This past week has seen an increase in butterfly activity. Observers at Point Pelee, for example, have had a fine time. On the weekend, there were thousands of butterflies of many kinds, some rather uncommon. Many immigrants have come in and resident butterflies have multiplied.
Fiery Skippers are numerous in many spots, including Blenheim and Erieau. I found many there and at Point Pelee (see photo).
Another uncommon butterfly that some have seen lately is the Common Checkered-Skipper. Apparently it is widespread and common farther south, but not in Ontario! I saw my second only one on Saturday at Point Pelee (see photo). It is a very small butterfly (like many!) and easily overlooked.
No doubt there are more good things to come with regards to butterflies. Stay tuned on that subject.
Down at Blenheim Sewage Lagoons, shorebirds have dwindled, but there is still a lot of good variety. Buff-breasted Sandpipers are showing up there and elsewhere. These are rather uncommon and sought after by birders. We only see them in fall migration through August and September.
A number of Red-necked Phalaropes have been reported at various lagoons, including a single bird at Blenheim on Friday.
We are now approaching peak migration of songbirds such as warblers. One has to keep an eye on weather patterns to find a good day. However, it is difficult to predict what will happen since the forecasts have continued to be inaccurate!
The hot, dry weather continues. It is not good as trees and shrubs are getting very stressed out. As well, it means that water levels will be even lower! (….more evaporation, etc.). Once again, this is the key to lower water levels…NOT the dredging or eroding of the St. Clair River!!
