Sunday 15 May 2016

Canatara Park Prothonotary Warbler

On Friday, I had work down in the Strathroy area, and got word that some rare birds were being seen at Canatara Park in Sarnia.  Since it was only an extra 35 minutes away I decided to get up early to see if I could find them.  I was specifically looking for the Worm-eating Warbler and Prothonotary Warbler that were seen there the day before.  Having never been there before, I wandered through the large park until I came upon habitat that looked good for Prothonotary (they like swampy areas).  After seeing many different warbler species, I saw a small yellowish bird hopping from stem to stem just above the water: Prothonotary Warbler!  The name Prothonotary comes from the clerks in the Roman Catholic church whose robes were bright yellow.  No luck on the Worm-eating Warbler, but if I saw everything on the first try, it wouldn't be so interesting!

Prothonotary Warbler
 I also saw this curious Raccoon foraging in the woods.


I have been doing a fair bit of work in Fort Erie lately as well.  As many of you know who follow this blog, that area holds a special place in my heart, and I always enjoy the chance to visit.  This Semipalmated Plover was another "first of the year" for me.  I get to go down there 3 more times this week!

Semipalmated Plover

2 comments:

  1. Good you got to see the Prothonotary at Canatara. The park is quite an exceptional migrant trap, especially since it is in the city!

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  2. Thanks Blake, yea, having never been there before I was blown away with the warbler diversity.

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