Almost Spring

view from south point trail, Rondeau Park

It is still a bit cool. This past weekend was mostly cloudy and cool. It was supposed to be all sunny and a bit warmer, but alas, that is what you get for listening to weather forecasts!

I did not do any birding on Saturday, but did see my first Turkey Vultures of the year.

Sunday I went to Rondeau. On the way there, I saw a male Ring-necked Pheasant alongside Kent Bridge Road. They seem to be less common any more.

Song Sparrows and American Robins seemed to be everywhere today. A few Golden-crowned Kinglets were around the park.

Ducks were far out on the Bay, so I did not bother scoping them out. Lots of mergansers, both Common and Red-breasted were out on the lake. South of Morpeth, a male Long-tailed Duck was heading east. Long-tailed ducks are rather uncommon in the Rondeau area, especially in spring.

At Blenheim Lagoons, Ring-necked Ducks were stealing the show. Likely there were around 400--certainly the most I have seen in one location. Many other species were present including a Green-winged Teal, and a couple of American Coots.

Canada Geese are making their presence known with loud squawking any time you get close to them.

Here at home, there are still lots of Pine Siskins hogging the nyjer seed. I have gone through lots of that seed this winter. It is time for them to leave, but I do remember having siskins at the end of the third week in May one year! I guess I will start them on rations!

Tundra Swans passing Rondeau Park