So, I have further read my Florida Guide and things are looking somewhat glum for my Florida trip in November. The Panhandle is very different from the rest of the state, lacking many of the specialties that the area is known for (particularly in terms of waders). The time of year is also not the greatest as many species are withdrawing from the Panhandle farther south into the Peninsula. There'll be birds to see no doubt and I'm confident I'll get a few lifers but the peninsula sounds like the place to be. Way down the road (and when my bank balance in the appropriate range), a trip to the Everglades or the Dry Tortugas is a must.
So, I left off at King Rail in my last post (which when I look back through, I realize is very hopeful for many of the species). But a little work should garner success.
Roseate Spoonbill - O.K., so it's another species that is doubtful to be present in the Western Panhandle (listed as casual visitor) but this was one of my favourite birds growing up because it's just such a strange combination of beautiful colours with an almost grotesque head and bill. I was also frustrated to read that it breeds north on the Atlantic Coast to Merritt Island. How many birds could I have seen if I had tried harder as a kid!!
Anhinga - I have only seen one Anhinga (a female) on my first trip to Florida. I'd like to see another to study it in more detail (behaviour, plumage, etc.). However, chances are I won't get it on this trip: "rare in the Western Panhandle; most withdraw from the Panhandle during fall." Not exactly the most promising species and yet here it falls on my target list...
Northern Gannet, White Pelican, and Brown Pelican - I have all of these species on my life list but I have seen few of each (I have Brown Pelican from my first trip, White Pelicans at Hillman Marsh and Wheatley Harbour, and Northern Gannet in Florida and off the East Coast of Canada). All three are possible and I'd love to see any of them again.
Wild Turkey - the only Wild Turkeys I have seen are those that have recently been released in Essex County with small groups persisting within Point Pelee and surrounding area. These are still non-countable; however, the populations in Florida would be countable and I hope to see them while I'm there.
Waterfowl - Florida is a great place to see a wide variety of waterfowl species but I have to further study distribution and migration to know what birds will be around in early November.
Lastly, it's worth noting that some special rarities are possible and I probably shouldn't be setting myself up for disappointment just because the Panhandle isn't as renowned for birding as the peninsula half of the state. If nothing else, I'll have a great trip, see the ocean, be with my family, and enjoy the weather, Panama City, and the beaches. More updates to come!
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Florida Target Species: Part I
Here are some of the target species that I hope to find during my trip to Florida at the beginning of November. The Panhandle does not seem to be the best place to bird in the state, however, there is potential for a few lifers as well as some possible goodies if I'm really lucky. It'll still be great practice though, as this will be my third visit to the state. For some reason, I have done this list in taxonomic order but went backwards, starting with blackbirds! I will complete the list soon with further discussion (mostly, I'm just doing this for my own information so that when I get there, I have some idea of what to look and listen for).
Florida Target Species:
*note - all quotations are taken from the ABA Birdfinding Guide: A Birder's Guide to Florida.
Boat-tailed Grackle – I saw this species in abundance on my first trip to Florida, however I’d like to study them in more detail now that I’ve gained more experience; particularly because I hope to get Great-tailed Grackle on my Arizona trip. The species do not have much range overlap but I still want to have that knowledge under my belt. I also want to study the female in more detail to identify it from the Common Grackle.
Seaside Sparrow – “a fairly common permanent resident of marshes, represented by several subspecies.” I think I’ll be looking for the ‘Wakulla’ subspecies, which is said to be found in Panama City (near our destination). Basically I’m just going to look for the “Gulf Coast” subspecies as seen in Sibley’s. This is one of my most hopeful target species.
Nelson’s/Saltmarsh Sharp-tailed Sparrow – Saltmarsh would be a new species so that would be a great find but I’d love to get both in the state (I think this is tres difficile). In the ABA’s guide to Florida, the author states that Nelson’s is more abundant on the Gulf coast while Saltmarsh is more abundant on the Atlantic coast; however, status is uncertain and needs more study (due to the recent split of the 2 species, which took place in 1995). I’ll have to be extremely careful with identification though, as I have only seen 3 Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrows in my life and the 2 closely related species are very similar in appearance.
Bachman’s Sparrow – The ABA guide says, “A fairly common permanent resident of the Panhandle,” which is very promising. Unfortunately, singing males only occur from March until August, so it’s going to be hard (impossible?) to locate this secretive bird. However, it does mention that the species responds to tapes and Screech-Owl calls during the winter months. On top of that, Bachman’s Sparrows “are found in open pinewoods, pine plantations, and dry prairies.” I am going to be along the Gulf Coast for the entirety of the trip so it may be difficult to find the appropriate habitat for the species.
* Note: most sparrows are listed as uncommon to common winter residents of the Panhandle so I might be able to tally some sparrows on my state/trip list.
Brown-headed Nuthatch – “An uncommon to fairly common permanent resident of pinewoods and plantations south through the central peninsula.” This is high on my target list, particularly as it has gone unseen on my first 2 trips. Also, seeing a third nuthatch besides Red-breasted and White-breasted is a sweet thought.
Tufted Titmouse – sadly, sadly, sadly, I have not yet added this species to my life list, when it can be found relatively easily right in my home turf of Essex County. I’ve been close, and I’ve tried but for some reason, this bird has remained elusive. Just like the American Bittern. 2 of my nemesis birds. I have a chance in Florida though: “An uncommon to common permanent resident of the Panhandle.” It responds readily to pishing like their allies, the chickadees so I’m hopeful for this one.
Loggerhead Shrike – “An uncommon to locally common permanent resident of open areas north of the Everglades.” There are actually breeders in the north (and in the Panhandle, and the book also says that they are more abundant in the winter. As well, the guide mentions that, “Loggerhead Shrikes are still easy to find in much of Florida.” Boy, do I hope that’s true.
Red-cockaded Woodpecker – “A rare to uncommon, extremely local permanent resident of mature, fire-maintained pine flatwoods and sandhills of the Panhandle.” I have to do some further research with this species to see if there are any reliable sites near Panama City (*note - I have went back and researched...there aren't. The most reliable places are large park areas that are relatively undisturbed).
Rufous Hummingbird – perhaps if I’m at the right feeder at the right time, this species is a possibility (albeit a slim one). “A rare to uncommon winter resident throughout the mainland; perhaps most frequent in the Panhandle.” Allen’s Hummingbird might be present as well and the two species are considered unidentifiable from each other and should be identified only to family. Well that just sucks!
Barred Owl – “A fairly common permanent resident of hardwood hammocks, swamps, and bayheads throughout the mainland.” Probably a long-shot but I’m listing it under my target species anyway if I can find the right habitat or happen to hear its distinctive who-cooks-for-you call.
Barn Owl – influx of northern breeders in the winter into the Panhandle. Another long shot, like the Barred Owl (I imagine it takes some concentration, effort, and time to find these species but who knows).
Common Ground-Dove – a main target species of mine as it has gone missed on my 2 past trips. Although the species is on the decline, the ABA guide says it is, “An uncommon to fairly common permanent resident throughout.” Further research will tell me their status in the Panhandle.
Black Skimmer – The Panhandle seems to be a tougher area to birdwatch in Florida with most species being permanent or seasonally common residents of the peninsula. The ABA guide mentions that the species, “usually withdraws from the Panhandle during fall,” so it might be more difficult to locate than I thought.
Sandwich Tern – “A rare to locally common coastal permanent resident throughout, except absent from the western Panhandle during winter. Panama city is more towards the east end of the Panhandle and our hotel is right along the coast so I’m still hopeful that this is a potential species to add to my life list (I sound like a lister here, which I am to an extent, but I obviously look forward to studying these birds as well, not just ticking them off and running to find the next bird).
Royal Tern – “An uncommon to locally abundant coastal permanent resident throughout, with numbers augmented during winter by northern breeders.” I really hope this is a reliable species in the Panhandle as it is high on my target list. I think I may have seen them on my first trip to Florida but I didn’t get a good enough look (I was looking at a flock of terns through a car window during rain). *note to self: the birds will be in non-breeding plumage.
American Oystercatcher – another longshot, locally common but scarce in the Panhandle. Further research of range needed.
Wilson’s Plover – “Generally an uncommon to fairly common permanent resident of sandy beaches and flats throughout, but rare in the western Panhandle.” I’ll have to find out what constitutes the ‘western Panhandle’ as Panama City seems to be quite east to me. If this is the case, this species might be a possibility.
Snowy Plover – one of Florida’s most endangered birds due to disturbance by people and pets at their nesting sites along the Gulf coast. The ABA guide states that, “the largest numbers are found in the western Panhandle, but small numbers occur along the entire peninsular Gulf Coast.” Since I wasn’t at Point Pelee during May to get across to Pelee Island for the single bird that stayed a week on the beaches there, it would be great to find them in Florida.
Limpkin – O.K., so I’m setting myself up for disappointment by adding this species to my target list, but I want to see one really badly! It’s listed as “rare to absent in the Panhandle,” so I have my doubts, but there’s a slight hope that I may come across one, thereby making the trip a complete success.
King Rail – “An uncommon but widespread permanent resident of freshwater marshes throughout the mainland.” Since I have yet to actually see a Virginia Rail instead of just hearing one, chances are I won’t see this species in Florida either per se, but I might be able to hear it. The same goes for the Clapper Rail, “A common permanent resident of salt and brackish marshes and mangroves throughout.” Yellow Rail also falls into the same category: “A scarcely seen but probably regular migrant and winter resident throughout.”
I'll finish this list soon, and hopefully put up some pictures of my most-wanted species. I also plan to write about the common guys that I want to see again in Florida, particularly different plumage or subspecies types.
Florida Target Species:
*note - all quotations are taken from the ABA Birdfinding Guide: A Birder's Guide to Florida.
Boat-tailed Grackle – I saw this species in abundance on my first trip to Florida, however I’d like to study them in more detail now that I’ve gained more experience; particularly because I hope to get Great-tailed Grackle on my Arizona trip. The species do not have much range overlap but I still want to have that knowledge under my belt. I also want to study the female in more detail to identify it from the Common Grackle.
Seaside Sparrow – “a fairly common permanent resident of marshes, represented by several subspecies.” I think I’ll be looking for the ‘Wakulla’ subspecies, which is said to be found in Panama City (near our destination). Basically I’m just going to look for the “Gulf Coast” subspecies as seen in Sibley’s. This is one of my most hopeful target species.
Nelson’s/Saltmarsh Sharp-tailed Sparrow – Saltmarsh would be a new species so that would be a great find but I’d love to get both in the state (I think this is tres difficile). In the ABA’s guide to Florida, the author states that Nelson’s is more abundant on the Gulf coast while Saltmarsh is more abundant on the Atlantic coast; however, status is uncertain and needs more study (due to the recent split of the 2 species, which took place in 1995). I’ll have to be extremely careful with identification though, as I have only seen 3 Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrows in my life and the 2 closely related species are very similar in appearance.
Bachman’s Sparrow – The ABA guide says, “A fairly common permanent resident of the Panhandle,” which is very promising. Unfortunately, singing males only occur from March until August, so it’s going to be hard (impossible?) to locate this secretive bird. However, it does mention that the species responds to tapes and Screech-Owl calls during the winter months. On top of that, Bachman’s Sparrows “are found in open pinewoods, pine plantations, and dry prairies.” I am going to be along the Gulf Coast for the entirety of the trip so it may be difficult to find the appropriate habitat for the species.
* Note: most sparrows are listed as uncommon to common winter residents of the Panhandle so I might be able to tally some sparrows on my state/trip list.
Brown-headed Nuthatch – “An uncommon to fairly common permanent resident of pinewoods and plantations south through the central peninsula.” This is high on my target list, particularly as it has gone unseen on my first 2 trips. Also, seeing a third nuthatch besides Red-breasted and White-breasted is a sweet thought.
Tufted Titmouse – sadly, sadly, sadly, I have not yet added this species to my life list, when it can be found relatively easily right in my home turf of Essex County. I’ve been close, and I’ve tried but for some reason, this bird has remained elusive. Just like the American Bittern. 2 of my nemesis birds. I have a chance in Florida though: “An uncommon to common permanent resident of the Panhandle.” It responds readily to pishing like their allies, the chickadees so I’m hopeful for this one.
Loggerhead Shrike – “An uncommon to locally common permanent resident of open areas north of the Everglades.” There are actually breeders in the north (and in the Panhandle, and the book also says that they are more abundant in the winter. As well, the guide mentions that, “Loggerhead Shrikes are still easy to find in much of Florida.” Boy, do I hope that’s true.
Red-cockaded Woodpecker – “A rare to uncommon, extremely local permanent resident of mature, fire-maintained pine flatwoods and sandhills of the Panhandle.” I have to do some further research with this species to see if there are any reliable sites near Panama City (*note - I have went back and researched...there aren't. The most reliable places are large park areas that are relatively undisturbed).
Rufous Hummingbird – perhaps if I’m at the right feeder at the right time, this species is a possibility (albeit a slim one). “A rare to uncommon winter resident throughout the mainland; perhaps most frequent in the Panhandle.” Allen’s Hummingbird might be present as well and the two species are considered unidentifiable from each other and should be identified only to family. Well that just sucks!
Barred Owl – “A fairly common permanent resident of hardwood hammocks, swamps, and bayheads throughout the mainland.” Probably a long-shot but I’m listing it under my target species anyway if I can find the right habitat or happen to hear its distinctive who-cooks-for-you call.
Barn Owl – influx of northern breeders in the winter into the Panhandle. Another long shot, like the Barred Owl (I imagine it takes some concentration, effort, and time to find these species but who knows).
Common Ground-Dove – a main target species of mine as it has gone missed on my 2 past trips. Although the species is on the decline, the ABA guide says it is, “An uncommon to fairly common permanent resident throughout.” Further research will tell me their status in the Panhandle.
Black Skimmer – The Panhandle seems to be a tougher area to birdwatch in Florida with most species being permanent or seasonally common residents of the peninsula. The ABA guide mentions that the species, “usually withdraws from the Panhandle during fall,” so it might be more difficult to locate than I thought.
Sandwich Tern – “A rare to locally common coastal permanent resident throughout, except absent from the western Panhandle during winter. Panama city is more towards the east end of the Panhandle and our hotel is right along the coast so I’m still hopeful that this is a potential species to add to my life list (I sound like a lister here, which I am to an extent, but I obviously look forward to studying these birds as well, not just ticking them off and running to find the next bird).
Royal Tern – “An uncommon to locally abundant coastal permanent resident throughout, with numbers augmented during winter by northern breeders.” I really hope this is a reliable species in the Panhandle as it is high on my target list. I think I may have seen them on my first trip to Florida but I didn’t get a good enough look (I was looking at a flock of terns through a car window during rain). *note to self: the birds will be in non-breeding plumage.
American Oystercatcher – another longshot, locally common but scarce in the Panhandle. Further research of range needed.
Wilson’s Plover – “Generally an uncommon to fairly common permanent resident of sandy beaches and flats throughout, but rare in the western Panhandle.” I’ll have to find out what constitutes the ‘western Panhandle’ as Panama City seems to be quite east to me. If this is the case, this species might be a possibility.
Snowy Plover – one of Florida’s most endangered birds due to disturbance by people and pets at their nesting sites along the Gulf coast. The ABA guide states that, “the largest numbers are found in the western Panhandle, but small numbers occur along the entire peninsular Gulf Coast.” Since I wasn’t at Point Pelee during May to get across to Pelee Island for the single bird that stayed a week on the beaches there, it would be great to find them in Florida.
Limpkin – O.K., so I’m setting myself up for disappointment by adding this species to my target list, but I want to see one really badly! It’s listed as “rare to absent in the Panhandle,” so I have my doubts, but there’s a slight hope that I may come across one, thereby making the trip a complete success.
King Rail – “An uncommon but widespread permanent resident of freshwater marshes throughout the mainland.” Since I have yet to actually see a Virginia Rail instead of just hearing one, chances are I won’t see this species in Florida either per se, but I might be able to hear it. The same goes for the Clapper Rail, “A common permanent resident of salt and brackish marshes and mangroves throughout.” Yellow Rail also falls into the same category: “A scarcely seen but probably regular migrant and winter resident throughout.”
I'll finish this list soon, and hopefully put up some pictures of my most-wanted species. I also plan to write about the common guys that I want to see again in Florida, particularly different plumage or subspecies types.
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Events, trips, news, miscallaneous
So, I've been reading through my Birder's Guide to Florida and after glancing for a while at the seasonal status of the birds that can be found in the state, I realize that the Panhandle actually has fewer potential species than the peninsula. This is ok because it's still a part of Florida that I haven't visited yet. However, I also read that Merritt Island Florida, which my family visited way back when I had just passed into my early teens, is the best place to birdwatch along the Atlantic Coast of Florida. Damn, I wish we had taken that trip later in my life after I had become a more experienced birder! It's also one of the best places to observe Florida Scrub Jay but do you think I saw any? Nope! Sadly, at the time, I didn't know I should be looking for them. I was too focused on waders and seabirds (my first Northern Gannet was seen on the day we went to Merritt Island).
The beautiful Florida Scrub Jay - my first trip to Florida and I didn't know what I was doing so I missed it! My third trip won't produce the species; they don't occur on the Panhandle. Oh well...someday.
This time around I have my guide, I have my wits about me, and I know what I'm doing (mind you, 10 years down the road I'll look back and say, DAMN! why didn't I try harder?? I was such an inexperienced birder then). Seeing your progress as the years go on is one of the great rewards of the hobby. I know I have learned a great deal over the years but it never ends. Currently, I'm looking into finally digging out my bird call CD's, wiping away the dust, and learning bird songs again. I was getting decent at a time and then lost it when I stopped studying (due to University mostly). Now, I have the time and I have a reason: the trips! I want to study my Florida and Arizona birds before those respective trips come around, but also scrape the rust off my Ontario bird song knowledge. If only I had an iPod, I could listen to bird tapes wherever I go...alas I am limited to my computer as a means.
Back to Florida, I hope to soon get up a list of "target species" for my trip. These will include lifers, birds that I missed on my other 2 trips to Florida, and those that I want to see again and study further (in case they make their way up to Point Pelee, I want to be prepared).
In other news, Marianne and I are getting excited...the OFO convention is looming in the near future (mid-October to be exact). I can't wait to see all the people I missed this Spring because I made the move to Toronto at the end of April. I'm excited to tell them of my birding in Toronto (still mostly restricted to High Park and the waterfront) and my upcoming trips.
In other other news, my roommate, Jess, and I have been watching David Attenborough's Life of Birds and I'm loving every moment of it. Now that I've taken a course on Ornithology, I know all the science/evolutionary jargon he's talking about and I appreciate the filming of the series. There are some fascinating, bizarre birds out there that I had no idea existed (I'm a North American bird fanatic...until I start traveling the other continents, many of these species will remain a mystery). However, I think it would be fun to have a feature on my blog about some of the most bizarre species and their attributes. I hope to write a few soon.
The beautiful Florida Scrub Jay - my first trip to Florida and I didn't know what I was doing so I missed it! My third trip won't produce the species; they don't occur on the Panhandle. Oh well...someday.
This time around I have my guide, I have my wits about me, and I know what I'm doing (mind you, 10 years down the road I'll look back and say, DAMN! why didn't I try harder?? I was such an inexperienced birder then). Seeing your progress as the years go on is one of the great rewards of the hobby. I know I have learned a great deal over the years but it never ends. Currently, I'm looking into finally digging out my bird call CD's, wiping away the dust, and learning bird songs again. I was getting decent at a time and then lost it when I stopped studying (due to University mostly). Now, I have the time and I have a reason: the trips! I want to study my Florida and Arizona birds before those respective trips come around, but also scrape the rust off my Ontario bird song knowledge. If only I had an iPod, I could listen to bird tapes wherever I go...alas I am limited to my computer as a means.
Back to Florida, I hope to soon get up a list of "target species" for my trip. These will include lifers, birds that I missed on my other 2 trips to Florida, and those that I want to see again and study further (in case they make their way up to Point Pelee, I want to be prepared).
In other news, Marianne and I are getting excited...the OFO convention is looming in the near future (mid-October to be exact). I can't wait to see all the people I missed this Spring because I made the move to Toronto at the end of April. I'm excited to tell them of my birding in Toronto (still mostly restricted to High Park and the waterfront) and my upcoming trips.
In other other news, my roommate, Jess, and I have been watching David Attenborough's Life of Birds and I'm loving every moment of it. Now that I've taken a course on Ornithology, I know all the science/evolutionary jargon he's talking about and I appreciate the filming of the series. There are some fascinating, bizarre birds out there that I had no idea existed (I'm a North American bird fanatic...until I start traveling the other continents, many of these species will remain a mystery). However, I think it would be fun to have a feature on my blog about some of the most bizarre species and their attributes. I hope to write a few soon.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
3 new guides
On top of the birding I was able to sneak into the weekend, I was also able to get to Pelee Wings Nature Shop to pick up three guides I've been wanting (one, the Peterson Field Guide to Freshwater Fishes, and two ABA birdfinding guides; one for Florida and one for Southeast Arizona). I can't wait to peruse the birdfinding guides and get a sense of what I should be looking out for on my respective trips. I've been making notes of my target species for Florida already (yep, I bought a notebook, just like I said I would!). I'll be posting those lists eventually. The problem here: the cost. Having a credit card helps but it's just delaying the inevitable...field guides are not cheap!
Home Sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet home!
I just got back from a great trip home. It was really the perfect weekend and a much-needed break from the city. Fortunately, this time I planned ahead so that I was able to fit in an equal amount of birding, visiting, and relaxing. Saturday night was wonderful as I was able to get out birding with Marianne around the onion fields north of Point Pelee. We decided to skip Hillman Marsh as the water is significantly higher than other years (apparently they didn't drain the marsh this season). Due to higher waters, there are less mudflats and less areas for shorebirds to feed so the onion fields were the best bet. Things started off a little slow when we searched a decent-sized flock of gulls for any unusual species but to no prevail. Not even a Bonaparte's. We weren't seeing any shorebirds besides Killdeer (and the humidity/heat waves were still pretty intense) so we decided to try some fields farther south. Here, we almost immediately spotted some goodies: a few solitary Black-bellied Plovers, each at different stages of molt between breeding and nonbreeding plumages, a few small groups of peeps (which we determined to be Leasts), some Pectoral Sandpipers, and a spattering of Semipalmated Plovers as well. Both of us really wanted to get Buff-breasted Sandpiper, but no such luck. I also wanted to get either Yellowlegs but the fields aren't really the ideal habitat (there was no standing water).
All of these sightings obviously made me wish I could spend every evening of the next couple months searching the fields but I'll have to find a suitable place for shorebird migration in Toronto. I'm also looking forward to seeing some of the early migrant passerines in High Park in the next few weekends (a trip to Center Island is also in the works).
In other birding news from Essex County, I was able to study some swallow juveniles over the coruse of my stay. Astonishingly, the most abundant swallow on my farm was the Bank Swallow, with hundreds of birds feeding above the hay fields and pastures and perching on the hydro wires along the road. It was fairly difficult to judge the subtle differences between adults and juveniles of this species, particularly under extremely bright conditions (no cloud cover to block the sun). However, at the east end of the onion fields, Marianne and I observed an enormous flock of juvenile Tree Swallows (similar to Bank Swallows with their gray-brown back, but lacking the bold breastband). Also in the same area was a group of juvenile Purple Martins.
I wish we had more time to search the area as it was great to be back in the Point Pelee Birding Circle again, even if only for a brief period. For now, I'm going to continue searching out hotspots in Toronto to prepare for fall migration while studying the potential species I will possibly see in Florida and Southeast Arizona.
All of these sightings obviously made me wish I could spend every evening of the next couple months searching the fields but I'll have to find a suitable place for shorebird migration in Toronto. I'm also looking forward to seeing some of the early migrant passerines in High Park in the next few weekends (a trip to Center Island is also in the works).
In other birding news from Essex County, I was able to study some swallow juveniles over the coruse of my stay. Astonishingly, the most abundant swallow on my farm was the Bank Swallow, with hundreds of birds feeding above the hay fields and pastures and perching on the hydro wires along the road. It was fairly difficult to judge the subtle differences between adults and juveniles of this species, particularly under extremely bright conditions (no cloud cover to block the sun). However, at the east end of the onion fields, Marianne and I observed an enormous flock of juvenile Tree Swallows (similar to Bank Swallows with their gray-brown back, but lacking the bold breastband). Also in the same area was a group of juvenile Purple Martins.
I wish we had more time to search the area as it was great to be back in the Point Pelee Birding Circle again, even if only for a brief period. For now, I'm going to continue searching out hotspots in Toronto to prepare for fall migration while studying the potential species I will possibly see in Florida and Southeast Arizona.
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
sparrow, sparrow, sparrow...BUDGIE??
Just arriving back home from downtown Toronto, I was walking on my street towards my house and passing a yard where the residents throw rice out to the birds (I know, I hate that they're throwing out rice and not bread or seed but there's really not much you can do). Anyway, there were the usual: plenty of pigeons, a sprinkle of starlings, and a hoard of house sparrows. As the sparrows flew from underneath my shoes (they're overly tame in the city), I suddenly furrowed my eyebrows and stopped in my tracks. One of the sparrows had a long, pointed, blue tail. The flock landed in a nearby tree and I rushed over to see what was going on. I couldn't come up with any other possibility that some sort of escapee and I was right. I looked up to see a Budgerigar in the tree, gregariously hanging out with the sparrows. I later saw the bird at the streetcar stop at the end of our street but haven't seen it since. Jess and I are considering capturing it and keeping it for a while, then eventually sending it to the Toronto Humane Society. I forgot to check if the bird had a band but it certainly didn't have its wings clipped. It was flying perfectly fine.
This particular bird was sky blue on its front with white feathers on its scalloped back and a white head (my favourite variety). Budgerigars have been known to sustain small, feral populations in Florida along the gulf coast and frequently escape nationwide so their North American status is complicated. Competition with native species limits their populations as well as the lack of appropriate food and nesting sources. The wild form is a stunning lime green front complimented by a golden hood and back. They also have a yellow wing-stripe on an otherwise two-toned wing of green and black. In flight, this wing-stripe along with a similar-patterned long tail, really make it a beautiful bird.
If this experience has proved nothing else, it should at least tell you how important it is to pay attention to each bird no matter how common. You never know what you might find mixed in with the familiar bunch.
This particular bird was sky blue on its front with white feathers on its scalloped back and a white head (my favourite variety). Budgerigars have been known to sustain small, feral populations in Florida along the gulf coast and frequently escape nationwide so their North American status is complicated. Competition with native species limits their populations as well as the lack of appropriate food and nesting sources. The wild form is a stunning lime green front complimented by a golden hood and back. They also have a yellow wing-stripe on an otherwise two-toned wing of green and black. In flight, this wing-stripe along with a similar-patterned long tail, really make it a beautiful bird.
If this experience has proved nothing else, it should at least tell you how important it is to pay attention to each bird no matter how common. You never know what you might find mixed in with the familiar bunch.
Friday, August 03, 2007
Note to self: Start taking notes?
I am currently reading a birding book titled Good Birders Don't Wear White: 50 Tips from North America's Top Birders. It is a compilation of 50 short essays written by 50 of America's birders and naturalists. Some essays are quite funny while some are very dull, but the best are those that make me consider trying something new. That's what this post is about.
In the past, I have taken notes while birdwatching but often they are simply lists of species that I see in a given day. However, I often use a dilapidated, spiral-bound notebook that is terrible for the job (the pages get ripped out, the writing smears, etc.). I have never went out of my way to buy a durable notebook for field notes. However, I'm going to now. Note-taking in the field has always intrigued me and I don't know why it's taken me so long to jump on the bandwagon. Maybe I'm just lazy. When I do find the perfect notebook, it's doubtful I'll utilize it every time I go birding but I should take it with me at all times. There's a good point made in Good Birders Don't Wear White; that taking notes on field marks, behaviour, habitat, structure, size, molt, age, etc. will all heighten your skills as well as quicken the pace of the learning curve. There are often subtle field marks that I sometimes forget in certain species, and other times I'll notice a certain behaviour or action that I haven't observed before. A mental note is made. How long does this mental note last? Well, if I take detailed notes, it'll last forever (and probably better stick in my memory). Also, on days when birding is slow (these summer months have been rough in the city), note-taking will be a great way to continue learning and heighten my skills while I'm not putting so much effort into searching for migrants.
Now, whether or not I start to sketch my sightings will be determined later. My drawings will likely look like something that a 3 year old child might concoct and run to their parents who stick it up with a fridge magnent with a cringe. However, perhaps my skills will be honed to the point that I can draw a bird without hanging my head in shame or setting the drawing on fire.
Perhaps I'm just feeling studious but it's an idea I plan to entertain. Perhaps I'll get frustrated after trying to write down detailed notes of the first bird I see (statistical analysis predicts Rock Pigeon) and give it up completely. However, if it helps my identification skills and the notes aid in memory, I think it's worth a shot. Also, someday it might be handy if it helps me to be prepared when the bird I'm looking at requires a rare bird report. And anyway, I'll only be down 2 bucks for a wasted notebook.
In the past, I have taken notes while birdwatching but often they are simply lists of species that I see in a given day. However, I often use a dilapidated, spiral-bound notebook that is terrible for the job (the pages get ripped out, the writing smears, etc.). I have never went out of my way to buy a durable notebook for field notes. However, I'm going to now. Note-taking in the field has always intrigued me and I don't know why it's taken me so long to jump on the bandwagon. Maybe I'm just lazy. When I do find the perfect notebook, it's doubtful I'll utilize it every time I go birding but I should take it with me at all times. There's a good point made in Good Birders Don't Wear White; that taking notes on field marks, behaviour, habitat, structure, size, molt, age, etc. will all heighten your skills as well as quicken the pace of the learning curve. There are often subtle field marks that I sometimes forget in certain species, and other times I'll notice a certain behaviour or action that I haven't observed before. A mental note is made. How long does this mental note last? Well, if I take detailed notes, it'll last forever (and probably better stick in my memory). Also, on days when birding is slow (these summer months have been rough in the city), note-taking will be a great way to continue learning and heighten my skills while I'm not putting so much effort into searching for migrants.
Now, whether or not I start to sketch my sightings will be determined later. My drawings will likely look like something that a 3 year old child might concoct and run to their parents who stick it up with a fridge magnent with a cringe. However, perhaps my skills will be honed to the point that I can draw a bird without hanging my head in shame or setting the drawing on fire.
Perhaps I'm just feeling studious but it's an idea I plan to entertain. Perhaps I'll get frustrated after trying to write down detailed notes of the first bird I see (statistical analysis predicts Rock Pigeon) and give it up completely. However, if it helps my identification skills and the notes aid in memory, I think it's worth a shot. Also, someday it might be handy if it helps me to be prepared when the bird I'm looking at requires a rare bird report. And anyway, I'll only be down 2 bucks for a wasted notebook.
Thursday, August 02, 2007
All these splits could drive one bananas
On the following site, scroll down and click on #1 in the list section (Taxonomy Changes) to get the most up-to-date list of AOU's current checklist for North American species.
One new split that I was unaware of is the Blue Grouse into the Dusky (interior) and Sooty (Pacific) Grouse. Actually, I think I heard about this a while back but forgot about it until rereading this list. This is interesting as Sibley's Guide to birds states, "Two populations intergrade broadly where ranges meet." However, the two species have different displays and new genetic evidence was probably made available for the split (I'll have to investigate this further).
Another is the Tufted Titmouse into the Tufted Titmouse and Black-crested Titmouse, which were once considered separate species, then lumped, and now split again. This has also occurred with the "Northern" Oriole fiasco which is now put to rest with Baltimore and Bullock's Orioles considered separate species. However, once again, Sibley states, "Intergrades are frequent in narrow zone where ranges meet in central Texas," with a complete range of intermediate birds. I'm not sure what new genetic evidence has garnered a split for these two species but it is interesting to see once-thought subspecies being split despite common occurrences of hybridization. More on this to come.
One new split that I was unaware of is the Blue Grouse into the Dusky (interior) and Sooty (Pacific) Grouse. Actually, I think I heard about this a while back but forgot about it until rereading this list. This is interesting as Sibley's Guide to birds states, "Two populations intergrade broadly where ranges meet." However, the two species have different displays and new genetic evidence was probably made available for the split (I'll have to investigate this further).
Another is the Tufted Titmouse into the Tufted Titmouse and Black-crested Titmouse, which were once considered separate species, then lumped, and now split again. This has also occurred with the "Northern" Oriole fiasco which is now put to rest with Baltimore and Bullock's Orioles considered separate species. However, once again, Sibley states, "Intergrades are frequent in narrow zone where ranges meet in central Texas," with a complete range of intermediate birds. I'm not sure what new genetic evidence has garnered a split for these two species but it is interesting to see once-thought subspecies being split despite common occurrences of hybridization. More on this to come.
"Common" Teal
While looking for current information on whether the ABA has made a decision to grant the "Common" Teal full species status from Green-winged Teal, I came across the following website showing the history of AOU names up to 1998. It's a pretty interesting list. Check it out here.
I now have "Common" Teal on my life list but I'm not sure if I should give it full species status or not. Either way, it's still important to look for subspecies and different plumages in birds, which can be just as exciting as seeing a new species. It is also important because if a species is eventually split based on new evidence, then a record of appearances and ranges has still been kept.
The individual bird that many saw at Hillman Marsh in the spring of 2006 was a textbook example of the Eurasian subspecies with a bold white horizontal stripe along its scapulars, whiter feathers on the femoral tract, and a paler brown on the cheek and auriculars, throat, and forehead than the American subspecies contrasted with bolder white streaks bordering the green face patch. There was some debate about the presence or absence of the white spur at the bird's side. I thought I could detect a slight paleness of the feathers in this area but some birders thought it was a trick of the light and the bird's position (and also considering the distance). This may suggest an earlier hybridization or a hybrid parent.
Based on morphological, genetic, and behavioural differences, many authorities have split the species, including the British. However, AOU is still contesting the split and treating the two forms as conspecific.
I now have "Common" Teal on my life list but I'm not sure if I should give it full species status or not. Either way, it's still important to look for subspecies and different plumages in birds, which can be just as exciting as seeing a new species. It is also important because if a species is eventually split based on new evidence, then a record of appearances and ranges has still been kept.
The individual bird that many saw at Hillman Marsh in the spring of 2006 was a textbook example of the Eurasian subspecies with a bold white horizontal stripe along its scapulars, whiter feathers on the femoral tract, and a paler brown on the cheek and auriculars, throat, and forehead than the American subspecies contrasted with bolder white streaks bordering the green face patch. There was some debate about the presence or absence of the white spur at the bird's side. I thought I could detect a slight paleness of the feathers in this area but some birders thought it was a trick of the light and the bird's position (and also considering the distance). This may suggest an earlier hybridization or a hybrid parent.
Based on morphological, genetic, and behavioural differences, many authorities have split the species, including the British. However, AOU is still contesting the split and treating the two forms as conspecific.
More splitting headaches
The genus Anas has a high propensity to hybridize, sometimes with bizarre results (Mallard X Muscovy, Mallard X Green-winged Teal, Mallard X Northern Pintail). This causes serious debate about classification of species within the genus. The Green-winged Teal is a perfect example of this. However, another complex group includes the Mallard, "Mexican" Duck (currently considered a subspecies of the Mallard by the AOU), Mottled Duck, and American Black Duck. The following website provides a very convincing argument in favour of splitting the "Mexican" Duck and giving it full species status (or, as an alternative, lump it with the more closely related Mottled Duck). It is worth a read:
One passage regarding recent studies of the genetic similarities between the Common Teal and Green-winged Teal that stood out in the article is the following:
"All of this contributes to the increasing realization that in waterfowl some plumage similarities represent tremendous plumage conservatism over time while outstanding plumage differences may be more recent changes."
Or, in other words, the Green-winged Teal and Common Teal may look incredibly similar, but are actually less closely related genetically than the Mallard is to the Northern Pintail. This is quite astonishing actually and the author's comment on "plumage conservatism" is very interesting.
This is exactly what is happening with the Mallard complex. The Mallard is more closely related, genetically, to the American Black Duck than it is the "Mexican" Duck and yet the "Mexican" Duck is still considered a subspecies of the Mallard. This would seem to be going against the AOU rulebook on species status and obviously needs further research. Although the Mexican Duck and Mallard hybridize, so do Mallards and Black Ducks.
The article also discusses a range of morphological and behavioural discrepancies between the two 'subspecies' as well as a detailed description of their ranges and how they differ.
In the compelling article, the author even goes as far as saying, "A reluctance on the part of some to advocate splitting Mexican Duck from Mallard stems from a concern about how a split could create a de facto threatened species in the U.S., especially a concern about how that could affect the popular sport of duck hunting. This is a brave statement surrounding the ethics of the AOU questioning whether their decisions are scientifically based or if they are influenced by bias and 'the easy way out'.
If nothing else, the article hits on a point I made in my last post: the importance of studying subspecies as though they were a separate species. Oftentimes, subspecies are given less notoriety, threatened or otherwise, and perhaps if the Mexican Duck was given full species status, it would receive the attention it deserves.
One passage regarding recent studies of the genetic similarities between the Common Teal and Green-winged Teal that stood out in the article is the following:
"All of this contributes to the increasing realization that in waterfowl some plumage similarities represent tremendous plumage conservatism over time while outstanding plumage differences may be more recent changes."
Or, in other words, the Green-winged Teal and Common Teal may look incredibly similar, but are actually less closely related genetically than the Mallard is to the Northern Pintail. This is quite astonishing actually and the author's comment on "plumage conservatism" is very interesting.
This is exactly what is happening with the Mallard complex. The Mallard is more closely related, genetically, to the American Black Duck than it is the "Mexican" Duck and yet the "Mexican" Duck is still considered a subspecies of the Mallard. This would seem to be going against the AOU rulebook on species status and obviously needs further research. Although the Mexican Duck and Mallard hybridize, so do Mallards and Black Ducks.
The article also discusses a range of morphological and behavioural discrepancies between the two 'subspecies' as well as a detailed description of their ranges and how they differ.
In the compelling article, the author even goes as far as saying, "A reluctance on the part of some to advocate splitting Mexican Duck from Mallard stems from a concern about how a split could create a de facto threatened species in the U.S., especially a concern about how that could affect the popular sport of duck hunting. This is a brave statement surrounding the ethics of the AOU questioning whether their decisions are scientifically based or if they are influenced by bias and 'the easy way out'.
If nothing else, the article hits on a point I made in my last post: the importance of studying subspecies as though they were a separate species. Oftentimes, subspecies are given less notoriety, threatened or otherwise, and perhaps if the Mexican Duck was given full species status, it would receive the attention it deserves.
Plans, plans, plans
This evening, I decided to take a stroll along the waterfront just south of my street in Toronto (west end). There are a few beaches along the water, which unfortunately means too many people and few birds. However, it wasn't a total bust as I saw 3 Spotted Sandpipers in alternate plumage, two Mute swan pairs with healthy cygnets, a few Common Tern flybys, and 2 Great Black-backed Gulls (1 adult alternate plumage and 1 first alternate plumage).
Being at the edge of Lake Ontario always reminds me of Lake Erie and makes me yearn for a day of birding back home. At this time of year, Marianne and I would be shorebirding in the evenings at Hillman Marsh and also checking out Wheatley Harbour. I always enjoyed late summer birding in the Point Pelee Birding circle because it's great time to study shorebirds in their basic plumage and also a good time to scan for any uncommon gulls in the many flocks within the Onion Fields north of Point Pelee's northern border. I am extremely excited for the upcoming fall migration because I missed so many of the migrants that I take for granted each spring and now is the chance to see them, albeit in their basic plumage (also good practice). I'm sure High Park will be a good place to fall bird and by contacting a few local Toronto birders, I hope to find a few other hotspots that I can check out, particularly for shorebirds.
I am also looking forward to the OFO convention being held at Point Pelee this fall. A weekend of birding at my favourite park followed by a meal with many of Ontario's top birdwatchers and researchers. Lastly, another event looming on the horizon is a family trip Panama City, Florida, which will be my third time visiting the state. I hope to make this strictly a birding trip as my last two trips were spent preoccupied with other matters (one included trips to Disneyland and Universal Studios while the other was spent building houses for Habitat for Humanity). I want to tally a Florida list and see what birds I have to focus on finding and their status in November.
Still farther away (but most exciting) is a trip with Marianne to Arizona, which no doubt will be one of my best birding experiences to date. I need to order a copy of Arizona Birding online before the trip to prepare myself as well as listen to my bird call cd's so I'm fully prepared for an excellent birding trip. The amount of species we can see is almost overwhelming.
Being at the edge of Lake Ontario always reminds me of Lake Erie and makes me yearn for a day of birding back home. At this time of year, Marianne and I would be shorebirding in the evenings at Hillman Marsh and also checking out Wheatley Harbour. I always enjoyed late summer birding in the Point Pelee Birding circle because it's great time to study shorebirds in their basic plumage and also a good time to scan for any uncommon gulls in the many flocks within the Onion Fields north of Point Pelee's northern border. I am extremely excited for the upcoming fall migration because I missed so many of the migrants that I take for granted each spring and now is the chance to see them, albeit in their basic plumage (also good practice). I'm sure High Park will be a good place to fall bird and by contacting a few local Toronto birders, I hope to find a few other hotspots that I can check out, particularly for shorebirds.
I am also looking forward to the OFO convention being held at Point Pelee this fall. A weekend of birding at my favourite park followed by a meal with many of Ontario's top birdwatchers and researchers. Lastly, another event looming on the horizon is a family trip Panama City, Florida, which will be my third time visiting the state. I hope to make this strictly a birding trip as my last two trips were spent preoccupied with other matters (one included trips to Disneyland and Universal Studios while the other was spent building houses for Habitat for Humanity). I want to tally a Florida list and see what birds I have to focus on finding and their status in November.
Still farther away (but most exciting) is a trip with Marianne to Arizona, which no doubt will be one of my best birding experiences to date. I need to order a copy of Arizona Birding online before the trip to prepare myself as well as listen to my bird call cd's so I'm fully prepared for an excellent birding trip. The amount of species we can see is almost overwhelming.
Birding Meme
We've seen memes appear everywhere on Facebook, MySpace, email, etc. but this is the first time I have ever found a birding meme so I have to participate!
What state (or country) do you live in?: Ontario, Canada
How long have you been birding?: 12 years (since 1995)
Are you a "lister"?: I do a 'May List' every year and I sometimes go out of my way for a lifer but I wouldn't label myself a 'lister' in the strict sense of the term.
ABA Life List: 294 (this should be much higher)
Overall Life List: Same; I haven't traveled outside of North America yet
3 Favorite Birding Spots: 1. Point Pelee National Park, Ontario - my second home and one of my favourite places to be. Period.
2. Hillman Marsh, Wheatley, Ontario
3. Florida - I have been there twice and I'm going again this November so I'm developing quite a list for the state (oops, another list again)
Favorite birding spot outside your home country: Well, I guess it would be Florida like in my last answer. I wish I have traveled more to actually be able to pinpoint a favourite spot.
Farthest you've traveled to chase a rare bird: Eagle, Ontario for a Pyrrhuloxia
Nemesis bird: American Bittern
"Best" bird sighting: I always enjoy seeing birds out of season or early and late migrants; I haven't really been the first to find any really rare birds yet but the time will come.
Most wanted trip: Right now, Arizona/Texas - I'm doing Arizona this coming spring with my best birding friend, Marianne.
Most wanted bird: I'll say in terms of Florida - Royal Tern or Sandwich Tern
What model and brand of bins do you use?: Bushnell Legends 8x42 13-4208 Waterproof 330 ft FOV @1000 yds (I know, I have to upgrade)
What model and brand of scope do you use?: It's borrowed from Marianne and I don't remember the model right now. It's Bushnell though, I think.
What was the last lifer you added to your list?: Pacific Loon
Where did you see your last lifer?: Point Pelee on the lake at the end of Shuster's Trail
What's the last bird you saw today?: Rock Pigeon - they're EVERYWHERE in the city
Best bird song you've heard ever: Sandhill Crane has a haunting sound but I like the uniqueness/strangeness of the Bobolink's song and the familiarity of the Horned Lark's (they always reminds me of being at home on the farm
Favorite birding moment: It's hard to pinpoint just one so here are a few: My first Prothonotary Warbler - my hands were shaking and my eyes actually teared up a bit because I wanted to see one so badly at the time and the sight was stunning. Another is the Neotropic Cormorant, which brought birders from all over Ontario to witness the rare species (first record for Canada). Another would have to be my trip with Marianne to Eagle to see the Pyrrhuloxia and my first Varied Thrush. It was a really fun day we had together even if we had to freeze in the cold wind waiting for the Pyrrhuloxia to come back to the feeder it kept returning to. The Varied Thrush was just icing on the cake. Actually, most of my favourite birding moments involve Marianne and I birding together and I wouldn't trade the memories we've had over the years for anything.
Least favorite thing about birding: Whenever politics gets involved (people talking about who's better than who, who can't be trusted with their sightings, etc. We're out there to have fun and enjoy the birds, not compete by putting others down).
Favorite thing about birding: Sharing a sighting with someone who is equally excited as you are, the constant learning process and the challenges in identification, and finally, when I'm alone, the serenity of enjoying the wilderness around me and seeing the world in a different way.
Favorite field guide for the US: Hands down, by far, without a doubt the bible of birding is Sibley's Field Guide. It has truly changed the way I look at birds and has given me a new level of valuable information.
Favorite non-field guide bird book: I actually haven't read many non-field guide bird books but I own a couple that I haven't opened yet so we'll see.
Who is your birder icon?: There are too many inspiring birdwatchers that have helped me and respected me as a birder to list here, but as far as icons go, I would have to say Audubon, Peterson, Sibley, and others that have changed the face of birding and helped move it forward to where it is now.
Do you have a bird feeder(s)?: At home, yes but not in Toronto (I would only get House Sparrows, European Starlings, and Rock Pigeons).
Favorite feeder bird?: Rose-breasted Grosbeak was my best feeder bird.
Favorite bird: Dark-eyed Junco
What state (or country) do you live in?: Ontario, Canada
How long have you been birding?: 12 years (since 1995)
Are you a "lister"?: I do a 'May List' every year and I sometimes go out of my way for a lifer but I wouldn't label myself a 'lister' in the strict sense of the term.
ABA Life List: 294 (this should be much higher)
Overall Life List: Same; I haven't traveled outside of North America yet
3 Favorite Birding Spots: 1. Point Pelee National Park, Ontario - my second home and one of my favourite places to be. Period.
2. Hillman Marsh, Wheatley, Ontario
3. Florida - I have been there twice and I'm going again this November so I'm developing quite a list for the state (oops, another list again)
Favorite birding spot outside your home country: Well, I guess it would be Florida like in my last answer. I wish I have traveled more to actually be able to pinpoint a favourite spot.
Farthest you've traveled to chase a rare bird: Eagle, Ontario for a Pyrrhuloxia
Nemesis bird: American Bittern
"Best" bird sighting: I always enjoy seeing birds out of season or early and late migrants; I haven't really been the first to find any really rare birds yet but the time will come.
Most wanted trip: Right now, Arizona/Texas - I'm doing Arizona this coming spring with my best birding friend, Marianne.
Most wanted bird: I'll say in terms of Florida - Royal Tern or Sandwich Tern
What model and brand of bins do you use?: Bushnell Legends 8x42 13-4208 Waterproof 330 ft FOV @1000 yds (I know, I have to upgrade)
What model and brand of scope do you use?: It's borrowed from Marianne and I don't remember the model right now. It's Bushnell though, I think.
What was the last lifer you added to your list?: Pacific Loon
Where did you see your last lifer?: Point Pelee on the lake at the end of Shuster's Trail
What's the last bird you saw today?: Rock Pigeon - they're EVERYWHERE in the city
Best bird song you've heard ever: Sandhill Crane has a haunting sound but I like the uniqueness/strangeness of the Bobolink's song and the familiarity of the Horned Lark's (they always reminds me of being at home on the farm
Favorite birding moment: It's hard to pinpoint just one so here are a few: My first Prothonotary Warbler - my hands were shaking and my eyes actually teared up a bit because I wanted to see one so badly at the time and the sight was stunning. Another is the Neotropic Cormorant, which brought birders from all over Ontario to witness the rare species (first record for Canada). Another would have to be my trip with Marianne to Eagle to see the Pyrrhuloxia and my first Varied Thrush. It was a really fun day we had together even if we had to freeze in the cold wind waiting for the Pyrrhuloxia to come back to the feeder it kept returning to. The Varied Thrush was just icing on the cake. Actually, most of my favourite birding moments involve Marianne and I birding together and I wouldn't trade the memories we've had over the years for anything.
Least favorite thing about birding: Whenever politics gets involved (people talking about who's better than who, who can't be trusted with their sightings, etc. We're out there to have fun and enjoy the birds, not compete by putting others down).
Favorite thing about birding: Sharing a sighting with someone who is equally excited as you are, the constant learning process and the challenges in identification, and finally, when I'm alone, the serenity of enjoying the wilderness around me and seeing the world in a different way.
Favorite field guide for the US: Hands down, by far, without a doubt the bible of birding is Sibley's Field Guide. It has truly changed the way I look at birds and has given me a new level of valuable information.
Favorite non-field guide bird book: I actually haven't read many non-field guide bird books but I own a couple that I haven't opened yet so we'll see.
Who is your birder icon?: There are too many inspiring birdwatchers that have helped me and respected me as a birder to list here, but as far as icons go, I would have to say Audubon, Peterson, Sibley, and others that have changed the face of birding and helped move it forward to where it is now.
Do you have a bird feeder(s)?: At home, yes but not in Toronto (I would only get House Sparrows, European Starlings, and Rock Pigeons).
Favorite feeder bird?: Rose-breasted Grosbeak was my best feeder bird.
Favorite bird: Dark-eyed Junco
The Haunting Call of the Loon - Fading?
In 1981, the Canadian Lakes Loon Survey was formed to monitor the population of breeding loons in lakes across Canada. The Common Loon depends on Canadian lakes for breeding, as their breeding range includes Canada (the greatest numbers), Greenland, and Iceland. As an indicator of pollution and acid rain, Loon numbers on many of Ontario's lakes can predict water quality. Effects of acid rain on the Common Loon can be read at this site: http://www.bsc-eoc.org/clls-bw4.html.
With the aid of volunteers, the study finds that loons are indeed susceptible to acid rain as lakes experiencing damaging effects also see a decline in loon nests. In fact, there was a divergence recorded between lakes with a low pH and those with higher alkaline levels, which saw stable reproductive success. The highest decline was discovered between 1981 and 1997. It should be noted that several other species are at risk as well from other waterfowl to amphibians, reptiles, fish, insects, and mammals, and plants.
Therefore, the Loon Survey could not have come at a better time to not only protect a symbolic species for Canada, but also to observe any trends that can be attributed to environmental concerns. Since its inauguration, numbers have been relatively stable. However, the effort continues and new information is always needed to continue to protect the Common Loon as well as the health of Canadian lakes.
Other links relating acid rain to waterfowl species are listed below:
http://www.on.ec.gc.ca/wildlife/acidrain/ar4-e.html
The following site provides links of a variety of articles concerning Loons including jet ski disturbance, acid rain, and other environmental effects:
http://www.bsc-eoc.org/clls-lib.html
Research in Algonquin Provincial Park:
http://www.sbaa.ca/projects.asp?cn=303
To volunteer with the Canadian Lakes Loon Survey, visit their website:
http://www.bsc-eoc.org/cllsmain.html
For anyone who has heard the call of a loon on a foggy northern lake, or seen their stunning features through a scope or set of binoculars, you know how important this species is to our heritage. The goal should be continued support for the Canadian Lakes Loon Survey and further efforts to improve air and water quality.
With the aid of volunteers, the study finds that loons are indeed susceptible to acid rain as lakes experiencing damaging effects also see a decline in loon nests. In fact, there was a divergence recorded between lakes with a low pH and those with higher alkaline levels, which saw stable reproductive success. The highest decline was discovered between 1981 and 1997. It should be noted that several other species are at risk as well from other waterfowl to amphibians, reptiles, fish, insects, and mammals, and plants.
Therefore, the Loon Survey could not have come at a better time to not only protect a symbolic species for Canada, but also to observe any trends that can be attributed to environmental concerns. Since its inauguration, numbers have been relatively stable. However, the effort continues and new information is always needed to continue to protect the Common Loon as well as the health of Canadian lakes.
Other links relating acid rain to waterfowl species are listed below:
http://www.on.ec.gc.ca/wildlife/acidrain/ar4-e.html
The following site provides links of a variety of articles concerning Loons including jet ski disturbance, acid rain, and other environmental effects:
http://www.bsc-eoc.org/clls-lib.html
Research in Algonquin Provincial Park:
http://www.sbaa.ca/projects.asp?cn=303
To volunteer with the Canadian Lakes Loon Survey, visit their website:
http://www.bsc-eoc.org/cllsmain.html
For anyone who has heard the call of a loon on a foggy northern lake, or seen their stunning features through a scope or set of binoculars, you know how important this species is to our heritage. The goal should be continued support for the Canadian Lakes Loon Survey and further efforts to improve air and water quality.
Return to High Park
Well, my second trip to High Park (July 23) was not nearly as productive as my first trip a week before. This could be due to many factors including cloudier weather, birding later in the afternoon, etc. However, in terms of birds, the highlight was a large group of Chipping Sparrows that included juveniles being fed by their parents, which included breeding and nonbreeding plumages. This provided a great way to study Chipping Sparrows in their many forms (they look very different as juveniles with streaking spattered on their front and no sign of a red cap - it superficially resembles female House Sparrows in a way).
The day was alright for butterflies, though, including a new species for me: Striped Hairstreak. Another new butterfly for the year was Silver-spotted Skipper, one of the most easily-identifiable skippers.
The day was alright for butterflies, though, including a new species for me: Striped Hairstreak. Another new butterfly for the year was Silver-spotted Skipper, one of the most easily-identifiable skippers.
Natural High Park
I made my first visit to High Park, Toronto on Monday of this week and was not disappointed. It was my first time actually getting out and birding in a while so I was bound to enjoy myself, but fortunately, the park has some good trails, a variety of habitats, and a great deal of areas that are good for nesting woodland species.
When I first entered the park, I was a bit concerned about the amount of people that were present as well as the playgrounds, soccer fields, and buildings that were constructed. There was also an overload of dog walkers in the vicinity, which left me apprehensive about how nature-friendly this park was. I was thankfully misguided though, as I happened to enter the area of the park set aside for the public (the center of the park). As I avoided the people and headed towards the trees, I found a few trails and realized that the park outskirts is where the action really is; a peripheral oasis to view birds, mammals and butterflies in abundance. Next time I visit (sooner than later), I will simply circumvent the park's core and explore the outer boundaries where there are less people, more wildlife, and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Toronto city life.
A few of the highlights from the day include Red-eyed Vireo, Indigo Buntings, Black-crowned Night-Heron, and Canadian Tiger Swallowtail (a new species of butterfly for my life list). There was also an abundance of juvenile birds, which I don't often get to study including Wood Duck, Downy Woodpecker, and a few other common species. Although seeing a new species is always exciting, equally intriguing is seeing a new behaviour by a familiar species. Another one of my highlights was watching a pair of Northern Flickers their juvenile young, already full-grown to adult size. I watched as they plucked delectable dishes for their offspring, who screeched wildly for its meal of insects.
Here is my list for the day (I've put notes by species of interest):
Double-crested Cormorant
Great Blue Heron (only 1 even though much of the park is wetland or ponds)
Black-crowned Night-Heron (1 adult flying)
Mute Swan (1)
Canada Goose (many; tamed by visitors)
Wood Duck (2 adults with 9 juveniles; tamed by visitors)
Mallard (yet another tamed by visitors, to the point of approaching people in search of food)
Ring-billed Gull (unavoidable in parks serving food)
Herring Gull
Rock Pigeon
Downy Woodpecker (a few including 1 juvenile)
Northern Flicker (many, plus 2 adults with 1 juvenile...it's possible that Flickers outnumber Downy Woodpeckers right now at the park)
Eastern Wood-Pewee (heard)
Great Crested Flycatcher (1 - great to see as I missed them in spring as a result of my move to Toronto)
Eastern Kingbird (a few- obviously nesting)
Barn Swallow
Blue Jay
Black-capped Chickadee (anywhere north of Essex County seems to hold this species in abundance. You may see one or two at Point Pelee during spring but you can't walk a few steps without hearing them in High Park)
Red-breasted Nuthatch (heard)
American Robin (many)
Cedar Waxwing (flocks heard)
European Starling
Red-eyed Vireo (2)
Northern Cardinal
Indigo Bunting (2)
Chipping Sparrow
Song Sparrow
Red-winged Blackbird
American Goldfinch (many)
House Sparrow
Total Species: 30
Butterflies:
European Skipper (3)
unidentified brown skipper (Dun?)
Canadian Tiger Swallowtail (this is a new species for me as I have only seen the Eastern Tiger swallowtail, which replaces this species to the south)
Cabbage White
Common Sulphur
Question Mark
Red Admiral (many; a few landed on my clothing and one on my binoculars)
Monarch
Dragonflies:
Common Green Darner
Twelve-spotted Skimmer
Common Whitetail
When I first entered the park, I was a bit concerned about the amount of people that were present as well as the playgrounds, soccer fields, and buildings that were constructed. There was also an overload of dog walkers in the vicinity, which left me apprehensive about how nature-friendly this park was. I was thankfully misguided though, as I happened to enter the area of the park set aside for the public (the center of the park). As I avoided the people and headed towards the trees, I found a few trails and realized that the park outskirts is where the action really is; a peripheral oasis to view birds, mammals and butterflies in abundance. Next time I visit (sooner than later), I will simply circumvent the park's core and explore the outer boundaries where there are less people, more wildlife, and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Toronto city life.
A few of the highlights from the day include Red-eyed Vireo, Indigo Buntings, Black-crowned Night-Heron, and Canadian Tiger Swallowtail (a new species of butterfly for my life list). There was also an abundance of juvenile birds, which I don't often get to study including Wood Duck, Downy Woodpecker, and a few other common species. Although seeing a new species is always exciting, equally intriguing is seeing a new behaviour by a familiar species. Another one of my highlights was watching a pair of Northern Flickers their juvenile young, already full-grown to adult size. I watched as they plucked delectable dishes for their offspring, who screeched wildly for its meal of insects.
Here is my list for the day (I've put notes by species of interest):
Double-crested Cormorant
Great Blue Heron (only 1 even though much of the park is wetland or ponds)
Black-crowned Night-Heron (1 adult flying)
Mute Swan (1)
Canada Goose (many; tamed by visitors)
Wood Duck (2 adults with 9 juveniles; tamed by visitors)
Mallard (yet another tamed by visitors, to the point of approaching people in search of food)
Ring-billed Gull (unavoidable in parks serving food)
Herring Gull
Rock Pigeon
Downy Woodpecker (a few including 1 juvenile)
Northern Flicker (many, plus 2 adults with 1 juvenile...it's possible that Flickers outnumber Downy Woodpeckers right now at the park)
Eastern Wood-Pewee (heard)
Great Crested Flycatcher (1 - great to see as I missed them in spring as a result of my move to Toronto)
Eastern Kingbird (a few- obviously nesting)
Barn Swallow
Blue Jay
Black-capped Chickadee (anywhere north of Essex County seems to hold this species in abundance. You may see one or two at Point Pelee during spring but you can't walk a few steps without hearing them in High Park)
Red-breasted Nuthatch (heard)
American Robin (many)
Cedar Waxwing (flocks heard)
European Starling
Red-eyed Vireo (2)
Northern Cardinal
Indigo Bunting (2)
Chipping Sparrow
Song Sparrow
Red-winged Blackbird
American Goldfinch (many)
House Sparrow
Total Species: 30
Butterflies:
European Skipper (3)
unidentified brown skipper (Dun?)
Canadian Tiger Swallowtail (this is a new species for me as I have only seen the Eastern Tiger swallowtail, which replaces this species to the south)
Cabbage White
Common Sulphur
Question Mark
Red Admiral (many; a few landed on my clothing and one on my binoculars)
Monarch
Dragonflies:
Common Green Darner
Twelve-spotted Skimmer
Common Whitetail
Good news for Bald Eagle and Piping Plover
In the latest report from Bird Studies Canada, breeding/nesting reports were made that show great progress for two North American bird species.
Reported earlier, the Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) has been removed from the Endangered Species Act, a breakthrough for this majestic, well-known species. Years of hunting, habitat loss, and use of contaminants like DDT have led to the endangerment and extirpation of the Bald Eagle across North America. However, the elimination of DDT along with conservation efforts have saved the population of Bald Eagles in the U.S. and Canada. Worries over the Southern Ontario population still persist, however. Only 34 active nests were reported in the area in 2006 and there is room for improvement. Fortunately, there is now an active nest within Point Pelee National Park's boundaries that is visible from the observation towers at Delaurier trail. I haven't checked that out yet but it will be a great way to easily spot the species on a trip to the park.
My most vivid memory of the Bald Eagle was during a small pelagic trip to Bird Island on the East Coast of Canada. There, we saw the nesting grounds of Atlantic Puffin, Great Cormorant, Black-legged Kittiwake, Black Guillemot, Herring Gull, and Razorbill. Besides seeing a Razorbill chick being led back to its nest on the cliffside of the island by its concerned parent, the best memory from this trip is seeing the eagles that haunt the river leading out into the ocean. Here, we could witness them plunge into the water to catch fish within meters of our boat. It was spectacular to see the techniques they have evolved to dive for fish and seeing their sheer size up close was impressive.
Secondly, reports of breeding Piping Plovers (Charadrius melodus) in Southern Ontario were supplied. This is one of very few recorded Piping Plover nests in this vicinity after their severe decline due tourism, habitat destruction, and beach development (where they nest). Volunteer efforts ensured the protection of the nest and eggs from people and pets.
I have, to date, only two experiences with Piping Plover. First, on the East Coast during the same trip as Bird Island, I witnessed numerous breeding pairs at their nests on a protected coastline with a boardwalk where you can see the birds with a good set of binoculars. Seeing an endangered species confined to such a small protected area to breed was both sad and fascinating. My second sighting was at Wheatley Harbour, just northeast of Point Pelee and Hillman Marsh, Ontario. It appeared the same day as the Neotropic Cormorant (first confirmed record for Canada) in the Spring of 2005, an amazing year for rarities. The solitary bird was spotted by gull-expert Kevin McLaughlin when he wandered away from the hectic scene of hundreds of birders crowding to see a new species for Canada. Seeing these two species back to back was one of the best birding experiences in my life; bringing together excited birders from across North America to witness an event like no other and being reminded why we became birders in the first place.
Reported earlier, the Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) has been removed from the Endangered Species Act, a breakthrough for this majestic, well-known species. Years of hunting, habitat loss, and use of contaminants like DDT have led to the endangerment and extirpation of the Bald Eagle across North America. However, the elimination of DDT along with conservation efforts have saved the population of Bald Eagles in the U.S. and Canada. Worries over the Southern Ontario population still persist, however. Only 34 active nests were reported in the area in 2006 and there is room for improvement. Fortunately, there is now an active nest within Point Pelee National Park's boundaries that is visible from the observation towers at Delaurier trail. I haven't checked that out yet but it will be a great way to easily spot the species on a trip to the park.
My most vivid memory of the Bald Eagle was during a small pelagic trip to Bird Island on the East Coast of Canada. There, we saw the nesting grounds of Atlantic Puffin, Great Cormorant, Black-legged Kittiwake, Black Guillemot, Herring Gull, and Razorbill. Besides seeing a Razorbill chick being led back to its nest on the cliffside of the island by its concerned parent, the best memory from this trip is seeing the eagles that haunt the river leading out into the ocean. Here, we could witness them plunge into the water to catch fish within meters of our boat. It was spectacular to see the techniques they have evolved to dive for fish and seeing their sheer size up close was impressive.
Secondly, reports of breeding Piping Plovers (Charadrius melodus) in Southern Ontario were supplied. This is one of very few recorded Piping Plover nests in this vicinity after their severe decline due tourism, habitat destruction, and beach development (where they nest). Volunteer efforts ensured the protection of the nest and eggs from people and pets.
I have, to date, only two experiences with Piping Plover. First, on the East Coast during the same trip as Bird Island, I witnessed numerous breeding pairs at their nests on a protected coastline with a boardwalk where you can see the birds with a good set of binoculars. Seeing an endangered species confined to such a small protected area to breed was both sad and fascinating. My second sighting was at Wheatley Harbour, just northeast of Point Pelee and Hillman Marsh, Ontario. It appeared the same day as the Neotropic Cormorant (first confirmed record for Canada) in the Spring of 2005, an amazing year for rarities. The solitary bird was spotted by gull-expert Kevin McLaughlin when he wandered away from the hectic scene of hundreds of birders crowding to see a new species for Canada. Seeing these two species back to back was one of the best birding experiences in my life; bringing together excited birders from across North America to witness an event like no other and being reminded why we became birders in the first place.
Welcome
Greetings to my new blog, a place where I will discuss issues concerning birds and related environmental and scientific issues.
A bit of background: I have been an avid birder now for 12 years and over that time, I have developed a deep understanding and appreciation of North American birds. I am passionate towards the hobby; the excitement of a new species, reminiscing past experiences, the constant learning process, the traveling, studying common species, and meeting wonderful people who share this past-time. It's a thrilling sport, one that has extended my interests into anything that flies (butterflies & dragonflies) and the natural history of Ontario. Birds are incredible creatures, beautiful and active, mysterious but familiar. They exhibit complex behaviours and relationships, stun us with their flight and migration, pacify us with their songs, and amaze us in their variety.
Therefore, I find the conservation and protection of birds to be an extremely important endeavour. Although this blog will be a place for me to log my birding experiences, various lists, and information on all bird species, I also plan to discuss environmental issues concerning these feathered wonders and new scientific studies regarding bird lifestyles and behavior, as well as review guides and books concerning birds and birding hot-spots (parks I've visited, etc). I am always fascinated by taxonomy in birds, as splitting (speciation) and lumping are always hot topics of debate among ornithologists so I hope to further investigate this interest. I also plan to highlight various species to study them in more detail and remind us that each individual species is special and unique in its own right.
I hope you enjoy my blog.
A bit of background: I have been an avid birder now for 12 years and over that time, I have developed a deep understanding and appreciation of North American birds. I am passionate towards the hobby; the excitement of a new species, reminiscing past experiences, the constant learning process, the traveling, studying common species, and meeting wonderful people who share this past-time. It's a thrilling sport, one that has extended my interests into anything that flies (butterflies & dragonflies) and the natural history of Ontario. Birds are incredible creatures, beautiful and active, mysterious but familiar. They exhibit complex behaviours and relationships, stun us with their flight and migration, pacify us with their songs, and amaze us in their variety.
Therefore, I find the conservation and protection of birds to be an extremely important endeavour. Although this blog will be a place for me to log my birding experiences, various lists, and information on all bird species, I also plan to discuss environmental issues concerning these feathered wonders and new scientific studies regarding bird lifestyles and behavior, as well as review guides and books concerning birds and birding hot-spots (parks I've visited, etc). I am always fascinated by taxonomy in birds, as splitting (speciation) and lumping are always hot topics of debate among ornithologists so I hope to further investigate this interest. I also plan to highlight various species to study them in more detail and remind us that each individual species is special and unique in its own right.
I hope you enjoy my blog.
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