Male Baltimore Oriole
Aesop said in one of his famous fables, " It is not only fine feathers that make fine birds." Many fine birds do have modest plumages but I do enjoy finding bright, colourful birds too. Our Northern Cardinals and Blue Jays are here year round and are always easy to find in the bush.
American Goldfinch
Goldfinches are once again a brilliant yellow after shedding their duller winter feathers. This week we have welcomed some more migrating colour to our area. This morning I ventured out early to a city greenbelt and saw a wonderful assortment of birds.
Female Baltimore Oriole
Baltimore Orioles have returned and I saw several pairs in some poplar trees near a reservoir. I heard the Rose-breasted Grosbeak first, then spotted the female and finally saw the male high in the branches as he preened and sang.
Male Rose-breasted Grosbeak
On the water of the small lake this locally famous
leucistic Canada Goose swam close to the shore. Hundreds of geese are in our city parks and the spring goslings have hatched in the past 24 hours or so. But this goose stands out in the crowd with his unusual feathers.
LeucisticCanada Goose
It is human nature to judge by appearances even though we may try to deny it. I keep looking for an Indigo Bunting and a Scarlet Tanager because they are so eye-catching. But some of the plainest birds have the most beautiful songs. The Warbling Vireos in the willows and the Song Sparrow in the thicket are fine birds too.
Male Baltimore Oriole 
American Goldfinch 
Female Baltimore Oriole 
Male Rose-breasted Grosbeak 
LeucisticCanada Goose 
