On November 11, I went for a walk along a path near my home dodging the dog-walkers and cyclists and enjoying the mid-fall sunshine. To my astonishment, I encountered two unexpected birds right near the path only an arm’s length away. Their red thumbprint caps gave away they were Common Redpolls unlocking another memory for Remembrance Day.
Flashback to a Summer’s Garden
When I was a young teen, I remember visiting my Great Aunt in her Toronto back yard on a hot summer’s day. We watched the birds investigating her garden while my brother broiled pushing her reel mower around the lawn. She mentioned her favourite birds were the “sparrows” with the red thumbprints on their heads. Their name eluded her that day. I had no idea which birds she meant, even when she said they only appeared in the winter, and not every winter.
Much later, I learned she meant Common Redpolls. Now, when ever I am lucky enough to see these streaky birds with their bright yellow bills, I remember my Aunt and smile.
Why Were the Common Redpolls Here in Mississauga?
The last time I saw Common Redpolls not too far from home was in 2015. Those were birds enjoying the seeds of the European Alders in a waterfront park.
Both years, the trees up north did not produce as many cones, seeds, and fruit as usual. So these Redpolls decided to fly wherever they could find food that appealed to them.
Redpolls easily eat while upside down or sideways.
This afternoon, they were eating voraciously, tugging out seed after seed and letting the white fluff fly. At first I was so busy taking photos and admiring the birds that I thought they were on the goldenrod which dominated the field.
As I stopped taking snaps and started just watching them, I realized that each time they flew, they landed on the same type of plant: a New England Aster. Apparently, aster seeds are more desirable, at least to this duo.
Happier Together
I also noticed that these two birds were almost inseparable. If either flew, even a few feet away, within seconds the other would move, too. They aren’t a pair, though. With this colouring they are either females or immatures.
The last time I saw Common Redpolls there were also moving a chatty, happy group.
Eventually, I continued on my walk, leaving these two to continue their feasting in private.I greatly enjoyed the memories they brought back and I hope they have a great ‘road trip’ in our area before winging back north to raise their families next spring.
Related Reading
Join In
Is there a bird that brings back to you memories of a favourite relative? Please share your experience with a comment.
I just want to say Thank You, for sending these wonderful pictures. I love birds, and your pictures are almost as real as seeing them myself.
To be honest, I can see what I was looking at better on a photo afterwards than when I am out on my walks. My eyes aren’t as good as they could be! Glad they brighten your day a little too!