Wilson's Phalaropes in Moonbeam

On Saturday, May 17, we drove to Moonbeam for a quick unplanned visit to the Sewage Lagoon (and of course, we also visited my parents!).  Moonbeam's Sewage Lagoon is one of my favourite spot to observe birds, especially during migration. I wish I could go more often.  We spotted regular visitors: lots of American Wigeons and Scaups, a few Ring-necked Ducks and Buffleheads and a couple of Northern Shovelers and Wood Ducks.    

Northern Shovelers surrounded by American Wigeons
Moonbeam Sewage Lagoon (May 17, 2014)

There was also a large flock of Bonaparte's Gull; they alway gather on this Lagoon in Spring.  It was a very cold day and it was even snowing at one point.  There was no sparrows or warblers yet in the low bushes surrounding the Lagoon but they will arrive soon I imagine.

After we had explored both ponds, Gary and I were about to leave when we spotted a resting bird at the back end of the North pond; it was curled up, floating around, and we couldn't tell what it was.  It was very far, but we knew it was not a usual duck.  So we decided to wait patiently; we wanted to see what it was before leaving. We waited almost an hour, taking turn keeping a constant eye on it.  It didn't raise its head.  It was freezing, but we waited and waited.

Well… things always happen for a reason and I'm very happy that the bird slept for that long because while we were silently standing still, waiting for the bird to raise its head, look what swam in front of us.  Our patience was rewarded.

Wilson's Phalarope
Moonbeam Sewage Lagoon (May 17, 2014)

Our very first Wilson's Phalaropes! We got to watch them for a while.  They were swimming and feeding near the shore in the cattails.  They are very unique birds and it was a treat to watch them bob up and down and spin around.  They have such slender necks and thin bill.  They are elegant!  And I was amazed to learn that contrary to most birds, the female Phalarope wears the bright colours and the male is responsible for the egg incubation and then he takes care for the young.

After watching the Phalaropes for a long time, we looked up to see if our mystery bird had raised its head.  It did.  And it was a beautiful Red-necked Grebe.

Red-necked Grebe
Moonbeam Sewage Lagoon (May 17, 2014)

We were in the right place at the right time.  And as we were walking back towards the entrance, we noticed that the Bonaparte's Gulls were suddenly all in the air flying around in a tight group.  Then, we saw why.  A Peregrine Falcon was following them closely.  He had no luck and he had to fly away without lunch.  But we got a really close look at him.

Funny how things work out sometimes.  We saw some amazing birds … mostly because the Red-necked Grebe was asleep for a long time.

Here's some other birds we saw at the Lagoon while we were there:

Solitary Sandpiper
Moonbeam Sewage Lagoon (May 17, 2014)

Short-billed Dowitchers and a Dunlin
Moonbeam Sewage Lagoon (May 17, 2014)