Cold weather and strong winds were uncomfortable, but they also kept the crowds
away. Perhaps as a result, had beautiful views of a Peregrine feeding on a Rock
Dove on the pier. Later, a second Peregrine dropped down to the ground to
observe from a distance. The second bird appeared smaller, and made a slow
approach to the complaints of the feeding bird. To my surprise, I did not
observe any attempt to cover or mantle the kill.
The feeding bird had a green metallic band, and i could only make out the
letter "K" in white at the top of the band. The other bird was also banded (I
presume the resident falcons). The smaller bird took off with the discarded
dove's head while a Herring Gull kept close watch on the quickly disappearing
body.
Finally "K" took off with a half eaten carcass while the Herring Gull gave
chase. Other birds observed: 2 Greater-black backed gulls (1 adult, 1
sub-adult), numerous long-tailed ducks (though certainly not the large flocks
typically found), numerous Red-breasted Mergansers, Mallards, Ring-billed
Gulls, 2 mute swans. Did not see any Scoters or the Shelduck.
I have photos of the bands if anyone is interested (will post online later),
please email me privately if you have any questions.
Good birding,
Peeter Musta
Kitchener, ON
mustap.smugmug.com
_________________________________________________________________
Eligible CDN College & University students can upgrade to Windows 7 before Jan
3 for only $39.99. Upgrade now!
http://go.microsoft.com/?linkid=9691819_______________________________________________
ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists - the provincial
birding organization.
Send bird reports to ONTBIRDS mailing list [email protected]
For information about ONTBIRDS visit http://www.ofo.ca/
