Oakvillegreen, the local conservation association (oakvillegreen.org) is holding their 5th annual Plant Sale (and there's a garage sale too!). This will be my first year attending it and I'm really looking forward to it. I thought I would share the info with you here. If you are in the area, this will be the place to be. Sounds like a fun and busy day!
Fifth Annual Community Garage and Plant Sale on Saturday, May 29th
If you are moving, doing some spring cleaning, have toys your children have outgrown or are looking to clear out the garage, then you’ll want to book a spot at Oakvillegreen Conservation Association Fifth Annual Community Garage and Plant Sale.
Simply book your spot and bring everything you want to sell to the Town Hall parking lot (1225 Trafalgar Road) on Saturday, May 29 between 7 and 7:45 a.m. Oakvillegreen will take care of advertising and organizing to make the day a success. Selling spots can be reserved for $20 (if registering before May 21st; after May 21st cost is $25).
Oakville’s non-profit, community service, arts, multicultural and charitable groups are also invited to participate as it’s an easy way for community groups to raise for their organization.
The sale will open to the public at 8 a.m. and wrap-up by noon. The garage sale will take place rain or shine.
Also at the Town Hall that day, the Town of Oakville will be holding their annual Energy Conservation event with giveaways, guest speakers and more so a good crowd is expected for both events.
For more information on the Garage and Plant Sale please to contact Margaret Kirwin at mkirwin(at)247post.com or call her at 905-338-2709 after 7 p.m.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Updates from the Yard
We saw three female Red-Winged Blackbirds yesterday, which we believe to be the highest count. The females are usually more elusive than the males and we don't see much of them at all.
Barn Swallows made their appearance for the first time this year. No pics as they were moving very quickly through the air.
The Chipping Sparrow with the missing head feathers is still around. I think his cap has started to come in a bit. He still has a small bald spot, but he looks better than he did when I first posted about him.
Male Cardinals were busy chasing each other through the yard the last few days. I don't think we normally see them this late into spring.
For the first time in weeks I heard the Red-bellied Male making lots of noise from up in the trees. I assume he's been busy nesting. We'll keep an eye out for the young, as we've seen in previous years. We are also seeing large numbers of Blue Jays (up to 10) each morning. The Tree Swallows are still active at the nesting boxes. They seem to keep moving around from one to another, so I don't think any actual nest building is occurring as of yet.
And finally we saw our first hawk (of any kind) in almost a month, which was was a juvenile Cooper's Hawk. We had the Cooper's vs Sharpie debate and had to turn to this FANTASTIC resource and then made our determination:
Tricky ID's- Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks
Barn Swallows made their appearance for the first time this year. No pics as they were moving very quickly through the air.
The Chipping Sparrow with the missing head feathers is still around. I think his cap has started to come in a bit. He still has a small bald spot, but he looks better than he did when I first posted about him.
Male Cardinals were busy chasing each other through the yard the last few days. I don't think we normally see them this late into spring.
For the first time in weeks I heard the Red-bellied Male making lots of noise from up in the trees. I assume he's been busy nesting. We'll keep an eye out for the young, as we've seen in previous years. We are also seeing large numbers of Blue Jays (up to 10) each morning. The Tree Swallows are still active at the nesting boxes. They seem to keep moving around from one to another, so I don't think any actual nest building is occurring as of yet.
And finally we saw our first hawk (of any kind) in almost a month, which was was a juvenile Cooper's Hawk. We had the Cooper's vs Sharpie debate and had to turn to this FANTASTIC resource and then made our determination:
Tricky ID's- Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks
Thursday, April 29, 2010
This hurts my heart.
Published: April 28, 2010
The Oil Spill: Wildlife at Risk
The oil spill from a deepwater well is threatening various birds and marine mammals along the Louisiana coast. The National Audubon Society has identified some of the most vulnerable birds.
Brown Pelican: The state bird of Louisiana was recently removed from endangered species list. Just began breeding in the area again.
Reddish Egret: A strictly coastal bird with a dwindling population. Has nowhere to go if their feeding and nesting grounds are fouled by oil.
Mottled Duck: Live in coastal salt marshes. Recovery efforts for marsh birds would be nearly impossible if oil accumulates in the marshes.
Royal Tern: Aerial birds that plunge into the water to catch fish. Have begun nesting on barrier islands and beaches.
Snowy Plover: Feeds on small invertebrates or oysters. At risk if oil comes ashore or affects their food sources.
WHY do we keep letting this happen? Innocent creatures are going to die an agonizing death and this should have been avoided...we know better. We KNOW better.
The Oil Spill: Wildlife at Risk
The oil spill from a deepwater well is threatening various birds and marine mammals along the Louisiana coast. The National Audubon Society has identified some of the most vulnerable birds.
Brown Pelican: The state bird of Louisiana was recently removed from endangered species list. Just began breeding in the area again.
Reddish Egret: A strictly coastal bird with a dwindling population. Has nowhere to go if their feeding and nesting grounds are fouled by oil.
Mottled Duck: Live in coastal salt marshes. Recovery efforts for marsh birds would be nearly impossible if oil accumulates in the marshes.
Royal Tern: Aerial birds that plunge into the water to catch fish. Have begun nesting on barrier islands and beaches.
Snowy Plover: Feeds on small invertebrates or oysters. At risk if oil comes ashore or affects their food sources.
WHY do we keep letting this happen? Innocent creatures are going to die an agonizing death and this should have been avoided...we know better. We KNOW better.
Be careful out there people (and turkeys too)
Halton has decided to allow hunting (ugh...). So if you were thinking of hiding out in the woods to catch sight of some migrating birds, don't. Or if you're the persistent type, be sure to wear bright colours.
http://www.insidehalton.com/news/article/805917--turkey-hunt-underway-in-halton-s-public-forests
Tim Foran, CANADIAN CHAMPION STAFF Apr 27, 2010 - 11:05 AM
Turkey hunt underway in Halton’s public forests
Bruce Trail head concerned for hikers
The first wild turkey hunt in Halton’s public forests has begun.
Approved by council earlier this year, the Region has opened up seven of its 14 forest tracts in Milton and Halton Hills to the province’s spring turkey shoot from April 26 to May 31.
During the five weeks, hunting wild turkey by shotgun or bow is allowed a half hour before sunrise to 7 p.m., in accordance with Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) regulations.
The hunt is only allowed in the Region’s “outlying” forests, called the Acton, Conley, Elliot, Finney, Frank, Laking and Snyder tracts. A map can be found at www.halton.ca/forests.
Except for Laking, all of those tracts — which make up 510 of the Region’s 1,645 acres of public forest — have hiking, cycling, and equestrian trails.
However, the Region says a majority of the public use in its forests takes place in the Halton Regional Forest Complex (Britton, Robertson, Mahon, Turner and Currie tracts). The Bruce Trail cuts through this area.
“Hiking and cycling users should not be impacted as hunters will not situate themselves in proximity to well-used areas as the game will not be in these areas,” added Halton’s chief planning official Ron Glenn.
He said signs are now posted at each designated tract entrance specifying the particular hunt and permitted dates.
This isn’t the first time hunting has been allowed on municipal property in Halton. For years, the Region has opened up 12 of its 14 forest tracts to the deer hunt, a one-week period in the fall for hunters using shotguns and a longer period for those with bows and arrows. But it’s the first time the Region has allowed the turkey hunt.
“Wonderful,” Jim Hetherington, a member of the board of directors of the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH), said of the allowance for the hunt in Halton. “(Before) people had to go all over the place to do their turkey hunting.”
The Oakville resident noted the sport has become increasingly popular since Ontario started reintroducing wild turkeys into the wild.
“They’re a very, very popular bird to hunt and not the easiest bird to hunt either,” he added. “In turkey hunting, camouflage is the only way to go. You sit still, and let the turkeys come to you.”
OFAH provides the mandatory courses new turkey hunters must take in order to receive a Provincial licence. Hetherington said much of the course is focused on safety and he doesn’t anticipate any conflicts with hikers using the free forests.
However, the head of the Bruce Trail Conservancy is concerned the Province’s allowance of wild turkey hunting in a small public forest it owns in Halton could endanger hikers wending their way through the woods.
“Hunting and hiking are not compatible on a 50-acre tract,” said Beth Kümmling, executive director of the conservancy.
Kümmling was reacting to the fact Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources will continue to allow the upcoming spring wild turkey hunt to take place on its 50-acre Speyside forest tract, a piece of crown land located on the north side of No. 15 Sideroad east of Regional Road 25 between Milton and Acton.
The MNR property is part of a relatively contiguous forest stretching 13 km in a north-south direction and the optimum route of the Bruce Trail cuts through the property, according to official trail maps.
“We’ve not had an incident (hunting accident) on the Bruce Trail ever,” said Kümmling.
“I think there’s a lot of responsible hunters but I have concerns. This is a small property, it’s not a very large space to have hikers and hunters together.”
A spokesperson for the MNR, John Almond, said turkey hunting has already been allowed, though not promoted, on that property for years and there have been no reported incidents between hunters and hikers. However as the site is small, he doesn’t receive many inquiries about hunting on the property.
Hetherington said hunters also won’t set up near recreational areas used by the public as turkeys won’t come near them.
As a precaution, both the Region and the MNR suggest hikers and other recreational users wear bright clothing when visiting these forests during hunting season.
http://www.insidehalton.com/news/article/805917--turkey-hunt-underway-in-halton-s-public-forests
Tim Foran, CANADIAN CHAMPION STAFF Apr 27, 2010 - 11:05 AM
Turkey hunt underway in Halton’s public forests
Bruce Trail head concerned for hikers
The first wild turkey hunt in Halton’s public forests has begun.
Approved by council earlier this year, the Region has opened up seven of its 14 forest tracts in Milton and Halton Hills to the province’s spring turkey shoot from April 26 to May 31.
During the five weeks, hunting wild turkey by shotgun or bow is allowed a half hour before sunrise to 7 p.m., in accordance with Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) regulations.
The hunt is only allowed in the Region’s “outlying” forests, called the Acton, Conley, Elliot, Finney, Frank, Laking and Snyder tracts. A map can be found at www.halton.ca/forests.
Except for Laking, all of those tracts — which make up 510 of the Region’s 1,645 acres of public forest — have hiking, cycling, and equestrian trails.
However, the Region says a majority of the public use in its forests takes place in the Halton Regional Forest Complex (Britton, Robertson, Mahon, Turner and Currie tracts). The Bruce Trail cuts through this area.
“Hiking and cycling users should not be impacted as hunters will not situate themselves in proximity to well-used areas as the game will not be in these areas,” added Halton’s chief planning official Ron Glenn.
He said signs are now posted at each designated tract entrance specifying the particular hunt and permitted dates.
This isn’t the first time hunting has been allowed on municipal property in Halton. For years, the Region has opened up 12 of its 14 forest tracts to the deer hunt, a one-week period in the fall for hunters using shotguns and a longer period for those with bows and arrows. But it’s the first time the Region has allowed the turkey hunt.
“Wonderful,” Jim Hetherington, a member of the board of directors of the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH), said of the allowance for the hunt in Halton. “(Before) people had to go all over the place to do their turkey hunting.”
The Oakville resident noted the sport has become increasingly popular since Ontario started reintroducing wild turkeys into the wild.
“They’re a very, very popular bird to hunt and not the easiest bird to hunt either,” he added. “In turkey hunting, camouflage is the only way to go. You sit still, and let the turkeys come to you.”
OFAH provides the mandatory courses new turkey hunters must take in order to receive a Provincial licence. Hetherington said much of the course is focused on safety and he doesn’t anticipate any conflicts with hikers using the free forests.
However, the head of the Bruce Trail Conservancy is concerned the Province’s allowance of wild turkey hunting in a small public forest it owns in Halton could endanger hikers wending their way through the woods.
“Hunting and hiking are not compatible on a 50-acre tract,” said Beth Kümmling, executive director of the conservancy.
Kümmling was reacting to the fact Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources will continue to allow the upcoming spring wild turkey hunt to take place on its 50-acre Speyside forest tract, a piece of crown land located on the north side of No. 15 Sideroad east of Regional Road 25 between Milton and Acton.
The MNR property is part of a relatively contiguous forest stretching 13 km in a north-south direction and the optimum route of the Bruce Trail cuts through the property, according to official trail maps.
“We’ve not had an incident (hunting accident) on the Bruce Trail ever,” said Kümmling.
“I think there’s a lot of responsible hunters but I have concerns. This is a small property, it’s not a very large space to have hikers and hunters together.”
A spokesperson for the MNR, John Almond, said turkey hunting has already been allowed, though not promoted, on that property for years and there have been no reported incidents between hunters and hikers. However as the site is small, he doesn’t receive many inquiries about hunting on the property.
Hetherington said hunters also won’t set up near recreational areas used by the public as turkeys won’t come near them.
As a precaution, both the Region and the MNR suggest hikers and other recreational users wear bright clothing when visiting these forests during hunting season.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
AUDUBON FEARS IMPERILED BIRDS WILL BE NEXT VICTIMS OF GULF OIL DISASTER
http://web1.audubon.org/news/pressRelease.php?id=2441
AUDUBON FEARS IMPERILED BIRDS WILL BE NEXT VICTIMS OF GULF OIL DISASTER
"This spill would give anyone pause regarding the pursuit of risky drilling in environmentally sensitive coastal areas."
New York, NY, April 28, 2010 - Audubon experts across the Gulf Coast are monitoring the spread of thousands of gallons of oil that threaten to turn last week's drilling platform explosion into a growing environmental disaster.
"The terrible loss of 11 workers may be just the beginning of this tragedy as the oil slick spreads toward sensitive coastal areas vital to birds and marine life and to all the communities that depend on them," said Melanie Driscoll an Audubon bird conservation director, who is monitoring the situation from her base in Louisiana. "For birds, the timing could not be worse; they are breeding, nesting and especially vulnerable in many of the places where the oil could come ashore."
Sensitive coastal areas of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida are all potential targets of the growing spill. "The efforts to stop the oil before it reaches shore are heroic, but may not be enough," added Driscoll. "We have to hope for the best, but prepare for the worst, including a true catastrophe for birds."
In Florida, Audubon is recruiting volunteers and making its Center for Birds of Prey available for bird cleansing and rehabilitation. Elsewhere, the organization is gearing up to help mobilize volunteers and provide other assistance in the event the oil reaches sensitive shorelines.
Several "Important Bird Areas," designated by Audubon and its partners for their essential habitat value to bird species lie within potentially-affected areas. Those under immediate threat include Chandeleur Islands IBA and Gulf Islands National Seashore IBA in Louisiana and Mississippi; and the Active Delta IBA in Louisiana, which includes Delta National Wildlife Refuge and Pass-a-Loutre Wildlife Management Area.
Among the birds are prompting special concern:
Brown Pelican -The state bird of Louisiana nests on barrier islands and feeds near shore. Their breeding season just began and many pairs are already incubating eggs. Removed from the U.S. Endangered Species list only late last year, Brown Pelicans remain vulnerable to storms, habitat loss and other pressures. Their relatively low reproductive rate means any disruption to their breeding cycle could have serious effects on the population.
Beach-nesting terns and gulls (Caspian Tern, Royal Tern, Sandwich Tern, Least Tern, Laughing Gull, Black Skimmer) - These birds nest and roost in groups on barrier islands and beaches. Some species have begun nesting or building pair bonds in preparation for nesting. They feed on fish and other marine life. Roosting and nesting on the sand and plunging into the water to fish, they are extremely vulnerable oil on the surface or washing ashore.
Beach-nesting shorebirds (American Oystercatcher, Wilson's Plover, Snowy Plover)
-These birds nest on the ground on barrier islands and beaches. They feed on small invertebrates along the beach or – in the case of oystercatchers – on oysters. They are at risk if oil comes ashore or affects their food sources.
Reddish Egret – Populations of these large, strictly coastal egrets have dwindled due to habitat loss and disturbance. As specialized residents of coastal environments, they have nowhere else to go if their feeding and nesting grounds are fouled by oil.
Large wading birds (Roseate Spoonbill, Ibises, Herons, Egrets) - Many herons, egrets and other species feed in marshes and along the coast and nest in large colonies called rookeries. They are vulnerable if oil comes ashore in these areas. The central Gulf Coast region hosts continentally and globally significant populations of many of these birds.
Marsh birds – (Mottled Duck, Clapper Rail, Black Rail, Seaside Sparrow, Marsh-Dwelling Songbirds) – Many of these birds are extremely secretive, hindering understanding of their population dynamics. Recovery efforts would be difficult or impossible if oil accumulates in the coastal salt marshes where they live
Ocean-dwelling birds -Birds that spend a significant portion of their lives at sea, including the Magnificent Frigatebird, may be affected by oiled waters. Contact with oil could lead to ingestion or damage to feathers. Oil also threatens their food supplies. These birds are difficult to monitor, and potential impacts are not fully understood.
Migratory shorebirds (plovers, sandpipers and relatives) - These birds' travels span the western hemisphere. But many species are currently en route from wintering grounds in South America to breeding grounds in boreal forests and arctic tundra. They congregate in great numbers on beaches and barrier islands to rest and refuel during their long journeys.
Migratory songbirds (warblers, orioles, buntings, flycatchers, swallows, and others)- Many of our most colorful and familiar summer songbirds fly nonstop across the Gulf of Mexico twice each year as they migrate between their breeding and wintering grounds. The biggest push of spring migrants moves across the gulf during a two-week period from late April to early May. The journey across 500 miles of open water strains their endurance to its limits. They depend on clear skies and healthy habitats on both sides of the gulf in order to survive the journey.
"It is unfortunate that it takes a potential disaster to remind the nation of the risks involved with our addiction to oil," said Audubon Legislative Director Mike Daulton. "This spill would give anyone pause regarding the pursuit of risky drilling in environmentally sensitive coastal areas. For the long term, we need to move as quickly as possible from the addiction to fossil fuels to the promise of clean, renewable energy."
Maps of Audubon Important Bird Areas in the region http://louisianacoast.audubon.org/birds-science-education/important-bird-areas/what-are-important-bird-areas
Brown pelicans recently delisted from being an Endangered species http://web1.audubon.org/news/pressRelease.php?id=1940&month=11-09
Now in its second century, Audubon connects people with birds, nature and the environment that supports us all. Our national network of community-based nature centers, chapters, scientific, education, and advocacy programs engages millions of people from all walks of life in conservation action to protect and restore the natural world.
Birding Events
I just registered us for this upcoming event at Halton Conservation:
Bird Banding Workshop
May 16, 2010 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Get up close with some of the most colourful of our migrating feathered friends. Guest bird bander Brian Pomfret will help us identify the birds and explain the importance of the banding program.
This is something we have wanted to participate in before, but our schedules wouldn't allow it. I'm looking forward to attending this year.
In other news, we saw a male Eastern Bluebird for the first time in a little over a week this morning. He was checking out nesting boxes again. Please stay!!!
Bird Banding Workshop
May 16, 2010 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Get up close with some of the most colourful of our migrating feathered friends. Guest bird bander Brian Pomfret will help us identify the birds and explain the importance of the banding program.
This is something we have wanted to participate in before, but our schedules wouldn't allow it. I'm looking forward to attending this year.
In other news, we saw a male Eastern Bluebird for the first time in a little over a week this morning. He was checking out nesting boxes again. Please stay!!!
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Pine Siskin- First (and only?) of the year
I've written numerous times about missing the Pine Siskins (and Redpolls) this year. Well just last week there was a Pine Siskin in the yard! We were lucky to catch a glimpse of it because it didn't stay very long. Dave was able to get two quick pictures and then it was off. Glad to see one, but it would have been nice to see it for a bit longer.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Cardinal nest
Go figure that the first nest with babies we would come across would not be out here but at my parents' home in town. They noticed activity in and around the nesting box that Dave built and installed for them, so Dave thought he would get the ladder and take a look inside. While he was investigating, he noticed a male and female Cardinal in the next tree over and they started to chirp and wag their tail feathers at him, telling him to get lost. Dave was able to get a quick picture and we think there are three very newly hatched baby cardinals in there. Very exciting! The nesting box contained the start of nest construction by a pair of Chickadees, so there will likely be two families raising their young in the backyard. We plan to go take some more pictures later in the week and document their growth.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
First Sightings of the Year!
While working with Friends of Glenorchy on a community clean-up of the Glenorchy Conservation area yesterday, we had many first of the year sightings. These include the Belted Kingfisher (at least two of them, calling back and forth), two Eastern Phoebes and at least two Northern Rough-Winged Swallows. I was able to get a picture of the Swallows when they took a break in the tree. They were busy flying over the creek and feeding on insects. The Kingfishers were too far away for a good picture and the lighting wasn't right for the Phoebes.
We also saw what we've tentatively as the Compton Tortoiseshell Butterfly.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Nest ID- Help please!
Can anyone tell me what kind of nest this might be? It was quite high up in the tree (we were walking at the top of the hill, so we were able to get close to it). Maybe it's just a raccoon nest, but I'm hoping it's something more interesting than that. Thanks for any help/suggestions!
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Brown Thrasher and Brown Bunnies
A Brown Thrasher was hopping through the yard this morning. We had a quick glimpse and then he flew away to an adjoining field. Later, we heard a bird singing and we didn't recognize the sound. Dave followed the sound and there was the Thrasher up at the top of the highest tree, singing very loudly! We were reading up on the Brown Thrasher and "they have the largest repertoire of songs of all the North American birds and are able to vocalize 3000 distinct songs" (whatbird.com). Amazing!
The bunnies have left their nest and are exploring the garden area. They grow up so fast! We weren't sure if we should help them out over the fence or if we should just leave them. The mother is big enough to hop the little fence, but these little guys can't make it over. Some of them went back into the nest for a bit, but then we saw them cuddling together in the corner. We decided to leave them for the day and see if mom comes back at dusk tonight.
I also saw the male Hairy Woodpecker for the first time in quite awhile this morning, working at the peanut ring. The Tree Swallows are around and continue to work their way from one nesting box to another. We did not see the Blue Bird this morning. Dave did see it yesterday morning, but no sighting today so far.
Monday, April 19, 2010
White-throated Sparrow (and other spring migrant updates)
Another first for the season this weekend! We saw this little sparrow on Sunday, but only briefly. Unfortunately I only got the back of him in the pics, but we did get a good look and can confirm the sighting. Here's the ID overview from whatbird.com:
Medium-sized sparrow with rust-brown striped upperparts, conspicuous white throat, and plain gray underparts. Head has black-and-white striped crown and yellow spots between eyes and bill. Short flights, alternates rapid wing beats with wings pulled to sides.
and filed under "Interesting Facts":
* The White-throated Sparrow was first described in 1789 by Johann Friedrich Gmelin, a German naturalist, botanist and entomologist.
* It comes in two color forms: white-crowned and tan-crowned. The two color forms are determined by genetic differences, and are unique among birds.
* Individuals almost always mate with a bird of the opposite morph. Males of both color types prefer females with white stripes,and both kinds of females prefer tan-striped males.
* A group of sparrows has many collective nouns, including a "crew", "flutter", "meinie", "quarrel", and "ubiquity" of sparrows.
We went to visit my parents yesterday and we were delighted to see that a pair of Mallards are still hanging around. They were sunning themselves by the pool (the cover is still on, but there's enough water on top of it to provide them with an area to swim. They get Mallards stopping in almost every year. They hang out for a day or so and then continue on.
We also had up to 9 Chipping Sparrows hanging around now. The Tree Swallows are battling it out over access to a nesting box. I saw five of them this morning, all flying at each other and making quite a ruckus. When I checked later, there was one male guarding it and then bringing in nesting material (I think). I'm not even sure if we've seen a female yet.
No sign of the Bluebird this morning. I made him a special snack of peanut butter and raisins to entice him to stick around. We'll see what happens.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Eastern Bluebird
This morning a male Eastern Bluebird made an appearance! Two years ago, we had a pair successfully nest in one of our boxes. Last year we were disappointed when we only saw one male for one or two days and that was it. This guy has been fairly active around the yard and even checked out one of the nesting boxes. It would be so, so lovely if he were to stick around and choose to raise a family here. Fingers crossed!!
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Cooper's Hawk update
On March 21st, I posted about the murdered Cooper's Hawk and contacting the MNR. I've had more than one person ask about an update on this case. Unfortunately I don't have one. I've contacted the MNR to ask for a status update and have not yet heard back. I'm not sure how long such an investigation usually takes. Maybe they have chosen not to pursue it. Maybe since the hawk is already dead, this case gets put on the back burner while an understaffed agency deals with ongoing cases involving animals and areas of the environment under immediate threat. I'll keep asking for an update. I don't plan to just let this go. Hopefully I'll have some resolution to share at some point.
UPDATE 04/19/2010: I heard back from the MNR- the case is still being investigated and they will let me know if charges will be laid. That was all the information I was given.
I came across this article about a Bald Eagle that was shot and the ensuing investigation (thankfully the eagle was found by a good person and taken in for surgery and is on the road to recovery. How I wish our Cooper's had been as fortunate).
http://www.wdsu.com/news/23175365/detail.html#
Officials Seek Clues, Suspect In Bald Eagle Shooting Case
Animal Recovering At Rehabilitation Center
POSTED: 2:31 pm CDT April 16, 2010 UPDATED: 4:03 pm CDT April 16, 2010
PEARLINGTON, Miss. -- Officials with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are seeking information that will lead to the person who shot a bald eagle in late March.
The animal was found near Pearlington, Miss. -- about 40 miles east of New Orleans.
Investigators think someone shot the bird as it was perched in a tree. Passers-by found the animal and took it to the Pet Haven Veterinary Hospital, where it underwent surgery.
The eagle was treated for a broken bone and tissue damage and was transferred to a rehabilitation facility.
If the animal recovers fully, it will be released back into the wild. A Fish and Wildlife spokesman said that could happen in early June.
Shooting an eagle is a federal offense. Though no longer an endangered species, it remains under the protection of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.
The government is offering a reward of up to $2,500 for information leading to the capture and conviction of the person responsible.
Those with information are asked to call Special Agent Ben Bryant at 985-882-3756.
UPDATE 04/19/2010: I heard back from the MNR- the case is still being investigated and they will let me know if charges will be laid. That was all the information I was given.
I came across this article about a Bald Eagle that was shot and the ensuing investigation (thankfully the eagle was found by a good person and taken in for surgery and is on the road to recovery. How I wish our Cooper's had been as fortunate).
http://www.wdsu.com/news/23175365/detail.html#
Officials Seek Clues, Suspect In Bald Eagle Shooting Case
Animal Recovering At Rehabilitation Center
POSTED: 2:31 pm CDT April 16, 2010 UPDATED: 4:03 pm CDT April 16, 2010
PEARLINGTON, Miss. -- Officials with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are seeking information that will lead to the person who shot a bald eagle in late March.
The animal was found near Pearlington, Miss. -- about 40 miles east of New Orleans.
Investigators think someone shot the bird as it was perched in a tree. Passers-by found the animal and took it to the Pet Haven Veterinary Hospital, where it underwent surgery.
The eagle was treated for a broken bone and tissue damage and was transferred to a rehabilitation facility.
If the animal recovers fully, it will be released back into the wild. A Fish and Wildlife spokesman said that could happen in early June.
Shooting an eagle is a federal offense. Though no longer an endangered species, it remains under the protection of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.
The government is offering a reward of up to $2,500 for information leading to the capture and conviction of the person responsible.
Those with information are asked to call Special Agent Ben Bryant at 985-882-3756.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
What was that about best laid plans?
Dave was busy preparing the vegetable garden today. The plan was to put in some compost and then till it tomorrow. We had to come up with a new game plan when he came across a little nest right in the middle of the garden. We counted at least five baby bunnies snuggled in tightly together. Guess that explains the rabbit we saw n the backyard yesterday evening. The preparation and plantings will be on hold until Mother Nature is finished with the area.
In the News
Lovelorn snowy owl continues seven-year quest to find mate
Species has not bred in Britain since 1975
http://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/Article.aspx/1680375?UserKey=
Baby Owls Rescued After SJ City Workers Cut Down Tree
http://www.ktvu.com/news/23132331/detail.html
Migratory birds return early in N.B.
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/new-brunswick/story/2010/04/15/nb-migratory-birds-early.html
Life's good in the 'penthouse' as barn owls settle in elevated roosts
http://www.vancouversun.com/technology/Life+good+penthouse+barn+owls+settle+elevated+roosts/2877427/story.html
Turbines for the birds
http://www.montrealgazette.com/technology/Turbines+birds/2908352/story.html
5 men fined for killing protected birds
http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/04/15/1580500/5-men-fined-for-killing-protected.html
Birds flock to colorful Carbon Canyon park
http://www.ocregister.com/news/park-244103-canyon-carbon.html
Hand-reared owl 'has fear of heights'
http://www.digitalspy.com/odd/news/a213184/hand-reared-owl-has-fear-of-heights.html
Species has not bred in Britain since 1975
http://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/Article.aspx/1680375?UserKey=
Baby Owls Rescued After SJ City Workers Cut Down Tree
http://www.ktvu.com/news/23132331/detail.html
Migratory birds return early in N.B.
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/new-brunswick/story/2010/04/15/nb-migratory-birds-early.html
Life's good in the 'penthouse' as barn owls settle in elevated roosts
http://www.vancouversun.com/technology/Life+good+penthouse+barn+owls+settle+elevated+roosts/2877427/story.html
Turbines for the birds
http://www.montrealgazette.com/technology/Turbines+birds/2908352/story.html
5 men fined for killing protected birds
http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/04/15/1580500/5-men-fined-for-killing-protected.html
Birds flock to colorful Carbon Canyon park
http://www.ocregister.com/news/park-244103-canyon-carbon.html
Hand-reared owl 'has fear of heights'
http://www.digitalspy.com/odd/news/a213184/hand-reared-owl-has-fear-of-heights.html
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
April 14, 2010
Dave saw a Purple Finch in the yard this morning! Very exciting as we only see them stop in once or twice a year. Last time they were here, I was the only one to see them and this morning it flew off before I was able to get a peek. Dave did get a few pictures, which is good b/c otherwise I would accuse him of lying as he has suffered from Purple Finch Envy for awhile now.
I also saw three Tree Swallows this morning. Two on the nesting box and then later three on the wire. Two of them were "talking" to each other and a third kept swooping in and then was eventually chased off by the other two. I think two are males and I'm not sure if the third was male or female. I hope they realize there are plenty of vacant nesting boxes and we have room enough for all.
Project Feeder Watch concluded on April 9th, so we're finished for another year. We'll keep our own records as usual. I also submitted the photo of the injured (or ill?) Chipping Sparrow to Bird Studies Canada and was told they will save it with the sick bird reports. They agreed that is is an odd-looking bird and suggested that it could be a strange molt or he could have feather lice. The little guy is still around, so perhaps we will be able to observe if feathers are growing back or not.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Look Who's Back!
A Tree Swallow is busy claiming the vacant nesting box. Welcome back!
In other news, I attended a meeting of The Oakville Horticultural Society last night. What a nice group of people! I was able to meet a few members and everyone was very welcoming. It's quite a large group and they are very active with so many projects on the go. I was quite impressed with the variety of tours, events, workshops, guest speakers etc that they have to offer. There is a Master Gardener who is available for consultation prior to the meeting start time. I saw some people bringing in some plants, cuttings etc for help with ID and tips.
Their plant sale will take place May 15th and it sounds like it is a very successful event. I plan to visit and get some new additions for our front yard:PlantSale
Another exciting event taking place in November is "An Evening with Freeman Patterson" - a well known photographer and gardener. I encourage you to visit the site for the details. FreemanPatterson
The key speaker was Christina from Project CHIRP! This was a very interesting and exciting talk. I would encourage readers to visit her site or book her to speak to your group, class, etc. I went in feeling as though I have a fairly good background knowledge on planting for birds and came out with so many new pieces of information and so many ideas! Dave and I have already decided to naturalize the front lawn. We'll start with a small patch and then keep expanding it. I'll be posting pictures of the process. We have a large load of triple mix and mulch arriving on Thursday. We are going to be consulting with a Landscape Designer who specializes in native plants for birds. So much to look forward to!
In other news, I attended a meeting of The Oakville Horticultural Society last night. What a nice group of people! I was able to meet a few members and everyone was very welcoming. It's quite a large group and they are very active with so many projects on the go. I was quite impressed with the variety of tours, events, workshops, guest speakers etc that they have to offer. There is a Master Gardener who is available for consultation prior to the meeting start time. I saw some people bringing in some plants, cuttings etc for help with ID and tips.
Their plant sale will take place May 15th and it sounds like it is a very successful event. I plan to visit and get some new additions for our front yard:PlantSale
Another exciting event taking place in November is "An Evening with Freeman Patterson" - a well known photographer and gardener. I encourage you to visit the site for the details. FreemanPatterson
The key speaker was Christina from Project CHIRP! This was a very interesting and exciting talk. I would encourage readers to visit her site or book her to speak to your group, class, etc. I went in feeling as though I have a fairly good background knowledge on planting for birds and came out with so many new pieces of information and so many ideas! Dave and I have already decided to naturalize the front lawn. We'll start with a small patch and then keep expanding it. I'll be posting pictures of the process. We have a large load of triple mix and mulch arriving on Thursday. We are going to be consulting with a Landscape Designer who specializes in native plants for birds. So much to look forward to!
Monday, April 12, 2010
Project CHIRP!
Tonight I am going to attend my first meeting of the Oakville Horticultural Society. Anyone can attend and there's a free "guest pass" on their website.
Here's the description about the focus of tonight's meeting. Very exciting stuff!
Gardening for Song Bird Conservation: Project CHIRP with Christina Sharma
Christina Sharma uses the design of her property as a teaching tool for songbird conservation, encouraging the establishment of residential habitats -- how to feed and shelter song birds in our own gardens with native plants
Christina has been a volunteer educator with the Canadian Wildlife Federation since 2001. In 2002, she received the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal for her public education on how residential properties can support wildlife conservation. In 2007, she founded Project CHIRP!
Project CHIRP! is a songbird conservation initiative in which the survival needs of songbirds are met through the creation of Canadian Wildlife Federation-certified songbird habitats on residential properties.
Please join us this April as Christine shows us how and what to plant to meet the survival needs of local and migratory songbirds.
Here's the link to The Oakville Horticultural Society website:
http://www.oakvillehort.org/Welcome.html
And Project CHIRP!: http://www.projectchirp.com/
Here's the description about the focus of tonight's meeting. Very exciting stuff!
Gardening for Song Bird Conservation: Project CHIRP with Christina Sharma
Christina Sharma uses the design of her property as a teaching tool for songbird conservation, encouraging the establishment of residential habitats -- how to feed and shelter song birds in our own gardens with native plants
Christina has been a volunteer educator with the Canadian Wildlife Federation since 2001. In 2002, she received the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal for her public education on how residential properties can support wildlife conservation. In 2007, she founded Project CHIRP!
Project CHIRP! is a songbird conservation initiative in which the survival needs of songbirds are met through the creation of Canadian Wildlife Federation-certified songbird habitats on residential properties.
Please join us this April as Christine shows us how and what to plant to meet the survival needs of local and migratory songbirds.
Here's the link to The Oakville Horticultural Society website:
http://www.oakvillehort.org/Welcome.html
And Project CHIRP!: http://www.projectchirp.com/
Love is in the air!
The males are out there workin' it!! We witnessed many male birds singing their hearts out, displaying to females, working on nesting cavities, and battling it out with each other.
We also saw many new species- some for the first time this year, and some making their first appearance in the yard ever. Considering we weren't able to spend much time observing, we had a very successful count.
On Saturday, we drove to Bowmanville to visit family and saw a Savannah Sparrow (first of season) on a fence post on Lower Base Line, singing away. Such a beautiful song!
Here's the Savannah's description from whatbird.com:
Small sparrow, dark-streaked, gray-brown upperparts, white underparts, heavy streaks on breast and sides. Head has a brown crown with pale central stripe and pale yellow or white eyebrows. Brown wings have two pale bars. Tail is short and notched. Pink legs and feet.
Then we continued driving and stopped near a farmhouse on 5th Line. There is a small pond and we saw two female Hooded Mergansers paddling around. No males were in sight.
And then as we almost reached our destination, I spotted something in an empty field. We pulled over to get a closer look and it was Northern Harrier! This was the longest and best look we've had at this bird. It was a male and he was busy eating something. He would eat a bit, then fly very low to the ground and then he grabbed something else and continued eating. He was interesting to watch. This was also the first Nothern Harrier we've seen this season.
And here's the ID description from Whatbird.com:
Large hawk with gray upperparts, distinct white rump, and white underparts with spotted breast. Hooked bill is dark, yellow at base. Eyes are yellow. Wings are long, gray above, and white below with black tips. Legs, feet are yellow. Alternates several deep wing beats with glides.
Sunday continued to be busy. We had our first ever Yellow-bellied Sapsucker working the trees in the front yard.
There was a brief sighting of an Eastern Meadowlark. Unfortunately it flew off before we could get a picture of it. It was very beautiful in the morning sun.
We witnessed a male and female Downy taking turns working on making a nesting cavity in a dead tree in the back of the yard. You can see their work in progress in the pic below.
Robins were fighting with each other, as well as picking up small sticks and making a nest in a tree.
We saw two Northern Flickers across the street, high up in a tree. They were calling to each other and then bowing to each other as well. A third Flicker started to call and then the first two flew off towards the third to chase it away.
And finally the Tree Swallows have returned as well!
We also saw many new species- some for the first time this year, and some making their first appearance in the yard ever. Considering we weren't able to spend much time observing, we had a very successful count.
On Saturday, we drove to Bowmanville to visit family and saw a Savannah Sparrow (first of season) on a fence post on Lower Base Line, singing away. Such a beautiful song!
Here's the Savannah's description from whatbird.com:
Small sparrow, dark-streaked, gray-brown upperparts, white underparts, heavy streaks on breast and sides. Head has a brown crown with pale central stripe and pale yellow or white eyebrows. Brown wings have two pale bars. Tail is short and notched. Pink legs and feet.
Then we continued driving and stopped near a farmhouse on 5th Line. There is a small pond and we saw two female Hooded Mergansers paddling around. No males were in sight.
And then as we almost reached our destination, I spotted something in an empty field. We pulled over to get a closer look and it was Northern Harrier! This was the longest and best look we've had at this bird. It was a male and he was busy eating something. He would eat a bit, then fly very low to the ground and then he grabbed something else and continued eating. He was interesting to watch. This was also the first Nothern Harrier we've seen this season.
And here's the ID description from Whatbird.com:
Large hawk with gray upperparts, distinct white rump, and white underparts with spotted breast. Hooked bill is dark, yellow at base. Eyes are yellow. Wings are long, gray above, and white below with black tips. Legs, feet are yellow. Alternates several deep wing beats with glides.
Sunday continued to be busy. We had our first ever Yellow-bellied Sapsucker working the trees in the front yard.
There was a brief sighting of an Eastern Meadowlark. Unfortunately it flew off before we could get a picture of it. It was very beautiful in the morning sun.
We witnessed a male and female Downy taking turns working on making a nesting cavity in a dead tree in the back of the yard. You can see their work in progress in the pic below.
Robins were fighting with each other, as well as picking up small sticks and making a nest in a tree.
We saw two Northern Flickers across the street, high up in a tree. They were calling to each other and then bowing to each other as well. A third Flicker started to call and then the first two flew off towards the third to chase it away.
And finally the Tree Swallows have returned as well!
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