Late Autumn Polar Bear Dips for Mississauga Winter Warriors

This late November afternoon was muddy, cold and overcast. Then the clouds drew back like curtains letting the sun shine through a gap, brightening the day and my mood. I spied several fast swirling flocks of birds visiting and vanishing from a pair of puddles. I slowly stepped closer then stopped a good ways back so they could continue and I could enjoy their high spirits.

Photo of House Finch Rosy on NaturalCrooksDotCom

House Finches have made a come back in my neighbourhood. I’ve seen several small flocks regularly in the fruit trees along the trail.

Hey! Pull the Shower Curtain Please!

Photo of Dark Eyed Junco No Curtain on NaturalCrooksDotCom

When the Dark-eyed Juncos came in to bathe, they aggressively chased out the American Goldfinches and wouldn’t let anyone else in till they were done. This one seemed to be keeping an eye on me, ready to scold if I move any closer.

Photo of American Goldfinch Nov on NaturalCrooksDotCom

This American Goldfinch went up into the brush to preen, pretending it had been finished with the puddle any way.

Photo of American Robin Clean on NaturalCrooksDotCom

The American Robins quickly retreated when I approached. For birds that choose to nest on top of front door lights, they seem strangely skittish around people.

A Lingering or Late Migrant Sparrow

There were several resident House Sparrows at the puddles. Then one brighter bird flew in. I was happy to see this White-throated Sparrow. Several often over-winter, keeping well fed from black-oil-sunflower-seed feeders. Their yellow eye mark catches my attention.

Photo of White Throated Sparrow Wren Tail on NaturalCrooksDotCom

Mirror Mirror in the Mud

I wonder if birds look at themselves when the water is calm and reflective?

Photo of Dark Eyed Junco Mirror on NaturalCrooksDotCom

Yes, that is ice. They are brave to bathe today. Tomorrow, they may not have the chance, though: this shallow water may soon be solid.

Photo of House Finch Mirror on NaturalCrooksDotCom

The muted pink of this House Finch looked twice as nice today.

Photo of Northern Cardinal Mirror on NaturalCrooksDotCom

Mr. Cardinal was more interested in drinking than bathing. There are three pairs of Cardinals along the trail but only this one risked a visit while I was watching.

Suspicious Starlings Whirl and Swirl

Starlings are not the favourite birds of farmers nor of bird-nesting-box owners. I’m not sure if that is why they often seem suspicious of me or not.

Photo of European Starling Suspicious on NaturalCrooksDotCom

This one would-be bather, soon took to the sky to join a large flock that never quite settled any where.

Photo of European Starlings on NaturalCrooksDotCom

I took the hint and withdrew, leaving the puddle for the shy and insecure. It had been great to watch the afternoon activity before trudging home through the mud.

Related Reading

Join In
Do you enjoy watching birds bathing? Please share your opinion with a comment.

 

 

 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *