Manor Park bird watchers herald the wings of spring
Frances Legault highlights some of the birds spotted in the neighbourhood by Manor Park birdwatchers so far this spring
Welcome spring! It’s a great time of year for bird watchers. While some birds are migrating, others are in full breeding plumage and busy nesting. Manor Park bird watchers and neighbours captured beautiful photos of migrating bohemian waxwings, a local northern cardinal and a surprising visitor.
The bohemian waxwings were feasting in crab apple trees in Manor Park en route to their breeding grounds in the northwest (Alaska and Yukon). True to their name, they wander like bands of vagabonds across the northern U.S. and Canada in search of fruit during the nonbreeding season.
“High-pitched trills emanate from the skies as large groups descend on fruiting trees and shrubs at unpredictable places and times. These regal birds sport a spiky crest and a peach blush across their face. They are larger than cedar waxwings, and have rusty feathers under the tail with white marks on the wings.” (Cornell Lab of Ornithology)
Northern cardinals do not migrate, so we are fortunate to have them around all year. Since they don’t molt, they brighten up our winter days. In spring, their sweet whistles are welcome across the neighbourhood.
“Only a few female North American songbirds sing, including the female northern cardinal, and often while nesting. Her song gives the male information about when to bring food to the nest. A mated pair shares song phrases, but the female may sing a longer and slightly more complex song than the male.” (Cornell Lab of Ornithology)
(For more local ornithological observations, see Vultures descend on Manor Park.)
Jerzy Komorowski started a bird group email list for Manor Park residents. He and his wife Joanna are avid bird watchers and excellent photographers. We share our photos and stories with the group throughout the seasons. If there is interest, we hope to plan some outings this spring. If you wish to join the group, please contact jerzykomorowski@hotmail.com.
