During the month of October, there is a special opportunity to view large numbers of raptors at Hawk Ridge in Duluth, along with lots of beautiful fall color. Just some of the birds passing through include sharp-shinned and broad-winged hawks, and peregrine falcons. This migration continues into November. Towards the end of October, a drive along Highway 61, southeast of the Twin Cities, offers views of an abundance of waterfowl in the Weaver Bottoms in the Upper Mississippi National Wildlife Refuge.
The following is a list of recent, significant sightings:
A White-Winged Dove has been in Duluth since at least October 4, and was still present on the 7th. The bird is being seen in the far southwestern corner of the 40th Avenue West-Erie Pier impoundment where the large sand piles are located.
In Grant County, two immature Ibis were discovered on October 7 at the Spink Wildlife Protection Area in a marsh on the north side of County Road 34.
Other species reported in the past week include a Harlequin Duck in the harbor at 37th Street at Park Point in Duluth, a late Hudsonian Godwit at Lake Shetek State Park in Murray County, and at least one Parasitic Jaeger over Lake Superior at the far end of Park Point. Golden Eagle, Lapland Longspur, and a few Smith?s Longspur have also been reported.
Information in this statewide birding report is provided by and financially supported by the Minnesota Ornithologists? Union (MOU), Minnesota?s oldest and largest bird club. The report is composed from reports submitted by MOU members and other birders throughout the state. You can support this weekly birding update by submitting your bird reports to Anthony Hertzel at axhertzel@sihope.com or by calling the hotline directly at 763-780-8890 and leaving a detailed message. MOU members receive the organization?s quarterly journal ?The Loon,? and the bi-monthly magazine, ?Minnesota Birding.? For membership information, send an e-mail message to our membership secretary at membership@moumn.org
?The information in this report is provided courtesy of the Minnesota Ornithologists? Union and Explore Minnesota Tourism.?
