It’s a hot day in the nation’s capital. Happy Canada Day!
Summer Scene
In the warmth of the sun this field of wild flowers and grasses gave off the nicest scent. When I return next time, I hope to see a few insects.
Young Canada Goose
We decided to walk along the river in search of a breeze as the temperature continues to rise. Not much relief there but we did see some birds including this juvenile Canada Goose. He’s beginning to lose his down and acquire juvenile plumage. His parent wasn’t far behind; they remain with their parents for about a year.
Daisy, Daisy
Daisies are such cheerful looking flowers. I caught these swaying in the breeze.
Table for One
The chipmunk found a quiet spot to have a snack. It was aware of me but didn’t seem to mind and just kept on eating.
In the Reeds
I saw this plant growing by the shoreline of the pond; I believe its bur-reed, related to cattails and bulrushes. I liked its interesting appearance and so did the damselflies that were landing nearby.
A Bee, Finally
I haven’t seen many bees this summer, so I was happy to see this one visiting some colourful flowers.
That’s All, Folks
While crossing the street the other day, I saw a blurred shape run by on the nearby sidewalk. Luckily for me the cottontail stopped for a minute on the grass and then quickly took off again. I managed to get these two photographs.
Summer Shift
Although we’re just one day into the official start of summer, the season moves along far too quickly. I think I found one of the last of the poppies putting on a nice show.
Basking
I caught this Red-winged Blackbird enjoying the warmth of the sun earlier this month. The park is popular with these birds and you’re usually greeted by their song as you approach the path.
Family Swim
I like to watch the geese out with their young, showing them the way.
Stormy Weather
The weather has been very unsettled lately. It makes sky watching a must.
June Colours
A quick walk around the block provided a nice colourful garden mix and even a glimpse of a stork (at least the nearest I’ll get to one around here 😏).
Gosling
When I took this photo about two weeks ago I saw goslings of this size as well as young geese that were bigger and approaching that awkward looking stage. They certainly mature quickly.
Make Way
I was using a long lens and I was very close to the mallard so this image gives the impression that the path was hers 😏
Cardinal
We’re lucky to see and hear a lot of cardinals in our neighbourhood. Although we still live in the city, it’s greener and quieter than where we used to live and it’s rare not to hear bird song early morning and throughout the day.
Greetings, Earthlings
These seed heads could have easily featured in a classic science fiction movie 😊. I believe they are the seed heads of the Pasqueflower and a member of the buttercup family.
Red-winged Blackbird
There were a number of Red-winged Blackbirds at the park when this young one landed quite close to me. I believe it’s a juvenille male.
In the Spotlight
A good part of the garden was still in the shade but not this poppy that appeared to be basking in the sunshine.
More Fun with Grackles
We’ve seen a good number of grackles this year. I enjoy watching them, they’re always striding around looking busy and a bit put out 😏
Lily of the Valley
Another introduced species to North America that is highly invasive. I love to see it though and enjoy its delicacy and fragrance.
First of the Year
After a walk around the reserve and having seen very little we decided to return to the car. A few minutes from the entrance we came upon this Black-crowned Night Heron. A first of the year sighting!
Quite the Catch, Grackle
I watched the grackle with its catch hop along the shore for quite some time. I don’t know if it had a nest nearby because it didn’t fly off or stop to eat. I know the warm weather is here to stay when I start seeing these intelligent and attractive birds.
Break Time
Birds can be pretty funny. In this family unit the adult starling might just be “taking a time out” from the kids 😏
Garden Find
Another common name for bleeding heart is lyre flower, a name I much prefer.
Small Town Views
It’s nice to leave the city and wander through small towns. I enjoy the slower pace, and you rarely have to wait for cars or people to pass before you can take your shot.
Family Swim
Goslings can swim within 24 hours of hatching. Their parents coat them in waterproof oils to keep them buoyant. Amazing 😊. It takes them longer to learn to fly,, about 10 weeks.
A Touch of Yellow
Looking out the window the other day, I spotted this goldfinch looking in my direction. I didn’t have a chance to change my camera lens, I just took the shot. In this case the bird was an attractive element to the overall landscape.
Just Dandy
I took this photo about a week ago, just before the Lillies of the valley came into bloom. This one dandylion caught my eye as it stood out among the sttetch of emerging flowers.
Exception to the Rule
European Starlings were introduced to North America in the late 19th century and are considerd invasive. They compete for nesting sites and can cause extensive agricultural damage. This individual though was content to search the grass for something to eat and only snagged a dandelion.
Laneway Views
On a recent walk, we turned down a laneway we had never noticed before. Some of the back gardens were fenced off but these two weren’t. The first scene had an expectant air; a flower basket ready to be hung and a child’s toy, on the right, waiting to be ridden. The stone figure below is a watchful presence.
Dazzle
After a long winter when we’re craving colour, nature really shines.
Gosling
We took a walk along the river on the weekend and came across two pairs of Canada Geese and their young. Given what a slow start to spring we’ve had, I was particularly happy to see that some things continue right on schedule 😊
Red Maple
It looks like I might have taken this photo last Fall but this Red Maple is wearing its new Spring colours.
Lawn Daisy
The lawn daisy has become naturalized here and is considerd a weed. Pretty though and pollinators like them. I think they resemble pincushions.
Super Hero
I thought the robin bore a striking resemblance to Batman’s sidekick 😊
Fine Dining
Black-capped chickadees know all the best places!
Sweet Violets
These wild violets are among my favourite early spring flowers. They appear unexpectedly among the dry leaves like little gems.
Seen on a Walk
Walking along a neighbourhood path we heard a lot of birdsong. When I looked up I saw this. If the bird had been smaller I could almost believe it was someone’s pet in a cage.
Taking It’s Time
We’ve had a colder than normal start to spring but things are headed in the right direction.
BELINDA GROVER PHOTOGRAPHY 