North Lambton Stuff to South Beach Stuff

Friday I decided to head up to north Lambton to look around.  It is the season to look for insects more than birds.  However, there was a brisk and cool north wind which did not help in that regard.
In any case, I started at Rock Glen Conservation Area early and had the place to myself.
I was interested in looking along the river at the outlet of the falls ravine where one could find some odonates.  It was really too early in the morning, but as things warmed up, I spotted a couple of American Rubyspots.

There were a few birds, but nothing of note.  Earlier in the week, some Louisiana Waterthrushes were noted there.  There is somewhat decent habitat in the area, but at the "Glen", there are too many people that would disturb their activities.  It is a popular spot for tourists and when I went back in the afternoon, it was packed!  The birds likely vacated the area after having the place to themselves earlier when the place was closed.

Midland Clubtail

I walked the two main trails at Ipperwash Forested Dunes and Swales as well.  I thought it was once again rather quiet for birds just like last year.  There really should be more birds there!  Of note, was a singing male Canada Warbler which is probably on territory.  It was at the exact same spot I had one two (?) years ago.

One can find Pink Ladies Slipper here, among other things.

Tufted Loostrife

Usually Sandhill Cranes nest in the area, and stumbled upon a family with one colt.  However, I did not get a decent photo.

Along Cedar Trail, I saw this Northern Watersnake slithering through the wetland.

After this "long" walk, I slipped over to the "MNR" parking lot to take a quick look around.  I noted perhaps eight Dusted Skippers.  These bandits are now declining for the year and will soon be gone.

I came across this Spiderwort plant which I thought was neat.  Not often I see these.  The flowers usually just bloom for one day.

With all the walking this day, I headed home to rest!

Today, Sunday, I had no idea what to do.  I just pointed the car towards Rondeau and ended up there.  I did not even know where I wanted to walk there, but started at south point and walked along the edge of the woods.

A pair of Northern Mockingbirds has been in the area.  I saw them today, and it was interesting to watch the one bird going back and forth.  It was also entertaining to listen to the mimicry.

I met up with "M.B." and he was heading out to south beach.  I was game for that so on we went.  It is always an intersting walk and one never knows what to encounter.  Part way out, Steve came along, so  we had more eyes to look at things.

There are usually lots of gulls out there, and today was no exception.

We spotted a couple of young Little Gulls among about 350 Bonaparte's and others.

It is a good time of year for Black-headed Gull, but one never materialized. I have seen two at Point Pelee around this time.

Some Common Terns were out there, including this youger one.

A bleached out Herring Gull (assuming pure Herring) stood out.

Heading back, we spotted another Little Gull which was more advanced in plumage sporting almost a full hood.  However, I did not get a decent photo.

Four Sandhill Cranes were spotted.

After getting back to the car, I headed home, as this is all I wanted to do today!