MOU-net
Received From Subject
4/14/26 10:01 am Natasha Bartolotta <natasha...> [mou-net] Today at 5pm: Loon Surveys, Le Sueur Co. Volunteer Call
4/13/26 6:36 am MacKenzie Cochran <cochran694...> Re: [mou-net] Loon Surveys, Le Sueur County, Volunteer Call 4/14
4/12/26 10:59 am Jason Frank <jmfrank84...> [mou-net] Garganey in Lac qui Parle Co. near Rosen
4/11/26 2:59 pm Stephen Greenfield <tapaculo47...> Re: [mou-net] MOU-NET Digest - 7 Apr 2026 to 10 Apr 2026 (#2026-25)
4/11/26 6:26 am Charlie Greenman <000047b03d2fee12-dmarc-request...> Re: [mou-net] Snow Geese
4/11/26 6:13 am Daniel E Cronk <000050b69b5bcf1b-dmarc-request...> Re: [mou-net] Snow Geese
4/10/26 8:52 am Max Richter <max.r.richter...> [mou-net] Snow Geese
4/7/26 7:27 pm Brigitte Reuther <00004088795a1c9a-dmarc-request...> Re: [mou-net] Carolina Wren, Ft. Snelling
4/7/26 7:15 pm linda whyte <0000004e7b0e779a-dmarc-request...> [mou-net] Carolina Wren, Ft. Snelling
4/7/26 2:30 pm Natasha Bartolotta <natasha...> [mou-net] Loon Surveys, Le Sueur County, Volunteer Call 4/14
4/4/26 9:46 pm Keith Carlson <keithecarls...> [mou-net] Afton State Park Birds
4/4/26 1:47 pm Sherry Gray <0000436d53c2070c-dmarc-request...> Re: [mou-net] 126th CBC
4/4/26 8:32 am Kara Snow <000014e3e51d51c5-dmarc-request...> [mou-net] Help researchers at UMN find Pileated Woodpecker nests in Minnesota
3/25/26 4:49 pm Steve Weston <sweston2g...> [mou-net] 126th CBC
3/24/26 11:32 am Miller Johnson <johnson-miller...> [mou-net] Nesting Red-breasted Nuthatch?
3/22/26 10:35 pm Steve Weston <sweston2g...> [mou-net] MRVAC (Zoom) Meeting this Thursday
3/19/26 5:23 am Gelvin-Innvaer, Lisa A (DNR) <000049809f756d99-dmarc-request...> Re: [mou-net] Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles
3/18/26 1:56 pm john nelson <dsgabaska...> Re: [mou-net] Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles
3/18/26 10:42 am Tanya Beyer <epiphaniesafield...> Re: [mou-net] Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles
3/18/26 10:23 am linda whyte <0000004e7b0e779a-dmarc-request...> Re: [mou-net] Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles
3/18/26 9:39 am Priscilla Elwell <paelwell97...> Re: [mou-net] Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles
3/18/26 9:22 am Sue Keator <chickadeedee55...> Re: [mou-net] Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles
3/18/26 9:09 am Tanya Beyer <epiphaniesafield...> Re: [mou-net] Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles
3/18/26 9:03 am Dan Ahlman <00004fc1683d3fd8-dmarc-request...> Re: [mou-net] Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles
3/18/26 8:00 am Tanya Beyer <epiphaniesafield...> [mou-net] Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles
3/14/26 8:57 am Matt Hoberg <mhoberg1...> [mou-net] MOU Field Trip: Rapids Lake/Louisville Swamp April 25
 
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Date: 4/14/26 10:01 am
From: Natasha Bartolotta <natasha...>
Subject: [mou-net] Today at 5pm: Loon Surveys, Le Sueur Co. Volunteer Call
Hi all,

Just sending a reminder that an informational call on loon surveys in Le
Sueur County will be this evening at *5pm. *If you are interested, but
can't attend the call, please email me!

The National Loon Center is continuing resighting work in southern MN lakes
where a "Restore the Call" project translocated young loons about 10 years
ago. With a student from Winona State University joining the project this
year, we will survey lakes in the early nesting season (May-June) within
about a 15km radius of the release lake, Fish Lake, in Le Sueur County.

Volunteers are welcome to help with surveys! If you reside in this area and
would like to join, we are hosting an info call April 14 at 5pm. The
meeting link is below. You can also email me to receive a calendar invite
or with any questions: <natasha...>

Loon Surveys: Le Sueur County Volunteer Call | Meeting-Join | Microsoft
Teams
<https://www.google.com/url?q=https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/230694068388380?p%3D4BzsagkkjUqHblT14F&sa=D&source=calendar&ust=1776028439689737&usg=AOvVaw2sgIzQ1xtFOk22COczcGxp>

Microsoft Teams meeting
Join:*https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/230694068388380?p=4BzsagkkjUqHblT14F*
<https://www.google.com/url?q=https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/230694068388380?p%3D4BzsagkkjUqHblT14F&sa=D&source=calendar&ust=1776028439689737&usg=AOvVaw2sgIzQ1xtFOk22COczcGxp>
Meeting ID:230 694 068 388 380
Passcode:vR65Gq6W

Thank you!
Natasha

--

Natasha Bartolotta

Science & Stewardship Manager

Office*:* (218) 692-LOON (5666)

Direct: (218 692-5669

14303 Gould Street, PO Box 642

Crosslake, MN 56442

*nationallooncenter.org <http://nationallooncenter.org/>*

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Date: 4/13/26 6:36 am
From: MacKenzie Cochran <cochran694...>
Subject: Re: [mou-net] Loon Surveys, Le Sueur County, Volunteer Call 4/14
Hello!
I am interested in learning more about the Loon Surveys, however, I am unable to attend the call tonight. Is there a way I can watch a recording or receive the info via another means?
Thank you!!
MacKenzie Cochran

> On Apr 7, 2026, at 4:30 PM, Natasha Bartolotta <natasha...> wrote:
>
> Hi everyone,
>
> The National Loon Center is continuing resighting work in southern MN lakes
> where a "Restore the Call" project translocated young loons about 10 years
> ago. With a student from Winona State University joining the project this
> year, we will survey lakes in the early nesting season (May-June) within
> about a 15km radius of the release lake, Fish Lake, in Le Sueur County.
>
> Volunteers are welcome to help with surveys! If you reside in this area and
> would like to join, we are hosting an info call next week on April 14 at
> 5pm. The meeting link is below. You can also email me to receive a calendar
> invite or with any questions: <natasha...>
>
> Loon Surveys: Le Sueur County Volunteer Call | Meeting-Join | Microsoft
> Teams
> <https://www.google.com/url?q=https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/230694068388380?p%3D4BzsagkkjUqHblT14F&sa=D&source=calendar&ust=1776028439689737&usg=AOvVaw2sgIzQ1xtFOk22COczcGxp>
>
> Microsoft Teams meeting
> Join:*https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/230694068388380?p=4BzsagkkjUqHblT14F*
> <https://www.google.com/url?q=https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/230694068388380?p%3D4BzsagkkjUqHblT14F&sa=D&source=calendar&ust=1776028439689737&usg=AOvVaw2sgIzQ1xtFOk22COczcGxp>
> Meeting ID:230 694 068 388 380
> Passcode:vR65Gq6W
>
> Thank you!
> Natasha
> --
>
> Natasha Bartolotta
>
> Science & Stewardship Manager
>
> Office*:* (218) 692-LOON (5666)
>
> Direct: (218 692-5669
>
> 14303 Gould Street, PO Box 642
>
> Crosslake, MN 56442
>
> *nationallooncenter.org <http://nationallooncenter.org/>*
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting: https://moumn.org/listservice.html
> Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

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Date: 4/12/26 10:59 am
From: Jason Frank <jmfrank84...>
Subject: [mou-net] Garganey in Lac qui Parle Co. near Rosen
There has been a Garganey drake in breeding plumage hanging out with a
flock of Blue-winged Teal at Joe Spors Slough, which is located along LQR
CR 7, 1 mile south of Rosen. It's been there since Saturday morning,
originally found and photographed by Joe Conley.

The slough is on private property on the west side of the road; those of
you who know the area and have experience on the Salt Lake trip likely know
this property. It is typically flooded in spring and often hosts a
surprising number of species.

The landowners are friendly and are OK with birders stopping and viewing
from the east shoulder of CR 7. It is a wide shoulder, so very easy to pull
off and safely view from either your vehicle cab or the roadside. Please do
not pull into either of the driveways to park, though.

The Garganey has been seen at multiple locations of the slough, sometimes
close to the road, and sometimes in the far west corner. Ebird is clocking
lots of reports this morning and afternoon. Hopefully it'll stick around
for awhile.



*Jason Frank*

*Big Stone County Librarian*

*Ortonville and Graceville, Minnesota*

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Date: 4/11/26 2:59 pm
From: Stephen Greenfield <tapaculo47...>
Subject: Re: [mou-net] MOU-NET Digest - 7 Apr 2026 to 10 Apr 2026 (#2026-25)
They -- three blue-morph and a white-morph -- were there on Saturday late morning, on the grass on the west side, oblivious to nearby walkers, runners, and dogs. (Sorry for the late response.)
A little later, an eagle killed the white morph!... but was unable to carry it off.

Stephen Greenfield
<tapaculo47...>
________________________________
From: Minnesota Birds <MOU-NET...> on behalf of <LISTSERV...>
Sent: Saturday, April 11, 2026 12:00 AM
To: <MOU-NET...> <MOU-NET...>
Subject: MOU-NET Digest - 7 Apr 2026 to 10 Apr 2026 (#2026-25)

There is 1 message totaling 14 lines in this issue.

Topics of the day:

1. Snow Geese

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Date: Fri, 10 Apr 2026 10:52:38 -0500
From: Max Richter <max.r.richter...>
Subject: Snow Geese

Are the Snow Geese still on Lake Harriet?

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------------------------------

End of MOU-NET Digest - 7 Apr 2026 to 10 Apr 2026 (#2026-25)
************************************************************

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Date: 4/11/26 6:26 am
From: Charlie Greenman <000047b03d2fee12-dmarc-request...>
Subject: Re: [mou-net] Snow Geese
Where?
Sent from my iPhone

> On Apr 11, 2026, at 8:13 AM, Daniel E Cronk <000050b69b5bcf1b-dmarc-request...> wrote:
>
> They were there as of 5 pm yesterday. West side of lake. They were mostly feeding in the grass but occasionally would get into the water.
>
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Date: 4/11/26 6:13 am
From: Daniel E Cronk <000050b69b5bcf1b-dmarc-request...>
Subject: Re: [mou-net] Snow Geese
They were there as of 5 pm yesterday. West side of lake. They were mostly feeding in the grass but occasionally would get into the water.

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Date: 4/10/26 8:52 am
From: Max Richter <max.r.richter...>
Subject: [mou-net] Snow Geese
Are the Snow Geese still on Lake Harriet?

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Date: 4/7/26 7:27 pm
From: Brigitte Reuther <00004088795a1c9a-dmarc-request...>
Subject: Re: [mou-net] Carolina Wren, Ft. Snelling
Just wish the posts were all through MOU!

> On Apr 7, 2026, at 9:15 PM, linda whyte <0000004e7b0e779a-dmarc-request...> wrote:
>
> Belated thanks to all who posted about this wren. It was in vigorous,
> operatic song in late morning, along the path that leads directly past the
> Visitor Center toward Pike Island. Initially perched extremely high in
> trees on the right side, it remained impossible to spot, until it finally
> flew. It dropped to ground in the middle of the dried-up wet area there,
> disappearing among the many fallen branches, where the carpet of leaves
> offers both camouflage and, likely, emergent insect food.
> The singing itself made the search and the wait well worth the time, so
> thanks again to all who posted.
> Linda Whyte
>
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Date: 4/7/26 7:15 pm
From: linda whyte <0000004e7b0e779a-dmarc-request...>
Subject: [mou-net] Carolina Wren, Ft. Snelling
Belated thanks to all who posted about this wren. It was in vigorous,
operatic song in late morning, along the path that leads directly past the
Visitor Center toward Pike Island. Initially perched extremely high in
trees on the right side, it remained impossible to spot, until it finally
flew. It dropped to ground in the middle of the dried-up wet area there,
disappearing among the many fallen branches, where the carpet of leaves
offers both camouflage and, likely, emergent insect food.
The singing itself made the search and the wait well worth the time, so
thanks again to all who posted.
Linda Whyte

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Date: 4/7/26 2:30 pm
From: Natasha Bartolotta <natasha...>
Subject: [mou-net] Loon Surveys, Le Sueur County, Volunteer Call 4/14
Hi everyone,

The National Loon Center is continuing resighting work in southern MN lakes
where a "Restore the Call" project translocated young loons about 10 years
ago. With a student from Winona State University joining the project this
year, we will survey lakes in the early nesting season (May-June) within
about a 15km radius of the release lake, Fish Lake, in Le Sueur County.

Volunteers are welcome to help with surveys! If you reside in this area and
would like to join, we are hosting an info call next week on April 14 at
5pm. The meeting link is below. You can also email me to receive a calendar
invite or with any questions: <natasha...>

Loon Surveys: Le Sueur County Volunteer Call | Meeting-Join | Microsoft
Teams
<https://www.google.com/url?q=https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/230694068388380?p%3D4BzsagkkjUqHblT14F&sa=D&source=calendar&ust=1776028439689737&usg=AOvVaw2sgIzQ1xtFOk22COczcGxp>

Microsoft Teams meeting
Join:*https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/230694068388380?p=4BzsagkkjUqHblT14F*
<https://www.google.com/url?q=https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/230694068388380?p%3D4BzsagkkjUqHblT14F&sa=D&source=calendar&ust=1776028439689737&usg=AOvVaw2sgIzQ1xtFOk22COczcGxp>
Meeting ID:230 694 068 388 380
Passcode:vR65Gq6W

Thank you!
Natasha
--

Natasha Bartolotta

Science & Stewardship Manager

Office*:* (218) 692-LOON (5666)

Direct: (218 692-5669

14303 Gould Street, PO Box 642

Crosslake, MN 56442

*nationallooncenter.org <http://nationallooncenter.org/>*

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Date: 4/4/26 9:46 pm
From: Keith Carlson <keithecarls...>
Subject: [mou-net] Afton State Park Birds
Saw the following during a noon-time hike Sat. 4/4 all on the eastern half
of the Bobolink loop except for the Golden-Crowned Kinglet seen near the
overlook on the trail segment from "t" to "x"..

Juncos
Golden-Crowned Kinglet
Shrike ( I was pretty sure it was a Northern Shrike but it 50 to 75 yards
away from me)
Meadowlark
Turkey Vulture

Keith Carlson
<keithecarls...>

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Date: 4/4/26 1:47 pm
From: Sherry Gray <0000436d53c2070c-dmarc-request...>
Subject: Re: [mou-net] 126th CBC
Wow, Steve, and this is data from Minnesota only, right?
Sherry GraySaint Paul, Minnesota
      __o
     ‘\ <;
( * ) /  ( * )                   



On Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at 06:49:14 PM CDT, Steve Weston <sweston2g...> wrote:

Thank you to the over 2200 birders, which is close to the record high, who
participated in the 126th annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count, despite some
challenging weather conditions. They reported more than 233 thousand birds
of 127 species. Both represent somewhat of a drop from recent counts.

The cold weather earlier in December resulted in many lakes in the state
already frozen and a drop in waterfowl numbers and diversity. In addition
many of the winter species numbers were low including crossbills, siskins,
and longspurs. Still a few like Juncos and Pine Grosbeaks were well
represented in the state. While most common winter residents did not have
unexpected numbers, some of the less common birds were definitely more
widely reported than expected including American Robin, Sharp-shinned Hawk,
Cooper's Hawk, Golden Eagle, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, and Red-winged
Blackbird.

The story of the count was the 28 Eurasian Tree-Sparrow found on 5 counts.
This is up from 3 birds birds a couple of years ago, which shattered the
"casual" designation of species at the time. Later counts at a couple of
the sites indicated that even these numbers were a fraction of the birds at
these locations.

Data entry has been completed with 91 of the 92 counts reporting. The
Philbrook count with over 20 years of counting and Long Prairie count with
over 35 years in central Minnesota will be inactive next year unless a new
compiler can be found. The Philbrook count data was never submitted and I
don't even know if the count was conducted.

A more in depth analysis is in the works.


Steve Weston
On Quigley Lake in Eagan, MN
<sweston2g...>

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Date: 4/4/26 8:32 am
From: Kara Snow <000014e3e51d51c5-dmarc-request...>
Subject: [mou-net] Help researchers at UMN find Pileated Woodpecker nests in Minnesota
NRRI’s Avian Ecology Lab <https://nrri.umn.edu/research/avian-ecology-lab>is
reaching out to birders, naturalists, and amateur ornithologists to help
locate nesting cavities of Pileated Woodpeckers across Minnesota.

The Pileated Woodpecker is a keystone species in our forests. The cavities
they create provide critical habitat for many other wildlife species. By
documenting where they are nesting, we can better understand their habitat
use and help inform conservation and forest management.

You can help us by reporting potential nest cavities!

What to report:
We are looking for active nests. These can be reported using this Google
Form:
PIWO Nest Cavity Documentation
<https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1ipPTf_UyF2CGPXgr4xvbadR5D1m23Bi8xCXp3AOoV9w/edit>(Please
note this requires a Google account.)

What details to include:

-

Location (GPS coordinates or a pinned map location)
-

Photos of the cavity and surrounding habitat, if possible
-

Notes on activity (e.g., feeding behavior, presence of young, signs of
predation, or when the nest becomes inactive)

Where to look:
Pileated Woodpeckers typically nest in large trees that are dead or have
signs of decay. Nest cavities are large, round or slightly oval openings,
unlike the rectangular holes they create while foraging.

Please observe ethically:
Always keep a respectful distance and avoid disturbing nesting birds.

Lab members may follow up with additional questions. In some cases, we may
also coordinate visits to confirmed nest sites in the fall, after nesting
is complete.

If you have questions or would like to share this with your community, feel
free to reach out.

Thank you for helping us better understand and conserve this important
species.

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Date: 3/25/26 4:49 pm
From: Steve Weston <sweston2g...>
Subject: [mou-net] 126th CBC
Thank you to the over 2200 birders, which is close to the record high, who
participated in the 126th annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count, despite some
challenging weather conditions. They reported more than 233 thousand birds
of 127 species. Both represent somewhat of a drop from recent counts.

The cold weather earlier in December resulted in many lakes in the state
already frozen and a drop in waterfowl numbers and diversity. In addition
many of the winter species numbers were low including crossbills, siskins,
and longspurs. Still a few like Juncos and Pine Grosbeaks were well
represented in the state. While most common winter residents did not have
unexpected numbers, some of the less common birds were definitely more
widely reported than expected including American Robin, Sharp-shinned Hawk,
Cooper's Hawk, Golden Eagle, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, and Red-winged
Blackbird.

The story of the count was the 28 Eurasian Tree-Sparrow found on 5 counts.
This is up from 3 birds birds a couple of years ago, which shattered the
"casual" designation of species at the time. Later counts at a couple of
the sites indicated that even these numbers were a fraction of the birds at
these locations.

Data entry has been completed with 91 of the 92 counts reporting. The
Philbrook count with over 20 years of counting and Long Prairie count with
over 35 years in central Minnesota will be inactive next year unless a new
compiler can be found. The Philbrook count data was never submitted and I
don't even know if the count was conducted.

A more in depth analysis is in the works.


Steve Weston
On Quigley Lake in Eagan, MN
<sweston2g...>

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Date: 3/24/26 11:32 am
From: Miller Johnson <johnson-miller...>
Subject: [mou-net] Nesting Red-breasted Nuthatch?
I've had a pair of red-breasted nuthatches overwintering here in Dakota County. Today, one of them was pulling thin strips of "bark" off a cedar tree. I've seen chickadees doing the same for their nests.

I know some birds do some "prep work" before they actually build their nests. What are the odds this pair will stay and nest?

Also, the brown creeper took offense that the red-breasted nuthatch was hanging out in its cedar and chased it away. Does that make the nuthatch's nesting less probable?

Thanks,
Molly Miller
Inver Grove Hts
Dakota Co



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Date: 3/22/26 10:35 pm
From: Steve Weston <sweston2g...>
Subject: [mou-net] MRVAC (Zoom) Meeting this Thursday
he Minnesota River Valley Audubon Chapter (MRVAC) invites you to join us
for:


*John Mittermeier: Director ofthe Search for Lost Birds at
the American Bird Conservancy"The Search for Lost Birds"*
*Thursday, March 26th - 7:30 p.m. (Virtual on Zoom)*

Around the world, close to 120 bird species are currently “lost,” meaning
they are not considered extinct but there has been no confirmed
documentation of their existence in ten or more years. What are these lost
birds, where do they live, and why can’t anyone find them? Do they matter
for conservation? The Search for Lost Birds project is a collaborative
effort by conservation organizations to find these birds. Join John C.
Mittermeier to learn more about this large scale project and the
efforts underway to rediscover bird species around the world.
The Black-naped Pheasant-pigeon (above) was captured only partially on a
trail camera!

*This meeting will be only via Zoom and not in person.* *All MRVAC meetings
are free and open to the public. *

The meeting will be virtual only on Zoom beginning at 7:30 p.m. To join the
Zoom meeting click on this link:
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Date: 3/19/26 5:23 am
From: Gelvin-Innvaer, Lisa A (DNR) <000049809f756d99-dmarc-request...>
Subject: Re: [mou-net] Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles
Both redwing blackbirds and grackles observed in Nicollet Co at least a week ago ( I didn't note the date but it was during the spring-like weather before the snowstorm)
-Lisa Gelvin-Innvaer

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Subject: MOU-NET Digest - 14 Mar 2026 to 18 Mar 2026 (#2026-18)

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There are 8 messages totaling 410 lines in this issue.

Topics of the day:

1. Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles (8)

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Date: Wed, 18 Mar 2026 10:00:08 -0500
From: Tanya Beyer <epiphaniesafield...>
Subject: Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles

It's been on my mind each day lately that this is the first March when I have yet to see a single blackbird. I live way north between Virginia and Cook, but even so had felt that someone in counties to the south would have posted their first of season sighting of our common blackbirds. They have by this time normally come a few at a time to our feeders. Reports are that they're dying off due to neonicotinoid and other pesticides. By now--how drastic is this die-off? How late due to weather are many other spring arrivals?

*Tanya Beyer*

http://www.epiphaniesafield.com/

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Date: Wed, 18 Mar 2026 11:03:28 -0500
From: Dan Ahlman <daahlman...>
Subject: Re: Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles

I have been seeing Red winged black birds regularly in the twin cities. I haven’t seen a grackle yet.
Dan Ahlman

Sent from my iPhone

> On Mar 18, 2026, at 10:00 AM, Tanya Beyer <epiphaniesafield...> wrote:
>
> It's been on my mind each day lately that this is the first March
> when I have yet to see a single blackbird. I live way north between
> Virginia and Cook, but even so had felt that someone in counties to
> the south would have posted their first of season sighting of our
> common blackbirds. They have by this time normally come a few at a
> time to our feeders. Reports are that they're dying off due to
> neonicotinoid and other pesticides. By now--how drastic is this
> die-off? How late due to weather are many other spring arrivals?
>
> *Tanya Beyer*
>
> http://www.e/
> piphaniesafield.com%2F&data=05%7C02%<7CLisa.Gelvin-Innvaer...>
> S%7C3a6a9840d50f4fa2894a08de857474c3%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828
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> 60%3D&reserved=0
>
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> General information and guidelines for posting:
> https://moum/
> n.org%2Flistservice.html&data=05%7C02%<7CLisa.Gelvin-Innvaer...>
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> F0tW9I%3D&reserved=0
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> OvHyxuhNFd2GmXN4%3D&reserved=0

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Date: Wed, 18 Mar 2026 11:08:45 -0500
From: Tanya Beyer <epiphaniesafield...>
Subject: Re: Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles

Interesting. Grackles, as I remember from a piece in Audubon magazine, have suffered massive setbacks due to pesticides. Thanks for your reply.
*Tanya Beyer*

http://www.epiphaniesafield.com/


On Wed, Mar 18, 2026 at 11:03 AM Dan Ahlman <daahlman...> wrote:

> I have been seeing Red winged black birds regularly in the twin
> cities. I haven’t seen a grackle yet.
> Dan Ahlman
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> > On Mar 18, 2026, at 10:00 AM, Tanya Beyer
> > <epiphaniesafield...>
> wrote:
> >
> > It's been on my mind each day lately that this is the first March
> > when I have yet to see a single blackbird. I live way north between
> > Virginia and Cook, but even so had felt that someone in counties to
> > the south would
> have
> > posted their first of season sighting of our common blackbirds. They
> > have by this time normally come a few at a time to our feeders.
> > Reports are
> that
> > they're dying off due to neonicotinoid and other pesticides. By
> > now--how drastic is this die-off? How late due to weather are many
> > other spring arrivals?
> >
> > *Tanya Beyer*
> >
> > http://www/
> > .epiphaniesafield.com%2F&data=05%7C02%7CLisa.Gelvin-Innvaer%40STATE.
> > MN.US%7C3a6a9840d50f4fa2894a08de857474c3%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2
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> > p79WITCQL9hZJpl8%3D&reserved=0
> >
> > ----
> > General information and guidelines for posting:
> https://moum/
> n.org%2Flistservice.html&data=05%7C02%<7CLisa.Gelvin-Innvaer...>
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> N%2BGPrs%3D&reserved=0
> > Archives:
> > http://lis/
> > ts.umn.edu%2Farchives%2Fmou-net.html&data=05%7C02%7CLisa.Gelvin-Innv
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Date: Wed, 18 Mar 2026 11:22:20 -0500
From: Sue Keator <chickadeedee55...>
Subject: Re: Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles

Here in Edina I had FOY Grackle 3/10 and RWBL the 9th.
Sue Keator

On Wed, Mar 18, 2026, 11:03 AM Dan Ahlman < <00004fc1683d3fd8-dmarc-request...> wrote:

> I have been seeing Red winged black birds regularly in the twin
> cities. I haven’t seen a grackle yet.
> Dan Ahlman
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> > On Mar 18, 2026, at 10:00 AM, Tanya Beyer
> > <epiphaniesafield...>
> wrote:
> >
> > It's been on my mind each day lately that this is the first March
> > when I have yet to see a single blackbird. I live way north between
> > Virginia and Cook, but even so had felt that someone in counties to
> > the south would
> have
> > posted their first of season sighting of our common blackbirds. They
> > have by this time normally come a few at a time to our feeders.
> > Reports are
> that
> > they're dying off due to neonicotinoid and other pesticides. By
> > now--how drastic is this die-off? How late due to weather are many
> > other spring arrivals?
> >
> > *Tanya Beyer*
> >
> > http://www/
> > .epiphaniesafield.com%2F&data=05%7C02%7CLisa.Gelvin-Innvaer%40STATE.
> > MN.US%7C3a6a9840d50f4fa2894a08de857474c3%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2
> > 159828c%7C0%7C0%7C639094932384115571%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB
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> > MFvWQ4F8akBo%3D&reserved=0
> >
> > ----
> > General information and guidelines for posting:
> https://moum/
> n.org%2Flistservice.html&data=05%7C02%<7CLisa.Gelvin-Innvaer...>
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> KrGU%3D&reserved=0
> > Archives:
> > http://lis/
> > ts.umn.edu%2Farchives%2Fmou-net.html&data=05%7C02%7CLisa.Gelvin-Innv
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> > JJju1cm4z2Rl15YyIKCnqSFw%3D&reserved=0
>
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> X8%3D&reserved=0
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Date: Wed, 18 Mar 2026 11:38:49 -0500
From: Priscilla Elwell <paelwell97...>
Subject: Re: Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles

I saw a RB nuthatch at my feeder. Before I have only had white breasted ones. I live near the Isles-Ceder lagoon.


On Wed, Mar 18, 2026 at 11:03 AM Dan Ahlman < <00004fc1683d3fd8-dmarc-request...> wrote:

> I have been seeing Red winged black birds regularly in the twin
> cities. I haven’t seen a grackle yet.
> Dan Ahlman
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> > On Mar 18, 2026, at 10:00 AM, Tanya Beyer
> > <epiphaniesafield...>
> wrote:
> >
> > It's been on my mind each day lately that this is the first March
> > when I have yet to see a single blackbird. I live way north between
> > Virginia and Cook, but even so had felt that someone in counties to
> > the south would
> have
> > posted their first of season sighting of our common blackbirds. They
> > have by this time normally come a few at a time to our feeders.
> > Reports are
> that
> > they're dying off due to neonicotinoid and other pesticides. By
> > now--how drastic is this die-off? How late due to weather are many
> > other spring arrivals?
> >
> > *Tanya Beyer*
> >
> > http://www/
> > .epiphaniesafield.com%2F&data=05%7C02%7CLisa.Gelvin-Innvaer%40STATE.
> > MN.US%7C3a6a9840d50f4fa2894a08de857474c3%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2
> > 159828c%7C0%7C0%7C639094932384231191%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB
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> > sIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=NN7lJrZYxSBoCIg1MT6dHbUnsLAObXt
> > OKkmpN%2F5G8Hg%3D&reserved=0
> >
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> https://moum/
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> 4vU4%3D&reserved=0
> > Archives:
> > http://lis/
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> > BhGSb04ih9gHcIFAxtWroIOw%3D&reserved=0
>
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Date: Wed, 18 Mar 2026 12:23:34 -0500
From: linda whyte <birds...>
Subject: Re: Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles

Both Red-winged Blackbirds and occasional Grackles have been showing up in the metro area. At Carpenter Nature Center a huge flock of the former species showed up following our recent snowstorm. They're likely having to adjust their travel-schedule regularly, due to our weather craziness.
Linda Whyte

On Wed, Mar 18, 2026, 10:00 AM Tanya Beyer <epiphaniesafield...>
wrote:

> It's been on my mind each day lately that this is the first March when
> I have yet to see a single blackbird. I live way north between
> Virginia and Cook, but even so had felt that someone in counties to
> the south would have posted their first of season sighting of our
> common blackbirds. They have by this time normally come a few at a
> time to our feeders. Reports are that they're dying off due to
> neonicotinoid and other pesticides. By now--how drastic is this
> die-off? How late due to weather are many other spring arrivals?
>
> *Tanya Beyer*
>
> http://www.e/
> piphaniesafield.com%2F&data=05%7C02%<7CLisa.Gelvin-Innvaer...>
> S%7C3a6a9840d50f4fa2894a08de857474c3%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159828
> c%7C0%7C0%7C639094932384344103%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGk
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> DM%3D&reserved=0
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting:
> https://moum/
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> 40STATE.MN.US%7C3a6a9840d50f4fa2894a08de857474c3%7Ceb14b04624c445198f2
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> rOv72nHRANJk%3D&reserved=0
>

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------------------------------

Date: Wed, 18 Mar 2026 12:42:41 -0500
From: Tanya Beyer <epiphaniesafield...>
Subject: Re: Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles

Thanks for the info!
*Tanya Beyer*

http://www.epiphaniesafield.com/


On Wed, Mar 18, 2026 at 12:23 PM linda whyte <birds...> wrote:

> Both Red-winged Blackbirds and occasional Grackles have been showing
> up in the metro area. At Carpenter Nature Center a huge flock of the
> former species showed up following our recent snowstorm. They're
> likely having to adjust their travel-schedule regularly, due to our weather craziness.
> Linda Whyte
>
> On Wed, Mar 18, 2026, 10:00 AM Tanya Beyer
> <epiphaniesafield...>
> wrote:
>
>> It's been on my mind each day lately that this is the first March
>> when I have yet to see a single blackbird. I live way north between
>> Virginia and Cook, but even so had felt that someone in counties to
>> the south would have posted their first of season sighting of our
>> common blackbirds. They have by this time normally come a few at a
>> time to our feeders. Reports are that they're dying off due to
>> neonicotinoid and other pesticides. By now--how drastic is this
>> die-off? How late due to weather are many other spring arrivals?
>>
>> *Tanya Beyer*
>>
>> http://www/.
>> epiphaniesafield.com%2F&data=05%7C02%<7CLisa.Gelvin-Innvaer...>
>> .US%7C3a6a9840d50f4fa2894a08de857474c3%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2159
>> 828c%7C0%7C0%7C639094932384440984%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1
>> hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldU
>> IjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=owesv0TJqrBEZT%2FWr6w%2FYShxCXVuRzPvN
>> CFFagNTYTw%3D&reserved=0
>>
>> ----
>> General information and guidelines for posting:
>> https://mou/
>> mn.org%2Flistservice.html&data=05%7C02%7CLisa.Gelvin-Innvaer%40STATE.
>> MN.US%7C3a6a9840d50f4fa2894a08de857474c3%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c21
>> 59828c%7C0%7C0%7C639094932384457021%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0e
>> U1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIl
>> dUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=bJ3SUGYFJDERPsHclM78PHyrW%2BcLURbKt
>> 1Tt79YVkOo%3D&reserved=0
>> Archives:
>> http://list/
>> s.umn.edu%2Farchives%2Fmou-net.html&data=05%7C02%7CLisa.Gelvin-Innvae
>> <r...>%7C3a6a9840d50f4fa2894a08de857474c3%7Ceb14b04624c44519
>> 8f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C639094932384472627%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d
>> 8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoi
>> TWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=jV7jA%2FlLPsUuh%2FqBba%2F
>> JhEdC8Mr8HVi9aVIB2fddHUw%3D&reserved=0
>>
>

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------------------------------

Date: Wed, 18 Mar 2026 15:56:05 -0500
From: john nelson <dsgabaska...>
Subject: Re: Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles

Had large flock of Red-Winged BB with a few Grackles clean up my feeders Monday and Tuesday and just a few this morning in rural Blue Earth County.

On Wed, Mar 18, 2026 at 12:23 PM linda whyte < <0000004e7b0e779a-dmarc-request...> wrote:

> Both Red-winged Blackbirds and occasional Grackles have been showing
> up in the metro area. At Carpenter Nature Center a huge flock of the
> former species showed up following our recent snowstorm. They're
> likely having to adjust their travel-schedule regularly, due to our weather craziness.
> Linda Whyte
>
> On Wed, Mar 18, 2026, 10:00 AM Tanya Beyer
> <epiphaniesafield...>
> wrote:
>
> > It's been on my mind each day lately that this is the first March
> > when I have yet to see a single blackbird. I live way north between
> > Virginia and Cook, but even so had felt that someone in counties to
> > the south would
> have
> > posted their first of season sighting of our common blackbirds. They
> > have by this time normally come a few at a time to our feeders.
> > Reports are
> that
> > they're dying off due to neonicotinoid and other pesticides. By
> > now--how drastic is this die-off? How late due to weather are many
> > other spring arrivals?
> >
> > *Tanya Beyer*
> >
> > http://www/
> > .epiphaniesafield.com%2F&data=05%7C02%7CLisa.Gelvin-Innvaer%40STATE.
> > MN.US%7C3a6a9840d50f4fa2894a08de857474c3%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c2
> > 159828c%7C0%7C0%7C639094932384519889%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB
> > 0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCI
> > sIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ClCz7jwHOWtwD2L4y7WCplunmxXmYtx
> > JPQiPAYolX8c%3D&reserved=0
> >
> > ----
> > General information and guidelines for posting:
> > https://mo/
> > umn.org%2Flistservice.html&data=05%7C02%7CLisa.Gelvin-Innvaer%40STAT
> > E.MN.US%7C3a6a9840d50f4fa2894a08de857474c3%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89
> > c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C639094932384535446%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFb
> > XB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpb
> > CIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=Z1UE%2FWfgSHeCdWhPtQvhIOq7AqF
> > Py95SIjy9Sl9yoAE%3D&reserved=0
> > Archives:
> > http://lis/
> > ts.umn.edu%2Farchives%2Fmou-net.html&data=05%7C02%7CLisa.Gelvin-Innv
> > <aer...>%7C3a6a9840d50f4fa2894a08de857474c3%7Ceb14b04624c44
> > 5198f26b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C639094932384551511%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZ
> > sb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkF
> > OIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=4ZM4TEYnMm3Ar3TF%2F
> > AUBlsy3lmoXBry0bIEaIbwiCDU%3D&reserved=0
> >
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting:
> https://moum/
> n.org%2Flistservice.html&data=05%7C02%<7CLisa.Gelvin-Innvaer...>
> .US%7C3a6a9840d50f4fa2894a08de857474c3%7Ceb14b04624c445198f26b89c21598
> 28c%7C0%7C0%7C639094932384567656%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hc
> GkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjo
> yfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=%2F9%2FsjesgHEVuGJ7XzkwbLVjSYH1OjgKroNlSq
> D6XCDM%3D&reserved=0
> Archives:
> http://lists/
> .umn.edu%2Farchives%2Fmou-net.html&data=05%7C02%7CLisa.Gelvin-Innvaer%
> 40STATE.MN.US%7C3a6a9840d50f4fa2894a08de857474c3%7Ceb14b04624c445198f2
> 6b89c2159828c%7C0%7C0%7C639094932384584240%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJ
> FbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpb
> CIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=A4Fc9l4fM1tlHcg%2BQ%2FX5q1s0hNm
> hfP2OpxAhiRn%2B9I0%3D&reserved=0
>

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------------------------------

End of MOU-NET Digest - 14 Mar 2026 to 18 Mar 2026 (#2026-18)
*************************************************************

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Date: 3/18/26 1:56 pm
From: john nelson <dsgabaska...>
Subject: Re: [mou-net] Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles
Had large flock of Red-Winged BB with a few Grackles clean up my feeders
Monday and Tuesday and just a few this morning in rural Blue Earth County.

On Wed, Mar 18, 2026 at 12:23 PM linda whyte <
<0000004e7b0e779a-dmarc-request...> wrote:

> Both Red-winged Blackbirds and occasional Grackles have been showing up in
> the metro area. At Carpenter Nature Center a huge flock of the former
> species showed up following our recent snowstorm. They're likely having to
> adjust their travel-schedule regularly, due to our weather craziness.
> Linda Whyte
>
> On Wed, Mar 18, 2026, 10:00 AM Tanya Beyer <epiphaniesafield...>
> wrote:
>
> > It's been on my mind each day lately that this is the first March when I
> > have yet to see a single blackbird. I live way north between Virginia and
> > Cook, but even so had felt that someone in counties to the south would
> have
> > posted their first of season sighting of our common blackbirds. They have
> > by this time normally come a few at a time to our feeders. Reports are
> that
> > they're dying off due to neonicotinoid and other pesticides. By now--how
> > drastic is this die-off? How late due to weather are many other spring
> > arrivals?
> >
> > *Tanya Beyer*
> >
> > http://www.epiphaniesafield.com
> >
> > ----
> > General information and guidelines for posting:
> > https://moumn.org/listservice.html
> > Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html
> >
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting:
> https://moumn.org/listservice.html
> Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html
>

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Date: 3/18/26 10:42 am
From: Tanya Beyer <epiphaniesafield...>
Subject: Re: [mou-net] Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles
Thanks for the info!
*Tanya Beyer*

http://www.epiphaniesafield.com


On Wed, Mar 18, 2026 at 12:23 PM linda whyte <birds...> wrote:

> Both Red-winged Blackbirds and occasional Grackles have been showing up in
> the metro area. At Carpenter Nature Center a huge flock of the former
> species showed up following our recent snowstorm. They're likely having to
> adjust their travel-schedule regularly, due to our weather craziness.
> Linda Whyte
>
> On Wed, Mar 18, 2026, 10:00 AM Tanya Beyer <epiphaniesafield...>
> wrote:
>
>> It's been on my mind each day lately that this is the first March when I
>> have yet to see a single blackbird. I live way north between Virginia and
>> Cook, but even so had felt that someone in counties to the south would
>> have
>> posted their first of season sighting of our common blackbirds. They have
>> by this time normally come a few at a time to our feeders. Reports are
>> that
>> they're dying off due to neonicotinoid and other pesticides. By now--how
>> drastic is this die-off? How late due to weather are many other spring
>> arrivals?
>>
>> *Tanya Beyer*
>>
>> http://www.epiphaniesafield.com
>>
>> ----
>> General information and guidelines for posting:
>> https://moumn.org/listservice.html
>> Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html
>>
>

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Date: 3/18/26 10:23 am
From: linda whyte <0000004e7b0e779a-dmarc-request...>
Subject: Re: [mou-net] Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles
Both Red-winged Blackbirds and occasional Grackles have been showing up in
the metro area. At Carpenter Nature Center a huge flock of the former
species showed up following our recent snowstorm. They're likely having to
adjust their travel-schedule regularly, due to our weather craziness.
Linda Whyte

On Wed, Mar 18, 2026, 10:00 AM Tanya Beyer <epiphaniesafield...>
wrote:

> It's been on my mind each day lately that this is the first March when I
> have yet to see a single blackbird. I live way north between Virginia and
> Cook, but even so had felt that someone in counties to the south would have
> posted their first of season sighting of our common blackbirds. They have
> by this time normally come a few at a time to our feeders. Reports are that
> they're dying off due to neonicotinoid and other pesticides. By now--how
> drastic is this die-off? How late due to weather are many other spring
> arrivals?
>
> *Tanya Beyer*
>
> http://www.epiphaniesafield.com
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting:
> https://moumn.org/listservice.html
> Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html
>

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Date: 3/18/26 9:39 am
From: Priscilla Elwell <paelwell97...>
Subject: Re: [mou-net] Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles
I saw a RB nuthatch at my feeder. Before I have only had white
breasted ones. I live near the Isles-Ceder lagoon.


On Wed, Mar 18, 2026 at 11:03 AM Dan Ahlman <
<00004fc1683d3fd8-dmarc-request...> wrote:

> I have been seeing Red winged black birds regularly in the twin cities. I
> haven’t seen a grackle yet.
> Dan Ahlman
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> > On Mar 18, 2026, at 10:00 AM, Tanya Beyer <epiphaniesafield...>
> wrote:
> >
> > It's been on my mind each day lately that this is the first March when I
> > have yet to see a single blackbird. I live way north between Virginia and
> > Cook, but even so had felt that someone in counties to the south would
> have
> > posted their first of season sighting of our common blackbirds. They have
> > by this time normally come a few at a time to our feeders. Reports are
> that
> > they're dying off due to neonicotinoid and other pesticides. By now--how
> > drastic is this die-off? How late due to weather are many other spring
> > arrivals?
> >
> > *Tanya Beyer*
> >
> > http://www.epiphaniesafield.com
> >
> > ----
> > General information and guidelines for posting:
> https://moumn.org/listservice.html
> > Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting:
> https://moumn.org/listservice.html
> Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html
>

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Date: 3/18/26 9:22 am
From: Sue Keator <chickadeedee55...>
Subject: Re: [mou-net] Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles
Here in Edina I had FOY Grackle 3/10 and RWBL the 9th.
Sue Keator

On Wed, Mar 18, 2026, 11:03 AM Dan Ahlman <
<00004fc1683d3fd8-dmarc-request...> wrote:

> I have been seeing Red winged black birds regularly in the twin cities. I
> haven’t seen a grackle yet.
> Dan Ahlman
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> > On Mar 18, 2026, at 10:00 AM, Tanya Beyer <epiphaniesafield...>
> wrote:
> >
> > It's been on my mind each day lately that this is the first March when I
> > have yet to see a single blackbird. I live way north between Virginia and
> > Cook, but even so had felt that someone in counties to the south would
> have
> > posted their first of season sighting of our common blackbirds. They have
> > by this time normally come a few at a time to our feeders. Reports are
> that
> > they're dying off due to neonicotinoid and other pesticides. By now--how
> > drastic is this die-off? How late due to weather are many other spring
> > arrivals?
> >
> > *Tanya Beyer*
> >
> > http://www.epiphaniesafield.com
> >
> > ----
> > General information and guidelines for posting:
> https://moumn.org/listservice.html
> > Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting:
> https://moumn.org/listservice.html
> Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html
>

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Date: 3/18/26 9:09 am
From: Tanya Beyer <epiphaniesafield...>
Subject: Re: [mou-net] Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles
Interesting. Grackles, as I remember from a piece in Audubon magazine, have
suffered massive setbacks due to pesticides. Thanks for your reply.
*Tanya Beyer*

http://www.epiphaniesafield.com


On Wed, Mar 18, 2026 at 11:03 AM Dan Ahlman <daahlman...> wrote:

> I have been seeing Red winged black birds regularly in the twin cities. I
> haven’t seen a grackle yet.
> Dan Ahlman
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> > On Mar 18, 2026, at 10:00 AM, Tanya Beyer <epiphaniesafield...>
> wrote:
> >
> > It's been on my mind each day lately that this is the first March when I
> > have yet to see a single blackbird. I live way north between Virginia and
> > Cook, but even so had felt that someone in counties to the south would
> have
> > posted their first of season sighting of our common blackbirds. They have
> > by this time normally come a few at a time to our feeders. Reports are
> that
> > they're dying off due to neonicotinoid and other pesticides. By now--how
> > drastic is this die-off? How late due to weather are many other spring
> > arrivals?
> >
> > *Tanya Beyer*
> >
> > http://www.epiphaniesafield.com
> >
> > ----
> > General information and guidelines for posting:
> https://moumn.org/listservice.html
> > Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html
>
>

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Date: 3/18/26 9:03 am
From: Dan Ahlman <00004fc1683d3fd8-dmarc-request...>
Subject: Re: [mou-net] Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles
I have been seeing Red winged black birds regularly in the twin cities. I haven’t seen a grackle yet.
Dan Ahlman

Sent from my iPhone

> On Mar 18, 2026, at 10:00 AM, Tanya Beyer <epiphaniesafield...> wrote:
>
> It's been on my mind each day lately that this is the first March when I
> have yet to see a single blackbird. I live way north between Virginia and
> Cook, but even so had felt that someone in counties to the south would have
> posted their first of season sighting of our common blackbirds. They have
> by this time normally come a few at a time to our feeders. Reports are that
> they're dying off due to neonicotinoid and other pesticides. By now--how
> drastic is this die-off? How late due to weather are many other spring
> arrivals?
>
> *Tanya Beyer*
>
> http://www.epiphaniesafield.com
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting: https://moumn.org/listservice.html
> Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

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Date: 3/18/26 8:00 am
From: Tanya Beyer <epiphaniesafield...>
Subject: [mou-net] Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles
It's been on my mind each day lately that this is the first March when I
have yet to see a single blackbird. I live way north between Virginia and
Cook, but even so had felt that someone in counties to the south would have
posted their first of season sighting of our common blackbirds. They have
by this time normally come a few at a time to our feeders. Reports are that
they're dying off due to neonicotinoid and other pesticides. By now--how
drastic is this die-off? How late due to weather are many other spring
arrivals?

*Tanya Beyer*

http://www.epiphaniesafield.com

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Date: 3/14/26 8:57 am
From: Matt Hoberg <mhoberg1...>
Subject: [mou-net] MOU Field Trip: Rapids Lake/Louisville Swamp April 25
*April 25*
*8 AM*

William Marengo will lead a field trip to the Rapids Lake unit of the
Minnesota Valley NWR and Louisville Swamp. We’ll spend the morning hiking
the trails at the Rapids Lake unit. Then break for lunch, meet at the
trailhead and parking area near the Renaissance Festival and spend the
afternoon hiking the Louisville Swamp unit.
We’re on the very edge of spring songbird migration. This outing isn’t
geared toward any specific species but just an opportunity to see what
early migrants have arrived. We’ll look for grassland and deciduous wood
species. If the conditions are good we should see some hawk migration along
the river valley and waterfowl should still be present on Rapids Lake and
the “swamp” at Louisville.
For more information and registration (required), visit the registration
page
<https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F48A9AC2FA5FFCE9-62234486-rapids#/>.

To see all upcoming field trips, please visit the MOU Field Trips website
<https://moumn.org/avian/field_trips.php>.

Matt Hoberg
MOU Field Trip Committee Chair

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