WRN Outing to Hullett Provincial Wildlife Area, Huron County, ON

 12 May, 2026

Leaders: David M. Gascoigne and Curtiss MacDonald

Participants: Miriam Bauman, Allen Beacock, Penny Beacock, Jim Bowman, Terry Bullen, Lisa Den Besten, Helen Fowler, Dianne Garceau, Steve Gyorffy, Victoria Ho, Solam Hyolmo lama, Dale Ingrey, Leon Linseman, Melinda Metzger, Geoff Moore, Ruthann Moore, Kathy Moustardi, Marg Paré, Selwyn Tomkun, Mary Ann Vanden Elzen

     The day was cool, but bright and sunny, and we set off in good spirits, anticipating a fine day's birding. We were not disappointed.

     Upon arrival at our first stop at Hullett the first order of business was the traditional group photograph. 

     Everywhere was lush, green and inviting.

     For several people in our group it was their first visit to Hullett Marsh and all expressed great pleasure in being there.

     American Robin (Turdus migratorius) was very common throughout.

     We saw at least three Eastern Phoebes (Sayornis phoebe), flycatching actively and putting on a show for us.

     There is enchantment in this little bird.

     I think that the bloom of Common Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) must have been at its maximum, for there were carpets of gold everywhere. 

     The number of insects on the flowers bore testament to the importance of this humble plant as a source of nectar for so many species.

Western Honey Bee (Apis mellifera)

Transverse-banded Flower Fly (Eristalis transversa)

     I am accustomed to seeing Northern House Wren (Troglodytes aedon) occupy nest boxes, often to the exclusion of other species such as Tree Swallow (Tachycineta bicolor), so it was both pleasing and unusual to see an individual at a natural cavity.

      There appears to be recent work at this hole, but I doubt that the wren had anything to do with it. More likely, it is ready to evict the rightful occupant.

      I am sure that we all have our own ideas about "the" birds of spring, but for me Baltimore Oriole (Icterus galbula) and Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Pheuticus ludovicianus) fit the bill.

     Red-winged Blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus), that archetypal denizen of the marsh, serenaded us all day - and very agreeable it was, too.

     Feathers on the ground always evoke questions. How did they get there? What species do they belong to?

Strawberries (genus Fragaria)

     We were all excited to see a Merlin (Falco columbarius), although it's safe to say that the songbirds did not share our enthusiasm.

     It obligingly remained in the same location for several minutes and was eagerly viewed by everyone.

     This Grey Catbird (Dumetella carolinensis) has lost its tail, in what manner I am not sure.

     It did not affect its choral outpourings at all!

     Here is another Eastern Phoebe.

     A couple of American Redstarts (Setophaga ruticilla) were engaged in a high speed chase, perching for the briefest of moments, declining to show themselves well.

     Here is a little more.

     Finally!

     Miriam's persistence and patience paid off.

     Tree Swallows, as might be expected, were often stationed at their nest box.

     Perhaps the female is inside already incubating eggs.

     There are modest inclines to climb.

     We did not see many female Red-winged Blackbirds; doubtless they are sitting on the nest, but this individual was perhaps taking a break.

     Northern Yellow Warbler (Setophaga aestiva) was quite common, but mostly partly hidden and rarely staying in one spot for more than a few seconds.

     This is the old bridge across the Maitland River.

     Blue-winged Teal (Spatula discors) is a charming little duck that I see infrequently; Hullett Provincial Wildlife Area is a reliable place to find them.

Globetails (genus Sphaerophoria)

     I am hard pressed to adequately convey the indescribable beauty of the blossom of Apples and Crabapples (genus Malus).

     Last year when we made this trip we took a picture of Mary Ann reading the information boards, and the image has become mildy iconic. She posed in the same manner again, and we'll be sure to have her do it on future outings.

American Robin

  

     Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus), with its delightful loud, bubbling song, is appreciated by everyone.

     Sadly, it is now classified as threatened, having experienced a population decline of between 22% and 28% over the past decade.

     This mirrors the experience of so many species, yet as a society we seem unwilling to tackle the accelerating slide towards extinction of so many organisms.

     It was a surprise to see a Tundra Swan (Cygnus columbianus) out on the water.

     Perhaps it will still migrate to the wetlands of the low tundra where it breeds.

     Geoff had a spring in his step.

     There were several Double-crested Cormorants (Nannopterum auritum) far out on the pond.

     We saw many Canada Geese (Branta canadensis), surprisingly none with young.

     As mentioned above, Northern yellow Warbler was ubiquitous.

Baltimore Oriole ♀

      A sighting of an American Bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus) is always special. It was Sonam's keen eyes that first spotted this one lurking in the rushes.

     Just as we were leaving a small group of Sandhill Cranes (Antigone canadensis) flew overhead, preceded by their distinctive, far-reaching call.

     This is akin to an honour guard for birders!

     I could not help but ponder a couple of times during the day, that, in this age of reductionism and mathematical biology, there is still a place for field naturalists. There is a rare beauty in like-minded people enjoying nature's bounty together. The worth of an activity, or a sighting, extends far beyond statistical significance. 

      On the way home, in keeping with his long-established practice, Curtiss buys everyone an ice cream. I didn't think to take pictures while we were still enjoying our treat, so after the fact will have to do.

      People seem to have gathered in a circle. Whether there is meaning to that, I have no idea. Perhaps silent homage to the joys of friendship welded by the joys of nature.

     Just before leaving, we spotted this species of Snake Millipede (order Julia).

     Unknown to most of us, mysterious even; it was a fitting end to a day spent applauding and enjoying every jot and tiddle of nature - statistically significant or not!