Nature Moncton Nature News: Dec 26 2016

NATURE MONCTON INFORMATION LINE - December 26, 2016 (Monday)

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Edited by : Nelson Poirier nelson@nb.sympatico.ca

Transcript by : David Christie maryspt@mac.com

Info Line # : 506-384-6397 (384-NEWS)

** Jamie Burris had the female Merlin [Faucon émerillon] return for a stakeout of his Riverview feeder yard on Sunday. A few MOURNING DOVES [Tourterelle triste] froze briefly, then exploded with the Merlin in pursuit, but strong winds prevented it from making a catch. It appeared a second time and was scolded by BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEES [Mésange à tête noire] and DARK-EYED JUNCOS [Junco ardoisé].

I can’t help but wonder if this is not the same female Merlin that is monitoring our feeder yard, as the two sites are not far apart in Merlin terms.

** On Dec. 24, Shawn Cormier also got a photo of the handsome male WOOD DUCK [Canard branchu] that is joining the many MALLARDS [Canard colvert] at Mapleton Park. It is not very often that a male Wood Duck can be approached this closely. If it continues its winter stay at that site, it will become a very enjoyed duck.

Shawn also shares a photo of a very healthy looking RED FOX [Renard roux] that he found at the Cape Tormentine tourism booth on Dec. 10. Foxes are usually very timid, but this one came right up to him. Shawn’s photos are uncropped. Red Foxes can be very bold at this time of year, especially males. With mating season about to get underway, they have things on their mind other than people. This fox also may be one that is accustomed to handouts from people.

** The beautiful BROWN THRASHER [Moqueur roux] that Jean-Paul and Stella LeBlanc had coming to their Bouctouche feeder yard was unfortunately found dead in a snowbank near their home on Sunday. It is uncertain whether the extreme cold last week caused the bird to succumb, or whether there was some injury.

nelson@nb.sympatico.ca

Nelson Poirier

Nature Moncton