Thursday, October 08, 2020

Tuesday Rambles with David - The Mill Race, St. Jacobs, ON

 06 October 2020

     The pandemic has meant that we have not been able to meet frequently this year to conduct our normal Tuesday walks, but of late we have ventured out together a few times. It has been possible to maintain a semblance of social distancing, we have dispensed with our customary hugs, and since being outside carries less risk of transmission of the virus we felt safe in resuming our rambles. And eight participants is well below the provincial guidelines for outdoor gatherings.
     Today we were all present, and the Mill Race seemed like a great place to walk. Both Mary and Francine had appointments in the early afternoon, so a local trail demanding only a couple of hours to complete was just the ticket. 
     The Conestogo River, just metres from the parking area, looked tranquil and inviting, tinged by the suffused light of an autumn morn.


     A Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias) methodically worked the river in search of breakfast.


     We entered the trail together, eager to explore.


     Falling leaves no doubt evoke in all of us the urge to kick them up to regain the spirit of our erstwhile youth, but perhaps in the twilight of our years a flotilla on the water is more appealing. It is without doubt a tapestry waiting to be painted by a skilled artist.


     From this point on, Miriam yielded the camera-wielding duties to Franc, who in his normal fashion produced images of such crispness and clarity, they beg to be exhibited for all the world to see.
     Many American Robins (Turdus migratorius) were feeding on berries of various kinds, and hatch-year birds joined adults to fatten up for migration, although in recent years many have remained here to tough out the winter.



     Black-capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus) is a perennial favourite with everyone, even with non-birders who can barely tell a robin from a pumpkin!


     White-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis) is often found keeping company with chickadees, especially outside the breeding season, and with a little patience can be coaxed into feeding from the hand. 
      I  think that Franc has captured the very essence of a nuthatch in this picture. It is by any reckoning a gorgeous shot.


     We happened upon a small flock of Pine Siskins (Spinus pinus) busily feeding and going about their business, a gathering that captivated all of us.

     Of course, birds are not the only creatures we encounter on the Mill Race and Eastern Chipmunks (Tamias striatus) have learned to follow humans, where the reward of a free meal may confidently be expected. 


     This little rodent does not encounter the hostility often directed at other members of his extended family. Perhaps its cousins all need to invest in stripes!
     I have saved the best till last. A late migrating Yellow-billed Cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus) darted out from some dense vegetation and perched very obligingly for us in a small tree no more than ten metres away.


     Not only was this bird very accommodating it stayed there for at least ten minutes, all the while in full view. The stillness of the morning air was interrupted only by the staccato fire of Franc's camera.


     This is an uncommon species north of Lake Erie - see Godfrey (1986) - ".....commonly in Lake Erie region but rarely north to Manitoulin Island, Sudbury and Ottawa". It was my first sighting ever in Waterloo Region.


     It is a very handsome bird, and unlike many cuckoos throughout the world is not a brood parasite, but builds a nest and raises its own young.


     As you may see, one rarely experiences a more cooperative bird and Franc was able to capture it in various poses.
    I have to note that this species is a bit of a holy grail for Francine, a bird of her dreams, a fantasy to be fulfilled, a quest for El Dorado. 
     Unfortunately, Francine had walked far ahead of us and was not present for this heavenly apparition!
     There seems to be little doubt that by some karmic engagement, the cuckoo had Francine in mind when it showed up so boldly, anxious to charm her. Where is she, it seemed to say? 
     Finally, having tarried long, and revealed itself in every way possible, having perched, preened and waited, it decided to bid farewell. With a wave of its foot and a cry of "Goodbye" it went on its way.


     Don't fret, Francine. I have lived here for eighteen years and this is my first local Yellow-billed Cuckoo, so I expect that in 2038 it will be your turn.
     A little patience is all that is required!


David M. Gascoigne,
David M. Gascoigne,

I'm a life long birder. My interests are birds, nature, reading, books, outdoors, travel, food and wine.

72 comments:

  1. 2038 is a stone's throw away. :)

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  2. You had a wonderful walk and were richly rewarded with fantastic sightings and fabulous photos. I have never heard of it seen a yellow cuckoo, so beautiful. And very cooperative in losing and letting itself be admired. Glad to were able to have such an interesting walk. Stay safe, hugs, Valerie

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  3. What a wonderful virtual walk with you all. That shot of the Nuthatch is superb. The chipmunk is very cute. But wow, how lucky to see the Yellow-billed cuckoo. I have never seen the cuckoo here at all though they are not far away in spring. I hear them regularly.

    Keep safe, wish I could join you on your walks (sigh) but it will never happen.

    Best wishes to you both and Franc. Diane

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  4. The Yellow-billed Cuckoo is so pretty David. The photos are very beautiful. Patience are a good ting to have either it's about birding or gardening.

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  5. Being out with our group of eight again was great David. I always learn something from you on our walks and in your amazing narratives. The Yellow-billed Cuckoo was a lifer for me. Considering all the birding you do, and hearing that this was your first local sighting of it, I feel very fortunate to have seen it and to have Francs' fantastic photos to treasure.

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    1. We would be hard pressed to have a better photographic record, Carol. Better keep Franc around for a while longer.

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  6. I agree. Those photos could be on display in any well known art gallery. I would be first in line.

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    1. You will have to come to Waterloo one of these days and go on a walk with us.

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  7. Hi David, well done of the photos, I can´t comment much becuse the school, hehe, Greetings from Spain!

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  8. Huge thanks to you, to Miriam and to Franc. I have scrolled down (oohing and ahhing) and when my comment has posted I will scroll up again. Delighting in the beauty on display.

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  9. A wonderful walk with many beautiful birds to see and photograph. Well done!

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  10. What a lovely walk and great photos - thank you.

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  11. Ohh yes I would like to have some of your beautiful photoes on my wall
    That yellow cuckoo is beautiful❤

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  12. I recognized many of the bird but that cuckoo was a wonderful find. Thank you for sharing.

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  13. I never have seen a cuckoo. I thought they were a European bird. What a day. A heron, a chippy and a cuckoo. Thank you.

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    Replies
    1. There are almost 130 species of cuckoo around the world.

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  14. Very nice and I've never seen a cockatoo like the one you have shown but that's expected.

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  15. Terrific shots David! Love the cuckoo, didn't think there were any here.

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    1. Two species of cuckoo breed in Ontario, Karen, Black-billed Cuckoo and Yellow-billed Cuckoo.

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  16. Ha David, fraaie serie en mooie vogels.
    Groet Kees.

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  17. The nuthatch was captured brilliantly! I also love the Autumn colours in all photos.

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  18. The little eastern chipmunk and the yellow bird are cute, and have rendered lovely photos!

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  19. The damn pandemic is throwing smoke black into our lives ... I'm sick of it! But it turns out that she is not tired of us and if this continues, the Netherlands will be locked again!
    It is nice to see the colors in the forest! I've never seen a cuckoo either! Nice to meet you Mr. Cuckoo!
    Have a nice weekend ahead, David!

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  20. Hi David.

    You have seen a beautiful birds.
    And Franc has put that beautifully in the photos.

    Greetings from Patricia.

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  21. Great to see Franc back in the photographic saddle again, David, although Miriam has kept the flag flying admirably!

    It was interesting to see that the Yellow-billed Cuckoo caused such a stir. As you know, one of those in UK draws even more attention! I didn't know that it wasn't a brood parasite, so thank you for that interesting fact.

    Delighted to hear that you've resumed Tuesday Rambles with David, and in great style too! Take great care and stay safe - - - Richard

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  22. Franc has captured superb photos and how wonderful it is that he caught the Yellow-billed Cuckoo waving and crying 'Goodbye'.

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    Replies
    1. And how fortunate that I speak fluent cuckoo and was able to interpret!

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  23. Very pleasant reading as always, I enjoyed it as well as Franc pics, a great contributor to your blog. Excellent series of images, I really liked all of them but I especially appreciate the first of American robin
    Regards

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  24. Que gran y bello reportaje amigo David, felicitaciones a Franc por tan excelentes instantáneas, parece que se puedan tocar alargando el brazo. Me encantó el Cuco de pico amarillo y el Turdus migratorius, aunque realmente, todos son bellos. Excelente paseo que se vio recompensado con creces.
    Un fuerte abrazo amigo y compadre David y cuidaros que la pandemia por desgracia continua. Buen resto de semana.

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  25. Some great photos Franc made David. My compliments to him. It was a walk with a lot of different birds, most wonderful!
    Regards,
    Roos

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    1. We won't give him too much praise for his pictures. He might start to believe it!

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  26. Hi David,
    Good to see your group getting out together again, if only somebody could get a vaccine, we could all return to going any where again without any worries. Super images, ell done Franc.
    You all stay safe and well
    John

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    1. I doubt whether we will see that vaccine any time soon, unfortunately, John.

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  27. What a pretty river, made even prettier by the fall colors.

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  28. How nice that you could get out and about for a Tuesday ramble.
    Thank you for sharing all of these lovely photographs.

    All the best Jan

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    Replies
    1. COVID numbers are increasing again, so we will have to see how it works in the long term.

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  29. Francine must be kicking herself! I hope she doesn't have to wait too long to be able to see one.
    Great photos. Franc has a definite talent with the camera (I would say he is as good as Miriam is!).

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  30. Hello David,

    Wonderful bird sightings and pretty fall scenes. I have been seeing a lot of the Cuckoos here too. Miriam's bird photos are always amazing. Love the Robins, Chickadee and the Nuthatch. Thanks for the comment and visit. Enjoy your weekend!

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  31. Fantastic post :)
    Beautiful photos. I am charmed. Thank you.

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  32. Les photos sont très belles, je n'avais jamais vu ce coucou. Il est joli.
    Bon weekend

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  33. It looks like a perfect day for a walk with those beautiful leaves (and yes, I like them on the water, too!) Welcome back to Franc, as well. Lovely sightings -- I enjoy seeing those leaves in the backgrounds of the birds.

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  34. What a wonderful event! I so admire people with good eyes, a steady hand, and an excellent camera!

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  35. I wonder if we will get any Pine Siskins this winter. I always look forward to the rare winters when they show up here. I would have thought the Yellow-billed Cuckoo would be long gone from your area by now. A late migrant indeed.

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  36. Wow, what a beautiful place to get to walk in. And you got some stunning bird photos. I love Fall. It's a great time of year to enjoy Nature's beauty.

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  37. Hi David, great photos, you have beautiful birds in your area. I like the eastern chipmunk too. It is fine you were all present on your walk. Have a nice weekend. Greetings Caroline

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  38. What a great series of shots of the Yellow-billed Cuckoo and all those other birds as well. Thanks for sharing Francine's obvious wildlife photo talents. Nice that your group was able to get out safely in nature.

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  39. These certainly are remarkable photographs! Franc must surely be a professional. I would be so thrilled to have got just one photo like that. I've never heard of the yellow billed cuckoo, so I was specially interested in those pictures. I'm glad that with the pandemic in full swing, you're able to get out on your rambles with friends.

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  40. Okay...what's another 18 years...poor Francine. Glad you got to check the Yellow-billed Cuckoo off your list. Lovely photos as always.

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  41. Gorgeous photos, all of them. A small chuckle as chickadees have long been one of my very favorite birds. How exciting to see the Yellow-billed Cuckoo. Hoping Francine gets a viewing before another 18 years passes.

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  42. Fabulous David, nature at the best, well done.

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  43. hello David
    Francine did it exactly right, continuous fire from all sides, as you say he won't be in front of your camera again until 2038
    Then you have a few pictures that will accompany you until then ;-))
    Greetings Frank

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  44. Hi David – a slightly unkind comment for Francine – about needing to wait til 2038 before she’ll see ‘your’ Yellow-Billed Cuckoo – beautiful bird … even better knowing it’s not a brood parasite. Poor Francine though missing that extraordinary sighting – expect she’s enjoying the photos though. Both Miriam and Franc provide us with outstanding photos … thank you … lovely autumnal shows. All the best - Hilary

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  45. Hola David, buenos días.

    ¡Qué hermoso es el bosque en otoño! La luz, el follaje, la presencia de adultos y jóvenes animales, la agradable temperatura para pasear...

    Hermosos pájaros los que nos muestras hoy en tu entrada pero, como bien dices, has dejado lo mejor para el final: un cuco que no conocía y menos aún que cuidaba de su prole a diferencia del cuco europeo.

    Un fuerte abrazo de tu amigo al otro lado del Atlántico,

    Rafa.

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  46. Wow, what beautiful pictures David. You have photographed beautiful species.
    Also nice to see the autumn colors in nature.
    In terms of colors, the best time of the year for me.
    Glad you could walk together again.
    Hopefully there will be stricter measures here, the corana will only increase.
    Greetings Tinie


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  47. Hi David,
    In addition to the photos of the birds that are all wonderful, I loved the photo of the cute Eastern Chipmunks and the 4th photo with the leaves in the water, it is so beautiful, it looks like a painting made by nature.
    Greetings

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  48. Great birds & critters! The cuckoo & the heron on the rapids are favorites...laughed at the year 2038!!

    Happy weekend, and thanks for joining us at I'd Rather B Birdin this week.

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  49. We've been hoping to see the Cuckoo in an area we've seen him for the past few years...but no luck this year. Love seeing your photos and all the beautiful birds you see. The Fall colors are pretty too! Enjoy your Sunday!

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  50. El paseo fue precioso como siempre, con pájaros que yo no conocía. Las fotografías muy buenas. Abrazos.

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  51. Oh how frustrating for Francine to miss the Cuckoo, what a beautiful bird and very nice to get such a good sighting!

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  52. Hi David,
    I can imagine you all enjoy having your walks together. It allways amazes me how many birds you see on these outings.
    Your cuckoo is a beauty; and the pictures are wonderfull. Autumn colors give everything a special glow. I love also the tiny squirrel.
    Miriam's heron in the wild river is a marvelous image too.

    Best regards, Corrie

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  53. Thank you for sharing a bit of autumn color which we here in Florida don't get to see very much. Also, seeing a Great Blue Heron in what would be considered "turbulent" water around here is a novelty.

    All of the photographs are excellent!

    What a treat to have a Yellow-billed Cuckoo behave so cooperatively. They breed in our area but attempting to photograph one is a challenge.

    We're happy your group is able to resume enjoying nature again, even if it may still be somewhat restrictive.

    A new week is here! Can't wait to see what Nature has in store for us all!

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  54. Hi David,

    I'm glad you could go out with the group!

    What a lovely sory and wonderfull photo's made by Franc! I can imagine the enthousiasme you (and the others) felt by seeing your first Yellow-billed Cuckoo. It's like a dream come true when you first meet one of your dream birds. I really feel sorry for Francine that she has to wait for another 18 years to meet this species ;-).....
    It's also interesting to read this bird is building it's own nest and raises it's youngs.

    I had a great smile on my face when I read the sentence about not knowing the difference between a Robin and a pumpin, so funny.

    The photo of the Nuthach is exactly how the bird used to present itself, wonderfull.

    I enjoyed the blog and the photo's.

    Big hugs,
    Marianne

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    1. It is always a great pleasure to hear from you, Marianne.

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  55. Hello David,

    Great captures and outing. The Heron is fishing in some fast moving water there. Love the Cuckoo. Wonderful bird sightings and photos. Thanks for linking up and sharing your post.
    Have a great day and week ahead.

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    1. Yellow-billed Cuckoo is pretty ordinary for you, Eileen, but far from that here.

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  56. I didn't realize that the Yellow-billed Cuckoo could be found here in Texas, from April-November. For some reason, I had associated cuckoos generally with Europe. Reading the Texas Parks and Wildlife page about them, I was intrigued by this: "This shy, slender bird gets its name from the soft coo-coo-coocoo call of the male seeking mates. In some places, it is called the "rain crow" or the "storm crow" because it begins calling right before the summer rains begin." I grew up with grandparents who often referred to the 'rain ravens' that called before rain. I'm sure they were crows or true ravens, but like common names, common behaviors can be ascribed to different species.

    I'll have to explore the sightings of the Cuckoo, and see if it can be found in any of the areas I roam.

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  57. Querido amigo me encanta este lugar y la gran cantidad de aves que hay, es un verdadero placer disfrutar de ellos a través de tan bonitas fotos. Un gran abrazo.

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  58. Hi David,
    This Post is beautiful. stunning birds!
    I hope you are well after the First surgery ?
    I wish you a good recovery!
    Regards,
    Maria

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