Since early March there has been a Northern Goshawk frequenting Reifel. While it is not unusual to see one here, what makes this one particularly interesting is that it’s an adult bird. More often than not, it is juvenile birds we see. It has been several years since I have seen an adult Goshawk, and was not having much luck seeing this one for a few weeks. The other week I did manage a distant look, but this afternoon provided a better opportunity.
Northern Goshawk
While heading back at the end of the day I found it at the southwest corner of the sanctuary. While it was obstructed by some branches, it was a much better look and photo opportunity than the other week of this striking bird.
A little change of pace today from birds. I managed to tag along with a group of six River Otters. Likely a family group as there were a couple of smaller ones.
River Otter
Caught this adult as it came out of the water shaking its catch,
River Otter
what looks like a Sculpin.
River Otter
Finally a good look at the River Otter’s teeth before it started devouring the fish.
Before the birding news, it should be noted that today marks the first ‘National Day for Truth and Reconciliation’.
National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation. “The NCTR is a place of learning and dialogue where the truths of the residential school experience will be honoured and kept safe for future generations.”
After not being able to locate the Sharp-tailed Sandpiper a few days ago, I was pleasantly surprised to get a message today that one was present at the rear of the house pond at Reifel. So I packed up my gear and headed straight out there.
On arriving at the rear of the house pond there was more good news, a Hudsonian Godwit was also here.
Sharp-tailed Sandpiper
The Sharp-tailed Sandpiper was busy foraging on the far side of the pond and was keeping close to the edge.
Sharp-tailed Sandpiper
It finally came a little more out in to the open for bath time.
Sharp-tailed Sandpiper
Then lifted off back to the far side of the pond again. It eventually left the pond and was seen flying west toward the outer ponds or foreshore area.
While Sharp-tailed Sandpiper are usually seen every year in the sanctuary (and Lower Mainland area), the Hudsonian Godwit is a less frequent visitor.
Hudsonian Godwit
My last photos of a Hudsonian Godwit in the sanctuary are from the spring of 2018.
Hudsonian Godwit
So having this bird here today as well was definitely a nice bonus.
Hudsonian Godwit
While initially busy and moving around, the Hudsonian Godwit took some time out to preen and then it was nap time. The timing was good as we could hear some thunder in the distance and the rain was about to start again.
