Continuing our previous blog post about songbirds, let’s learn some more about other species of birds that frequently visit our little North Calgary neighbourhood!
Merlins
Merlins are fast and fierce falcons found across North America, Europe and Asia. Despite their small size, they can be seen swooping after prey in Country Hills, feasting on other birds and insects. Their spotty brown and beige plumage can make them hard to see, but their distinctive call usually alerts one to their presence. Some merlins may over-winter in Calgary, but their traditional winter home is actually South America, a reminder that nature doesn’t observe human boundaries.
Northern flickers
Country Hills residents may be family with the annual spring drumming of the Northern flicker as they peck at barbecues, fences and houses. These members of the woodpecker family have dramatic plumage, from their spotted underbellies to the flash of red-brown when they take off. Flickers nest all year round in Calgary. They love eating insects, which perhaps makes up for their enthusiastic noisemaking.
Grey partridges
The adorably plump grey partridges are often spotted in Country Hills, Harvest Hills and Panorama Hills were one may mistake them for grouse. These shy birds are found in North American, Europe and Asia and often travel in pairs. You may catch a flash of them scooting across a street or flying short distances.
