River Runs, Skunk's Misery, Pinery Visit

Late Friday I checked out the St. Clair River to Corunna.  The best spots presently are Cathcart Park and Guthrie Park.  Warm water outflows have left the river partially open at these locations during the recent cold spell.

The adult Trumpeter Swan was still visible at Cathcart Park, but I did not have the camera on hand.
There was quite a variety of waterfowl here, including more Tundra Swans.

I got to Corunna by sunset, then went on into Sarnia.  A coyote was crossing the ice to Stag Island, but really out of range for the camera.

South of Sarnia just before dark, I saw this Red Fox bounding across a field.

Saturday morning I decided to check the river again.  The immature Trumpeter Swan (at least I think so) was visible at Cath's Cart Park among some Tundras and many Mutes.  It is one of the more odd-looking swans I have ever seen.

There was nothing else of note visible, but there is open water all the up to the OC outflow.  Much of it is not accessible or one cannot get a good view due to the trees in front of OC Industries.

A pair of Bald Eagles was frolicking around here.

There was lots to see at Guthrie Park, Corunna.  Early on, a Greater White-fronted Goose made an appearance.  Nice to see this time of year!  One was at Sarnia earlier in January, so this is likely the same individual as things have frozen solid there.

Lots of Long-tailed Ducks were present, as well as many other species.

Long-tailed Ducks

I headed back south and drove the entire length of Oil Springs Line to where it passes the Sydenham Nature Reserve.  There were dozens of Horned Larks, some Snow Buntings and Lapland Longspurs along the way.  Also , lots of Dark-eyed Juncos and some other sparrows.  It is a good road to check out during the peak of winter.

I headed into the Mosa Forest area (Skunk's Misery) and drove around.  My hope was to view a Golden Eagle, but that never materialized!  They winter in this area, but I guess it is just luck to come across one.
I walked one trail and found some birds.  Included were a number of American Robins and two Hermit Thrushes.

The Hermit Thrushes did not co-operate for photos very well.

Sunday, a change in scenery was in order, so I headed up to Pinery Provincial Park.  The visitor feeder setup is the best place to see a variety of birds.  It did not disappoint.

Many squirrels were taking advantage of the spilled seed.

Highlight was an "Oregon" Junco.  Been some time since I have seen one!

The wintering White-throated Sparrow made an appearance as well.

Lots of Pine Siskins were busy at the nyjer feeders, as were a few Common Redpolls.

Many Black-capped Chickadees and Tufted Titmice were around as well.

At one point, a flock of about 65 Cedar Waxwings came in to feed in the cedars.  Alas, no Bohemians with them.

One more walk for the day was at Ausable River Cut CA.  It was quite pleasant as the sun had come out, unusual for a weekend.
I found a good pocket of birds which included a timid Hermit Thrush.

A pair of Carolina Wrens was also in the group, along with many chickadees, titmice and nuthatches.

Turned out to be a decent weekend with especially with the rare nice weather.