from: Tim Mccarthy, via Ontbirds
When the faithful began to gather this morning we wished we'd worn our woolies.
But pretty soon things started to heat up and we all forgot how cold we were.
Everybody was shouting and running around. Except for me, of course. I had to
sit and keep the records. As Stefan, one of our younger watchers said "Things
were looking up!"
We had the requisite Northwest winds, you see, and that's all it took to get:
27 Turkey Vultures
4 Bald Eagles
3 N. Harriers
186 Sharpshins
14 Coopers
142 Broadwings
10 Red Tails
8 American Kestrels
1 Merlin
and a parr - tridge in a pear tree
Actually it was a Sharpie. And it was an oak tree.
Whatever.
It looks by our totals and others' sightings that, like pears, our Broadwings
are pretty much done for the season. We didn't get nearly as many as we used to
because I think the weather patterns have changed. Keep an eye on the Toronto
Ornithological Club Newsletter for more on that topic. Its going to take time,
but I'm going to find out where Broadwings go when we don't see them over the
park. Thanks to all who offered sightings and please keep up the good work.
Coming up: Turkey Vultures, Coopers Hawks, Red Tails, Bald Eagles (lots more of
those big guys this year it seems. Isn't it great to get good news about Ma
Nature's children for a change?) and a host of other exciting critters. The
Northwest wind will still be favoured so come see us Friday. Don't forget your
bins.
High Park is still under seige by road workers so if you're driving, come in by
the West entrance. Or get off the subway at High Park station which also looks
to be under repair (don't be afraid, its only what we've all been wanting for
the past 20 years or so). Maybe if they ever get done they'll tackle our
streets.
Happy Bird Days,
Tim
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