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A good rule for visiting the Humber Bay Parks is, “Always dress for 10 degrees colder than you think it is.” Our surprisingly cool November walk was no exception to the rule as a mild November day was much cooler at the lake.
While the majority for the winter waterfowl had clearly not arrived yet, we were treated to some good finds. The highlight was a male Harlequin Duck, spotted by our leader, Don Burton. This species is an occasional visitor in Toronto, but this is the third time we have seen one on our walks this year. We saw a female in February, and a male in March. This bird was the first one reported in Toronto this winter. We also found Common Loons, Long-tailed Ducks, Buffleheads, both Hooded and Red-breasted Mergansers, Green-winged Teal, and a pair of American Widgeons. Most of the waterfowl were well out from shore: too far for photos, but they provided good binocular & scope views.
The walk was almost over before we saw any land birds. A small flock of American Goldfinches lead us to a spot where we found White-throated Sparrow, Tree Sparrow, Northern Cardinal, Chickadees and best of all, a flock of Common Redpolls.
After the walk, about half the group headed over to Bird & Beans to warm up and thank them for sponsoring our walks.
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