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.
It has been very hot here lately. Just off the path I found a little shade along with this daisy.
I’ve seen a lot of robins this spring and summer. They are always a welcome sight.
Into a bed of roses.
I thought these looked like autumn flowers although the photo was taken in May.
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.
We stopped the car to stretch our legs and I noticed this curious grouping of plants by the side of the road. I wonder if they’re a form of teasel. I’d love to know, can anyone identify them?
(Mystery solved, see below)
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.
The woods are thick with vegetation now, pleasantly cool and shady. The sun found its way through the bush and illuminated these flowers beautifully.
A little clean up does wonders. The mallard stood by the water’s edge and did a little preening after its swim.
Some might just see weeds but I see more. I like the little bug centre stage as well.
By the side of the lake the remains of a tree was coming into leaf. It had been battered by harsh weather over the years but still had some Spring in it.
… Ant! I was surprised to see what the robin had in its beak. I guess it couldn’t find a worm 😏
On a recent walk, my spouse pointed out the remains of a flower. He said it reminded him of a musical symbol. I had the right lens on my camera (he didn’t) so I gave it a try. I thought the title of my post was pretty apt as it describes the subject as well as the idea that you don’t always have the right gear to capture something that appeals to you.
I’m not a great fan of white flowers but these prove the exception. Almost as pretty in bud as in flower.
The male mallard had a good view of his watery domain.
Another spring favourite.
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.
Let’s just call it Honeysuckle 😏
(See comment below)
This plant is an attractive but invasive species introduced to North America in the late 1800s from Asia. Unlike the native honeysuckles they leaf out early and remain in leaf into the fall. Like many invasive plants, they are hardy and outcompete native plants for space and nutrients. They are pretty though and a common sight each spring.
A good approach to the week ahead!
While walking along a path looking for wild flowers I spotted this tree stump studded with fungi. As the tree breaks down it continues serves a role in the forest.
I often return to this corner of my neighbourhood and this house in particular. I love the warm red brick and during spring and summer. wild and cultivated flowers take their turn in the sun.
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.
Undercover all winter, it’s finally time for the colours and shapes of spring.
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.
Walking along a river pathway, I saw this overhanging branch, with a few of last year’s leaves holding fast. Saving a spot for this year’s crop.
We’ve been enjoying these early bloomers for the last few weeks. Despite the unusually cool weather the flowers keep on coming.
The squirrel was tearing across the ground and finally stopped for a moment and stared in my direction. Another spring first.
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.
I saw this single white flower growing close to the ground in a neighbour’s yard. It was surrounded by other perennials. I don’t remember seeing this flower before but thought it very attractive.
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 😊
BELINDA GROVER PHOTOGRAPHY 