Hooded Mergansers

Another aspect of Victoria's wildlife (in addition to fungi, mosses and lichens) that also burgeons in the fall and winter is the bird life to be found along the shores. There are quite a number of species we see nothing of in the spring and summer but who return in the fall and spend the winter here. Pictured above are some Hooded Mergansers (Lophodytes cucullatus). I am always pleased to see these lovely little ducks arrive and they have been very numerous lately near the West Bay Walkway.