Ruffed Grouse

Bonasa umbellus

This Ruffed Grouse was perched in a saskatoon berry bush trying to reach the berries.  It is amazing how such a big bird can manoeuvre along a slender branch without toppling off.

White-breasted Nuthatch

Sitta Carolinensis

This is a new bird for me.  I'm more familiar with the Red-breasted Nuthatch, and I was greatly surprised when two White-breasted Nuthatches arrived at the bird feeders several days ago.  They were perched in the poplars nearby.  I've seen one or the other every day since then.

• larger than the Red-breasted Nuthatch (White-breasted Nuthatch - 15cm,  Red-breasted Nuthatch - 11cm)
• conservation - "Too much pruning or felling of dead wood can reduce the nesting opportunities for this species."  (source: All About Birds)
• White-breasted Nuthatches are very territorial and will drive out any other nuthatches.  (It would be most unfortunate should this occur as the Red-breasted Nuthatches have inhabited these woods for many years.  We will have to wait and see what happens.)

Update:

November 4, 2012 - The White-breasted Nuthatch is still coming to the feeders and usually makes his presence known by calling out before descending for a sunflower seed. I have seen nothing of the Red-breasted Nuthatch since the arrival of the bigger bird.

Mountain View

The First Snowfall

 Went out this morning and the first thing I saw was snow on Sinkut Mountain.