Random Spring Sightings

 18 April, 2026

SpruceHaven, St. Agatha, ON

     Eastern Red-backed Salamander (Plethodon cinereus) is far-and-away the most common salamander in our region and can usually be found by lifting a log or two in the vicinity of a vernal pond, or even a moist forest floor.

     As the genus Plethodon implies it is lungless and should not be handled since it breathes through its skin. Handling can interfere with breathing and cause  surface mucus to dry out permitting the entry of harmful bacteria.

     Eastern Red-backed Salamanders can be found in most deciduous woodlands, but may also inhabit coniferous forests. They feed on insects, spiders and other terrestrial invertebrates and, in turn, become food for birds, small mammals and snakes.

22 April, 2026

Benjamin Park, Waterloo, ON

     A Purple Finch (Haemorhous purpureus) is not a bird I see frequently, so it was very agreeable to be greeted by this male as soon as I set foot on the trail.

     I eagerly await the emergence of Trilliums (genus Trillium) and Benjamin Park is an area where they occur in profusion. 

     White Trillium or Large-flowered Trillium (Trillium grandiflorum) is the most abundant species, but it is difficult to know until the flower is revealed.

     There is no doubt that the following plant is Purple Trillium (Trillium erectum).

     White Trillium has been the provincial flower of Ontario since 1937.

     Lungwort (Pulmonaria canadensis) appears early and fills the woodlands with surreal beauty.

     The first wood warbler I see is nearly always Myrtle Warbler (Setophaga coronata).

     Unlike most warbler which are obligate insectivores, Myrtle Warblers are able to switch to a diet of fruit and berries when insects are not available during periodic cold snaps.

     Red-winged Blackbirds (Agelaius phoeniceus) have a loud, distinctive song familiar to all.

     It evokes a feeling of profound joy to greet early Mourning Cloaks (Nymphalis antiopa).

     There is more, but we'll save that until the next time.