and settled down to incubate it. Has anyone seen this kind of behaviour before?
-- 69.158.119.74
In Reply to: Brown headedCow bird female?? Milton,Ont posted by victor on June 04, 2005 at 09:59:59:
Sorry I meant minature "Grackle" not Crackle
victor
-- 69.158.119.74
Some new sounds in the backyard today as well as what looked like a minature crackle (Male Cowbird") and this image at my feeder.. I hope I am correct "Brown headed Cowbird" female.
Never seen one of these before
victor. see second post for image
-- 206.186.105.50
On Monday around noon, my wife & I spotted a peregrine falcon circling the Radisson hotel near Woodbine & Hwy 7. We have not seen it again, but there's plenty of other tall buildings near this area. Does anyone know whether there's been nesting attempts in this area. I've looked at the Peregrine Foundation's page already.
-- 128.100.72.138
As Jim pointed out (in a now deleted thread), there has been an increase in off-topic posts here. Please ensure that your posts are relevant to the purposes of this forum and that they are of interest to all readers. Everything else is better dealt with using email. So please limit your submissions to only reports, queries and discussions that are directly related to birding.
Also, we have a Wildlife discussion board at http://outdoorontario.net/wildlife/. That is where posts about wildlife other than birds belong.
-- 24.42.69.180
In Reply to: Re: Postings posted by Mark on May 30, 2005 at 12:37:06:
Andy, could you delete the preceding "personal attack", please? Jim shouldn't be insulted for his opinion, which I tend to agree with.
David
-- 67.70.43.43
Monday and Tuesday,I was in Presqu'ile and a spot nearby near Harbour and Prince Edward Sts(its a Constructed Wetland Habibtat with a look out spot)We had good luck there Monday,with Lesser-yellow Legs,Short-billed Dowitcher,Belted Kingfisher,many Common Moorhens(some nesting.all probably),American Widgeon,Green-winged and Blue Winged Teal,a Ruddy Duck(beautiful male),several nesting Mute Swans with cygnets,and a Northern Harrier(severely harrassed by Red-winged Blackbirds). Additionally today,in the same location,in a 20 minute scan,we picked up Northern Shovellors,Semi-palmated Plover and a hunting Osprey.
In Presqu'ile there was a reasonable selection of shorebirds,though not great volumes. There were several Semi-palmated Plovers,Semi-palmated Sandpipers,Sanderling,Dunlin,Black-bellied Plover, and Ruddy Turnstone.This was from the start of Owen Point Trail(or beach 4).From the beginning of The Marsh Boardwalk(there is a section unavailable presently)we saw very well an American Bittern and Common Yellow-throat.
-- 24.43.27.134
In Reply to: Postings posted by Jim on May 27, 2005 at 11:36:51:
Get a Life !!!
-- 196.27.32.3
http://www.pulse24.com/News/Top_Story/20050530-009/page.asp
-- 69.197.135.24
In Reply to: PBC Trip to Carden Alvar/Whitby on May 28th posted by B. Griffin on May 29, 2005 at 07:34:55:
What a wonderful day you had with good reports.
Although, we were in the same area Hall's Road, as you, we did not see the Laughing Gull. Another birder did inform us of its approximate location, but we had to move on. We went to the other side of Lynde Shores, however, I do prefer Hall's Road. The walkway there is lovely and no one was there when we arrived... So, very peaceful indeed. Both of us beginners, so, we would not see as many as you, that is sure. It matters, not for we had a beautiful day.
Hoping to return to the area, and see more, but earlier.
Sierra
tks for sharing
-- 216.192.83.5
Yesterday’s birding trip to the Carden Alvar was very rewarding for those attending who were not easily intimidated by the (gratefully) inaccurate weather forecast. Starting at the intersection of Wylie and McNamee roads at 7am we had good views of Wilson’s Snipe, Brown Thrasher, Eastern Bluebird, Bobolink, Grasshopper Sparrow, and Eastern Meadowlark. At the top of the hill we heard the flight calls of Upland Sandpiper and spotted one landing on a pile of rocks about 100 meters west of the road out in an adjacent field. It walked around in this area for some time as we kept it in the scope(s) so that everyone had extended viewing opportunities. Not much further up the road (north) we heard and then saw a singing Clay-colored Sparrow perched at the top of a shrub in perfect lighting conditions about 20m in from the fence on the west side. All the while Wilson’s Snipe were zipping around the area doing their distinctive flight displays and calls. We next located the pair of Loggerhead Shrikes in their usual location before continuing on to the marsh. At the marsh we heard and saw several pairs of Sedge Wrens as well as Alder Flycatcher, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Yellow Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, and Common Yellowthroat.
Further up the road at birdbox #29 we heard a singing Golden-winged Warbler that had 4 “buzzes” after the initial “beee” but try as we might we could not get a look at the bird as it was about 80-100 meters east of the very active (E. Bluebird) birdhouse. Further up the road (1 or 2 kms ?) just before a small red sign with a white arrow pointing up on the right side on a tree at eye level we heard yet another, more typical, Golden-winged Warbler song. Just as I got out of the car to look for it we spooked a female moose out of the brush about 30m from the road, the moose was a definite first for me in this area. While closer to the road than the previous individual we did not get a look at this bird (the GOWW) either to confirm its species-specific status. Just before we got to the T-intersection with Alvar Road we heard a third Golden-winged W. song, again to the right of the road, just before and across from one of the former good spots to find Clay-colored Sparrow on this route. Other birds also heard and/or seen along Wylie Road included Scarlet Tanager, Rufous-sided Towhee, Warbling and Red-eyed vireo, Black-throated Green, Blackburnian, Ovenbird, and Nashville Warblers, Great-crested and Least Flyctachers, and Pileated Woodpecker. We did not hear or see any cuckoo species or Blue-winged Warblers for that matter today, so maybe there is still some hope for Golden-winged Warblers in this province, at least in this area.
After lunch near Lake Dalrymple we drove past/under a few active Osprey nests in the Canal Lake area and then headed for Prospect Road’s marshes. At the first marsh south of County Road 48 we heard an American Bittern call several times and heard and then saw a Virginia’s Rail not far from the road. At the second main marshy area south along Prospect Road another Virginia Rail was spotted out in the open right beside the road. We capped the day by driving south along Route 12 to Whitby where we got the Laughing Gull flying by itself over a corn-stubbled field on the east side of Hall’s road just south of the driving range as we were leaving the area around 330pm. It was an excellent day birding with only having had about 30 minutes of rain to endure while on the drive south to Whitby. We ended up a very enjoyable day of birding with only about 13 species of warblers but managed to get nearly all of our target species for the day.
-- 67.70.38.186
In Reply to: baby snapping turtle posted by rob on May 21, 2005 at 20:07:28:
A good place to post this is
http://outdoorontario.net/wildlife
-- 65.95.110.7
In Reply to: Postings posted by Jim on May 27, 2005 at 11:36:51:
Well, it's about birds, but it's not exactly the official A.O.U. website either ... I enjoy the informality of the general postings board, and check ONTBIRDS for the meatier stuff.
Methinks some take things a little too seriously.
-- 69.197.26.183
In Reply to: Condor? posted by Mike on May 28, 2005 at 17:11:33:
Mike,
No, this was undoubtedly a Turkey Vulture.
GC
-- 67.71.3.240
Tremaine and Derry Rd. (west of Milton, Ont.) on Thursday May 26, 2005 at 11:30 AM. This bird was flying at approx. 40 feet. Using a comparison of the other birds in the area the wingspan of this bird had to be at least 8 feet. My eyes are pretty good and you could make out the individual feathers at the wing-tips. All black in colour. Could this be a condor? If not, what is it? Biggest bird I've ever seen by far.
-- 69.197.135.24
In Reply to: Postings posted by Jim on May 27, 2005 at 11:36:51:
pp
-- 128.100.128.253
It seems thast in the last few months there has been a big increase in off topic postings. It is increasingly hard to find the bird reports in this busy spring migration time as this site degenerates into a personal chat room. The rules are pretty clear.
"Welcome to the Toronto and Southern Ontario Birding message board. You are free to post birding reports and initiate discussions here so long as you avoid profanity, personal attacks, off-topic submissions, solicitations or commercial posts, and that you conduct yourself in a respectful manner."
Let's keep to the aims please. Remember it's about birds. Emails are great for all the rest. Thanks.
-- 205.188.117.11
In Reply to: for: BigFrank.. posted by Sierra on May 26, 2005 at 14:20:01:
email is frankbutsonAT@hotmailDOT.com .... now remove AT and DOT and it will work.I do that as some spammers have programs that look for emails automatically by putting something that isnt in your real email U dont get spammed by them..in this case I didnt get your emails either lol. Try again please.
-- 69.197.135.24
Hi..
I have been trying to respond to you and it is always returned any ideas..
Sierra :))
found that amazing re High Park and must go except usually away September It is a beautiful month for so much we shall see
-- 69.197.135.24
In Reply to: Re: Bushnell binoculars.. posted by Al Johnston on May 24, 2005 at 13:03:55:
;;
-- 70.49.190.39
In Reply to: Re: Whip-Poor-Will, Harlequin Duck, Etc at Col Sam Smith Park posted by jonas ellerstrom on May 20, 2005 at 12:51:42:
Wow! I had never considered it to be an international birding destination! I'm glad to hear you enjoyed it. It's my primary birding location because I live a short walk from there, but it can provide an amazing diversity of birds for a city park.
BB
-- 64.12.116.198
In Reply to: Hello Guys That is the one I mean.. sorry posted by Sierra on May 24, 2005 at 08:22:14:
Hi Sierra,feel free to email me if U wish I have tons of hawk watching info,as its my truest passion. High Park starts September 1 through till Nov15 depending on weather conditions late in the year.Peak days depend heavily on wind conditions,northwest being the best.Around Sept 11 High Park can get great numbers of Broadwinged Hawks with over 10000 being the record a few years ago(recent years havent been very good for them at all but we live in hopes). The best day I have been at High Park for was over 1400 raptors.At Hawk Cliff have seen over 1800 in a day and there wasnt 5 minutes from 9-5pm without a raptor to watch.(as I dont drive getting there is not the norm..I enjoy High Park) Also the park I go to near the bluffs,Rosetta McClain Gardens..I did a count of my own last fall from Aug-Nov and got over 1200 birds,which wasnt bad for a 10minute walk from my door.Good Luck and I hope to see U at one of the watches sometime.
-- 209.29.96.22
Saw two Orchard Orioles in high Park today (or maybe the same one twice). It was down by Grenadier Pond, the first by the "shelter" near the Japanese Gardens, the other in a willow by the "dock".
Also a bay-breasted warbler and the tamest downy woodpecker(I think - I couldn't find his red patch) in the world. He'll land right on you.
-- 64.228.53.49
In Reply to: Re: Bushnell binoculars.. posted by Sierra on May 23, 2005 at 09:01:50:
Efston Science carry a full line of binoculars. They're on Dufferin across from Yorkdale Shopping Centre. I'd recommend a pair with 8 power and an objective lens size of 40 MMs. Put another way, 8X40's.
Al
-- 69.197.135.24
In Reply to: Re: Geoff: does one need to be out early Am.. plse Sierra nt posted by Geoff on May 24, 2005 at 10:32:08:
pp
-- 209.161.231.26
In Reply to: Geoff: does one need to be out early Am.. plse Sierra nt posted by Sierra on May 24, 2005 at 08:28:42:
We were there after 12pm. I don't know what time of day is best, but later is probably better because the birds are rising on the warm air "thermals" after the ground has had time to warm up.
-- 69.197.135.24
In Reply to: Re: RFI Hawk watch.. Port Burwell etc. posted by Geoff on May 23, 2005 at 18:20:58:
ll
-- 69.197.135.24
In Reply to: Re: Spit Bus posted by BIGFRANK on May 18, 2005 at 15:46:55:
oo
-- 69.197.135.24
In Reply to: Re: RFI.. re owls vs. Falcons/hawks posted by Al Johnston on May 21, 2005 at 15:02:56:
tks for this input
My goodness. that is scarey let your dog out..
Ill watch for these hawks would love to see one.. their eyes are Red..
Sierra :)
-- 69.197.135.24
In Reply to: Mt. Pleasant Cemetary (again) posted by Brian on May 24, 2005 at 06:37:23:
Hi Brian... must get there
ps do you take your car or TTC.. are there bathroom facilities there.. never been in there.. tks.
Sierra :))
-- 69.197.135.24
In Reply to: Re: RFI Hawk watch.. Port Burwell etc. posted by Geoff on May 23, 2005 at 18:20:58:
Frank: I have also heard about the one in High Park and will try to go.. when it is on again
but this one at Port Stanley.. They said it starts in September.. must be fantastic.
tks.
Sierra ..
-- 142.106.56.179
Birding remains good in the cemetary. A very quick ride through this morning revealed:
Hummingbird, swainson's thrushes, red eyed and warbling vireos, chestnut sided, blackpoll, ovenbird, redstart, and magnolia warblers.
-- 209.161.231.105
In Reply to: Re: RFI Hawk watch.. Port Burwell etc. posted by BIGFRANK on May 23, 2005 at 15:17:30:
I think she means Port Stanley which is west of Port Burwell. Was there last Fall, beautiful warm day and there was alot of activity/people at Hawk Cliff. It was really amazing later, to be standing in downtown Port Stanley :)
(further West) and looking way, way up and seeing huge kettles of Broad-winged Hawks (and others) swirling out of sight. The day I was there, an October weekend(annual meeting if memory serves), it was clear and it was a bit hard to pick out the hawks without binoculars against a clear sky as they were quite high up. Still a remarkable sight.
-- 205.188.117.11
In Reply to: RFI Hawk watch.. Port Burwell etc. posted by Sierra on May 23, 2005 at 09:00:21:
Hi Sierra,dont know anything about Port Burwell watch or even where that is haha,but there are local watches and count sites,if U are near or around Toronto.In downtown Toronto there is High Park in the fall,Ive attended there and seen some great days,every year all 15species of raptors seen in southern Ontario regularily are seen. In the fall there is a great site called Hawk Cliff,near Lake Erie,around St Thomas area.They get great numbers regularily,,also the fall.(Sept-Nov) In spring(Mar-midMay) there is Beamer Memorial Park,near Grimsby,another great site.
-- 209.226.247.21
Not sure if this will work, but here's a shot we got today 
-- 69.197.135.24
In Reply to: Re: Bushnell binoculars.. posted by David Shilman on May 21, 2005 at 11:33:12:
thanks to both of you.. I appreciate this.. if you check in here.. could you tell me the .. best place to buy these also I plan to get someone a pair for their birthday just a beginner.. but .. they will like them
Im in Metro.. Toronto
S
-- 69.197.135.24
Hi to all
Does anyone here attend this? must be wonderful if so.. where do you stay.. and any hints appreciated..
hope you dont mind me asking these questions figure that is what the board is for. I am new and trying to take in as much as possible.
Sierra :)))
have a great day
-- 69.17.177.103
In Reply to: Red Breasted Grosbeak posted by Peter on May 19, 2005 at 18:46:17:
I'm trying to determine what I saw in a tree from my backyard yesterday - had the colouring of above, however was bigger, leaner, and it's call was one short 'off-key' shriek. Any ideas? I'm not a serious birder, but very curious.
-- 209.161.234.176
In Reply to: need help identifying posted by i j on May 21, 2005 at 20:41:35:
Probably a Crow. Yesterday afternoon in Grimbsy, a Red-tail was being chased by a Crow that was diving at it from above and causing the hawk to to turn upside down. It was soon being mobbed by a second Crow.
Eastern Kingbirds, Grackles and Red-winged Blackbirds are other common birds that do it too.
-- 209.197.167.16
Hey everyone first off, i don't have many details to go by so sorry about that. Ok i've been seeing this smaller bird of prey (possibly a smaller hawk, falcom or maybe a kite?). I haven't seen it up close so i can't describe colours etc.
But i always see it exhibit the same behavior - It usually follows red tail hawks and harasses them by flying above them and diving at them. They are much quicker and agile as well and are quite fiesty.
sorry about the lack of details but maybe someone can identify it by the behaviour
thanks
-- 67.68.52.234
Hey folks,
I came across a very small snapping turtle today on a gravel parking lot in a conservation area.. I picked the little guy up and he/she was barely active. i thought it may have been dead! well, I happened to have a bottle of water and cut open the bottle, paced it in there and it seemed to come alive.
I examined it for several minutes then decided to release it. The nearest waterbody was about 300 metres away..
The specimen measured no more than 2.75 inches, maybe 3inches in total.. the carapace was just slightly larger than a two dollar coin..
I was perplexed to say the least. Was this a hatchling from last summer? given that it is only may 21, it could not have been from this season's hatch.. the only thing i could think of is that someone came across it and picked it up, perhpas some kids.. they then decided to let it go in the parking lot of the park as they were driving off.. otherwise, how could it hatch in may and what the heck was it doing there so far from any water?
any thoughts???
Thanks,
Rob
-- 64.228.47.15
In Reply to: RFI.. re owls vs. Falcons/hawks posted by Sierra on May 19, 2005 at 12:01:15:
The GHOW is reputed to take prey as large as house cats and skunks so I would probably rate it as more deadly than most hawks. Falcons prey mostly on other birds. There was a case recently where someone let out there Yorshire Terrier for it's last pee of the evening and it's owner just intervened in time to ward off a large owl (undoubtedly a GHOW). The lucky Yorky sustained just one talon penetration which didn't require treatment. Al
-- 64.228.47.15
In Reply to: Bushnell binoculars.. posted by Sierra on May 21, 2005 at 07:30:25:
As the old saying goes, Sierra, "never look a gift horse in the mouth". As David posts, it would be interesting to know the magnification and objective lens size.
Al
-- 24.42.69.180
In Reply to: Bushnell binoculars.. posted by Sierra on May 21, 2005 at 07:30:25:
Details! Details! Model number? Magnification and objective lens diameter (expressed as a number like "7x40")? In general, Bushnell is a good name for beginners and if they are being offered to you as a gift, they may be hard to refuse.
David
-- 209.29.96.95
I spent all day at Humber Bay Park on Thursday May 19th(the bottom of Park Lawn at Lakeshore Blvd. W.) and saw a number of warblers, including yellow (lots of those), mourning, chestnut-sided, blackand white, and common yellowthroat. There was also a Northern Parula which I had a hard time identifying because the photo in my field guide was somewhat lacking. I spent about two hours crouched in a bush. This little grey bird with a yellow throat and white wing bars would come along, I'd try to make note of his markings, and then the yellow warbler who ruled the bush would chase him away. Then I would wait for him to come back, all the while trying to find a matching picture in my book. Finally, I googled Northern Parula when I got home, and that was definitely him.
I don't know how common they are (I only started birding last year), but my field guide lists him as "rare to uncommon", so I thought I'd share.
-- 69.197.135.24
I have been offered a pair of these binoculars. New ones.
Are they fine for a beginner, as myself.
Tks.
Sierra..
-- 65.93.93.174
In Reply to: Whip-Poor-Will, Harlequin Duck, Etc at Col Sam Smith Park posted by Brian Bailey on May 15, 2005 at 19:56:18:
Brian (and others),
many thanks for posting information on the Col Sam Smith Park. We are visiting birders from Sweden and did not know of this spot before, having only an old edition of Finlay's bird-finding guide to Canada. We came there twice on May 17th, in the morning and in the evening, and found quite a selection of birds, including the Harlequin Duck and - hello there! - an European Goldfinch, hopping about on the grass. However did that get there... an escapee, I guess. We were also quite surprised and enthusiastic at finding a couple of beavers eagerly at work in the wetlands there. In the midst of a big city - that's nice.
All the best,
Jonas & Elisabeth Ellerstrom, Lund, Sweden
-- 205.188.117.11
In Reply to: Re: Northern Harrier posted by Glenn Coady on May 18, 2005 at 23:10:15:
Hi Glenn..tried to email ya but it got returned.I guess Ud call my info heresay.Many have mentioned they are nesting there,folks to ask would be at the banding station..I believe they told me that Harriers are nesting at The Spit.I have seen a male and female in the area consistantly. I will inquire this weekend when I visit,and let U know. Feel free to email me just take out the AT and DOT.
I am watching the Redtails again,2 young about 2weeks old now,doing great(Massey nest again).
-- 69.194.112.45
In Reply to: Re: Short-billed Dowitchers @ Colonel Samuel Smith Park posted by Ed on May 19, 2005 at 09:10:24:
Ed,
Regardless of which species they were, I am glad you were able to enjoy them on their brief spring passage through our area.
It is also nice to see Colonel Sam Smith Park is receiving such thorough coverage by interested birders this spring.
Enjoy the cavalcade of migrants,
GC
-- 69.192.200.204
One from today in Whitby.
-- 69.197.135.24
I would like to know if an owl is stronger in attacking prey than hawks or falcons..
Is the Great Horned Owl (don't like to use the word vicious) the most deadly attacker?
I have never seen an owl in nature.
Tks.. and all this is new to me.
Sierra
-- 69.194.58.133
In Reply to: Re: Short-billed Dowitchers @ Colonel Samuel Smith Park posted by Glenn Coady on May 18, 2005 at 23:04:24:
Thank you for making that correction Glenn and may I add that I enjoy all of your reports.
-- 65.95.113.90
The beauty of having bird feeders at the bottom of the garden is that you never know what species are going to drop in. One week after my first Rose Breasted Grosbeak, I was delighted this morning to spot a male Baltimore Oriole checking out my suet feeder. The first time ever for an Oriole in my garden.
He didn't stay long but I have decorated the bushes with slices of orange hoping he will return.
I am located in the Port Union Village area of east Scarborough.
-- 199.243.108.102
In Reply to: Northern Harrier posted by BIGFRANK on May 17, 2005 at 17:48:59:
Frank,
Do you have observations that would meet Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas criteria supporting breeding evidence for Northern Harrier at the Spit? If so, I would be interested in knowing, as we have no firm evidence for that atlas square (17PJ33) so far during the atlas for Northern Harrier.
GC
-- 69.194.112.45
In Reply to: Long-billed Dowitcher, Sam Smith posted by Ed on May 17, 2005 at 15:58:21:
Ed,
These were Short-billed Dowitchers of the 'hendersoni' subspecies.
GC
-- 69.194.112.45
In Reply to: Re: Blue Grosbeak - not a bunting :-) posted by Carla on May 17, 2005 at 11:14:11:
Carla,
Yes, better pictures would be advisable. But I believe they are going to demonstrate that this bird is an Indigo Bunting, as it lacks both the MASSIVE bill of a Blue Grosbeak (both birds have a conical bill, but the Blue Grosbeak's nearly extends up onto the top of the crown!) and the easily discernable and extensive chestnut patch in the coverts. Beware that some Indigo Buntings can show a lesser amount of brown in the wing coverts, so presence of some brown there alone can be misleading at best and meaningless at worst vis-a-vis an identification of Blue Grosbeak. This identification error is possibly the most commonly made one in Ontario in spring.
GC
-- 64.12.116.198
In Reply to: B Frank posted by Sierra on May 18, 2005 at 13:16:24:
TTC runs a bus on Saturday only to Leslie and Commissioner,and then U have to walk a long block to The Spit.Right now the shuttle bus at The Spit,runs from about 915am,out to the bridge. Makes it handy if U dont wanna walk the whole thing! I suspect there could be good warblers around near the marina and in the "wetwoods".Its also likely somemore shorebirds will be around..its Whimbrel time any time now.I will definetly be there first thing Sat morning myself. Feel free to contact me at frankbutsonAT@hotmailDOT.com just take out the AT and DOT (puting them in wont allow programs junk mailers use to check pages for valid emails)
-- 69.197.135.24
In Reply to: Northern Harrier posted by BIGFRANK on May 17, 2005 at 17:48:59:
tks for this.. they were lovely .. a pair.. and I was quite happy to have them pointed out to me
S :)
must get down to the spit
does the bus go there?
-- 192.75.48.150
I work at the Pickering Nuclear Plant. On site, we have a male scarlet tanager. He beautiful!! Haven't seen him with a female and not sure where his nest is (if he has one). He is fairly tame and will come within a couple feet of people.
-- 216.254.156.226
I don't have an Indigo bunting on my list!!! Help!!! Where should I go to see this bird? East end only!!!!
-- 69.197.135.24
In Reply to: Rosetta McClain Gardens Today posted by BIGFRANK on May 17, 2005 at 11:39:55:
wow.. sounds a delight we go right by there as we take #2 all the way to Picton.. when travelling
must be a nice park did you ever go to that Glen Rouge campground what is that like?
I saw your post about the baby squirrels.. they are so cute. :))
Sierra
-- 69.197.135.24
In Reply to: Re: headed towards Cobourg tomorrow.. hope to see some birds.. posted by BIGFRANK on May 15, 2005 at 18:09:07:
thought I answered this..
ooops.. we got to Presquile but the boardwalk is no longer there shame.. guess it is disturbing the birds and they are nt repairing it..
the park is always lovely.. if you dont have a car, dont let it get in your way.. I do not either never have and have gotten round the world
enjoy your day
S..
-- 70.49.190.39
In Reply to: Re: RFI: something I saw posted by vctor on May 17, 2005 at 19:47:29:
Sounds more like a Double-crested Cormorant.
They are very common on Lake Ontario in the Toronto area except in winter.
BB
-- 69.158.111.55
In Reply to: Re: RFI: something I saw posted by Brian Bailey on May 17, 2005 at 18:41:37:
wing span appeared long
neck appeared retracted/pulled back
wedge shaped tail
no (stilt like legs)
lighting was not good, very heavily back lit.
wingspan question was for comaprison to other similar birds in flight.
thanx victor. (I'll look it up) will keep eyes vigilant
-- 70.49.190.39
In Reply to: RFI: something I saw posted by victor on May 15, 2005 at 09:30:59:
It's hard to say without knowing what made it heron-like, but Black-crowned Night Herons are common around Toronto. They are smaller, but have a similar flight style, and their legs are much shorter.
BB
-- 64.12.116.198
In Reply to: Presquile bird report.. Harrier Hawk.. Common Yellowrthroat & Swampsparrow.. plse a Question.. posted by Sierra on May 17, 2005 at 17:05:17:
Hi Sierra,Northern Harriers are fairly common,infact around alot of marsh type areas or farm fields U will find them hunting and nesting.There is a pair breeding at the Leslie Spit in Toronto. Irregardless they are wonderful birds to watch and not an everyday sighting!
-- 69.197.135.24
re: Harrier Hawk.. we met up with some .. experienced birders.. and they said it was a Harrier beautiful bird.. are they not common in this area??
lovely down there but chilly
Sierra
-- 69.197.135.24
In Reply to: Re: Crow kills a robin (picture) posted by David Shilman on May 15, 2005 at 16:57:25:
Hi David:
I know.. just not too good when viewing some of these things in nature.. but well know that this is the way it is..
Sierra
survival of the fittest
-- 69.194.58.133
I counted twenty-seven Long-billed Dowitcher on the small spit adjacent to the area where the viewing platform used to overlook the marina basin. A local birder was on hand to encourage passersby to have a look. He had counted thirty present since early afternoon today.
There were two spotted sand pipers along the south eastern shore line as well
-- 64.12.116.198
Despite overcast cool weather,it was a very worthwhile day.Additionally to the birds,a few folks have come to check out the park based on my posts here..glad they came..hope they were! (at the risk of being hung) saw Red Squirrel move to babies to a new nest.(details on Wildlife board) Also saw for first time in my life a baby Groundhog,which at first looked pretty scared and cold,curled up at the base of a tree.
The birds...a decent number of warblers were present though I had to work for them best bird was a Wilson's Warbler my first of the year. Black-throated Green,Black-throated Blue,Chestnut-sided,Palm,Yellow-rumped,Yellow,Black and White,Nashville,American Redstart and Magnolia Warblers were all seen.House,Song,Chipping,White-crowned and White-throated Sparrows were seen.Tons of Bank Swallows,some Chimney Swifts and a few Barn Swallows were seen. Both Common and Caspian Terns were seen fishing the lake.Cormorants,Common Loons and a few Red-breasted Mergansers were also seen. Swainson's Thrush,Brown Thrasher Ruby-throated Hummingbird,Rose-breasted Grosbeak,Baltimore Orioles and Scarlet Tanager were all seen.
Rosetta McClain Gardens is just east of Kingston Rd and Birchmount off of Kingston Rd.A reminder that many of these birds are transient so day to day things change alot sometimes.
-- 209.226.247.100
In Reply to: Blue Grosbeak posted by Carla on May 14, 2005 at 20:20:00:
While the pictures I've been able to get of this grosbeak don't show it, he abosuletly does have the rusty colored wingbars, and the unmistable cone shaped beak. Last night, just to be extra extra sure, we compared numerous pics of Indigo Buntings and Blue Grosbeaks. While we did have a bunting here last year, for about 15 minutes, this lil feller is definitely a Blue Grosbeak.
We're stalking him for more pics, hopefully close ups! :-)
-- 199.243.108.106
In Reply to: Blue Grosbeak posted by Carla on May 14, 2005 at 20:20:00:
Carla,
Although the pictures are by necessity a bit distant and softly focussed due to your battery problems, it would appear your first impression was correct.
This bird does appear to be a typical male Indigo Bunting, which is quite a nice bird to have coming to your feeders. The photographs posted on your blog show you have a very nice selection of birds coming to your feeders for your children to enjoy and appreciate. Thanks for your time and effort in feeding the birds and raising the next generation of bird-lovers.
Cheers,
GC
-- 206.186.105.50
In Reply to: Re: Hybrid goose? posted by pcoo on May 16, 2005 at 11:43:33:
I'll second that this is a hybrid. I've seen a similar bird off the Scarborough Bluffs and Rotary Park in Ajax/Pickering. It's too big for a snow goose, and others that have seen it mention that it's a barnyard goose/Canada mix.
-- 65.93.149.118
In Reply to: Re: Rose Breasted Grosbeak posted by Sharon on May 16, 2005 at 11:29:06:
I had three male rose-breasted grosbeaks at my feeder yesterday. They seem to pass through at this time every year, according to my records. I keep track so that I know when to watch for them! I am in the city (Kitchener) also. Last summer we actually had some baby female RB grosbeaks eating at our feeder in the summer. It was really a treat. One pair must have stayed nearby and set up a nest.
-- 129.97.180.233
In Reply to: Semi-Albino Canada Goose (picture) posted by Zeuser on May 15, 2005 at 14:05:51:
I don't think it's a Snow Goose, the bill looks all wrong - lacks that really big "grinning patch" that snows have. I think it could be some sort of cross, but would rather not spectulate - except to say that the white could come from the standard domestic goose, escapees of which turn up in Ontario frequently (and is itself a cross, I think).
Cheers,
Peter
-- 65.49.192.137
In Reply to: Re: Rose Breasted Grosbeak posted by Carla on May 16, 2005 at 11:06:32:
I have never ever seen these birds before in my life. You don't mention where you are located. Perhaps these birds like the countryside better as we are in an urban setting (edge of the city).
-- 216.208.58.154
In Reply to: Blue Grosbeak posted by Carla on May 14, 2005 at 20:20:00:
I wonder how long he'll stay? We haven't seen a female, but he's still here after 4 days, still feasting at all the feeders (mixed as well as black oil sunflower). Some of our other yard visitors are at the link there.
-- 216.208.58.154
In Reply to: Rose Breasted Grosbeak posted by Sharon on May 16, 2005 at 06:57:27:
They're very common this time of year - and usually show up this time of the month. Our pair showed up about a week ago, and this was yesterday around noon:
-- 24.36.252.231
We've had a male Indigo Bunting at our Finch feeder the past week in Oakville. Other sightings this week have been a Blackburnian Warbler, White crowned sparrow, Rose Breasted Grossbeaks, and many Orioles.
-- 209.161.231.75
In Reply to: Re: Blue Grosbeak posted by pcoo on May 16, 2005 at 06:25:34:
http://photos1.blogger.com/img/266/2323/640/mrblue.jpg
-- 65.49.192.137
Just wanted to let someone know that I saw a pair of Rose Breated Grosbeaks yesterday afternoon drinking from out outdoor fountain. I have never seen these birds before. Are they rare? We live in London, Ont.
-- 129.97.66.203
In Reply to: Re: Blue Grosbeak posted by Carla on May 15, 2005 at 13:43:54:
Hi Carla, I couldn't see the picture you posted the second time (something about my browser?), that is, the one from the 15th. Could you possibly put it up the same way as the other one? (Or even mail it to my as .jpg).
Peter
-- 64.228.53.134
In Reply to: Trumpeter swans posted by G.S. de Silva on May 15, 2005 at 15:38:58:
Trumpeters occasionally drop into the Stouffville Reservoir, a large marsh just north of Millard St. east of the 9th. line. Number 813 was there yesterday. Or you could go to the mother lode, the Wye Marsh near Midland. Check out http://www.wyemarsh.com/
-- 24.100.124.74
In Reply to: Re: Semi-Albino Canada Goose (picture) posted by i j on May 15, 2005 at 19:54:52:
I think you're right. I just looked it up myself. I didn't know of the blue-morph occurence.
Isn't it a bit odd to have a snow goose this far south at this time of year?
It was also the only one. The other geese it was "hanging around" with were all Canada geese, no mistaking those!
-- 70.49.188.187
Birding was great at Colonel Sam Smith Park this morning. Warbler numbers and diversity was the best I've seen this year. There appears to have been a big movement overnight, as the mix of birds was completely different from yesterday. I found 17 species of warbler, with the "best" one a male Orange-crowned.
At the south-east corner of the cottage quadrangle, I found a Whip-poor-will sitting in a maple tree. It was the maple closest to the south side of a clump of conifers where the ring road makes a 90 degree bend.
There was a male Harlequin Duck off the east side, near the pond. It's probably the Humber River bird.
There was a Green Heron in a tree on the island in the pond, and at least one Cliff Swallow among the many Barn, Tree, and Rough-winged. Thrushes, except for Veery, were tough to find, but I found Lincoln's Sparrows in several different spots. There were several different Empidonax flycatchers around, but only one Willow was singing.
BB
-- 209.197.161.248
In Reply to: Re: Semi-Albino Canada Goose (picture) posted by i j on May 15, 2005 at 19:50:26:
I just looked it up and this is in fact a Snow Goose. It's in it's rare blue morph.
-- 209.197.161.248
In Reply to: Re: Semi-Albino Canada Goose (picture) posted by Zeuser on May 15, 2005 at 19:23:00:
i seriously think this is some sort of cross breeding going on. The shape of the head doesn't match that of a canada goose i think.
-- 24.100.124.74
In Reply to: Re: Common and Forester Terns? (pics) posted by Brian Bailey on May 15, 2005 at 18:36:18:
Sounds about right. The Caspian didn't have as much of a forked tail as the common and their wingbeats were very similar to gulls. In fact, the were flying overhead with a group of gulls and it was hard to tell them apart from a distance. Only when they did get closer I could see the difference, especially in the shape of the wings.
The caspians out numbered the commons in that area 2 to 1. There were only 3 commons I could see but more than a dozen caspians. From what I read in my book, I thought Caspians were fairly rare.
-- 24.100.124.74
In Reply to: Re: Semi-Albino Canada Goose (picture) posted by victor on May 15, 2005 at 15:13:44:
Yeah, I know. I'm confused as well. Looks like a mix of snow goose and Canada goose. Not sure what's going on with this bird but it really caught my eye.
-- 70.49.188.187
In Reply to: Common and Forester Terns? (pics) posted by Zeuser on May 15, 2005 at 14:51:35:
From your photos and description, I would say the birds you thought were Common Terns were actually Caspian Terns, and the ones you thought were Forsters were actually Common.
The slower, shallower, gull-like wingbeats of the larger tern are diagnotic of a Caspian. They are much larger, bulkier, and have a much larger bill. They also have a deeper voice and a much less forked tail than either of the smaller terns. Common and Forsters terns have a very bouncy flight, with the downbeat noticeably faster than the upbeat.
The terns in the second photo are showing too much black in the wingtips to be Forsters. Common and Forsters are pretty much the same size and shape. The call of the Common is actually a bit higher pitched than the Forsters, and usually includes some descending "keeer" sounds. Also, Common are far more common around the Toronto area.
BB
-- 64.12.116.198
In Reply to: headed towards Cobourg tomorrow.. hope to see some birds.. posted by Sierra on May 15, 2005 at 16:36:40:
Abit further on is Presqu'ile Provincial Park its a great spot! Would love to get out that way myself,as I havent been recently alas I dont drive.
-- 142.76.1.62
My wife and I were out on the Spit today and saw over 35 species. The woods beyond the bird banding area were particularly busy. We saw baltimore orioles, a male scarlet tanager (a first for us), four rose breasted grosbeaks, a black and white warbler, several yellow rumped warblers, a blackburnian warbler, several warbling vireos, and a red breasted nuthatch. In the woods before the tern nesting platform there were many yellow warblers, a palm warbler, blue jays, and another baltimore oriole. Great stuff.
-John
-- 24.42.69.180
In Reply to: Re: Crow kills a robin (picture) posted by Sierra on May 15, 2005 at 16:31:22:
It's not torture...it's a meal. Crows gotta eat too.
David
-- 69.197.135.24
a safe trip and a nice one along #2..
Sierra
-- 69.197.135.24
In Reply to: Baby Canada Goose (picture) posted by Zeuser on May 15, 2005 at 14:22:35:
ADORABLE.. TKS for sharing
Sierra
-- 69.197.135.24
In Reply to: Crow kills a robin (picture) posted by Zeuser on May 15, 2005 at 13:56:04:
that is just terrible tell me why do they do that.. it is just torture is it note??
Yes I know I looked at the px..
hearing so much of this these days
Sierra :(((((
-- 209.161.230.31
In Reply to: Trumpeter swans posted by G.S. de Silva on May 15, 2005 at 15:38:58:
Just saw Trumpeter #773 at Valley Inn Road not more than 1/2 hour ago, Hamilton/Burlington border, part of the Royal Botanical Gardens. Also regulars at LaSalle Park in Burlington on Hamilton Bay. Coote's Paradise probably has them as well and probably the Dejardins Canal/Dundas Marsh in Dundas. All places mentioned are at the extreme west end of Lake Ontario west of the Burlington Skyway(QEW).
-- 207.96.151.229
In Reply to: Re: Trumpeter swans at bluffers park posted by Al Johnston on February 25, 2005 at 13:41:07:
Can you please let me know where I could observe trumpter swans in Ontario.
-- 69.158.112.176
In Reply to: Re: Semi-Albino Canada Goose (picture) posted by Zeuser on May 15, 2005 at 14:14:11:
I thought Canada geese had black bills/beeks snow geese have orange bills/beeks
victor???
-- 24.100.124.74
I'm not to sure about these two. I'm pretty sure the first picture is a Common Tern but I'm unsure about the second picture. From my books it looks like it's a Forster's Tern. There were 3 of them at the Bronte park yesterday and were foraging in different areas than the common terns. The common terns were mostly foraging on the lake beyond the wave breaker while the Forster's were foraging inside the break in the bay.
Although similar, both species had noticable differences. The common tern was larger and had a louder an deeper voice. It also had a more stable flight with slower wingbeats.
I used pictures where they have fish in their beaks so we can get a sense of their sizes.
Common Tern:
Believed to be two Forster's Terns:
-- 24.100.124.74
So cute I thought I should share.
-- 24.100.124.74
In Reply to: Semi-Albino Canada Goose (picture) posted by Zeuser on May 15, 2005 at 14:05:51:
Ooops. Forgot I also had an in-flight picture of it. We can clearly see the under body and the orange colored legs.
Question: Is this a result of cross breeding between say a Canada goose and some other species or is it a genetic flaw?
-- 24.100.124.74
Spotted at Bronte park in Oakville. Not entirely albino but obviously some pigmentation flaws. It had a white head and neck and the under body was all white. Obviously by the wings it seems to be a Canada Goose.
Picture:
-- 24.100.124.74
Yesterday morning I'm out on my front lawn re-filling my bird feeder. Suddenly I hear a lot of commotion from down the street; sounded like Robins. I grab my camera and took a few pictures.
A crow was killing a fledgling Robin. It was still alive and moving its wings. The parents were understandibly very upset. Not a pleasant site but still a rare sight and worth taking a picture.
-- 209.226.247.67
In Reply to: Blue Grosbeak posted by Carla on May 14, 2005 at 20:20:00:
First sighting Friday evening at dusk, second sighting Saturday evening at dusk, and today he's been here all day. Here he is today having a lunch(better focused).
-- 24.100.124.74
In Reply to: Barn Swallow's (Milton) posted by victor on May 15, 2005 at 09:17:49:
I've seen plenty around for he last 3 weeks.
Also saw a bank swallow at the Bronte park in Oakville yesterday. It's nesting on the east side of the pier at the very end on the east side of Bronte creek.
-- 64.229.204.152
In Reply to: Barn Swallow's (Milton) posted by victor on May 15, 2005 at 09:17:49:
Today was also my first of the year. I saw it in Oshawa, on Stevenson Rd near the 401
-- 64.231.175.164
In Reply to: Blue Grosbeak posted by Carla on May 14, 2005 at 20:20:00:
Good bird for your back yard list!! is it still being seen ?? And could you send me directions, to wear it might be seen from??
Thanks
Craig
-- 69.158.105.131
I viewed a large "Great Blue Heron" like bird in flight recently. I am puzzled as to what it was because it did not have "stilt like legs" trailing behind it. Can someone please tell me what the wingspan of a "Great Blue Heron" is and any birds that might be similar in flight. I have a suspision as to what it was but naw, it couldn't be. Victor...
-- 69.158.105.131
I noticed this morning a "Barn Swallow" tearing around the sky, haven't heard any mention of them from anyone yet this year. Anybody seen any? Victor
-- 209.226.247.150
The coolest thing, last night we had a blue grosbeak at the feeders. We thought it was an indigo bunting at first but after seeing him close up, we knew he wasn't a bunting, so we checked the field guide, and sure enough, it's a grosbeak. The picture is here: http://photos1.blogger.com/img/266/2323/640/bluegrosbeak.jpg but my apologies in advance for the lack of focus, my camera batteries were dying at the worst possible time.
He was here again this evening, at several different feeders, but he flew away before I could ever get another pic.
We're just north of Woodstock, in case anyone else has seen this lil feller.
-- 64.229.204.152
In Reply to: American Goldfinch posted by Tricia on May 14, 2005 at 14:39:22:
Hello,yes goldfinches are very common in southern ontario. They are especially common around now and you should be seeing more of them.
-- 24.100.124.74
In Reply to: turkey vultures! at last posted by i j on May 13, 2005 at 17:35:33:
Yes they are very big. I got a few pictures of one flying low over my office about a month ago. It's a really nice pic.
But seeing them live is the best as you can really grasp just how big they are.
-- 65.50.139.242
In Reply to: Warblers At Colonel Sam Smith posted by Brian Bailey on May 12, 2005 at 20:08:48:
Thanks for the posting. Still good today (Sat am). Yellow warblers
towards the water aspect of the park. otherwise the warblers are high
in trees along the east and south sides of field (behind the campus)
near what I suspect is being called "the bowl". Hi-lite for me was the
Black-Throated Blue warbler.
-- 65.49.46.119
I saw my first american goldfinch in my Toronto garden earlier today. This is the first one that I've seen in my yard. Are they common in Toronto?
My garden is 3 years old and as it becomes more and more established I see more and more birds each year. It's great.
Tricia
-- 70.49.188.187
I birded Colonel Sam Smith Park early this morning and again found good numbers of warblers. I found, roughly in order of abundance:
Yellow-runped (abundant)
Palm (abundant)
Black-throated Blue
Black-throated Green
Nashville
Black and White
American Redstart
Blackburnian
Magnolia
Cape May
Ovenbird
Common Yellowthroat
Yellow
Other birds of note included Great Crested Flycatcher, House Wren, Scarlet Tanager, and Lincoln's Sparrow. I spent most of my time in the north end in and around "the bowl", but there appeared to be good numbers throughout the wooded areas.
BB
-- 209.197.162.51
Great day today in terms of seeing Turkey Vultures. They were flying by all throughout the day around the millwood bridge, millwood electrical station, and just generally in that don valley area. They were flying pretty low too and i got a chance to really get a good feel of how big they actually are. I was amazed.
-- 69.197.135.24
In Reply to: Re: Osprey posted by Al Johnston on May 13, 2005 at 10:36:19:
http://www.ospreys.org.uk/AWOP/About%20Bits.htm
was not sure if I should start another post.. or not..
but look at the beautiful white head on this bird.. and also my goodness, the talons.. nails.. they would tear anything to bits.
wonder if they are more powerful than an Eagle.
Anyone know?
Sierra
-- 69.197.135.24
In Reply to: Re: Osprey posted by Al Johnston on May 13, 2005 at 10:36:19:
Wow.. that must have been something I have never seen one close by or even in the air..
falcons.. any of these birds have only seen them in captivity.. as at Mountsberg.. or that show up at Midland area.. near the shrine the Falconer's.. even that was so interesting
there is such a mystique about these .. birds..
Sierra :)
-- 64.228.53.50
In Reply to: Re: Osprey posted by Sierra on May 13, 2005 at 05:38:15:
We had one fly over our pond here in Whitchurch-Stouffville several weeks ago. It made a sudden U turn, dove in with a big spash and came up with a fair sized fish. This all happened about 75 feet off the deck. Awesome sight! Al
-- 70.50.236.87
In Reply to: Re: Warblers At Colonel Sam Smith posted by Josh Kaell on May 13, 2005 at 04:46:14:
Those are 2 that I didn't get! My "best birds" were Blackpoll and Bay-breasted.
Aside from the number of species found in a short period of time, the other striking thing was the quantity of birds. It was by far the greatest concentration of warblers I've seen anywhere yet this year, and I was at Rondeau and Pelee earlier this week.
BB
-- 69.197.135.24
In Reply to: Osprey posted by Peter on May 10, 2005 at 07:57:43:
having trouble posting here.. dang.. it.
Peter;
that is an awesome picture the might and strength of the Osprey.. Hope to see one in real life.
tks..
Sierra
-- 209.44.21.54
In Reply to: Warblers At Colonel Sam Smith posted by Brian Bailey on May 12, 2005 at 20:08:48:
I had same experience in same location-most of common species, plus female northern parula, and male hooded!
-- 70.49.188.187
I walked over to "the bowl" at Colonel Sam Smith Park this evening and found 9 species of warbler in less than an hour. The greatest concentration of birds was around the north end. Migration is definitely picking up. It should be a great weekend for birding!
BB
-- 70.48.100.190
This morning , Wed. May 11/05 at 9:oo a.m. as I stepped
out of my backdoor I saw a flash of Red. Thought it was just another Cardinal, but also saw distinct black.
A Scarlet Tanager! It has been many years since I have seen one. Asked my Husband to verify what I had seen as I went for my binocs. He did. It only stayed a few minutes more and then was gone. Just wanted to share this with other birders. Thank You.
-- 65.48.98.233
In Reply to: Osprey posted by Peter on May 10, 2005 at 07:57:43:
Awesome shot!
-- 128.100.72.138
To those of you who have not seen this:
Volunteers, conservation groups and the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources are once again working together to conduct the 2005 province-wide peregrine falcon survey in Ontario, as part of the national peregrine falcon survey which is conducted every 5 years. The objective of this survey is to locate and monitor all peregrine falcon nesting activity throughout the province. The results of this survey will be very important in helping to assess the status of this species in Ontario and across Canada.
We would appreciate the help of all birders in promoting the survey and
reporting signs of possible peregrine falcon nesting activity during the
March-August breeding period. Information of interest includes:
- possible or confirmed signs of an occupied territory, territorial pair or
nesting attempt;
- nest location;
- information on banded birds;
- information on the number of eggs or young; and
- observations of fledged young.
We are interested in reports from both urban and cliff sites, and are especially interested in learning of new, previously unreported nesting areas. There are a number of established local falcon watch programs, especially in urban centres, and observers are encouraged to continue to report their sightings to those programs; this information is shared with the 2005 survey program. Reports can also be provided directly to local OMNR district offices, or they can be submitted directly by fax (807-473- 3023, ATTN: Peregrine Survey) or e-mail to:
peregrine.survey@mnr.gov.on.ca
For more information on the 2005 peregrine falcon survey, contact:
- Ted Armstrong, OMNR Thunder Bay (807-475-1127)
ted.armstrong@mnr.gov.on.ca,
- Brian Ratcliff, OMNR Thunder Bay (807-475-1596)
brian.ratcliff@mnr.gov.on.ca, or
- Chris Risley, OMNR Peterborough (705-755-1838)
chris.risley@mnr.gov.on.ca
-- 142.106.56.179
The Cemetary was alive with birds this morning. In a short ride through saw or heard (both sides of Mt. Pleasant):
Northern Parula, Blackburnian, Redstart, Ovenbird, Nashville, Black throated green and blue, yellow, yellow rumped
Rose breasted grosbeaks, orioles, great crested flycatcher
plus many more
-- 70.51.132.27
Woodbine Beach at 6pm had a single semipalmated plover - 1st of the spring for me.
Woodbine beach is at the foot of Woodbine av in Toronto. Enter parking lot off the south side of Lakeshore Blvd East of Coxwell Av.
-- 69.192.200.204
In Reply to: Re: Yellow 2 posted by Mark on May 10, 2005 at 12:37:11:
It was a 75-300mm lens. The birds were landing quite close. There was no one else around, I was able to sit in some thickets. Camera was a Canon 20D
-- 69.192.200.204
In Reply to: Re: Osprey posted by Al Johnston on May 10, 2005 at 16:49:44:
Canon 20D with a 75-300mm lens.
-- 70.24.116.46
My husband and I are thinking of heading there is the weather cooperates on the weekend. Has the Prothonetery Warbler been seen recently? Any other specific locations at the marsh would be appreciated or we will just take what we get and can get pictures of.
Thanks for any info.
-- 64.228.47.167
In Reply to: Osprey posted by Peter on May 10, 2005 at 07:57:43:
Great pic, Peter. What equipment are you using?
Al
-- 24.42.69.180
In Reply to: Yellow 2 posted by Peter on May 10, 2005 at 09:05:29:
Both nice pics, Peter.
David
-- 24.157.125.130
In Reply to: Yellow 2 posted by Peter on May 10, 2005 at 09:05:29:
Beautiful pictures of the yellow... Do you mind if I ask what type of lens you were using ?
-- 64.229.204.152
In Reply to: Help posted by Peter on May 10, 2005 at 09:23:22:
Hello, it is still a very nice