Explore Minnesota Birding Update - June 17, 2015
June phenology notes
By mid-June, recently hatched trumpeter swans, also called cygnets, can be seen in their nesting areas in central and northern Minnesota marshes. June is an excellent time for a paddle through shallow prairie marshes where waterfowl and waterbirds are abundant. This is a great way to view up close a variety of grebes, coots, ducks, geese and swans, along with their newly hatched chicks -- what a perfect opportunity to introduce a child to birding! To locate a park with canoe or kayak rental near you, check the DNR ParkFinder site.
Did you know?
There are 315 regularly occurring bird species in Minnesota, and nearly all of them have been recorded in state parks. Most state parks have birding kits which include binoculars, guide books and a list of birds for each park, and these kits can be checked out for free! A new Birds of Minnesota State Parks book is now available. This is a great addition to any birder's library. On June 27, meet Bob Janssen, bird expert and author of Birds of Minnesota State Parks, when he speaks at Mille Lacs Kathio State Park. There will be a Q & A session following his presentation, along with a chance to get an autographed copy of his book.
Tools for birders
A great tool for birders is the amazing Merlin Bird Photo ID offered by Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Visipedia. Just upload a photo, click on the bird’s bill, eye, and tail, and let the computer do the rest -- it's accuracy is astounding! And, the more people use it, the better it is at identifying birds.
Fun birding events
The National Eagle Center in Wabasha will host Bald Eagle Days: Celebrating the Road to Recovery from June 24-27. This event kicks off June 24 & 25 with Fishing for Eagles, when kids can fish for free using the center's fishing equipment and bait. Afterwards, bring your catch to feed the eagles! On June 26 & 27, the celebration continues with special programs, activities, and information on other species that need our help such as whooping cranes and native bees.
The 3rd Annual Bog BioBlitz will be held June 27 at Sax Zim Bog to celebrate the biodiversity of the Bog. Birding field trips will begin the day, followed by a variety of field trips led by experts in areas such as butterflies, dragonflies, wildflowers, fishes, and more. Bring your lunch, boots and bug spray and spend the day.
Recent spring migrant reports
According to the Northwest Minnesota/Detroit Lakes RBA post by Jeanie Joppru there were western grebes and eared grebes at the East Grand Forks water treatment plant in Polk County just late last week. Horned grebes were seen at the Thief River Falls water treatment plant in Pennington County. These ponds are a popular stop on the Pine to Prairie International Birding Trail.
