As I continue to be afforded the great pleasure of leading outings for Waterloo Region Nature, I am offering two options for local destinations, a mid-week choice for those who are retired or are otherwise able to attend on a work day, and at the weekend for those poor souls who still toil for a living. The number of participants, and the range of skill levels, make it a great pleasure to take part in these activities. I can do no better than to quote the words of Betty Brechun in response to the first leg of these latest forays, "It's so nice to pick
up identification pointers and learn some interesting bird facts on the outings
you lead. And pleasant company all around...." I think Betty said it all!
02 March 2022
The Linear Trail, Cambridge, ON
Leader: David M. Gascoigne
Members: Christine Alexander, Miriam Bauman, Shirely Bauman, Betty Brechun, Pauline Copleston, Lisa Den Besten, Angie Koch, Curtiss MacDonald, Geoff Moore, Alan Morgan, Anne Morgan, Pauline Richards, Kathy Waybrant (13)
Anne, Alan, David, Kathy, Angie, Curtiss, Pauline C., Christine, Betty, Geoff, Pauline R., Shirley
Lisa was a little late arriving and I didn't think to ask Miriam to take another group picture, so she will not be recorded for posterity! Not in the group picture anyway.
The footing was a little precarious on the trail, which has been subjected to a constant freeze/thaw cycle in recent days, and was little more than a sheet of ice. Skates might have been a better choice of footwear. A couple of eminently sensible people had cleats attached to their boots and marched along with confidence; the rest of us slithered, teetered and balanced as best we could!
It was not long before we saw a female Red-bellied Woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus) and as befits the esoteric make-up of this group, a discussion ensued as to the etymology of the name. The specific epithet gave us no trouble, but as for the genus, Anne pointed out that "Melan" hints at black. In order not to jeopardize my reputation as a stickler for scientific precision (do I hear Lisa muttering "fanatic" under her breath?), I embarked on a search for the answer!
In Woodpeckers of the World, Gerard Gorman (2014) it is stated: "Melanerpes includes some of the most colourful, conspicuous and vocal woodpeckers on the planet." No doubt you would agree that this hardly smacks of black. But we would be wrong and the laurel wreath will adorn Anne's head. Melanerpes combines the ancient Greek melas meaning "black" with herpes meaning "creeper."
This female was paying close attention to a hole, and I am not sure whether her behaviour has anything to do with the rapidly approaching breeding season or not.
At the same time as we saw the woodpecker, a Brown Creeper (Certhia americana) was plying its trade, encircling branches and trunks prying for insects and other juicy morsels. We were never able to get a picture, however.
Kathy, ever vigilant with her camera, and adept at using it, caught a Red-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta canadensis) juggling a peanut.
. .....and Alan took the opportunity to prove to all and sundry that our familiar Mallard (Anas platyrynchos) is as dashing as any duck in the world.
Pauline, sporting a brand new pair of binoculars that have effectively given her a new set of eyes, was delighted to point birds out to us.
We heard, and then saw, our first Red-winged Blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus) of the spring, a joyful sight and sound if ever there was one. Naturally the bird was perched far away and I am using the following image only to authenticate its presence.
Here is a picture from the archives taken at approximately the same location a little later in the season a couple of years ago.
Hooded Mergansers (Lophodytes cucullatus) will soon be seeking a suitable cavity in a tree to start a family.
There was an abundance of Common Goldeneye (Bucephala clangula) with the males in such a frenzy to impress a female one thought they might break their necks as they tossed them back with such vigour.
The first two shots below are Alan's and the last two are Miriam's.
The path only got icier as we moved farther along and it is a testament to our balance and navigational proficiency that we did not return with a couple of broken bones!
This immature Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) looked headless perched in a willow tree.
It did us the great favour, however, of taking flight and soaring effortlessly above our heads, a spectacle so magnificent as to take your breath away.
I think that humans are hard-wired to be enchanted by deer, so we were especially delighted to see this White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) at the water's edge.
There was a time when the sighting of an American Robin (Turdus migratoriius) in March was an acknowledged sign that spring had arrived. Given that many of them now remain with us throughout the winter, it is impossible to know whether this individual was a migrant or a resident bird.
Just before making our way back to our vehicles, a female Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) put in an appearance and obligingly cruised along the river beside us.
Riverside Park, Cambridge, ON
A few people decided to call it a day after the trek along the icy Linear Trail, but most of us formed a cavalcade and moved over to nearby Riverside Park.
We met a woman who showed us a picture she had taken of a Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus) shortly before we arrived, and perhaps that accounted for the fact that birds were not nearly as abundant as they usually are at Riverside Park.
American Tree Sparrow (Spizelloides arborea) ever delicate and delightful, did not disappoint us, however.
Perhaps the immediate threat from the Sharp-shin had passed for Mourning Doves (Zenaida macroura) appeared not be especially wary.
As was the case at the Linear Trail the Speed River was largely free of ice and a female Hooded Merganser seemed to enjoy being swept along on the current, until finding a sheltered cove with smooth water where it dove for fish.
An American Herring Gull (Larus smithsonianus) was having its share of success in capturing fish that came too close to the surface of the water.
Perhaps not having great success with the ladies, a couple of bachelor male goldeneyes were keeping each other company.
As we threaded our way back along the boardwalk we spotted our first Common Grackle (Quiscalus quiscula) of the season, conveniently perched for us.
05 March 2022
Linear Trail, Cambridge, ON
Leader: David M. Gascoigne
Members: Miriam Bauman, Ross Getsinger, Lucas Lieu, Jennifer MacAuley, Bev McBride, Bill Mitchell, Clare Mitchell, Shelley Watters (8)
Guests: Annie Li, James Burns, Kathy Burns (3)
Shelley, Bev, Kathy, James, David, Jennifer, Ross, Clare, Bill, Annie, Lucas
It appears that ambitious House Sparrows (Passer domesticus) have taken up residence in the dryer vent of a house adjacent to the parking area.
The cover is missing and the owners of the house might want to rectify that before they become hosts to non-paying tenants with children!
The expected range of species was seen along the first part of the trail, with little different from Wednesday's excursion.
I really like this image of a White-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis) going upwards on a trunk rather than in the downward pose we are more accustomed to seeing.
The trail had received a light coating of fresh snow to coat the ice and make the footing much more secure. Bill and Clare had excellent cleats on their boots and I am resolved to invest in them for Miriam and me before next winter.
We saw our first Common Goldeneyes soon after having the Speed River in view, and everyone was keen to get a better look.
There were scores of Mallards, all seemingly paired off, and a couple of Canada Geese (Branta canadensis) thought them fine company on a mild, late winter's day.
Mourning Doves, emblematic of peace, caused at least some of us to reflect on the heartbreaking carnage being inflicted on Ukraine and its people by a Russian madman.
Common Goldeneye males, driven by hormonal frenzy, tossed their heads back repeatedly, gripped by the ecstasy of uncontrollable ardour.
An American Mink (Mustela vison) provided great entertainment for us as it skirted the edge of the ice, at one point rolling around in the snow like an exuberant child on a snow day from school.
James and Kathy decided not to accompany us to Riverside Park, but everyone else made the short trip, and in mere minutes Jennifer was delighting in a Black-capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus) feeding from her hand.
I can say with certainty that you can do this a thousand times and the thrill is as intense as the first time you ever had the pleasure.
Blue Jays (Cyanocitta cristata) sent out a welcoming committee.
The boardwalk was characterized by the usual cast of characters, but it was noteworthy that even since Wednesday a general arrival of Red-winged Blackbirds and Common Grackles had occurred, and trees were bedecked with them.
On the Speed River a male Hooded Merganser had succeeded in securing a mid-morning snack.
A fellow was walking along the boardwalk leaving a trail of birdseed on the rail for its entire length.
Lots for everyone!
Blue Jays are considered by some to be pushy and aggressive (unwarranted anthropomorphic terms I might add), but this individual was a model of good manners.
Common Grackles, Red-winged Blackbirds and House Sparrows shared in the feast with never a squabble among them. A surfeit of food will do that every time.
Brown-headed Cowbirds (Molothrus ater) have also returned from their winter quarters and joined in the feast.
American Red Squirrel is a feisty, bad-tempered little creature that rarely backs down from a challenge.
Dark-eyed Juncos (Junco hyemalis) are not nearly so numerous as they were even a week ago, but all have not yet moved out.
A Swamp Sparrow (Melospiza gerogiana) was frustratingly difficult to follow and we could only manage this dorsal shot.
American Tree Sparrow (Spizelloides arborea) was much easier to see.
Thanks to everyone who came to enjoy these outings with me, especially to those for whom it was a first bird walk with WRN. I am delighted to know you all. And thanks to Miriam who deals with my obsession every day, and has camera in hand to record it. It wouldn't be the same without her.
Finally, please take a moment to spare a thought for the beleaguered people of Ukraine, who no longer have the option of a morning spent birding. Their emigration is forced, their homes are being destroyed by a dictatorial, fascist lunatic, their entire civilization is in jeopardy of being eradicated, and the sorrow of the world lies heavy on us all.
Hari Om
ReplyDeleteOh my, such glorious images!!! Much needed relief against those arriving from east of here... YAM xx
That shot of the mink is my favourite.
ReplyDelete...this looks like a beautiful area, even if you didn't see any wildlife!
ReplyDeleteNice to hear about those Robins, Grackles and Blackbirds returning - unless they stay all year down there in the tropics!
ReplyDeleteI tagged along...
ReplyDeleteThese pictures are breathtaking.
Feel free to tag along in person one day.
DeleteThese birds are glorious. They know spring is coming.
ReplyDeleteI have those ice cleats. They are wonderful!
I am quite fond of those red squirrels. Not that I would want to scrap with one, but they are lots of fun to watch and they're definitely smart. I have one who gets into and out of a bird feeder of mine. And that ice is the word of the this winter. Glad no one fell. And you did see some great species, especially red winged blackbirds in their spring time colors. I'm counting the days until it warms back up. Hopefully I don't have to count too many days. And every day the news from Ukraine is just sadder. For what? What a waste of lives. And add to that the destruction. It seems trivial to wish you a great rest of the weekend, but have a great rest of your weekend. hugs-Erika
ReplyDeleteHave never seen any of those beautiful birds over here..that red cardinal is just too pretty. I also really admire your guys' passion for the nature and the birds. Well done!
ReplyDeleteGreat shots, fun to see! Have a good week.
ReplyDeleteEvery time you show me the Northern Cardinal I wonder about evolution. The red color seems very inappropriate. But oh how beautiful it is. I would like to see it in nature.
ReplyDeleteI join you in sending many daily thoughts to the Ukrainians - and to the fear that the mad man's war has spread to most of the world. We must remember to be grateful for the freedom to pursue our interests.
I would be very grateful if the Omicron virus could find its way to Vladimir Putin.
DeleteYou are such a kind an sharing person ;-)
DeleteJust trying to be of help, Ma'am.
DeleteReally wonderful sightings and gorgeous captures!
ReplyDeleteHello David,
ReplyDeleteYour photos are always so great, and you show so many different birds. I am always so impressed of the variety in your area.
I guess Miriam have made the beautiful patckwork? Yes, we all have pity for Ukraine. It is so heartbreaking what happends there.
Hugs and kisses, Marit
Yes, it is Miriam's work, Marit. It is hanging on our front door.
DeleteUkraine is in my thoughts & prayers.
ReplyDeleteI would dearly love to be part of your bird outings. You see so many wonderful, beautiful ones. ...and take terrific photos for the record books.
Great post today ...thanks for taking time to link in and happy birding!
If ever you find yourself in southern Ontario, you'd be welcome to join us.
DeleteHello David,
ReplyDeleteGreat reports and birds sighted on your outings. The Goldeneyes are my favorite, only because I have not seen one yet. They are all beautiful birds and photos. The Mink is a cool critter. I am glad everyone was safe walking on the ice. Take care, enjoy your day and have a great new week!
C'est sympa d'être autant nombreux pour observer les oiseaux et cela fait beaucoup de belles photos à partager. Il y'en a de très belles, autant les oiseaux que les mammifères. Bonne journée
ReplyDeleteGreat assortment of photos. I didn't know hooded mergansers nested in a tree. The trails around here are icy the way yours are there. I don't have cleats, but I think that would be the only way I could walk on the trails here right now. I love that quilt.
ReplyDeleteVery pleasant to join you on another jaunt, David. Our Goldeneye are also just beginning their absurd head-throwing display - I wonder how that came about as being a way to attract the opposite sex?
ReplyDeleteI don't know, John, but it works for them. The most amazing to me are the bowerbirds in Australia and Papua New Guinea. Now that's dedication to the task!
DeleteThank you for offering these virtual walks as I sit warm at home :) It's fun to see the birds and notice which ones are regular here and which ones I never see.
ReplyDeleteNo me importa repetirme amigo. Llegar a esta ventana tuya es encontrar la naturaleza plena de vida. Especias de aves que no vemos por aquí. Como me gustaría hacer una excursión con vosotros. Gracias por compartir tus buenos reportajes.
ReplyDeleteQue paséis buen domingo David.
Un abrazo.
Tal vez algun día, amiga Laura.....
DeleteI recognize many of these birds now which I wouldn’t have been able to say a few years ago. We see Mergansers here often but I have only seen the Hoodeds once. The House Sparrows are new to me as well but I’ve seen the Tree Sparrows the last few winters. I especially love the photos with a variety of birds in the same shot. Great captures, Miriam.
ReplyDeleteThe first squirrel is incredible. She seems to be listening and wants to say something.
ReplyDeleteI agree. It's a great shot.
DeleteSome wonderful walks and great sightings. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteQuerido David tus salidas siempre son espectaculares y maravillosas, me asombra cada día ver tantas aves y con tanto frío. En cuanto a la invasión de Ucrania me parece muy triste que por culpa de un dictador se pierdan tantas vidas. Es realmente horrible. Abrazos y besos.
ReplyDeleteWonderful post once I eventually got it downloaded, far too big for our lousy Wi-Fi connection!! Love the squirrel and the mink, something different. I also love the tree sparrows they really are quite pretty. I have to say I enjoy these walks with you though they are virtual, I could not cope with your temperatures. Keep safe Diane
ReplyDeleteIt was not especially cold on these walks, Diane. Yesterday it got right up to around freezing.
DeleteDavid, thank you once again for allowing us to accompany you, virtually, on a series of wonderful nature excursions!
ReplyDeleteNot only are we treated to a diverse selection of birds and wildlife, we are able to enjoy it all from the comfort of our sunshine-filled sitting room without having to don hat, coat and boots.
Thanks to you and all the members of the group for making such a sacrifice!
Hi David, You publish an exceptionally fine blog with lots of excellent images. Thus, it made my day to get your recent comment on my blog about my hummingbird at sunset photo. Thank you so much. “An outing to the Linear Trail and Riverside Park, Cambridge, ON” is a wonderful post. If I must pick a favorite, I think I will go with the 6th image, the two Mallards. Wonderful framing, focus, and the reflections … wow! Congrats to Miriam for beautiful images! Lastly, yes, Prayers for the people of Ukraine! John
ReplyDeleteThese are very kind word, John. Thank you. The Mallard picture was taken by my good friend Alan Morgan, Professor Emeritus, Quatenary Geology and Palaeontology at the University of Waterloo, who has become a passionate and skilled bird photographer since retiring from teaching. He is always generous in sharing his images if he comes on one of my walks, or we are simply out birding together.
DeleteSuch fantastic sightings and stunning captures, David!
ReplyDeleteHappy Monday!
Wojna w Ukrainie jest tak blisko mnie. Dotyka naszych znajomych, sąsiadów, którzy pracują w Polsce. Pomagamy, jak możemy, ale to wszystko mało. Oni są odważni, twardzi, ale czy dadzą radę? Kto powstrzyma tego szaleńca?
ReplyDeleteDziękuję za kolejny reportaż z ornitologicznego spaceru.
Buenos días, amigo David, espectacular recorrido, fantástico todos esos avistamientos. Me encantan las imágenes viendo como comen posados en esa especie de repisa. Una agradable e intensa mañana, aunque con heladas, queda bellamente compensada por la belleza del lugar y sus pobladores.
ReplyDeleteUn gran abrazo admirado profesor de tu siempre amigo y compadre Juan.
What fantastic walks. I loved all the photos, but I especially liked the photos in Riverside Park, where the reds of the Northern Cardinals contrasted with the browns of the sparrows.
ReplyDeleteWhile nature makes our eyes shine, a madman brings with him the black shadow of war and with it destruction and death. Let's hope that this sad chapter of history ends soon.
I think it will end quite soon, Maria. The question none of us wish to contemplate is, "How will it end?"
DeleteWhat jolly good walks and the photos to show for it. I love those female mergansers and the cardinal so bright! You had some terrific sightings and I'm so glad that no bones were broken in the journey (that one photo did look quite icy!)
ReplyDeleteBeautiful pictures! I like those ducks the most -- especially the Mallard and the Goldeneye! Such gorgeous creatures!
ReplyDeletePlease excuse this late, and rather brief, visit to you blog David. We've been away since early Sunday, and recommended our travels at 6.30 this morning, so I'm a bit more dull-brained than usual.
ReplyDeleteWas really surprised that you don't already have cleats. Lindsay and I have had them for years, in spite of snow being a relative rarity here.
It was good to see that you seem to be increasingly offered photos by your participants to supplement Miriam's excellent photography
Best wishes to you both - - Richard
Spellchecker seems to think recommenced should be changed to recommended
DeleteGenius that I am, I had figured it out, Richard. I hope that you off on a grand adventure on your travels. Better to stay away from central Europe right now!
Delete
ReplyDeleteLovely selection of wildlife David, I cannot find places like that close to me I have to travel a little further but my old legs say no so I stick to my garden. It is very enjoyable to see what others get up to. Meanwhile I will look after my visiting animals.
Mike.
Your foxes and badgers provide you with world class entertainment right at home, Mike. That's hard to beat. All the best, David
DeleteI flushed quite a number of Red-winged Blackbirds on Saturday, and I noticed yesterday that there's more bird 'noise' in the air. They aren't quite singing yet, but there are chirps and twitters, and even more cooing doves. Our white pelicans are gone now, but we're suddenly awash in Blue-Winged Teal.
ReplyDeleteDid Miriam make the blue and yellow quilt? It's quite beautiful, and such a fitting tribute to a beleaguered people.
Yes, Miriam made it. It is not a full size quilt, but a panel that we have hung on our front door.
DeleteHi David - I agree Miriam really adds with her photos to your posts ... the one of the mink adds a little something to the history of the area. It's a wonderful locality you live in - those walks always available ... board ones and all!
ReplyDeleteNow I don't want to shock you - but if you'd like to see an American Robin - I suggest you come visit?! It (poor thing) landed here in early February ... and oddly as I was coming back from town in the bus I heard passengers talking about it - twitchers delight as they poured into the town to find it! Then it appeared as an article in 'The Week' and no doubt other local newspapers ... Apparently the first sighting was 1952 and have only been 28 sightings since. Cheers and thanks again for a delightful outing - sunny and cold here, but not your cold!
Ukraine deserves much help and 'hope' for a early release from its hell. No words - Hilary
Yes, and Kathy and Alan threw in a few pictures too. It's great when the participants in the walk contribute in this manner. Always great to hear from you, Hilary.
DeleteHello David,:=) Having been indisposed with earache for the last four days, I haven't felt like blogging, so I also apologise for my late visit. Your wild life outings always give me great pleasure, especially when I see the great variety of birds and other creatures you find on your walks. Beautiful captures of the American Tree Sparrow, and I particularly enjoyed the images of all the different species of birds eating peacefully together.
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts turned to the unfortunate people of Ukrain, who have suffered at the hands of a treacherous power crazy individual more than once. My prayers are with the people of Ukrain.
Glad to hear that you are feeling some relief, Sonjia. Thanks for dropping by. The situation in Ukraine is beyond tragic. I think we are especially sensitive to it in Canada where the largest Ukrainian diaspora in the world exists.
DeleteWow David, this is a great Post!
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed your wunderful report about the excursions.
I like Betty for what she said about her experience. Learning by doing the job ;-)
Great days and beautyful pictures of the landscape and gorgeous birds!
Nice words about the horrible tension in the world. I cherish the freedom.
Ihope that my limited knowledge of the Enlish language was sufficient.
Best regards.
Maria
Your English is more than adequate, Maria. I can assure you it is a whole lot better than my Dutch!
ReplyDeleteUna salida espectacular, sin duda un lugar maravilloso para la observación de aves. David enhorabuena por las fotos, me han gustado todas. Un fuerte abrazo desde España.
ReplyDeleteHi David,
ReplyDeleteYour outings must be great to follow. You must be a great tour leader ! This trip is still very rich.
In what season should you visit Canada to see a maximum of birds? Winter is good, right?
Big kisses my friend.
Hi Nathalie: Canada is a very large country and there is some variation from region to region, but here in southern Ontario where I live, (the best part of the country for birds), the first two weeks of May are the best of all. That's when the warblers, thrushes, flycatchers etc arrive back from Central and South America to breed. Already some of the migrants are beginning to arrive and week by week their numbers will grow. I hope you will come to visit one day! Gros bisous de ton ami David.
DeleteA glorious collection, and as always, I enjoyed my virtual walk with you.
ReplyDeletePrayers for Ukraine, and all those who have fled, or remained to fight. May goodness triumph over evil.
If all that Ukraine receives from the West is prayers, Amy, we might as well sign their death warrant.
DeleteHi David,
ReplyDeleteIt is shocking to notice that the behaviour and ruthlessness of Putler is having such an immense influence upon the world. The acts of a person without any feelings, obsessed with the idea to be rememebered as P the Great, not realising that it will be P the Dreadful Idiot.
You managed to organise attractive trips, giving the participants the chance to find distraction in nature. You are lucky to have such a variety nearby. Every season is attractive in its own way.
Greetings, Kees
Friend David, it is a pleasure to follow you on all the outings you do and with such good company, I never get tired of seeing all the birds and landscapes you find.
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts are with the Ukrainians and I pray that the conflict will be resolved soon and we will have peace.
Many kisses.
Not being familiar with walking on snow I would certainly return with a few broken bones, lol.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful photos as usual David and Miriam. Love the row of different birds eating seeds. How thrilling to have a bird come and eat out of your hand, amazing!
I too wish the war on Ukraine is soon over, it's hard to believe that in 2022 a despot has decided to strike a neighbouring country.
As always, wonderful photo's. The reflection in the water with the Mallard was fantastic. How nice you're able to get out so often with groups and share you knowledge; but burrrrr for me, lol. I'm always impressed with how well dressed people are for the cold. I worry about slipping on the ice, so don't like to walk outside when we've had weather. Looking forward to spring. LOVE your ending with the tribute to Ukraine. These are very sad times. Someone must step up to be an end to the madman. Since I read so much about WWII I well know about the madman Hilter, but never thought I'd see it in my own life. Scary times.
ReplyDeleteTraveling Suitcase
hello David
ReplyDeletenice trips and many
Bird lovers, the cardinal stands out with its color a great bird
Greetings Frank
Wow stunning photos. Just stunning.
ReplyDeleteWhat great walks you've had (though I'm afraid I would have passed on the ice walk!). The American Red Squirrels are so different to the ones we get here.
ReplyDeleteTodos los pájaros son preciosos y me gustan todos. Besos.
ReplyDeleteOh this post gets a big WOW from me.
ReplyDeleteFabulous photographs, I so enjoyed them all.
WOW WOW WOW and more WOWS :)
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My thoughts are with the people of Ukraine.
All the best Jan
Congratulations for such a nice outing, it seems that it was successful despite the cold. Impressive the number of little birds that come to the feeder, I imagine how happy you must have been to see them so close to you
ReplyDelete