White-breasted Nuthatch

Solitary nuthatch perched near the feeders

A beautiful, mild day - about 6°C

Bird Behaviour

 Preening

One gusty, cool day, I observed a woodpecker perched on a spruce tree branch.  The woodpecker was fully absorbed in the routine task of preening and didn't seem at all affected by the relentless wind that played havoc with its feathers. 

Varied Thrush

Ixoreus naevius

One lone bird all fluffed up against the cold on Hallowe'en day.  

The Varied Thrush doesn't usually overwinter here.  I've never seen one during the winter months, and I'm not sure what occurred to make this particular bird stay behind.  

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.