Piping Plover @Ashbridges Bay

[Kris Ito]

For anyone who missed the first two in May, or who doesn't use ebird, there has been a new Piping Plover enjoying the flooded beach at Ashbridges Bay since Tuesday. The bird was banded as a chick in July 2013 at Wasaga Beach. Thanks to Lynn Pady for the discovery and her persistent detective work to identify the bird's origins with the help of Brian Stahls' photographs and John Brett's research into the banding records.

[Brown-headed Birder]

The Piping Plover has still been seen the last few days generally in the sand near the volleyball nets but away from the action, closer to Ashbridges than Woodbine. A Laughing Gull was also present early this morning off and on; it has been seen most days before dark and occasionally in the early morning. There were also 6 Great Egrets and 4 sub-adult Bonaparte Gulls.  One Red-headed Duck, among others

Please note the city has been pumping out the 'ponds' and the water level has dropped considerably so wildlife is concentrated and may not last long. They are likely trying to reclaim the entire beach by Canada Day activities.

Happy Birding, Theresa