Hurdman's Area Feeders

Last Monday, February 25, 2008, I decided to go looking for the Hermit Thrush that had been frequenting the feeders at Hurdman's Station. There are two ways to get to the feeders. One is by public transport to the Hurdman's Station and then going north along the path. The feeders are about 150 yards along the path on the right side. If you want to take your own vehicle it's best to exit the Vanier parkway at Queen Mary St. At the end turn left and park at the very end of the road. Take the bike path South under the Queensway, go past the walking bridge. Turn right onto the walking path that follows the river. Look for a low gnarled tree on the left side. The path is about 50 feet further on the left. I am giving directions so you won't have to walk around the area for an hour looking for the feeders, like I did before I found them.

While walking along the path to the feeders you will notice many Mallard Ducks close to the bank, Common Goldeye are usually further out in the water. I also spotted some Mergansers close to shore. On the edge of the ice and water I also saw a pair of Greater Black Backed Gulls.

The feeders were quite busy. Besides the ever present Chickadees, there were numerous Hairy and Downy woodpeckers. About 20 winter plumaged Goldfinches. Nice to see as they were starting to get their summer colours. Maybe spring is actually around the corner after all. A few Common Redpoles were also out an about. Off in the woods a Pileated Woodpecker could be hear calling.

After about a half hour the Hermit Thrush made it's first appearance. It actually flew in when my back was turned to the feeders (the little sneak). It stayed low to the ground and was very wary of my presence. This is not the time for fast movements. It came is twice to feed and then left for about 20 minutes. It came back again to repeat the process. After the second feeding which was going on to about noon it and most of the birds stopped feeding (guess they were full).

So as I was making my way back I stopped on the walking bridge south of the Queensway to see if I could get some close pictures of the Goldeye's. While looking north I could see a small raptor circling at a very fast pace. Not thinking much of it I continued on my way back to my car. About 75 yards from the Queensway I found the raptor sitting quietly in a tree. It was very co-operative and allowed me take some good photos before taking off. I later found out that it was an juvenile Goshawk.

All in all I found the area to be quite interesting from a birding and photography aspect. I highly recommend taking some time to visit the feeders. I know I will be making it a regular on my shooting circuit.