I recently wrote about a White-throated Sparrow gambling on human generosity by spending the winter near a birdfeeder.
It seems that some who spend the summer in the far north will spend the winter in southern Ontario feeding on weed seeds and not entirely relying on feeders. I found two on this day in the Don Valley.
With rain predicted, I had a quick look at the former industrial road which runs alongside the Don River just north of Pottery Road. Trucks used to rumble along here all winter to dump snow in what is now called Cottonwood Flats. These days, the road is a busy recreational trail for joggers, walkers and cyclists.
After years of buying cheap ice “grippers” and having them easily fall off or losing them, I got a first-rate pair for Christmas and they are perfect!
Some botany:
NATURE QUOTES
“Spring passes and one remembers one’s innocence.
Summer passes and one remembers one’s exuberance.
Autumn passes and one remembers one’s reverence.
Winter passes and one remembers one’s perseverance.”
― Yoko Ono
Miles Hearn
I love heartwarming good news stories these days–who doesn’t? The sparrows and your new ice grippers qualify! Also, beautiful scenes of a place I love. Thanks, Miles! Happy New Year!
That poem about the seasons is so appropriate. You do need perseverance to enjoy the outdoors in winter. I usually walk my dog in the evening but I go with a neighbour who also has a dog. We persevere around the block despite some cold winds. You really have to dress for the weather. Although my boots have good treads your grippers are superior.