19-Apr-2021
Song sparrow
An early bird, so to speak, as these birds come back long before most other migrants return, and now they are heard all over the garden, and the region.
19-Apr-2021
Northern cardinal, male
This gorgeous male has been well photographed by Koby, showing the brilliant scarlet plumage that is so attractive. No wonder these birds feature on Christmas cards, and no wonder they are a 'must-see' bird when birders from overseas, or from the west, come here.
19-Apr-2021
Eastern chipmunk (Tamias striatus)
The same chipmunk in the next photo. I think his, or her, motto must be, if at first you don't succeed.... Because this one is determined to reach that feeder!
19-Apr-2021
Eastern chipmunk (Tamias striatus)
These animals, long out of their semi-hibernation, are extremely busy and not all that shy, in the Backyard Garden section of the wildlife garden. This one seems determined to reach Nirvana, the bounty of seeds in the feeder on top of the post.
19-Apr-2021
Dark-eyed junco
These birds are still around the region, but soon will disperse, though they nest in the Ottawa area, but not at the garden.
19-Apr-2021
Manitoba maple (Acer negundo)
14-Apr-2021
House finch, male
The male house finch is in full rich breeding plumage. We used to see many of these birds around the region as well as at the garden, but over time, they have become less common.
19-Apr-2021
Fletcher Wildlife Garden
Although the colours are autumnal, this was taken today. Looking across the ravine toward the Resource Centre.
19-Apr-2021
Red-winged blackbird, male
When this bird calls, his whole body is involved! I love the way his red epaulets puff up when he vocalizes.
19-Apr-2021
Amphibian pond
As often happens at this time of year, a layer of algae covers the surface. Red-winged blackbirds are pretty busy now, and of course, are mostly around the pond where the females will be soon be sitting on eggs.
19-Apr-2021
Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara)
This European native is well-established throughout the region including at the garden, and is another of the earliest flowers to appear, often along roadsides or trails. It attracts numerous bees and beeflies as well as other insects.
