Weekend Shorebirds

After weeks of cruely taunting Calgarians - teasing us with one or two days of warm weather only to change moods and leave us shivering and wet over a long weekend - summer has finally made its much anticpated annual appearance. Mid-July also marks the arrival of the first south-bound shorebirds, en route from their arctic nesting grounds to winter in Central and South America. Many species traverse more than 25,000 kilometres in this annual circuit. Hudsonian Godwits fly 13,000 kilometres nonstop between staging sites on James Bay and wintering areas in Patagonia, completing the journey in nine days. My 2,000 kilometres cycled so far this year seem insignificant in comparison.

Shorebird diversity and numbers have been slowly building at the slough east of the hamlet of Shepard. Cycling out to the slough via the WID Canal early Saturday morning I was soon passing through Shepard; Eurasian Collared-Doves are now established in the hamlet and I found four feeding on waste grain at Hay 'N' Oats 'Я' Us. Arriving at the slough I quickly applied some bug spray before pulling out my scope and binoculars; the wet summer has resulted in a burgeoning mosquito population. Scanning the slough, I was delighted to find a variety of shorebirds feeding in the shallow water and mudflats. Baird's Sandpiper were the most abundant 'peep' and several Stilt Sandpipers were associating with Long-billed Dowitchers. Two spinning Red-necked Phalaropes were new for the BIGBY. Suffering several bites despite the bug spray I decided to pack up and make my way home. A quick stop at a slough along the canal turned up a Marsh Wren and Common Yellowthroat singing from the cattails.

Higher Education

Peregrine Falcons have been nesting at the University of Calgary since the 1990s, normally choosing Craigie Hall to raise their young. This year three young hatched out of four eggs and a web cam was set up for people to observe the birds on the internet, however the feed is sporadic because of some ongoing technical problems. Young normally fledge in mid-July and University officials have issued a Falcon Alert, warning staff and students to be on the lookout for crash landings. While too early to see the young, I rode up to the university this morning hoping to find one or both of the adult Peregrines.

My route along the Bow river took me through downtown and I passed by the recently arrived giant, yellow crane. Though ineligible for the BIGBY the crane will be a key component to help assemble the west leg of Calgary's LRT line. Construction is also occurring on the University of Calgary campus and it took me a while to find a detour to the MacKimmie Library. Providing a view of the nest along with potential prey, the adults regularly perch on top of the building. Arriving at the library tower, I immediately located the male perched on the southwest corner of the building while hearing the female call from nearby Craigie Hall. After the excitement of seeing the falcons, I headed into the library to refill my water bottle before starting to retrace my route back home.

Alcoholic Pewee

Securing my bike at the trail head leading into the Weaselhead Flats, I could hear the whistled quick, three beers! in the distance. Designated Threatened in 2007 by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC); Olive-sided Flycatcher has shown a widespread and consistent population decline over the last 30 years. The Canadian population is estimated to have declined by 79% from 1968 to 2006 and 29% from 1996-2006. These declines may be due to major deforestation on its wintering grounds in South America. Additionally, it has been speculated that nesting Olive-sided Flycatchers depend on postfire habitats and the suppression of forest fires may have resulted in the loss of suitable breeding and foraging sites.

Making my way towards the flycatcher, actually a misnamed pewee, I finally tracked it down at the edge of a large meadow a few hundred metres west of the regional pathway. Typical of the species, the bird was perched at the tip of large snag where it would periodically utter its demand for beer. Continuing west along the trail I observed a male Calliope Hummingbird performing its courtship display to an invisible female. Incessant begging calls led me to a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker nest in an Aspen next to the trail; the adults returning periodically with a beak full of insects for the hungry nestlings. Nearing the trail head I flushed a Solitary Sandpiper from an oxbow, though they breed just west of Calgary this individual was likely an early fall migrant.

Cemetery Birding

Established in 1891, Union Cemetery is the oldest burial ground in Calgary. Many city founders and early pioneers, such as A.E. Cross, William Roper Hull, and Colonel James Macleod are buried here. It is also home to the Reader Rock Garden, located in the northwest corner of the cemetery. During the turn of the last century, it was common for horticulturists to collect alpine plants on their travels and create gardens as living artifacts of their journeys. William Roland Reader, Superintendent for Calgary Parks from 1913-1942, engaged in this practice and for thirty years trialed over 4000 plant species; transforming a bare hillside into the internationally-acclaimed rock garden.

Conveniently located across the street from my office, Union Cemetery is also a great migrant trap. I regularly head over during the Spring and Fall to see what is present. Walking over today at lunch, I had just started my way up the hill towards Reader Rock Garden when I heard a Dendroica warbler singing from conifers that line the road. It took a few minutes before spotting a male Townsend's Warbler at the top of a Blue Spruce. An uncommon fall migrant, this was my first spring record for Calgary and my second for Union Cemetery. I watched the warbler as it flew from branch to branch, all the while singing. Walking along the stone paths in the rock garden I spotted a couple of Swainson's Thrushes hiding in the understory. Looping back to the office I spotted my last migrant, a Tennessee Warbler perched in a Mayday.

One Good Tern Deserves Another

A report of two Caspian Terns at the west end of Glenmore Reservoir on the Albertabird listserv interrupted my plans to celebrate Victoria Day lounging on the couch, listening to music and drinking beer. Assembling my birding gear I was soon on the now routine journey to the reservoir. Though a slightly longer ride, I chose to cycle first to North Glenmore Park where several viewpoints overlook the reservoir. In anticipation of June rains and runoff from the mountains, water levels have been slowly dropping in the reservoir, exposing extensive mudflats at the west end.

Arriving at the westernmost viewpoint in the late afternoon I soon was scanning the reservoir for the terns. Franklin's Gulls continue to stage in large numbers and I noted that a male Eurasian Wigeon was still present. I caught a glimpse of a distant tern on the opposite side of the reservoir flying away from me; the bird eventually banked, allowing me to study the wing pattern and identify it as a Common Tern - a species new for the BIGBY. A few minutes later a Black Tern flew east over the reservoir heading towards the Calgary Sailing Club on the south side of the reservoir.

Returning my focus to the mudflats, I finally picked out the two Caspian Terns in amongst a flock of Franklin's Gulls with my binoculars. Directing my scope onto the terns, I was soon enjoying decent, if distant, views of the birds as they bathed and preened. Wanting closer looks of the terns, I cycled over to the south side of the reservoir where I was able to study their plumage and behaviour in more detail. Satisfied with three tern species, I was soon cycling towards home and my resumption of celebrating Queen Victoria's birthday!

Scootin' for Scoters

Friday evening found me cycling towards the Glenmore Reservoir; a birder had posted on the Albertabird listserv that four Surf Scoters were on the reservoir that morning. Surf Scoters are a scarce migrant in the Calgary area and normally do not linger for more than a couple of days. I decided to head over to the reservoir after work rather than wait until the following morning to chase them. Stopping briefly at home I packed up my birding gear and had a quick bite to eat. Crossing over the Bow river I caught a glimpse of a hooded gull that looked slightly different than the numerous Franklin's Gulls, pulling out my binoculars I was pleasantly surprised to find a Bonaparte's Gull - a new species for the BIGBY. A cool west wind was now blowing and I started to question my decision to wear shorts and a t-shirt.

Arriving at the east bay, just south of Heritage Park, I set up my tripod and scope. A quick scan of the bay turned up five species of grebe and several Common Loons, but no scoters. Realizing that sweat-soaked clothes and a cool wind are not a good mix, I dug out my down jacket before resuming looking for the scoters. A third sweep of the bay finally turned up two pairs of Surf Scoters, a third pair were subsequently found further west. Continuing to scan I picked out four large ducks sleeping in the middle of the bay, it took me a moment to figure out the plumage puzzle and identify them as two pairs of White-winged Scoters. Despite the jacket I was now chilled and decided to cycle to the west end of the reservoir, giving me a chance to generate some heat pedaling.

Several large flocks of gulls were resting on the exposed mudflats west of the Calgary Sailing Club. The vast majority were Franklin's Gulls, but smaller numbers of California and Herring Gulls were present. A nice surprise was a second-year Glaucous-winged Gull, my tenth species of gull for the year! An immature Bald Eagle would occasionally soar over the reservoir, sending the gulls into a panic. Oblivious to the eagle were six American While Pelicans snoozing on the mud flats. Gulls continued to stream into the reservoir, but with lighting conditions deteriorating and the wind strengthening it was time to start heading back. On the way home I stopped for dinner at the Mexican restaurant Avocado, ordering a Dos Equis to celebrate a successful evening of birding.

Gulls, Gulls, Gulls

I cycled north to the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary this evening to check on the large numbers of gulls that congregate at the sanctuary each spring, stopping to drink and bathe on the gravel bars on their way to and from the East Calgary Landfill. Locking my bike at the interpretive centre I made my way to the river; a female Hooded Merganser was on the lagoon and a couple of White-crowned Sparrows were found along the path. Arriving at the river I set up my scope and tripod and began scanning, almost immediately a very pale gull caught my eye. After studying its plumage for a moment I realized it was a second-year Iceland Gull! While enjoying the gull another birder, Ray, came over to where I was standing, he had just found an adult Lesser Black-backed Gull upstream! Quickly walking to where he had his scope set up, I was soon watching the gull as it preened and bathed. As the sun got closer to setting gulls started leaving the gravel bars, headed towards the Glenmore Reservoir to roost for the night. The Iceland Gull departed without us noticing, while the Lesser Black-backed Gull flew to another gravel bar at the south end of the sanctuary. Following the gull, we headed downstream and quickly relocated the bird before it flew off for the night. Scanning the few remaing gulls Ray found an adult Thayer's Gull, its dark eye obvious even in the waning light. After ensuring my bike lights were working properly I made my way home with the last remnants of daylight.

Sunday Birding

After a Saturday spent digging post holes and repairing a sagging fence it was a treat to be cycling towards the Glenmore Reservoir this morning. Clear blue skies and mild temperatures had me wearing shorts for the first time this year, I had forgotten how enjoyable cycling can be when you are not wearing multiple layers of clothes. Migrants continue to return and newly arriving species are being reported almost everyday. Cycling along the reservoir west of Glenmore Sailing Club, I quickly relocated the Long-billed Curlew that had been found on Friday. The last of the 600+ Trumpeter and Tundra Swans that were staging at the reservoir had left on Saturday, while new migrants included Cinnamon Teal and both species of yellowlegs. Making my way to the Calgary Rowing Club on the north side of the reservoir, I spotted a pair of Red-breasted Mergansers preening on the water; distance and glare combined to result in less than stellar views of these scarce migrants. Stopping at a Tim Hortons for lunch on the way home, I found it amusing that the bike rack was located next to the drive-thru!

More Trash

A Mute Swan was found at the Glenmore Reservoir on March 30 with the large flocks of Trumpeter and Tundra Swans staging at the reservoir. Provenance, as with most extralimital waterfowl, will determine if this species is added to the provincial checklist by the Alberta Bird Record Committee. While likely an escapee, there is always a chance the bird is a wanderer from feral populations established on Vancouver Island or the Great Lakes. Regardless of origin, this species is a noxious pest in North America and hopefully, unlike European Starlings and House Sparrows, does not become established in Alberta. While beautiful, Mute Swans can be very aggressive towards native waterfowl and even people; leading to their systematic removal from some areas.

After swapping out my winter tires with the faster (and quieter) summer version this morning, I decided to cycle over to the reservoir to see the Mute Swan and other returning waterfowl. Arriving at the Glenmore Sailing Club mid-morning, I set up my tripod and scope on the escarpment overlooking the reservoir. Ice still covers much of the reservoir, with open water limited to leads along the shore. Trumpeter Swans called constantly from below and male Common Goldeneye performed their head bobbing display in an attempt to woo the females. Five Greater Scaup slept on the water, only occasionally waking to preen or stretch their wings. Scoping the north shore, I spotted the Mute Swan standing on the ice. No bands were observed on the legs, but I could not be absolutely certain. As Environment Canada forecasted, Chinook winds were now starting to build and I chose to head home before conditions became too blustery.

Eurotrash

Eurasian Collared-Doves were originally native from Turkey east to southern China and south through India. However, beginning at the start of the 20th century it rapidly expanded across Europe, reaching Great Britain by 1953. Though it was probably just a matter of time before Eurasian Collared-Doves breached the Atlantic Ocean and conquered North America, an irresponsible aviary owner in the Bahamas allowed it to gain a toehold in the mid-1970s. Dispersing to Florida by 1978, this species multiplied and spread rapidly across the continent, reaching Alberta around the millennium. Though uncommon in the Lethbridge-Medicine Hat region, Eurasian Collared-Doves are still rare around Calgary. One was reported in late February while I was in Palm Springs, and a second was found this past week just south of Shepard. Still needing this species for my provincial list, never mind the BIGBY, I knew where I was headed this long weekend.

It seemed appropriate, I guess, that I was chasing a dove this morning, today being Easter Friday, one of the most important dates in the Christian calendar. Signs of spring were everywhere on the ride along the WID Canal; pairs of geese were prospecting for nesting sites, magpies were busy adding twigs to their nests, and a meadowlark sang from a nearby fencepost. Navigating the cursed gravel roads and fending off aggressive farm dogs, I finally made my way to the tree farm where the dove was reported. Gunshots from a nearby firing range periodically broke the silence while I scanned the trees looking for the bird. I thought I heard a Eurasian Collared-Dove cooing in the distance, but the call was so faint it could have been a bull bellowing! Quickly growing tired of the gunfire I decided to explore some of the surrounding section roads.

Making my way north of where the first dove was found in late February, I noted a large, grayish bird perched in a dead willow on the west side of the road. Getting my binoculars on the bird, I was surprised to see that it was an Eurasian Collared-Dove! Wary of my presence, it quickly flushed along with a second dove, both disappearing into a shelterbelt further north. I slowly pedaled my way up the road, hoping to get a better look. Nearing the shelterbelt, three doves quickly flew out and headed east across the road before disappearing behind an acreage and out of sight. Continuing on my way I stopped at the slough east of Shepard. I was surprised to find it covered with a thin sheet of ice, the one small area of open water holding several Tundra Swans and a Eurasian Wigeon. Other waterfowl observed included American Wigeon, Northern Pintail, and Green-winged Teal. Back on the bike, I headed towards the canal and home, adding an American Kestrel along the way.

Nocturnal Birding

With the the shift to daylight saving time, giving me more time to bird after work, it seemed like a perfect evening to get my BIGBY Northern Saw-whet Owl. Keeping on my commuter clothes, I grabbed a quick dinner at home before cycling over to the Weaselhead Flats. This park regularly has calling Northern Saw-whet Owls in the late winter and early spring. Ten calling last week likely included migrants, but this species is known to nest in the park. A quick stop at North Glenmore added Tundra Swan and Lesser Scaup to my BIGBY. Other waterfowl occurring in the leads starting to form on the reservoir included numerous Common Goldeneye and Common Merganser. The pathways were busy with walkers and bicyclists enjoying a mild evening, but their numbers slowly thinned as the sun began to near the horizon.

With Venus becoming visible in the western sky and Mercury above me, I pulled out my birding gear and secured my bike to the wooden bike rack located next to the pathway. Turning on my headlamp, I followed the trail west along the Elbow River. I could hear Canada Geese in the distance and the occasional loud splash alerted me to the presence of beavers in the river. The first Saw-whet started whistling approximately a half hour after sunset but soon stopped. With only the occasional coyote howl now breaking the silence, I decided to take a different trail back to the bike. Soon after starting down this trail another Northern Saw-whet Owl started calling, this one was closer to me. I tried whistling and the owl responded. After whistling back and forth for a couple of minutes I caught a glimpse of the owl flying across the trail and landing in a poplar. Not wanting to further harass the bird, I stopped whistling and made my way back to the bike. With the temperature continuing to fall and fog starting to form, it was time to head home.

Woody Woodpecker

Early Sunday morning found me biking through the districts of Willow Park and Lake Bonavista on my way to Fish Creek Provincial Park. My destination was Bebo Grove, located at the west end of the park, and hopefully an encounter with a Pileated Woodpecker. The Fish Creek valley narrows and deepens upstream of Macleod Trail, and there is a corresponding change in the flora and fauna. Stands of White Spruce begin to appear on the north-facing slopes and the extensive meadows, characteristic of the eastern half of the park, gradually give way to Aspen. Several species of bird that are rare or absent east of Macleod Trail can be found here, including Ruffed Grouse and Boreal Chickadee. This section of Fish Creek PP experienced massive damage during the 2005 flood, several pedestrian bridges and pathways were washed out when the creek overflowed. It was not until September 2007 that the park reopened following the construction of new bridges and a redesigned pathway system.

Arriving at Bebo Grove, I secured my bike to a spruce tree in the picnic area below the parking lot. While still cool in the valley, the temperature was already rising and it promised to be a beautiful spring day. A pair of Pileated Woodpeckers had been reported in this area for much of the winter. While not rare in Calgary, this species can be surprisingly elusive at times. Starting out on the extensive network of trails, I observed several species over the next three hours, including Red-breasted Nuthatches and Pine Siskins, but no woodpecker. The forecasted chinook winds were starting to make their presence and I took that as a sign to head back to the bike for something to eat. I had almost finished my granola bars and juice when I thought I heard the call of a Pileated Woodpecker from across the creek. It called again, this time closer, definitely a Pileated! Heading in the direction of the calls, I managed to get a brief glimpse of the woodpecker flying across the creek. Back at the bike, I finished the rest of my lunch, before starting the ride home.

Solitary Solitaire

Sounds of spring were evident when I stepped outside this morning. An American Robin was singing in a neighbours yard, several crows called overhead, and a Northern Flicker was drumming on a telephone pole. I was headed to Sandy Beach where a Townsend's Solitaire had been reported a few days ago. Located along the Elbow River immediately downstream of the Glenmore Dam and Water Treatment Plant, the park has extensive stands of Balsam Poplar and White Spruce. On the thirty minute ride to the park I was delighted to find that much of the snow and ice that plagued the pathways had melted. Arriving mid-morning, I quickly got out my birding gear and headed towards the river. Nearing the bank, I pulled out my iPod and briefly played a recording of the Townsend's Solitaire call and song. Almost immediately a solitaire flew into a nearby poplar, perching only a few feet above me. I got great looks at the bird as it alternated between singing and feeding on dogwood berries, before eventually flushing when a fisherman approached. A brief walk around the park, prior to returning to the bike, turned up several American Robins and Dark-eyed Juncos.

Below Sea Level

I just returned from two weeks in southern California. My parents are renting a house near Palms Springs and graciously invited me to stay with them. With cheap flights and a strong Canadian dollar, it was an offer I could not refuse. While not strictly a birding trip, I was still able get out most days and visit some of the surrounding hot spots, including the Salton Sea and Joshua Tree National Park. The deserts were alive in colour from the various wildflowers benefiting from the heavy winter rains courtesy of El Niño. Fortunately, I managed to avoid most of the rain and was able to enjoy the sun and warm temperatures for a brief few days before returning home.

Crossbills in the Willow

Three Red Crossbills were photographed at the beginning of January from the Willow Park district in southeast Calgary by a teenage participant in the Birds Calgary 2010 competition. The most recent sighting was of five crossbills, including at least one male, observed yesterday afternoon. This species is the scarcer of the crossbills in the Calgary region, and is very rarely reported within the city, so I decided to make an attempt to locate them today. Fortunately, Willow Park is only a short distance from my house - I even briefly considered walking instead of biking. The community was developed in the 1960s, during one of Calgary’s many booms. Saplings planted by new homeowners five decades ago have now grown and matured, attracting numerous species of wildlife. Securing my bike at the nearby public library, I walked over to where the crossbills were last reported, hearing a distant flock White-winged Crossbills along the way.

Walking around the neighbourhood, I noted that several of the Blue and White Spruce had significant cone crops, a positive sign when looking for crossbills. Numerous species were seen and heard while walking the maze of streets and alleys, including large flocks of Bohemian Waxwings, Pine Siskins, and Common Redpolls. I heard distant crossbills several times, but they would be gone by the time I made it to where they were calling from. After almost three hours of walking I was becoming tired and frustrated. I was slowly making my way back to the bike when I spotted a crossbill calling from atop a tall spruce. Getting my binoculars on the bird, I quickly realized I was watching a female Red Crossbill! Several other crossbills were calling and singing from surrounding trees, the majority were White-winged Crossbills, but there were at least two additional Red Crossbills. A magpie flew into a nearby poplar to investigate the noise and commotion, scattering the crossbills. Famished and cold, I quickly headed over to Southcentre Mall to warm up and get something to eat, before heading home.

Duck Waddle 5

With a weekend forecast calling again for fog and cool temperatures, Environment Canada is starting to sound like a broken record. Despite the fog and ice pellets this morning, I decided to brave the elements and bike south along the regional pathway to LaFarge Meadows in Fish Creek PP. I wanted to bird along the Bow River between Highway 22X and Highway 2, the only section of river south of the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary that I had not yet covered this year. Visibility along the river was hampered by heavy fog and I saw little on the 40 minute ride; I stopped briefly at Mallard Point but failed to find the Snow Geese. A strengthening wind, combined with high humidity, created a nasty wind chill, so I was happy that I had decided to pack my heavier winter pants this morning.

Walking south along the river, I noted the silhouette of a Great Horned Owl in a grove of poplars along the bank. His mate is probably already on a nest nearby, incubating eggs. Making my way to the river, a female Hooded Merganser was found feeding on the opposite bank. This species has been scarce this winter and it was the first for my BIGBY. Further along the pathway, I spotted a  raptor flying west over the Blue Devil Golf Course. Quickly getting my binoculars on the bird, I was able to pick out the dark axilliaries of a Prairie Falcon before it disappeared into the fog. The family of Trumpeter Swans I found in early January had moved further downstream, and I relocated them near the Pine Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant. Seeing the Highway 2 bridge, which demarcates the city limits, in the distance, I chose to turn around and head back. Nearing where I had locked my bike, two American Tree Sparrows flew up into a dogwood next to the path, likely part of the flock wintering in the area.

Weaseled

Weaselhead Flats encompasses the valley and delta of the Elbow River before it enters at the west end of the Glenmore Reservoir in the southwest part of the city. The reservoir and delta were formed in 1933 with the completion of the Glenmore Dam across the Elbow River valley. The area is named after Chief Weaselhead who held authority over the Tsuu T'ina people of the river valley at the time of early European contact. During the First and Second World Wars, the Weaselhead area was used as training facility for soldiers from the nearby Currie Barracks. Evidence of this use, such as foxholes, are scattered throughout the park. Vegetation ranges from emergent aquatic plants through willows, Aspen and Balsam Poplar to mature White Spruce forest. These diverse habitats provide some of the finest birding in the Calgary area, with over 250 species having occurred in the park.

Friday started cold and frosty. Skies had cleared overnight, allowing the thermometre to fall to -15°C by morning. Environment Canada was forecasting a high of zero later in the day, so I decided to wait until mid-morning before making the 30 minute ride to the park. The temperature had already risen to -5°C by the time I arrived shortly before eleven, and I did not even need to wear my toque or heavy mitts. An extensive network of trails wind through Weaselhead Flats, and it is easy to get lost in the park, even if you are carrying a map like I did today! Four hours were spent exploring the park, enjoying the solitude and peacefulness. Birding was also quiet, with only the usual menagerie of resident and wintering species seen. A small flock of Pine Grosbeaks was the only new species added to my BIGBY.

Six toes

I made the ride out to Griffith Woods again today. Weather was a repeat of last week, overcast and cool, though the predicted flurries never materialized. The snow that fell last weekend had largely melted and the roads and paths were in decent condition. Despite being the middle of winter, I was serenaded by House Finches singing in many of the residential areas along the route. An adult Bald Eagle was soaring above the Glenmore Dam and I noted scattered flocks of Bohemian Waxwings and Common Redpolls. I arrived at the park shortly before ten, after a 90 minute trip. Altalink does not work weekends, fortunately, and except for the drone from the nearby highway, the woods were quiet.

An American Three-toed Woodpecker has been reported in the park intermittently since early January; although a number of birders have failed to find it the last couple of weeks. My strategy was to focus on the decadent stands of White Spruce that occur north of the regional pathway, and where I have previously seen three-toed woodpeckers. No evidence of the three-toed was found after a morning of searching, although Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers caused many false alarms. I was walking back to the bike when I heard tapping coming from a stand of dead spruce just off the path. Slowly manoeuvring around the trees, I caught a glimpse of the woodpecker's barred sides and yellow crown! Like most boreal species, the bird was tame and approachable, and I was afforded great views as it flaked off bark searching for beetles. Its back was almost entirely white, typical of the nominate dorsalis. Successfully finding the bird, I treated myself to lunch and a beer at Javino, before starting the ride home.

Dipped

With Environment Canada forecasting the return of winter this weekend, I took today off from work to take advantage of the last nice day before the snow and cold arrived. I decided a trip west to Griffith Woods Park, before the impending snow made riding difficult or impossible, made sense. It is approximately 20 kilometres across the centre of Calgary to the the park from my house, much of the ride via streets or sidewalks. Despite two weeks of above zero temperatures, side streets and pathways are still covered in ice and snow. A climatologist at the University of Calgary describes the remaining snow as 'glacial', and, after my ride today dodging snow banks, I would agree. Low cloud and fog had formed overnight, and although forecasters called for it to eventually burn off, it remained overcast the entire day, creating cold and damp conditions.

Griffith Woods Park, one Calgary's newest parks, is located along the Elbow River immediately north of the Tsuu T'ina Nation. A number of spring-fed oxbows wind through mature White Spruce forests and the park is home to a number of species rare or absent elsewhere in the city, including several birds which I hoped to see today. A network of trails wind through the park, many of them following old ranch roads or fence lines. I have been visiting Griffith Woods since I started birding and the park was still a ranch on the outskirts of the city. The area has seen massive change since my first visit and residential development now abuts the northern boundary of the park. Developers had initially planned a golf course for the ranch, but pressure from local environmental groups led to the land being protected and the creation of Griffith Woods Park in 2000.

Sights and sounds of heavy machinery greeted me as I arrived at the parking lot mid-morning after a 90 minute ride. AltaLink is replacing and upgrading a portion of the Griffith Woods transmission grid line in the park. Fortunately, construction is limited to the existing utility right-of-way and disturbance to the park is minor. Finding a place to secure my bike, I changed into some warmer clothes and headed towards the Elbow River. An American Dipper had been reported recently along this stretch of river, and one was found further upstream in mid-December. Scanning the river I failed to find the dipper, but did see several Boreal Chickadees in the nearby spruce trees. I started making my way west into the interior of the park, coming across a couple more flocks of chickadees and nuthatches.

Warm water from the numerous springs in the area help keep many of the oxbows in the park open in the winter; allowing several species that normally migrate to successfully overwinter. I slowly made my way to the edge of one oxbow hoping to find the Belted Kingfisher wintering in the park; instead, I flushed an American Dipper from the ice lining the bank. It landed a few metres downstream and soon began diving into the water hunting for prey. I watched the dipper catch and eat a couple of large aquatic beetles before it flew around a bend in the oxbow and out of sight. Walking further upstream, I soon found the kingfisher perched on a snag overhanging the oxbow. Spotting me, the kingfisher flew upstream, its call rattling through the valley. Walking along the trails, I would periodically hear flocks of Bohemian Waxwings and White-winged Crossbills calling overhead, hidden in the fog. Watching a flock of chickadees at the west end of the park, I spotted a raptor flying in the distance. Trees hindered the view, but I was able to get a quick look before it disappeared - a gray-morph Gyrfalcon!

It was now after a lunch and I was getting hungry. Though I had brought a lunch, I was feeling chilled and wanted something hot to eat and a chance to warm up. I walked over to the local strip mall and saw that a new coffee shop, Javino, had just opened. I ordered a bowl of their Thai chicken soup and a coffee; the food was excellent and I will definitely stop again the next time I visit Griffith Woods. After finishing the soup and reading the newspaper I was ready to head back to the park. The afternoon was quieter compared to the morning and I had little to show for another two hours of walking other than the odd chickadee flock. I headed back to the bike and prepared to make the ride back home. Biking towards Mount Royal University I noticed that it had recently snowed, just enough to hide the icy patches and ruts on the paths. Closer to home it started snowing again and when I reached the Bow River it was coming down hard enough that I had to dig out by front bike light. The last stretch was particularly bad, with whiteout conditions and slick roads, but I made it home safely just as the streetlights were turning on.

Duck Waddle 4

Can ducks run? Because today was more of a sprint than a waddle. I made my second attempt to locate the Long-tailed Duck wintering along the Bow River in Fish Creek PP. Several birders had reported seeing the bird this past week near the boat launch just north of Highway 22X. With my gear loaded on the bike I headed out Saturday morning south along the pathway towards Fish Creek PP. Conditions were much more conducive to biking than two weeks ago - temperature just below the freezing point and no wind. Chinook winds had resulted in several icy sections along the path, but they were no match for my studded tires and I arrived shortly before ten at Hull's Wood.

Arriving at the boat launch, I quickly spotted what appeared to be the duck, accompanied by a few goldeneye, just in front of me. I scrambled to get my binoculars out of the pannier while my glasses started fogging up. Finally getting my binoculars on the bird, I was rewarded with a hazy view of the female Long-tailed Duck. Relaxing, I set up my scope and was able to get close looks as she fed along the rip-rap just south of the boat launch. I had initially planned on spending the morning walking along the river looking for the duck and other waterfowl, but, with it being only a little after ten, I decided to return home and attend to some needed chores. I swung by Sikome Lake to get a quick look at the pair of Great Horned Owls roosting in their traditional spot in a spruce next to the change rooms before starting the ride back.

Duck Waddle 3

After yesterday's bike ride I took it easier today. I decided to walk down to Carburn Park and attempt to locate some of the few wintering waterfowl still missing from my BIGBY. Carburn Park is located along the Bow River immediately south of Beaverdam Flats and is an easy 15 minute walk from my house. Sunshine and almost no wind made for an enjoyable walk, the temperature rising to 10°C by the early afternoon.

Perhaps because of the mild conditions birding was fairly quiet. A Redhead south of the pedestrian bridge was the only new species added today to the BIGBY. Two immature Bald Eagles were sitting in large Balsam Poplars along the river, and the Harlan's Hawk was observed at the north end of the park. Magpies continue to harass the hawk relentlessly, causing it to flush a number of times. The riparian forests in the park were also very quiet, with Black-capped Chickadee and White-breasted Nuthatch the only species observed.

Feeder Watching

Feeder watchers turned up a number of unusual birds on the Calgary CBC held back in mid-December. A Harris's Sparrow (one of four found on the CBC) has been coming to yard in Highland Park since early December, and a Varied Thrush was discovered Count day at a feeder in Southview. If I wanted to make a serious attempt at the BIGBY, a trip to see the thrush and sparrow would be necessary. I normally do not enjoy looking for birds at feeders, particularly rarities. It has always felt anti-climactic, knowing a bird is coming to a feeder and I only need make the trip to count it. A Hooded Warbler, fifth provincial record, that spent two months in a yard a few blocks from my house and which I never chased, clearly illustrates my attitude towards feeder birding.

The arrival of warm Pacific air on Friday finally broke the cold snap that had gripped the city since Christmas. Saturday's forecast called for typical Chinook conditions - mild temperatures and strong winds. An early start would be necessary to avoid the strongest winds and maximize my chances for seeing both birds. It was still dark as I headed out the door shortly after 7:30 AM, streetlights and my headlamp providing the only illumination. Strong westerly winds were already blowing and I was fighting strong headwinds until I reached relative shelter along the river valley.

My first destination was the yard hosting the Varied Thrush. The sun was just beginning to rise when I arrived and a number of birds were already visiting the feeders, including Dark-eyed Juncos and Pine Siskins. I got my binoculars out of the pannier and began scanning the feeders from the back alley. I only had to wait a few minutes before the Varied Thrush, a male, flew into a Blue Spruce in the yard and then promptly disappeared. I was feeling a little self-conscious standing in an alley looking into a stranger's backyard, so after waiting a few more minutes I packed up and headed to the next feeder without seeing the thrush again.

After a quick stop at the local Co-op to use the washroom and buy chocolate milk I was off towards Nose Creek and the pathway. The winds had continued to strengthen and made biking difficult at times. I stopped to make a quick phone call to the homeowners, re-confirming my visit and the sparrow's status. Their house is located just west of Nose Creek, but involved a steady climb out of the valley directly into the strong Chinook winds. Snow on the side streets was slowly turning to slush and I was forced at times to ride on sidewalks to avoid getting stuck.

Despite arriving on their doorstep soaked in sweat and road grime I was graciously invited in by the homeowners. After introductions I was shown to the kitchen window that overlooks their backyard and feeders. I did not have to wait long before the immature Harris's Sparrow made an appearance, its large size and pink bill obvious even without binoculars. I was able to obtain great looks at the sparrow during the hour I spent watching the feeders. Others species visiting the yard included an adult White-throated Sparrow and several Dark-eyed Juncos. I ran into another NMT participant while I was getting ready to leave. After briefly comparing species seen or missed, the conversation quickly turned to bikes and the relative merit of fenders and studded tires.

With both target species seen I started the slow ride back home, though gravity and the wind were now in my favour. After a quick bite to eat at my favourite Chinese restaurant in Inglewood I was headed along the pathway towards the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary. Two Harlequin Ducks have been spending the winter on a stretch of the Bow River south of the sanctuary. A quick scan from the pathway turned up a distant drake sleeping with a small of flock of Common Goldeneye on the water. Failing to turn up anything different, not even a Northern Pintail, among the hundreds of Mallards on the river was a surprise.

My last stop was at a feeder in my neighbourhood where three Mourning Doves are wintering, this is the same yard where the Hooded Warbler was found. There were no signs of doves in the poplar tree they favour and I quickly decided to try another time. Almost eight hours after leaving home in the dark I returned tired and filthy. I had cycled over 40 kilometres and added nine species to the BIGBY. After giving my bike a quick wipe and lubing the chain, I headed inside for a long, hot shower.

Duck Waddle 2

A couple of unusual waterfowl were found New Year's Day on the Christmas Bird Count held in Fish Creek Provincial Park. A Snow Goose was found with a flock of Canada Geese on the Bow River and a Long-tailed Duck was located further downstream. Both species can be difficult to find within the city limits and I decided to try to find them on Sunday. It would also be an incentive to get on the bike for the first time in 2010 and allow me to test some new winter clothes and equipment that I received over the holidays.

The temperature was a frosty -15°C when I left mid-morning headed towards the bike path and Fish Creek Provincial Park. The pogies (or bike mitts), that I purchased as an early Christmas gift for myself, worked as promised. They act like oversized mittens that are placed over the handlebars, protecting your hands from the wind and cold, and allowing you to wear lighter, less bulky gloves. It had been almost a month since I was last on my bike and it became readily apparent once I started pedaling, the extra weight from my optics and additional winter clothes not helping either.

The first destination was Mallard Point, a 25 minute ride from my house, where the Snow Goose had been found. I quickly located the goose along the river, south of the pedestrian bridge. It was resting in amongst a large flock of Canada Geese on an ice shelf along Poplar Island. When I moved closer to get a better look it became obvious there were three Snow Geese in the flock, an adult and two immatures. An American Robin drinking and bathing on the edge of the ice was a nice bonus.

After loading the scope and tripod back onto the bike rack it was off to Hull's Wood, a 15 minute ride further south along the pathway. One to three Long-tailed Ducks have wintered on the Bow River the past several years. They normally spend the winter in the vicinity of Hull's Wood but move up and down the river, making it difficult to pinpoint where they will be on any given day. After a scan of the river proved fruitless it was apparent that the Long-tailed Duck was elsewhere today. I headed south along the river towards the Highway 22X bridge hoping that I might come across the duck in one of the many goldeneye flocks.

Scanning south of the bridge I was surprised to find a pair of swans with three young in with some Canada Geese. My hunch that they were Trumpeter Swans proved correct once I moved closer and got better looks through the scope. I was able to take a couple of mediocre photos with my point-and-shoot camera before the batteries succumbed to the cold. I took that as a sign that I should be heading back home before I also succumbed. The swans were the last of six new species for the BIGBY found over the course of the day.

Duck Waddle

My first species for the BIGBY was a Common Raven watched from the kitchen window as I made breakfast. Environment Canada was forecasting a high of -3°C, though it was still a frosty -15°C when I headed out mid-morning to Beaverdam Flats Park. It is a ten minute walk from my house to the park and I was hoping to spot some of the various waterfowl species that winter along this stretch of the Bow River. Warm effluent from the Bonnybrook Wastewater Treatment Plant keeps this section of river open throughout the winter, attracting thousands of waterfowl.

Fog along the river resulted in marginal viewing conditions but I still managed to locate seven species of waterfowl, including one Gadwall, during my walk. Raptors attracted by the numerous waterfowl included an adult Harlan's Hawk near the rail bridge over the river and two adult Bald Eagles at the south end of the park. I ended up with 18 species for the day, a calling Blue Jay in my neighbourhood as I headed home being the last addition to the list.