As spring imposes itself on the landscape, there is more to observe each day, and this post represents just a little of what we have seen of late.
17 April, 2022
Benjamin Park Trail, Waterloo, ON
The floor of the woodland is coming alive with spring ephemerals and other plants, making their way from subterranean winter dormancy to an exuberant appearance above ground.
Early Blue Cohosh (Caulophyllum giganteum) is always one of the first plants to emerge, its purplish-blue leaves nodding fitfully in the breeze.
Siberian Squill (Scilla siberica) blooms right alongside it.
Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) seems to be everywhere, thriving even in degraded areas, adding colour almost as soon as the snow has melted.
Lungwort (Pulmonaria officinalis) is sublimely attractive with its spotted leaves and blue and pink flowers.
Variegated Yellow Archangel (Lamium galeobdolon argentatum) is invasive, and not viewed kindly by all, but later on will produce tall yellow flowers, beautiful to behold.
19 April, 2022
RIM Park, Waterloo, ON
A late spring snow storm was the dominant feature of a walk at RIM Park, at times making it difficult to see, and keeping binoculars dry was a challenge.
A Raccoon (Procyon lotor) seemed to be having a difficult time stuffing itself into a hole in a tree to shelter from the weather.
Meanwhile American Beavers (Castor canadensis) were no doubt snug and warm in their lodge, oblivious to the misery endured by the rest of us.
A Caspian Tern (Hyrdoprogne caspia) was cruising through the snow looking for a meal.
A male Downy Woodpecker (Dryobates pubescens) viewed us with equanimity.
And a Western Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) recently returned from the south perhaps wondered why.
22 April, 2022
Kitchener, ON
We went to make our weekly check on the Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus) and found to our chagrin that the nest now contains only one owlet. I have no way of knowing what misfortune befell its sibling, but I have mentioned before that the nest seems unusually small, and it may have fallen over the edge.
22 April, 2022
Our house, Waterloo, ON
Mourning Doves (Zenaida macroura) seem to enjoy our backyard, and seldom are they absent. Often, they seem to favour sitting on the lip of the bird bath.
23 April, 2022
Our house, Waterloo, On
American Goldfinches (Spinus tristis) have regained their breeding plumage and are looking very handsome.
Here they are joined by a stunning male House Finch (Haemorhous mexicanus).
It won't be long before orioles and grosbeaks arrive. Let's hope we have a camera at the ready when they do.
