A SNOWy Day

This afternoon, my Dad and I went out to see if we could find a Snowy Owl in a traditional spot.

Upon arrival, we immediately found a very convincing white garbage bag.

It wasn't long until my highlight of the trip...a medium sized bird with bold markings flew in front of the car...at first I thought Clark's Nutcracker (I was being optimistic), then kingfisher (I don't know why!), then Snow Bunting (though it wasn't white enough), then I thought Blue Jay (though it wasn't blue enough). Northern Mockingbird even crossed my mind. I soon found out what it was when it perched on a shrub...it was a freaking Northern Shrike!

While for some people this may not be too exciting, this was the first time I have ever been able to see one (I heard one in March). On top of that, this was a Middlesex lifer for me, which tied my Middlesex list with my Essex list (though I am sure that will change come next spring!). Also, species number 243 I have been able to photograph in Ontario.

After all that excitement, we continued our search for a Snowy Owl. After about five minutes, we saw a large white object on the ground....could it be?

It was our first of season Snowy!

It was a great little outing, and I can't wait for more winter birding!