FEMALE WOOD DUCK, SECOND MARSH, OSHAWA, ON, 8/16/15

   Even though this shot was taken at a distance and is somewhat grainy this bird can be identified as a female Wood Duck by the prominent white around the eye, the short bill and the white primary edges.

FEMALE AMERICAN GOLDFINCH IN BREEDING PLUMAGE, NIAGARA RIVER, FORT ERIE, ON

FEMALE MALLARD STANDING & FLAPPING ITS WINGS, DUFFERIN ISLANDS PARK, NIAGARA FALLS, ON, 8/14/15

BREWER'S BLACKBIRD, FLORAL CLOCK GROUNDS, NIAGARA FALLS, ON, 8/14/15

   We have identified this bird as a Brewer's Blackbird vs. a Rusty Blackbird as follows:

• The bill is thick, unlike the thin bill of the Rusty Blackbird
• The end of the tail is rough looking, rather than the smooth looking tail of the Rusty Blackbird

   This is probably a male in nonbreeding plumage.  Generally the Brewer's Blackbird transforms from breeding to nonbreeding plumage in August.

   This is a new species for our Life List, which now stands at 145.

CHIPMUNK EATING LUNCH, NIAGARA FALLS, ON

RACOON, NIAGARA FALLS, ON

   We thought it unusual to see a racoon during the day.   However, even though racoons are mostly nocturnal, many will venture out during the day.  This is especially true of females looking for food for their babies back in the den.

JUVENILE BARN SWALLOW, DUFFERIN ISLANDS PARK, NIAGARA FALLS, ON

   This is most likely a juvenile Barn Swallow for the following reasons:

• The feathers on the flange of the swallow are fluffier and less organized than those of an adult.
• There are speckles on the feathers and the colors are somewhat disorganized; this is a sign of a juvenile molting.