Spit Birds...

We were out and about on the Leslie Spit on Sunday afternoon. A glorious day to be out, even in the middle of the big city with other people all around. There wasn't too much around but I did manage to photograph a few common birds.

Above is a nice drake Bufflehead. Still quite a few around, usually in small mobile flocks.


A female Bufflehead...


Whilst we were walking between the cells a fine drake Northern Pintail flew over. I managed to reel off a few record shots before it disappeared to the south. A nice bird to see out here since they are not exactly numerous in the core of the GTA.


Canvasbacks are now breeding out on the Spit. This female was sitting around on a log waiting for something to happen. It did, a drake appeared and they then flew off!


Still loads of Long-tailed Ducks bobbing around. At this time they are often in noisy flocks loitering just about anywhere offshore.


It was nice to see the first Spotted Sandpipers of the year. They look a bit comical as they bob their way along the shoreline, resplendent in their spottiness.


There is a nice raft with breeding Common Terns allowing great looks for anyone who cares to show an interest.


And most of the nest boxes were well populated with Tree Swallows, always nice to see.

The Spit is a great place to visit. When you consider it is totally man-made it really does provide a great haven for all kinds of wildlife, especially birds. Take a look for yourself sometime...