Peregrine Falcons have a prominent dark “mustache.” In my youth, these speedy birds were known as “Duck Hawks” which may explain why there seemed to be fewer ducks about today on the 9 degree, windy and overcast morning. You can see a red band on the falcon’s right leg. I learned from the “peregrine-foundation” that this bird is 5 months old.

I received these 2 comments about the Peregrine Falcon seen at Col. Sam Smith during this walk:

Comment: The peregrine falcon reported on your site is from the 250 Ferrand Dr. Toronto nest site. She was banded on July 11th at 22 days old and named Tardis. 
Comment: Hi Miles. I just wanted to thank you so much for your beautiful pictures of the peregrine-I volunteer with the Canadian Peregrine Foundation. She is near and dear to my heart as I watch this family every year at Don Mills & Eglinton. She was born on June 20, 2019 and banded on July 11, when we named her Tardis! She fledged July 31 and she came to ground where I rescued her–When she flew again, 2 days later,she ended up in the bush on the ramp of the DVP and spent the night there! She got herself out of trouble the next day and never looked back!! As you can tell, I am very excited to see her doing so well…Thanks again!! Cathy

When many starlings congregate together it is called a “murmuration.” We saw many today and the sound is more squeaking than murmuring.

High winds brought out a few wind surfers:

Species list: red-necked grebe, trumpeter swan, mute swan, Canada goose, mallard, gadwall, American wigeon, bufflehead, peregrine falcon, Cooper’s hawk, red-tailed hawk, herring gull, ring-billed gull, eastern phoebe, blue jay, American crow, American robin, European starling, house sparrow, northern cardinal, American goldfinch.  (21 species)

Park scenes:

This morning’s group:

NATURE POETRY

And now the autumn season waits,
In mellowing forms of fruitage.    – Stephen Henry Thayer (1839–1919)

Miles Hearn