I left Kapuskasing at 3:15 am and headed for the start of the Smooth Rock Falls Survey which begins 40 kms north of that town. It is surprising how many trucks are on the Trans Canada Highway at that hour.

MYSTERY BIRD

I will identify it at the end of the post.

I’ve finished the audio book Waging Heavy Peace by Neil Young and now have something lighter on while driving: an autobiography by Martin Short.

Today was my 4th straight day with a survey and I notice that it is almost impossible to get a good view of most of the birds that I am listening to and counting.

Certainly it is a distinct pleasure to hear 11 species within a 3 minute time period as I did this morning at stop 29: sandhill crane, alder flycatcher, red-breasted nuthatch, ruby-crowned kinglet, American robin, white-throated sparrow, common yellowthroat and Tennessee, Nashville, northern parula and magnolia warbler.

Still after the survey, I looked for a good spot with lots of singing and did my best to photograph some of the singers. It took me almost 2 hours to get these photos as the birds are often far from me and flit about in, in most cases, heavy bush.

Other photos:

Some botany:

MYSTERY BIRD

I get about one of these in each northern survey. The “white spectacles” identify it as a Blue-headed Vireo.

MAILBAG

Have you ever seen an eagle blink?

NATURE POETRY

The river is a flat, shining chain.  

The moon, rising, is a white eye to the hills; 

After it has risen, it is the bright heart of the sea. 

Because I love it—so—round as a fan, 

I hum songs until the dawn.                                                   – Li Po (701–762)

Miles Hearn