Observations: June 19, 2001 Time: 1:45 pm Weather: Sunny and Hot

Hunter in the Sky Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus), is a slate-grey, 38-50 cm (15” - 20”) bird of prey, the size of a crow. It can be recognized by its spotted chest, straight tail with light bands and its black cap and "side burns" on the adult male. An endangered species, these falcons observed around the park are likely the result of the mating of two birds released from a hack site (artificial nest) at Fundy National Park in 1986 in an attempt to re-establish a healthy, breeding population along the Bay of Fundy. Typically, peregrine falcon nest sites are found on a ledge over water. The same site will be used for many years to raise only 1 or 2 birds each year. Peregrine falcon populations are now rising, with over 350 nesting pairs across Canada. Peregrines hunt by "stooping", diving down at speeds of up to 240 - 322 kph (150-200 mph). They hit their prey (mostly small birds) feet first, instantly breaking the prey’s back, to immobilize it.

Pretty (Deadly) in Pink While walking along the Frog trail you’ll encounter some of our bog’s prettiest, yet deadliest, flowers. Sheep Laurel (Kalmia angustifolia), known as Lambkill, is a 0.5 m (1.6’) tall shrub with delicate pink, umbrella-shaped flowers. The flowers, found in clusters, are in bloom from mid-June to mid-July. Its common name, Lambkill, is aptly selected as sheep are particularly susceptible to this plant’s toxins. A person eating any part of the twigs, leaves or flowers will be seriously ill with vomiting, convulsions or even a coma. Honey made from sheep laurel nectar is poisonous.

A close look at a sheep laurel flower’s pollen distribution mechanism shows ten pollen-laden stamens (male part of the flower) cocked in the "firing " position against the petal. Dry weather or tripping by an insect releases the stamen, allowing a cloud of pollen to stick to the female part of the flower called the pistil, ensuring the fertilization that is necessary for seed production. Insects also carry the sticky pollen to other sheep laurel plants. Some naturalists say the stamen can return to its cocked position within hours of release, and begin producing more pollen.

The Naturalist's Notebook is a regular publication. If you have any questions or topics that you would like to see addressed, please call John Gilbert, Manager, Fish and Wildlife, J.D. Irving, Limited, (506) 632-7777 or email honeyman.kelly@jdirving.com