Recent Finds!

Thanks to Deryl deciding to go for a bike ride BEFORE work, several of us had a chance to see a Ross's Goose that he found at Blackwell Trails pond. The bird had unfortunately left before I could get there, but luckily it was re-found elsewhere by Allanah! I did not get to see this species last year. It is a small goose, larger than a Mallard with a triangular bill. It has a shorter neck than a snow goose. (BTW, Deryl was only 3 minutes late for work!)

As soon as I heard that the goose had flown, I drove to the Suncor Trail. No luck with the Ross's Goose, but I was happy to see a beautiful male Northern Pintail! When in water, they dabble on the surface filtering out seeds and insects with their bills. (The Cornell Lab, All About Birds.)

A Northern Mockingbird was found feasting on Sumac in the same location as last year. Perhaps it will stay and nest. This is an uncommon bird for Lambton County.

A tiny Bufflehead stayed reasonably close to shore in the St. Clair River, allowing Deryl to snap a photo. When nesting time arrives, this species mostly commonly uses old Northern Flicker cavities to raise their young. (The Cornell Lab, All About Birds.)

I had a close encounter with a pair of Canada Geese along a trail in Canatara Park this morning. Nesting time is fast approaching!

Ice formations such as this one along the Lake Huron Shoreline are diminishing in size. Spring is getting closer!!