Whimbrels leave their east coast staging area and fly straight to their northern breeding grounds. For generations, Toronto has been on that route and we saw a flock this morning.

An ornithologist has been kind enough to give each TDSB group an interesting talk about this phenomena.

Eastern KIngbirds are common in semi-open habitats with a mix of grassy fields and trees such as orchards or marsh edges, often near water. The pond near the eastern edge of Col. Sam Smith Park is a good place to observe them.

Other birds:

Today’s group:

MAILBOX

Dear Miles,

Here are 2 photos. In the second photo, stationary birds are black stilt, common redshanks and pied avocets in the river. These birds stayed over Taianan for its rich nutrients from nearby fish ponds.  To me, Dunlin is fairly common on Taiwan’s coastline during the winter months. Identification is a slightly down-curved bill to distinct other sea birds. 

NATURE POETRY

Thou wast not born for death, immortal Bird!
No hungry generations tread thee down;
The voice I hear this passing night was heard
In ancient days by emperor and clown: – John Keats

Miles Hearn