Rondeau Ric

Spotted towhee Originally uploaded by ricmcarthur this is a westen bird that shows up in the east on ocassion. The obvious difference as compared to an eastern towhee are the white makrings on the back. Easterns don't have the spots. We went to see this bird on the weekend and it was cooperative, showing up about 10 minutes after we got to the feeders. Thanks to George Finney, the property owner who has been welcoming birders and helping them see the bird.

Sandhills at sunset Originally uploaded by ricmcarthur We went for a drive to Longpoint, the next big sand spit on the north shore of Lake Erie to do some birding. There were reports of sandhill cranes, lots of ducks, tundra swans and a spotted towhee. Just as we were done for the day the sandhills started flying back to the marsh. More on the towhee another day.

Bowl of nuts Originally uploaded by ricmcarthur We like nuts at Christmas. That's why we get along with our friends.

Blending in Originally uploaded by ricmcarthur Crash found a spot where he blends in with the background and has the bonus of being in the sunshine. He looks so angelic when he is sleeping but when he's awake.... well his name is Crash

Red billed gull Originally uploaded by ricmcarthur Easy id on this bird, red bill, red eye and red feet. The black billed i just as easy, black bill, black eye and black feet.

My spidey sense is tingling Originally uploaded by ricmcarthur used to know what type of spider this is but I can't bring it to mind. Spins a tube web then hides inside waiting for its next meal.

A flower for a November day. Originally uploaded by ricmcarthur From the archives.

Wings on my feet Originally uploaded by ricmcarthur Wasn't it Mercury who was the messenger of the gods who had wings on his feet?

Hey! This thing is empty. Originally uploaded by ricmcarthur This is an older photo from the archives. The redbellied woodpecker seemed irritated that his favourite feeder was empty

Ok but, Originally uploaded by ricmcarthur where do I leave the car? Is it just me, or is the wording a bit odd?

Do you want to play? Originally uploaded by ricmcarthur Not a good idea. Unfortunately there are a lot of sick racoons in the park this year. This one looked healthy but Crash is an indoor cat, so he won't be playing outside.

Shadow breathing dragon Originally uploaded by ricmcarthur We acme upon this might dragon while wandering in the forbidden forest, now we are mere shadows of ourselves.

Hey, this water is cold! Originally uploaded by ricmcarthur The service at this spa has really gone down hill

Fall splendour Originally uploaded by ricmcarthur A large oak in a meadow at Rondeau Provincial Park.

A fall flower Originally uploaded by ricmcarthur This hardy flower blooms in the fall just when we need a touch of colour.

Snack time. Originally uploaded by ricmcarthur Preying mantis with a flying insect.

Can you see me now? Originally uploaded by ricmcarthur Anne spotted this tiny saw whet owl in a cedar tree while looking for a different bird. It would easily fit in your hand. They migrate through our area each fall.

It's a question. Originally uploaded by ricmcarthur Have you ever posted a photo and been surprised? I thought I was uploading a different photo. Nice surprise. This is a question mark butterfly, look closely and you will see it.

soaring redtail Originally uploaded by ricmcarthur Three were 3 redtailed hawks soaring in the bright fall sunshine. I liked the way the light made the wings semi transparent.