Sora at the Lagoons!

It has been several years since I last had a good look at a Sora. Because of their ability to hide, seeing a Sora can take some effort, but the Sora is the most abundant and widespread rail in North America! This one popped out in front of me at the Strathroy Lagoons.

https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Sora/overview

The Cornel Lab, All About Birds, describes their walk through shallow wetlands as being a bit like a chicken that has had too much coffee! (And I have to agree 😊) In its travels, I watched it poke a frog who made a giant hop to escape. 

Rails have skinny bodies which allow them to walk through long grass and reeds. Their very long toes and large feet help them to walk on top of aquatic vegetation. The Sora has a bright yellow bill.

https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Sora/id

Spotted Sandpipers are slightly smaller than a killdeer. At least 4 individuals were flying in the area. The female Spotted Sandpiper is the one who establishes and defends the territory. She arrives at the breeding grounds earlier than the male.

https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Spotted_Sandpiper/overview

A Muskrat tried to swim unnoticed past me.

Many muskrat lodges in the ponds provide nesting and resting spots for Canada Geese as well as Painted Turtles.

I saw dozens and dozens of Red Admirals. It has been a banner year for this species! They are one of the most widespread butterflies in Ontario.

A male Red-winged Blackbird surveys his territory.

I did get to see the Black-necked Stilt, thanks to a birder with a scope. It is possible the species, typically found on the West and South-east coasts of NA may nest again this year!