Another Canatara Surprise!

Deryl noticed a warbler high in a tree as we walked through Canatara Park. Once our binoculars were focused on it, we knew it was a Yellow-throated Warbler! They tend to stick to the tops of the trees, and birders often get "warbler neck" as they crane their necks to see the top of the canopy. Despite the November weather, it was still finding insects in the upper canopy of the trees. This species does not nest in Ontario and should be in South America right now. One had recently been spotted in Sault St. Marie. Perhaps this bird is that same individual and he finally decided to head south?

https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Yellow-throated_Warbler/overview

Downy Woodpeckers have been "popping up" along the trails. Some of them were discovered because "drumming" made me pause and take a closer look. After a bit of patience, this female moved around the tree where I could see her.

Some woodpeckers have been highly visible and not at all camouflaged. A male Downy Woodpecker drummed on a small shed in the animal farm and drilled 3 holes by the time he was done!

I heard drumming in yet another tree but couldn't see the bird. After a few moments, a female Downy Woodpecker popped out of the downward facing hole to take a look at me. She even had some sawdust on her head!

Panning back from the tree, the hole where she entered is visible. It likely won't be long before this branch breaks off the tree!

Two pairs of Hooded Mergansers, swimming on Lake Chipican.

Red-breasted Nuthatches have been plentiful this week, flying from tree to tree along our street. Two were spotted searching for food in the neighbour's magnolia tree. This species can be found by looking along trunks and branches for a bird wandering up, down, and sideways over the bark. They are often found with flocks of chickadees and other species.

https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Red-breasted_Nuthatch/overview

White-throated Sparrows participate in some type of migration, though a population of hardy birds live year-round in the northeastern U.S. where they survive on bits of grass, seeds and berries. They also frequent city parks and backyards, taking advantage of bird feeders.

https://www.audubon.org/news/10-fun-facts-about-white-throated-sparrow

Cheeky Chipmunk! According to Hinterland Who's Who, by October, each chipmunk has accumulated enough seeds to enable it to survive the winter. Our warmer weather is allowing them to be active and continue their hunt for food.

https://www.hww.ca/wildlife/mammals/chipmunk/