Yumi and have been doing spot checks for salmonid fry in Byrne Creek in SE #Burnaby where we volunteer as streamkeepers.
Today we spotted two, the first we’ve seen this year. It’s so exciting and uplifting to know that the salmon that returned to spawn in this battered urban creek were successful in starting a new generation.
The last year was not friendly to salmon. Drought conditions last summer resulted in very low, warm flows. Then we had snow and torrential rains in the winter, so much so that we were afraid that nests of eggs may have been blown out.
We’ll be keeping sharp eyes out for more fry in the days and weeks to come!
A poor photo taken with my pocket cam in low light. Will try to get some better shots soon.
Came upon an owl pellet on our Byrne Creek walk in south Burnaby today. Opened it up to find small bones inside. We haven’t heard owls for some time, but they’re still around.
Also saw a bald eagle being chased by crows, and a hawk being chased by crows.
The woods in the ravine behind our place in SE Burnaby are alive with shrilling thrushes this morning. First time to hear them this year.
I stood at the door holding kitty Sora in my arms and she was thrilled when one landed on the sidewalk right in front of us, took one look at us, and exploded back into the trees.
I like to stay on the dike. There were groups of photographers out in the marsh, apparently after a Short-Eared Owl. I’ve gotten great owl shots without leaving the dike, eh?
