Greetings!
If you were thinking of going to see this bird: today sounds like a good day. It seems that he is hunkering down for the Winter (maybe one can always hope) and the local residents are very welcoming. We had very close views at #20 Ascot and the owners there were happy to let birders into their backyard for a closer look. Just be careful not to get too close.
Here are a couple of my shots:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/berniemonette/4121361842/ Phainopepla
http://www.flickr.com/photos/berniemonette/4121361774/ Phainopepla
Here is today's message from Dian (who found the bird in the first place):
Dear Fellow Birders:Those that arrived early (9:30) this morning had really lovely views. At that time, there were very, clear blue, skies and the sunlight highlighted the luminous blue/black, glossy plumage of THE BIRD. More than a few people commented upon the fact that THE BIRD is so beautiful in comparison with the Field Guides.For the time being, it seems that Mr. P. (sorry, I just can not continue to type that long name, apologies to anyone that it may offend) is registering a bit of territory. It's great to see. Yesterday and today he continued to defend his property against 2 Cardinal couples and a very aggressive Mockingbird but it appears that he's holding his own and doing quite well. He also has to contend with local sharp shinned hawks; coopers hawks; Merlin and cats. We witnessed him making himself as small as possible and immobile in the thickage as a Merlin perched virtually overhead for over an hour. Talk about adaptability.Tomorrow, promises to be a great day with great opportunities to view Mr. P. Each day our neighbourhood chooses to embrace this wonderful find. Everyone is being very generous but I please ask, that you walk with caution and keep decent distance. This bird has a very fast metabolism (thank you Michael) and needs to eat frequently and if we interfere with that, it may alter his ability to survive. Please, please, keep a decent distance (at least 30 feet) that won't disturb this bird's vulnerable existence in our area. My Neighbours at #8 Aberdeen Cr., and #20 Ascot Cr, and # 4 Ascot Court; (where all backyards adjoin), are all excited about this discovery and invite all to enter their backyards to view Mr.P. but please do not encroach.
Thank you and good birding.
Directionso: 401 to 410 north; exit Steeles Ave, turn south, continue to Dixie Rd and turn left/north at the lights; continue north to Birchbank and turn right. Follow Birchbank to the end. Turn left/north onto Avondale and follow it to the 4th street on the right which is Addington. Turn right onto Addington, left onto Ascot then right onto Aberdeen Cr. The Log Book and recent sightings book is located there.
OR just google maps 7 aberdeen cr brampton
Cheers,
Bernie
http://www.flickr.com/photos/berniemonette
