While the early fall here in the Ottawa area was quite tumultuous when it came to weather, things have seemed to have calmed down quite a bit over the past couple of weeks. Entering into a more “seasonal” temperature bracket, our migrating birds have left us and we have been treated to additional sightings to […]

Each year, for many , many years Ron Pittaway has studied and produced the winter Finch forecast, the basis of his forecast is the boreal forest cone crops, as you will see here this year is a bumper crop. We all have noticed changes at our feeders this fall, the weather has played a roll for […]

Well, it is no secret that we here in the greater Ottawa area have been spoiled weather-wise this season.  With scorching temperatures typically only seen during the summer months, this fall season is a treat to those who love the heat. Despite the warmer-than-usual temperatures, a quick glance into the treetops above brings us all […]

As birders, the news of another bird lying lifeless on a busy downtown sidewalk is unfortunately nothing new.  With city centers consistently getting bigger and flashier, the risk to our feathered friends today, is at an all-time high. The good news is, many organizations have been formed to address the situation and existing ones (such […]

Much has been written and studied regarding the world’s bird populations in an effort to identify how and why birds act the way they do, particularly during migration. As one of the most impressive feats in the animal kingdom, researchers have long been fascinated by our feathered friends’ ability to navigate long distances, often at […]

Small yet vocally proficient, the northern waterthrush is a unique and interesting bird to observe.  Favouring dense cover, these birds can at times be a challenge to locate but once found, can provide spectators with an interesting glimpse into their daily activities. Bob was lucky enough to spot one around his home earlier this week […]

Biologists and bird enthusiasts alike have been monitoring one particular bald eagle’s nest in western Canada over the past couple of months.  The hawk chick, known by some as Spunky, has somehow managed to defy all odds and not only survive the encounter with the large eagles but thrive. As natural enemies, smaller hawks such […]

Developing at the end of the bird’s first winter season, the red iris is what gives this small songbird its name.  Although sometimes difficult to decipher unless you are intimately close to the bird, it is their song that has the ability of not only entrancing birders from all walks of life but also makes […]