Birding in British Columbia – Page 72 – CrazyM Bird & Nature Photography

Owl & Hairy Woodpecker

Another beautiful, but cold day. On arriving at Reifel to help out on the trails this afternoon there was not too large a crowd. For those that did make it out today,

… there were a couple of Northern Saw-whet Owls along the east dyke trail. This one apparently had a mouse that it ate for those that managed to see it this morning. After spending some time here showing the Saw-whet Owl to visitors I made my way out towards the outer west dyke. My current nemesis bird, the Swamp Sparrow, was still around. At the beginning of the trail across from the tower,

… I happened across a Hairy Woodpecker. While not uncommon, they are just not seen as often as some of the other woodpeckers.

This Hairy Woodpecker was busy in the trees right beside the trail and seemed quite unconcerned with those of us that had stopped to watch. The nice light, cooperative bird, can’t ask for much more than that.

After this I did locate and get another brief look at the Swamp Sparrow, but still no photos. On my way back along the inside trails I observed a Varied Thrush which is also a good bird for this area. All in all, a good day.

Short-eared Owl

I initially took a quick swing by the ferry causeway again, this time for the Horned Larks. On speaking to some fellow birders, apparently they had not been seen today. Not having been there in a while, I then headed out to Brunswick Point to see what might be around.

Having discussed if there were any Short-eared Owl around this location with the birders at the causeway, it was good to four active above the marsh.

No real opportunity for closer shots today, but the Short-eared Owl will likely provide more chances throughout the winter.

Snow Bunting

Another beautiful day, but still on the cool side. This afternoon’s walk was to the Tsawwassen ferry causeway. One winter migrant from the high arctic that can usually be seen here each year,