European Starlings are an introduced species to North America. They’ve adapted very well which is reflected in their numbers and range. They aren’t a popular breed; considered bullies at feeders and they often nest in the same tree cavities as native birds. On the plus side they have a wide vocal range and they consume a variety of harmful insect pests. I enjoy seeing these attractive birds as they’re one of the first to return in spring as the weather starts to warm up.
I’ve seen a lot of robins this spring and summer. They are always a welcome sight.
The goose had found a tranquil spot though its young were just off to the side.
I couldn’t take my eyes off of the ducklings but the gull was unimpressed 😏.
It seems like a good summer for goslings. I’ve seen quite a few. I was lucky with the light here.
It was a perfect Sunday morning.
The day was overcast and the colours muted. I thought the scene lent itself to black and white.
The gosling peered at me through the tall grass never far away from its watchful parent.
I took quite a few photos of this tree swallow in May. There are nesting boxes nearby. I should get back there and check on them.
I’ve seen only a few grackles this year, this one was close enough to get a decent image. Like some other birds, grackles have a bad reputation. They can be bullies at feeders and forage in gardens and farmers’ fields. I enjoy them though and like the way the sun illuminates their plumage. Another bird that migrates here during the warm months.
A little clean up does wonders. The mallard stood by the water’s edge and did a little preening after its swim.
… Ant! I was surprised to see what the robin had in its beak. I guess it couldn’t find a worm 😏
The male mallard had a good view of his watery domain.
I took this photo on a windy day and the wind had re-arranged this downy’s head feathers a bit. She was taking a quick break from her foraging.
I haven’t seen too many insects yet, the temperature is warm one day and cold the next. It’s not presenting a problem for this Red-winged Blackbird though.
Like most youngsters these two were in a hurry. We saw a lot of goslings on our walk. This is the first of many more photos to come.
There were several sparrows feeding on the ground but the smaller chipping sparrow stood out with its distinctive markings and smaller size. It’s a migratory bird and nice to see back in Spring.
We returned to one of our favourite wildlife gardens after a long absence and were not disappointed. There was a tremendous variety of birds, including this attractive cardinal.
I was tempted to crop a bit closer to show off the swallow’s expression but I wanted to highlight the spring leaves as well.
The first of the Canada Geese began returning a few weeks ago. I saw this lone individual on the river one sunny day during the week.
Every spring some house sparrows build their nests in the eaves of a downtown building. I saw this female on a nearby lawn.
I watched as the robin ran across the lawn and finally came to a stop. Nothing says spring like a robin!
Last weekend was beautiful and warm and I had my first sighting of a Red-winged Blackbird. The bird seemed to enjoy the weather too and burst into song 😊
The house sparrow blended in so perfectly to its surroundings that I was pretty pleased to get a clear shot.
These birds are a sure sign of Spring. I haven’t seen or heard one yet (I took this photo last year). It shouldn’t be long now!
With freezing rain pouring down this morning, it was time to revisit a fine spring day last May. I saw a few Canada Geese fly overhead the other day, I hope they can hold on a little longer. Warmer weather coming next week.
We’ve discovered a few new trails close to the river. Walking by one day, I saw this Great Blue Heron in the reeds. I wasn’t far from the bird and didn’t want to cause it to fly off. I shouldn’t have worried though as something else had its entire attention.
This part of the Ottawa River is popular with Cormorants; there are plenty of perches for them to dry off after fishing. An interesting looking bird with its turquoise eyes and bright yellow facial patch.
The solitary duck looked small against the high waves but on it swam. A duck called Intrepid 😊
I found this image on an old drive. I think mallards were among the first birds I photographed and I never get tired of them. 😊
Daylight saving time begins here in the early hours of March 12. The chickadee looks about to make the leap too.
Canada Geese are attractive birds but the Egret was a real standout. I took this by the the river close to shore; this spot often attracts a lone egret or heron and a lot of geese.
As loud as geese can be not these three. I think we all were enjoying the stillness of the afternoon.
So often winter is pretty dreary here but not always.
I’m always impressed with the way mallards manage to keep their footing on these icy surfaces. This duck skidded a bit but recovered well, maintaining his dignity.
I featured this duck close up to show off its marvellous bill and then pulled back some, as the background was worth a look too. I’ve only seen the northern shoveler in late November. I’ve read that it appears as if its rear is sitting higher up in the water than its front end. Not surprising with a bill like that.😊
Lightning strikes, wind and time have left their marks on this tree. I imagine it makes the hunt for insects easier for this woodpecker.
Not quite yet, I took this scene in April a few years ago. I hope this year things warm up sooner.
As soon as the waterways are free of ice the wood ducks will return. I took this photo in early April.
Nuthatches are agile birds. Watching them move sideways and upside down as they forage is very impressive. One of the birds we enjoy year round.
BELINDA GROVER PHOTOGRAPHY 