The Section of Wildlife invites enthusiasts to view Sharp tailed Grouse on their spring dancing grounds (also know as a lek). These once common birds of open brushlands put on quite a display in an effort to attract mates. The male Sharptails spread their wings in an arc, hoot and cluck, stamp their feet, rattle their tail feathers and madly chase each other around the lek.
The blind is available 3 to 4 days per week from April 8 through May 1. The blind is comfortable for 2 people. Getting there requires about a quarter-mile walk. Morning visits to the blind can be reserved by calling:
Palo Site Eveleth Area Wildlife Office 218 744 7448 ext 2224 or 2221
Kettle River Site – Cloquet Area Wildlife Office 218-879-0880 ext 225
Like most birds Sharp-tail Grouse are early risers. To see them on their dancing grounds you must be too. Dancers begin arriving about half hour before sunrise. To avoid bothering the birds you must settle into the blind well before then and stay until the birds leave, so plan accordingly. Plan on dressing warmly. It makes for very early morning, but you will enjoy a beautiful sunrise, and see and hear a memorable display of Minnesota’s wildlife!
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