Bright blue and bold, the Blue Jay is easy to spot in wooded areas and quiet neighborhoods. I often find them perched high or moving through branches in small groups. Learn more in Episode 16 of my birding series.

Small and streaky, usually found low in shrubs or near water. Learn more in Episode 15 of my birding series

Presqu’ile is one of Ontario’s top birding spots, especially during spring and fall migration. With marshes, forest trails, and shoreline views, it’s a full-day location for spotting waterfowl, shorebirds, warblers, and the occasional rarity. Learn more in my field notes from the park.

The American Robin is easy to recognize with its orange chest and upright stance. Often seen foraging on lawns and trails. Learn more in Episode 14 of my birding series.

Though considered common, I’ve only seen the Barred Owl a couple of times—both early in the morning, perched and resting in quiet wooded areas near quiet trails. Learn more in Episode 13 of my birding series.

Smaller than its white-breasted cousin, the Red-breasted Nuthatch shows up in spruce and pine stands. I’ve seen them darting along branches and pausing to forage. Learn more in Episode 12 of my birding series.

The White-breasted Nuthatch is easy to spot on tree trunks and branches, often moving headfirst down. I usually find them in older wooded areas with big trees. Learn more in Episode 11 of my birding series.

The Northern Flicker stands out with its spotted plumage and yellow tail feathers. I often find them in open areas, moving through leaf litter and short grass. Learn more in the Episode 10 of my birding series.

The Downy Woodpecker is easy to spot in parks and wooded areas across Canada. Learn how to recognize its markings, behavior, and how it differs from similar species. Episode 9 in my birding series.

The Mourning Dove is a familiar bird across Canada, known for its soft cooing and fast flight. Learn about its nesting habits, feeding behavior, and how it adapts to colder seasons. Episode 8 in my birding series.

The American Goldfinch is easy to spot in summer, especially the bright yellow males. They show up in open areas and feeders, nest later than most birds, and feed mostly on seeds—even their young. Episode 7 in my birding series.

One of the first birds to show up in spring, the Red-winged Blackbird brings flashes of color and attitude to wetlands across Canada. Episode 6 in my birding series.

The Great Blue Heron. One of my first birds that started my passion for birding and photography. Episode 5 in my birding series.

The Common Loon. Despite being widespread, I’ve only photographed it twice, both times in cloudy conditions. Episode 4 in my birding series.

The Black-capped Chickadee and its presence across Canadian woodlands. Episode 3 in my birding series.

A look at the Northern Cardinal in southern Canada. Next one in my birding series.

A clear look at the Canada Goose—its physical traits, social behavior, and presence across Canadian habitats. This entry begins a species-by-species series documenting birds through photos and field notes.