In the next few weeks, Ontario will experience an explosion of bird activity with tens of millions of migrants pouring in, songbirds in particular. Already we have seen Juncos, Song Sparrows, Chipping Sparrows and kinglets with many more to come.

Prior to the waves of warblers, vireos and thrushes, we will be delighted with the sight and sounds of both White-throated and White-crowned Sparrows. These two species provide an amazing chorus in the morning, even on rainy days. The sounds are familiar and sweet and since they travel in flocks it is not uncommon to find a dozen or more hopping about your yard, usually on the ground searching for seed or insects.

It is good to scatter seed for ground feeders like these that scratch about for tasty tidbits. The White-throats come first followed by White-crowns but they will also be seen together, especially in early May.

Happy Birding!

By Brian Morin

Publisher of Ontario Birding News