The abundant Multiflora Rose, Buckthorn and Oriental Bittersweet fruit at Humber Bay West makes it a good wintering spot for several Northern Mockingbirds.

You might say that Mockingbirds are “show off” birds. Their stunning ability to perfectly imitate the songs of other bird species is amazing. They often seem to wave their tails about so that others may admire them. In addition, you can get very close to a Mockingbird. This morning, we found one only a few metres from the trail. It remained in place unconcerned, as we took photos and then passed closely by.

Later we encountered another

and then another:

Other birds:

Park scenes:

Today’s group:

NATURE POETRY

There, on the black bough of a snow-flecked maple,
Fearless and gay as our love,
A bluejay cocked his crest!
Oh, who can tell the range of joy
Or set the bounds of beauty?              – Sara Teasdale (1884–1933)

Miles Hearn