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By the end of the 1930s, the broad flood plains at the southern end of the Lake had been dyked and grain\u00a0cultivation had began. Grain attracts rodents; rodents attract predators; predators attract naturalists. (Of course, it is also\u00a0appealing that the valley is a migratory bird route.)<\/p>\n
A January visit is often rich in coyotes and raptors. This week, snow hid rodents and so predators seemed sparse. However, there\u00a0were enough to make it interesting and below are three. Owls will be treated in another posting.<\/p>\n
A coyote roams the Creston Flats in the\u00a0fog as it hunts for rodents under the snow.
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The Red-tailed Hawk is a staple year round. While it has a variable plumage, the dark patagial bars\u00a0on the inner front edge of the underwings are\u00a0important distinguishing features.
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Sightings of a\u00a0Rough-legged Hawk are a major reason to visit the Creston Flats in January. This raptor spends its summer in the Arctic breeding and feeding on\u00a0lemmings. Only in the winter does it visit southern Canada. Distinguishing features are\u00a0the dark patches at the bends of the wings.![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blog.kootenay-lake.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/roughleggedhawk1701225as4.jpg\")
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By the end of the 1930s, the broad flood plains at the southern end of the Lake had been dyked and grain\u00a0cultivation had began. Grain attracts rodents; rodents attract predators; predators attract naturalists. (Of course, it is also\u00a0appealing that … Continue reading