We’ve had exceptionally warm, humid fall weather, more than 10C above the expected temperature of 16C. As the air cools overnight, mist forms as the moisture in the air condenses. The colour of the leaves is now changing rapidly as the hours of daylight wane.
Greenway Park borders the Thames River. As we got out of the car, Susan heard a bird calling, but couldn’t quite place it. Merlin to the rescue! An unexpected Greater Yellowlegs!
We thought the bird might be in flight, but decided to scan the river. There were Mallards and geese and Ring-billed Gulls along a stony ridge in the river. We started to look there.
It took some time to find two Greater Yellowlegs and a couple of Killdeer among the rocks and other birds, but find them we did.
I can never resist photographing male Mallards as they regain their vivid breeding plumage. I also can’t resist this domestic goose that patrols the water, honking loudly.
We continued downriver along the path, admiring the fall foliage and few remaining asters.
Through the growth along the river, we spotted this handsome Great Blue Heron enjoying the sun.
There are many mature Black Walnut trees along the path. At this time of year, they are shedding their fruit making walking somewhat treacherous. The fruit was raining down from one tree, aided by a small flock of European Starlings. They did not appear to be interested in the fruit, but were perhaps after insects on the hanging fruit. On the other hand, Black Squirrels were very interested in the fruit!
CORRECTION!
Thanks to a sharp-eyed friend who pointed out that the Common Goldeneye in our previous post is an immature male rather than a female!
Here are male and female Common Goldeneyes. Mature males have a mostly white body, black head and round white spot on the face. Females have a mostly grey body with a brown head. The bodies of first winter males are mostly grey with white necks. The white spot on the face is only beginning to develop.
Here is the misidentified photo of an immature male.
Flowers from Wandering Bee
More Paul McCartney
A nearly perfect live rock and roll song.
And if you have the time for it, a magical concert at Obama’s White House.