Bondi Resort Blog

Come on into our Blog for a look at the wonderful world we've got to share! With over 240 hectares (600 acres) of wilderness woodlands surrounding the resort, just ten minutes from Algonquin Park, we feature over 400 metres (1200’) of waterfront and beach; boat rentals; summer hiking trails winding through fields and woods; 20 km. of groomed cross country ski trails and snowshoeing in winter; access to nearby snowmobile trails for sledders, and a toboggan hill for the young at heart.
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Monday, December 10, 2012

Grosbeaks come to Call

In summer, the skies are full of birds, melodious with song.

At this time of year, the skies are flown empty as our summer visitors migrate to the south.

There are stalwarts who stay year round, but they are not always seen at the bird feeders.

So it was a treat yesterday to have a visit from a Pine Grosbeak.  The name comes from the thick heavy bill, perfect for snapping apart seeds and pine cones.  Described as a "large, unwary finch", the fine folk out on the Newfoundland Rock call this slow moving bird a "mope".

During most of the year, 99% of diet is vegetable matter, especially buds, seeds, and fruits of spruce, pine, juniper, elm, maple, mountain ash, apple, and crabapple. In summer, it feeds insects and spiders to its young, though, often mixed with plant foods. It drinks water or eats snow daily so keeping a bird bath in the garden will encourage them to visit. Of course, here, there is no shortage of water! 

The female, seen cleaning up sunflowers on my deck, is modestly dressed, and can confuse birdwatchers trying to identify her.  There is no mistaking the males, however, when they show up!

2 comments:

  1. I've seen the odd female occasionally at a feeder. Never a male...

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  2. Beautiful brids!
    I live at the suburb of Prague and we get many birds these days, they all seem to be gathering closer to people during the winter times. We have a bird feeder in the garden too,so we get to see those that come to feed.
    Lovely photos too!! :)
    Have a nice day.

    Veronika

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