Wild Wetlands!

Wetlands can seem pretty wild when you hear the amazing sounds coming from within. Casting your eyes on a bird like this helps to underscore the wildness! Deryl photographed a Common Gallinule in the reeds on Sunday.  He didn't see any young, but is sure they were hiding nearby.

In 2015 we found a family of Common Gallinules with young chicks at Peers Wetland!

I spent a day at Henderson Conservation Area last week. The 330 acre site includes wildlife ponds and provides food, water, shelter, and space for countless birds, animals, insects, etc. While standing in one spot, I watched 5 Green Herons fly past. One of the herons decided I wasn't a threat and flew back to his favourite "fishing" log.

Eastern Amberwing relaxing in the sun.

Green Darner - well camouflaged in the grasses.

Many Painted Turtles were enjoying the sunshine! Turtles are cold blooded and will alternate between basking on logs and slipping into the water to help regulate their body temperature. The sun also helps in the retention of vitamin D which maintains strong and healthy shells.