Names like Semipalmated Plover, Rough-legged Hawk, Red-eyed Vireo, Rough-winged Swallow and others come from the “specimen tray” period of bird identification. The birds were first shot and then carefully examined in a studio. Specific foot traits, colour of eye or minute wing details do not appear at a distance through binoculars.

Today I visited 2 natural locations just south of Quebec City. The first was right on the south bank of the river.

It was here that I spotted this large hawk which usually appears in Ontario only in winter.

Along the shore I could hear the quiet peeping of these plovers:

50 years ago, only Black Ducks were found in this area but now, due to their trusting nature, Mallards have taken over:

My second visit was to various locations along the Chaudière River which flows into the St. Lawrence just across from Quebec City.

Thanks to Ken Sproule for assistance in frog identification.

Some botany:

NATURE POETRY

All Nature helps to swell the song
And chant the same refrain;
July and June have slipped away
And August’s here again.    – anon.

Miles Hearn