May 12th - The Decline Begins
Outdoor Ontario

May 12th - The Decline Begins

Shortsighted

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This morning from 7 o'clock until 9:30 there was muchless warbler activity than in previous days.  Some sites were devoid of warblers, while others hosted but a few birds.  I could also hear the difference upon approach.  I was surprised to find an Eastern bluebird perched out in the open when this species is seldom encountered here.  The ubiquitous deadwood might offer good nesting sites.  The only warblers seen were: both male and female American redstart,  Northern parula,  Myrtle,  B&W,  Palm,  and Nashville.  They were all in the canopy and therefore out-of-reach.  I also spotted a Least flycatcher, but no phoebe today.  No further sign of a male Scarlet tanager but orioles were present and calling.  Downy woodpeckers were everywhere, but no Hairy WPs.  Red-bellied showed up upon my first arrival.  Many more flicker than usual.  There may have been more warblers around but my back and neck can't handle any further flexion.  Orange-crowned were previously reported by younger eyes.  I tried the wooded area for thrushes, but no luck.  Lots of Red-necked grebe out on the lake (seen far below) ... as per usual.  A Carolina wren was singing continuously ... far away, and a House wren was doing the same in the bush.  Catbirds were calling too.  So, there wasn't exactly a hush over the park, but that chorus was unaccompanied by warbler chatter, in contrast to yesterday.