Fall is one of the nicest times of the year to be outside enjoying the weather. Hiking in the woods, local parks or conservation areas are a great way to enjoy the beautiful autumn colours. This is also another great season to go bird watching.
As I talked about a few weeks ago, many of the birds we saw only in the spring are returning from their northern breeding grounds. This gives us another opportunity to see them before they begin migrating to their winter destinations. Some of the birds I have seen in my back yard include the White-crowned Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Eastern Phoebe, Brown Thrasher, American Tree Sparrow, Northern Flicker, lots of Robins, and my ever elusive Catbird is back. Turkey Vultures are meandering in loose flocks and Canada Geese are flying overhead in their traditional V formation.
I have had many customers telling me about the birds they are witnessing while enjoying their daily outings - Yellow-rumped Warblers, Ruby and Golden-crowned Kinglets, Northern Parulas, Brown Creepers, Hermit Thrush as well as different shore birds and hawks. Hummingbirds are still being spotted throughout the area. There sure is a lot to see!
If you're looking for some great places to plan a day trip or just an afternoon out, we offer a selection of books to help you. Caledon Hikes, Dufferin Hikes, Hamilton and Area Hikes and Halton Hikes as well as Day Trips Around Toronto, Toronto Ravines and Urban Forests and Birding at Point Pelee.
Laminated Pocket Naturalist Field Guides are also a good idea to include in your backpacks for a quick identification. We can supply you with guides for birds, pond life, ducks,animal tracks, wildlife and plants. We also carry one for the night sky for those of you who enjoy looking at the stars. Something for everyone!
If you're in the market for a new pair of binoculars, we would be happy to help you find one to suit your needs. We carry, Zeiss, Vortex, Nikon, Opticron, Bushnell and more. Zeiss is currently offering a $75 rebate on selected Terra Ed Binoculars until December 31. A great gift idea for a relative or friend, or maybe it's time to update your own.
Enjoy the fall colours and the great outdoors!
Happy Birding!
Author - Jane Paradis
