Christmas Bird Count Weekend

We participated in 2 Christmas Bird Counts this weekend. Yesterday's rainy weather made for a low total bird count at The Pinery.  We spent an interesting morning bush-wacking through parts of the park where we normally don't have access.  Two Ruffed Grouse were the highlight for me but no opportunity for pictures.

Today we helped with the Bluewater Audobon Christmas Bird Count.  The Centre of the 24 km diameter circle was in Michigan but a part of the circle extended into Ontario.  Five groups of birders covered the area between Sarnia and Corunna.

It was a feeding frenzy at Talfourd Creek where it meets the St. Clair River.  We estimated there were 2,450 gulls in the area.

The birds dove completely under water and sometimes emerged with a fish.

Many collisions and arguments occurred.

While touring inland, we encountered a beautiful kestrel enjoying a mouse snack.

I can't resist taking pictures of Chickadees.  They are just so cute!

Male Downy Woodpecker viewed from the roadside.

A goldfinch in fading plumage was busy foraging for food.

Earlier in the week hoar frost was visible on fallen oak leaves.