In general, early September marks the beginning of migration for birds of prey. A trip to Hawk Ridge in Duluth offers birders a chance to view sharp-shinned and broad-winged hawks, peregrine falcons, and other raptors, with peak migration in mid-September. And fall woodlands are also busy in early September when migrating songbirds start heading towards their wintering sites.
The following is a list of recent, significant sightings:
A possible WILLIAMSON’S SAPSUCKER in immature plumage was reported from Maplewood State Park in Otter Tail County on August 27th. Unforunately, the sighting was not reported until September 1st. No specific location within the park was given, however if additional news of this bird becomes available, it will be relayed immediately.
On August 30th, an immature LARK BUNTING was seen by Carol and Jim Tveekrem along State Highway 61 at the Minnesota Department of Transportation gravel pit in the town of Schroeder, in Cook County. When found, the bird was feeding in the weeds at the west edge of the clearing.
There is a secondhand report of a possible NEOTROPIC CORMORANT at a home near Big Cormorant Lake in Becker County. To learn more, you may call Steve Stromstad at 218/439-6588.
A probable hybrid ROSS’S GOOSE was found by Jim Mattsson in late August. The bird was seen on Sand Point, across the Mississippi River from the boat landing in Hastings, in Dakota County.
A CAROLINA WREN has been visiting a home in Beltrami County since August 22nd. Birders are welcome to visit. For further information, please call Pat at 218/751-0137. Another Carolina Wren was at Bob Janssen’s feeder in Chanhassen, in Carver County, on the 29th, but the bird was only present for a few minutes.
A Carlina wren has appeared daily at our feeders in southeast Rochester, MN, since Sunday, October 24. He’s particularly attracted to the peanut feeder. What a beautiful bird! This afternoon I was within four feet of him, but didn’t have my camera in hand. Uff da!