Date: 5/15/24 11:59 am From: linda whyte <0000004e7b0e779a-dmarc-request...> Subject: [mou-net] Lark Sparrow, Dakota C, 140th st. Marsh
A very cooperative Lark Sparrow was foraging the roadside of the marsh late this morning, giving ample time to examine its harlequin facial pattern and colors. I had just been to Spring Lake Park Reserve on Pine Bend Trail, looking for this species without success, though it was a treat to hear Orchard Oriole singing there. At the marsh, I stopped to look at a Yellow Warbler on the fence. Two Lark Sparrows appeared on the edge of the road in front of the car. One entered the grass, but the other remained in the road, seeming on high alert, for a few minutes until I drove off. It seems the compromised habitat can still hold some pleasant surprises Linda Whyte
Date: 5/15/24 8:24 am From: Kathryn Rudd <katdantz...> Subject: [mou-net] Great Blue Heron
Sent from my iPhone
> A Great Blue Heron has been visiting our pond this morning, much to the consternation of several Red Wing Blackbirds and Blue Jays. It just flew away to better hunting wetlands.
Kathryn Rudd Eagan - Dakota
>
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> During the pandemic, the MOU encourages you to stay safe, practice social distancing, and continue to bird responsibly.
On Sunday I had a pair of Red-headed Woodpeckers copulating at Parkers Picnic Grounds in Bloomington. Habitat is oak savannah, so there is a good chance they will stick around. Lots of other good birds. Steve Weston On Quigley Lake in Eagan, MN <sweston2g...>
Date: 5/14/24 2:39 pm From: Michael Koutnik <m.a.koutnik...> Subject: Re: [mou-net] Red-headed Woodpecker and more, Dakota C, Rachel Lilly Preserve
This is awesome. My daughter and I were out at the Lilly Preserve Sunday
morning and also recorded over 30 species, though a dozen or so different
than your list. For instance, no red-headed. But we did see a scarlet
tanager.
Mike Koutnik
On Tue, May 14, 2024 at 12:35 PM linda whyte <
<0000004e7b0e779a-dmarc-request...> wrote:
> At Rachel Lilly Preserve this morning, a Red-headed Woodpecker was scouting
> the recently burned main prairie, to the delight of the St. Paul Audubon
> group I was leading. Originally, it was spotted in the oak trees on the
> west side of the stream before flying off. At that point the walk was due
> to end, so many folks headed back toward the cars, but a few stuck with me,
> in hopes of better views and also an actual look at the vociferous but
> elusive Brown Thrasher. The lingering birders were not disappointed on
> either count.
> Heading south parallel to the stream with the greening prairie on our west,
> we were treated to repeated performances of the Red-Headed
> Woodpecker's survey. It flew from one isolated shrub to another, seeming
> to glean food from the slender trunks. Between trees, it would drop briefly
> into the growing grasses; we couldn't have asked for more or better views.
> Apparently, the recent burn made the habitat worth at least a visit by the
> species, so kudos to Dodge Nature Center and its volunteers.
> As for the Brown Thrasher, we did finally see it, on the south side of the
> main prairie, bordering the north side of the lake. It flew from upper
> canopy down into shrubs on the hillside, where it was joined by another,
> possibly a mate. Meanwhile, we had seen more waterfowl from the lake dock,
> which had Wood Ducks, as well as Blue-winged Teal.
> As with the Baltimore Oriole, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Tennessee Warbler,
> and Common Yellowthroat, the Thrasher was only briefly viewed, though often
> heard. More cooperative species included Indigo Bunting, Olive-sided
> Flycatcher, Eastern Wood Pewee, Eastern Kingbird, Eastern Bluebird,
> American Redstart, Tree Swallow, Chipping Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Gray
> Catbird, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, and Wild Turkey. There were flyovers by
> Bald Eagle, Broad-winged Hawk, Green Heron and, for the last few birders,
> American Pelican. Some species were heard only, like Eastern Phoebe, Yellow
> and Chestnut-sided Warblers, Nashville and Tennessee Warblers, and Red-eyed
> Vireo.
> There were other, more common and expected, species noted as well, bringing
> the species total to over 30. Thanks to the great group of birders, who
> made this hike so productive and fun !
> Linda Whyte
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting:
> https://moumn.org/listservice.html > Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html >
> During the pandemic, the MOU encourages you to stay safe, practice social
> distancing, and continue to bird responsibly.
>
--
Mike Koutnik
Mobile: 612-963-5551
<m.a.koutnik...>
LinkedIn: mkoutnik
Date: 5/14/24 10:35 am From: linda whyte <0000004e7b0e779a-dmarc-request...> Subject: [mou-net] Red-headed Woodpecker and more, Dakota C, Rachel Lilly Preserve
At Rachel Lilly Preserve this morning, a Red-headed Woodpecker was scouting the recently burned main prairie, to the delight of the St. Paul Audubon group I was leading. Originally, it was spotted in the oak trees on the west side of the stream before flying off. At that point the walk was due to end, so many folks headed back toward the cars, but a few stuck with me, in hopes of better views and also an actual look at the vociferous but elusive Brown Thrasher. The lingering birders were not disappointed on either count. Heading south parallel to the stream with the greening prairie on our west, we were treated to repeated performances of the Red-Headed Woodpecker's survey. It flew from one isolated shrub to another, seeming to glean food from the slender trunks. Between trees, it would drop briefly into the growing grasses; we couldn't have asked for more or better views. Apparently, the recent burn made the habitat worth at least a visit by the species, so kudos to Dodge Nature Center and its volunteers. As for the Brown Thrasher, we did finally see it, on the south side of the main prairie, bordering the north side of the lake. It flew from upper canopy down into shrubs on the hillside, where it was joined by another, possibly a mate. Meanwhile, we had seen more waterfowl from the lake dock, which had Wood Ducks, as well as Blue-winged Teal. As with the Baltimore Oriole, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Tennessee Warbler, and Common Yellowthroat, the Thrasher was only briefly viewed, though often heard. More cooperative species included Indigo Bunting, Olive-sided Flycatcher, Eastern Wood Pewee, Eastern Kingbird, Eastern Bluebird, American Redstart, Tree Swallow, Chipping Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Gray Catbird, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, and Wild Turkey. There were flyovers by Bald Eagle, Broad-winged Hawk, Green Heron and, for the last few birders, American Pelican. Some species were heard only, like Eastern Phoebe, Yellow and Chestnut-sided Warblers, Nashville and Tennessee Warblers, and Red-eyed Vireo. There were other, more common and expected, species noted as well, bringing the species total to over 30. Thanks to the great group of birders, who made this hike so productive and fun ! Linda Whyte
Date: 5/14/24 9:17 am From: Victory Lewis <azvegasvic...> Subject: [mou-net] Westwood Bird Walk
Hi Birders,
We will have a Bird Walk Thursday May 16 At8:00 AM at Westwood Nature Center in St Louis Park!
Meet in Parking Lot! Lots of spring Migrants have arrived! Hope to see lots of Birder Friends! Everyone is welcome!
VIC Lewis Avid Birder!
Sent from my iPhone
----
General information and guidelines for posting: https://moumn.org/listservice.html Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html
During the pandemic, the MOU encourages you to stay safe, practice social distancing, and continue to bird responsibly.
Date: 5/13/24 1:00 pm From: MOU <mou...> Subject: [mou-net] DNR requesting help with Wild Turkey and Ring-necked Pheasant Observations
(Posted by Mike North <michael.north...> via moumn.org)
Starting this year, the Minnesota DNR is asking that individuals who observe wild turkey and wild pheasants during the summer to report their observations. This community science effort is intended to help the DNR monitor wild populations of ring-necked pheasants and wild turkeys throughout Minnesota. In particular, we are hoping to better inform our annual productivity estimates. This information, along with other monitoring programs, helps biologists better track trends in the distribution and abundance of pheasants and turkeys across the state.
This survey asks you to report observations of wild turkeys and wild ring-necked pheasants. In doing so, we ask for: • The date and location of the observation. • The number of birds seen of each species for different age and sex classifications (young, adult, male, female, etc.) • If you choose to, you can submit a picture of the birds in your observation. This is entirely optional and not necessary to complete the survey. • If you choose to, you can submit your name and an email address, and you will receive follow-up communication about survey results and reminders about participation in future years. ONLY INDIVIDUALS 18 OR OLDER should submit their name and email address. It is not necessary to provide this information. If you are under 18 or do not wish to share this information, you do not have to in order to complete the survey. For 2024, you must be connected to the internet to complete this survey., though you can complete it using a PC or a mobile device. • You must have internet access to complete the survey. You can access the survey by following the link on the MN DNR Wildlife Sightings Web Page (https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/wildlife/sightings/index.html) or by scanning the QR code using the camera on your mobile device. Please let me know if you have any questions!
Thanks,
Nate Huck, CWB® Resident Game Bird Specialist Minnesota Department of Natural Resources 1601 Minnesota Dr Brainerd, Minnesota 56401 Phone: 218-203-4311 Email: <nathaniel.huck...> mndnr.gov
Date: 5/8/24 4:00 pm From: Trey Weaver <trweaver89...> Subject: [mou-net] *Field Trip Opportunity- May 19th, Stanley Eddie Regional Park w/Tony Lau
Hello,
Please see below for another fantastic field trip opportunity!
Join Tony Lau for a morning hike through the deciduous woods at Stanley Eddy Park Reserve (South Unit). During this time of year, we can expect to find many breeding species, most notably Cerulean Warbler, but migrants will also be passing through.
Meeting time/place: 7AM at the trailhead off of Rhoades Ave NW (CR2). This site is located due South of the town of South Haven. More details on location and google maps link in the registration page.
Duration: 3+ hours and about 3 miles.
Conditions: The hike will include moderate to steep inclines, but on well maintained trails, so plan accordingly with proper footware.
Restrooms: There is pit toilet at the trailhead where the group will be meeting.
Date: 5/8/24 8:37 am From: Steve Weston <sweston2g...> Subject: Re: [mou-net] This weekend northeast Metro?
Hi Missy,
You are welcome to join us down at Hok-si-Lah just this side of Lake City
on Saturday at 7:30am for MRVAC's annual Hok-si-Lah warbler field trip. I
have been leading this walk for some 25 years. It is free and open to the
public with no reservations taken. The trails are wide and mostly level,
easy walking. In some places the tree canopy is at eye level making for
easy viewing. Bring a lunch if you want to join us as we hike out to Sand
Point in nearby Frontenac State Park. This area is open access without a
state park permit.
Steve Weston
On Quigley Lake in Eagan, MN
<sweston2g...>
On Tue, May 7, 2024 at 9:53 PM Missy Bowen <missybowen...> wrote:
> Trips planned? Fri, Sat or Sun? Anyone going out? I have had my head deep
> in work out of state for the last few weeks and surely missed notices.
>
> My plan thus far is to check warbler/riparian migrant action at my cabin on
> the St. Croix river then head to William O'Brien for chestnut sided
> warblers and other higher ground action unless there's a better offer...or
> if folks want to join in.
> Missy Bowen
> Marine on St. Croix
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting:
> https://moumn.org/listservice.html > Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html >
> During the pandemic, the MOU encourages you to stay safe, practice social
> distancing, and continue to bird responsibly.
>
Trips planned? Fri, Sat or Sun? Anyone going out? I have had my head deep in work out of state for the last few weeks and surely missed notices.
My plan thus far is to check warbler/riparian migrant action at my cabin on the St. Croix river then head to William O'Brien for chestnut sided warblers and other higher ground action unless there's a better offer...or if folks want to join in. Missy Bowen Marine on St. Croix
That’s amazing, Steve! Thanks for sharing those videos. While watching the video of the solo Pine Warbler visiting your hand, was it a chilly day? It looks to me like it is enjoying warming up in your hand. 😊
Kathryn in Eagan, Dakota County
Get Outlook for iOS<https://aka.ms/o0ukef> ________________________________
From: Minnesota Birds <MOU-NET...> on behalf of Steve Wilson <clevergrayjay...>
Sent: Tuesday, May 7, 2024 12:33:45 PM
To: <MOU-NET...> <MOU-NET...>
Subject: [mou-net] Hand-feeding Warblers
Until recently, I didn't realize how many bird species would eat from my
hand, including warblers. Last year a pine warbler ate peanuts from my hand
five minutes after I tried. This year two yellow-rumped warblers were doing
the same within a few hours of showing up at the feeder. They don't always
come in that readily; inclement weather helps. Here are a few videos I took
within the last several days to illustrate what I'm talking about.
One video has spectacular closeups of a male pine warbler eating out of my
hand, and what happens when it suspects an avian predator may be nearby:
This one's too long, I know, but for those of you not experiencing the
purple finch takeover of some NE MN feeders, just glancing at it gives you
an idea of the crazy number of purple finches we've had at our feeders
lately, how much some of us are spending on sunflower seeds, and why I had
to resort to the method in the previous video:
Other species that have eaten from my hand include black-capped chickadee,
red-breasted nuthatch, gray jay, pine siskin, American goldfinch, common
redpoll, pine grosbeak, evening grosbeak, dark-eyed junco, and just today,
blue jay. Several days ago a boreal chickadee plucked a peanut from a small
dish held in my hand, but I haven't succeeded in having it feed directly
from my hand. I highly recommend adding this technique to a feeding regime;
it can't be beat for fun.
Date: 5/7/24 10:34 am From: Steve Wilson <clevergrayjay...> Subject: [mou-net] Hand-feeding Warblers
Until recently, I didn't realize how many bird species would eat from my hand, including warblers. Last year a pine warbler ate peanuts from my hand five minutes after I tried. This year two yellow-rumped warblers were doing the same within a few hours of showing up at the feeder. They don't always come in that readily; inclement weather helps. Here are a few videos I took within the last several days to illustrate what I'm talking about.
One video has spectacular closeups of a male pine warbler eating out of my hand, and what happens when it suspects an avian predator may be nearby:
This one's too long, I know, but for those of you not experiencing the purple finch takeover of some NE MN feeders, just glancing at it gives you an idea of the crazy number of purple finches we've had at our feeders lately, how much some of us are spending on sunflower seeds, and why I had to resort to the method in the previous video:
Other species that have eaten from my hand include black-capped chickadee, red-breasted nuthatch, gray jay, pine siskin, American goldfinch, common redpoll, pine grosbeak, evening grosbeak, dark-eyed junco, and just today, blue jay. Several days ago a boreal chickadee plucked a peanut from a small dish held in my hand, but I haven't succeeded in having it feed directly from my hand. I highly recommend adding this technique to a feeding regime; it can't be beat for fun.
Date: 5/7/24 10:06 am From: Michael Koutnik <m.a.koutnik...> Subject: Re: [mou-net] More migrators in our trees!
Also in Eagan, house wrens have returned for another year to our humble
bird house.
Mike Koutnik
On Tue, May 7, 2024 at 11:47 AM Kathryn Rudd <katdantz...> wrote:
> The past couple of days have brought a White Throated Sparrow, Rose
> Breasted Grosbeak, Catbird, and several Baltimore Orioles to our feeders,
> as well as a regular Piliated Woodpecker, Wood Duck pair, and waay too many
> Canada Geese. No hummingbirds yet.
> Kathryn Rudd, Eagan - Dakota County
>
> Get Outlook for iOS<https://aka.ms/o0ukef> >
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting:
> https://moumn.org/listservice.html > Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html >
> During the pandemic, the MOU encourages you to stay safe, practice social
> distancing, and continue to bird responsibly.
>
--
Mike Koutnik
Mobile: 612-963-5551
<m.a.koutnik...>
LinkedIn: mkoutnik
Date: 5/7/24 9:47 am From: Kathryn Rudd <katdantz...> Subject: [mou-net] More migrators in our trees!
The past couple of days have brought a White Throated Sparrow, Rose Breasted Grosbeak, Catbird, and several Baltimore Orioles to our feeders, as well as a regular Piliated Woodpecker, Wood Duck pair, and waay too many Canada Geese. No hummingbirds yet.
Kathryn Rudd, Eagan - Dakota County
Date: 5/5/24 9:04 pm From: Gordon Andersson <gpandersson...> Subject: [mou-net] Chimney Swifts return to St Paul from the Amazon Basin
About a week ago, I heard and saw a large swarm of Swifts in wide circles above the Global Arts School (former Monroe School) in St Paul at 810 Palace St and E-W street After the rains on Sat and Sunday evenings they are active again. They roost in the school chimney at night and began to swarm at about 8:30 pm. The best viewing is on the north side of the school on Palace. The school is bounded by Fulton St on the E and View street on the W.
They have been using this chimney for about 20 yrs or so. As the days lengthen they will go to roost later. You will hear their chittering calls before you see them.
Date: 5/5/24 2:30 pm From: Trey Weaver <trweaver89...> Subject: [mou-net] *Field Trip Opportunity- May 18th, Ney Nature Center w/William Marengo
Hello all,
Join us as we explore this under-birded area of the Minnesota River valley. Ney Nature Center has a variety of habitats: wooded ravines, a mix of mature hardwoods and conifers, open fields/grasslands, Minnesota River valley bluffs and nearby wetlands. This should provide us with a respectable list in mid-May.
Meeting place: 7:30am at the Education Building & Office parking area. From HWY169, turn West onto County Road 19 and go for about 1 1/4 miles and turn left onto Nature Center Lane, the Education and Visitor Center will be on your right. Click the address in the "location" below for a google map link to the meeting location.
Duration: We will spend a full morning here as we loop through the trails at Ney Nature Center. Plan on roughly four hours of hiking.
Conditions: All trails are well maintained and the Ravine Trail, which has some of the best birding potential, is somewhat steep in two areas. Expect two shallow stream crossings and if conditions have been wet, expect some mud. So wear appropriate footgear.
A second location after the morning hike is to be decided, call it a surprise! Most assuredly you will be in good hands wherever William decides to go after this.
Date: 5/3/24 1:56 pm From: linda whyte <0000004e7b0e779a-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: [mou-net] Salt Lake Weekend 2024 - Final Tally - 130 species
And special thanks to you, too, Jason, for heading up this year's fun !
Making arrangements, keeping things organized, plus leading caravans, takes
Herculean effort, so we're all indebted to you!
Linda Whyte
On Fri, May 3, 2024 at 8:12 AM Jason Frank <jmfrank84...> wrote:
> Hello Birders,
>
>
>
> Our final tally for the Salt Lake Birding Weekend can be found here:
>
>
>
> https://moumn.org/saltlake/ >
>
>
> We had 130 species this year, with upwards of 150 birders canvassing the
> Lac qui Parle/Big Stone region. Morning weather was tough, but lots of
> shorebirds started showing up after lunch, with Salt Lake being one of the
> highlights. There we found Wilson’s Phalaropes, with Stilt Sandpipers and
> Long-billed Dowitchers feeding side-by-side. All five of our core Grebe
> species were located, with multiple pairs of courting Western Grebes
> spotted in the Refuge and on the scattered potholes lakes of Big Stone
> County. Other highlights included Sandhill Cranes, a Spotted Towhee in Big
> Stone National Wildlife Refuge. Snowy and Cattle Egrets, along with
> Black-necked Stilts, were located on Sunday.
>
>
>
> Shorebird migration is now peaking in the area, and there is even more
> standing water in the fields than there was last weekend.
>
>
>
> Thanks again to all of our participating birders, my fellow guides Ken
> Larson, Steve Weston, and Trey Weaver, and to the cities of Marietta and
> Madison, the Marietta Legion Auxiliary, Madison Mercantile and Kris
> Shelstad, and the Sons of Norway Lodge for hosting and feeding us.
>
>
>
>
>
> Jason Frank
>
> Ortonville MN
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting:
> https://moumn.org/listservice.html > Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html >
> During the pandemic, the MOU encourages you to stay safe, practice social
> distancing, and continue to bird responsibly.
>
Even spell check did not help the Gray-cheeked Thrush get its moment on the
internet. Well, we did have a couple of birds that could have been
Gray-cheeked Warblers, but I did enter them as Nashville Warblers. I don't
think an ID of Gray-cheeked Warbler would get much credibility, even if it
does look like the Nashvilles we saw that day.
Steve Weston
On Quigley Lake in Eagan, MN
<sweston2g...>
On Fri, May 3, 2024 at 10:55 AM Steve Weston <sweston2g...> wrote:
> Ahhh...SPRING! It is so hard to sit at the computer with the birds
> inviting me to get out. Even after a very productive and enjoyable Salt
> Lake Festival, I am still seeing lots of new birds. We personally had over
> 100 species on the Salt Lake trip. We stopped at Long Lake on our way out
> and scored the Garganey in the rain and Avocets and a half dozen other
> shorebirds. The weather was great on Saturday with winnowing snipe,
> twirling phalaropes, hiding grebes, a flashing Black-throated Green
> warbler, handsome Lark Sparrows, and many other treasures. On the ride back
> we found a Cattle Egret not far from Marietta, miles of semi-invisible
> longspurs and a probable Upland Sandpiper along the northern boundary of
> Renville County.
>
> Back home I added Ovenbird, Nashville, and Black and White to the five
> warblers seen out west, along with a Horned Grebe and Avocet on Lake
> Byllesby and a Gray-cheeked Warbler down near Red Wing. Flotillas of geese
> are crossing our lake and grazing in the grass, but I have yet to see any
> ducklings.
>
> Last Saturday the woodlands had erupted in bloom. Now I am seeing
> violets and garlic mustard flowering everywhere. Our Redbud is in full
> glory. It should be a good time to search for morels, but I haven't had a
> chance. Our Big Brown Bat is back this week, sheltering by our front door.
>
> I urge you to step into the glory just out your door. Today the
> temperature should climb over 70. Turn on Merlin and listen.
>
> Steve Weston
> On Quigley Lake in Eagan, MN
> <sweston2g...>
>
Date: 5/3/24 9:24 am From: Jonathan Beck <jonrbeck...> Subject: [mou-net] MN Zoo Canopy Trail for birding?
Has anyone visited the MN Zoo and the new canopy trail? I was thinking it would offer a nice way to spot birds higher up in the canopy. I'm wondering if there are any nice forested areas that it goes through? With warblers on deck, I'm thinking I might give it a try.
Date: 5/3/24 8:55 am From: Steve Weston <sweston2g...> Subject: [mou-net] Ahhh....Spring!
Ahhh...SPRING! It is so hard to sit at the computer with the birds inviting me to get out. Even after a very productive and enjoyable Salt Lake Festival, I am still seeing lots of new birds. We personally had over 100 species on the Salt Lake trip. We stopped at Long Lake on our way out and scored the Garganey in the rain and Avocets and a half dozen other shorebirds. The weather was great on Saturday with winnowing snipe, twirling phalaropes, hiding grebes, a flashing Black-throated Green warbler, handsome Lark Sparrows, and many other treasures. On the ride back we found a Cattle Egret not far from Marietta, miles of semi-invisible longspurs and a probable Upland Sandpiper along the northern boundary of Renville County.
Back home I added Ovenbird, Nashville, and Black and White to the five warblers seen out west, along with a Horned Grebe and Avocet on Lake Byllesby and a Gray-cheeked Warbler down near Red Wing. Flotillas of geese are crossing our lake and grazing in the grass, but I have yet to see any ducklings.
Last Saturday the woodlands had erupted in bloom. Now I am seeing violets and garlic mustard flowering everywhere. Our Redbud is in full glory. It should be a good time to search for morels, but I haven't had a chance. Our Big Brown Bat is back this week, sheltering by our front door.
I urge you to step into the glory just out your door. Today the temperature should climb over 70. Turn on Merlin and listen.
Steve Weston On Quigley Lake in Eagan, MN <sweston2g...>
Date: 5/3/24 7:52 am From: Jay Pitocchelli <jpitocch...> Subject: [mou-net] Request for assistance – song recordings of migrating Mourning Warblers
Request for assistance – song recordings of migrating Mourning Warblers
I am posting my annual opportunity to participate in a Citizens Science Project that involves recording migrating Mourning Warbler songs. I am trying to determine the nature of migratory pathways taken by different song populations of Mourning Warbler males during their spring migration. I am continuing to collect your recordings and plot them on a map of North America to determine if and where birds with different song types (regiolects) separate from each other during spring migration. The most current map of songs of migrants is at the web site below.
All you need is a Smartphone and a singing Mourning Warbler. You can send the recordings to my e-mail address (jpitocch AT anselm.edu). The web page link below describes the project and how to make recordings on your Smartphone in more detail.
Date: 5/3/24 6:23 am From: Jason Frank <jmfrank84...> Subject: [mou-net] Little Blue Heron at Salt Lake
An apparent Little Blue Heron was found at Salt Lake yesterday afternoon.
It is showing up as an eBird report (by Nolan Meyer) now. He has a pic of it crouching in a patch of phragmites.
I was down there yesterday evening between 6:45 and sunset, and didn't see it. But I did see the picture, and to me it looks like a good call.
It was seen along the western bay, between the peninsula and the farm. This is the point of access from the SD side, across the road from Zoar Church.
PLEASE NOTE: The line between public and private land cuts and east-west line through the center of the bay.
When exploring the bay and peninsula, please do not hike to the southern or southwest corner of the bay. That's somebody's yard. Stick to the north/northwest side of it and you'll be fine.
Also note: the easiest approach to this location would be from the south, taking the border road (111th) north from Hwy 212. The roads around the NW corner of Salt Lake could be difficult for low-riding 2-wheel drive vehicles right now.
We had 130 species this year, with upwards of 150 birders canvassing the
Lac qui Parle/Big Stone region. Morning weather was tough, but lots of
shorebirds started showing up after lunch, with Salt Lake being one of the
highlights. There we found Wilson’s Phalaropes, with Stilt Sandpipers and
Long-billed Dowitchers feeding side-by-side. All five of our core Grebe
species were located, with multiple pairs of courting Western Grebes
spotted in the Refuge and on the scattered potholes lakes of Big Stone
County. Other highlights included Sandhill Cranes, a Spotted Towhee in Big
Stone National Wildlife Refuge. Snowy and Cattle Egrets, along with
Black-necked Stilts, were located on Sunday.
Shorebird migration is now peaking in the area, and there is even more
standing water in the fields than there was last weekend.
Thanks again to all of our participating birders, my fellow guides Ken
Larson, Steve Weston, and Trey Weaver, and to the cities of Marietta and
Madison, the Marietta Legion Auxiliary, Madison Mercantile and Kris
Shelstad, and the Sons of Norway Lodge for hosting and feeding us.
Date: 5/2/24 3:10 pm From: Mark LaRose <mark.larose.ml...> Subject: [mou-net] Black-necked stilt, Carver County
I saw and photographed a black-necked stilt at the Tacoma fields area yesterday at around 6 pm. I entered it on ebird, but didn’t post here. My apologies….
After digiscope images were obtained, I looked around the rest of the area through the scope. When I went back to the original spot, the bird was no longer there - could have walked into taller grass, flown to another spot in the area or even flown completely away. It was casually preening when I watched it, so maybe more likely to be nearby?
Date: 5/2/24 7:50 am From: Trey Weaver <trweaver89...> Subject: [mou-net] *Field Trip Opportunity- June 1st, SE Minnesota Houston/Winona/Wabasha
Salutations,
I'm excited to present this field trip to you. If the magnificent views of the Mississippi River Valley bluff countryside aren't enough to interest you, some of my favorite birding I've done in Minnesota has been in this part of the state. Of course, no guarantees can be made with birding, but specialty summering species to this region include: Cerulean, Prothonotary, Yellow-Throated, Hooded (rare), and Blue-winged Warblers, Louisiana Waterthrush, Acadian Flycatcher, Ruffed Grouse, Henslow's Sparrow, Carolina Wren, Tufted Titmouse and perhaps my favorite avian feature in this part of the state are the boisterous Wood Thrushes and their ethereal song. Given that this is early June, it is the start of Summer rarity season and some unexpected species could be encountered.
At 6AM, we will be starting at Beaver Creek Valley State Park to try for Louisiana Waterthrush among the many other resident species which nest in this beautiful park. We will then caravan from there to Reno Hillside recreation area, then North along the Mississippi River Valley to multiple excellent birding sites.
Much more detailed information can be found on the Signup Genius registration<https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F48A9AC2FA5FFCE9-49086835-southeast#/>, including lodging and logistics. We will want to keep the caravan to as few vehicles as possible, ideally two vehicles but I can live with three, so openness to carpooling down there will be very much appreciated. I am personally willing to pick up as many as three individuals from the Twin Cities metro. Alternatively, if you're coming from outstate, you can leave your vehicle at my home in Mound and ride down with me Friday night.
Date: 4/29/24 5:40 am From: Trey Weaver <trweaver89...> Subject: [mou-net] *Field Trip Opportunity- May 5th, Any Body Can Bird w/ Mike Lehrke
Good morning,
I trust you're as excited for May as I am. We have fun and exciting field trips on the horizon, the first one we have is in the first weekend of May. The trip leader will be Mike Lehrke, who uses a wheelchair to get around, but you'll find that this doesn't stop him from enjoying birding to its fullest! This will be a great field trip for birders with mobility challenges since the trail systems we will be taking are paved and the trip leader has plenty of tips to maximize your enjoyment with birds and birding. However, all are welcome, and this will also be a great field trip for birders of any experience level, whether you're brand new to birding or are a lister looking to add some early May birds to your Wright and Sherburne list.
We will be starting at Otsego County Park in Monticello (Wright County) at 7:30AM, then we will visit Woodland Trails Regional Park on the North side of the river (Sherburne County). Both trail systems are paved, but may have moderate inclines. As far as species, ducks may be seen on the river, there are multiple Bald Eagle nests in trees along the banks, swallows will likely be in large numbers hawking bugs over the water and open habitats, and passerines including early May warblers will be encountered.
Date: 4/27/24 2:16 pm From: Scott Meyer <meyerscottb...> Subject: [mou-net] Cattle Egret Mothers Lake MSP Airport, Hennepin County
The Cattle Egret was visible from the Mothers Lake overlook from 3 pm to about 3:45 pm on the NW corner of MSP Airport in the grass just East of Cedar Avenue. It has been seen on and off there for most of the day. Also present at the wetlands just East of Mothers Lake was a Willet earlier in the day, Lesser Yellowlegs, Wilson's Snipe and Solitary Sandpipers. I'm not sure who found the Cattle Egret or Willet.
Date: 4/26/24 6:38 pm From: John Schladweiler <joschlad...> Subject: Re: [mou-net] Salt Lake Viewing Platform
Thanks Jason,
Just an FYI. There are plans (and $$) for the DNR to redo the observation
platform which should occur this summer.
John Schladweiler
On Fri, Apr 26, 2024 at 8:16 AM Jason Frank <jmfrank84...> wrote:
> For those many, many birders who will be visiting Salt Lake this weekend:
>
> Please be aware that the viewing platform on the Minnesota side is
> pretty rough shape.
>
> I'm requesting that groups and caravans of birders avoid using it this
> weekend.
>
> With extremely high water and no mudflats on that side of the lake,
> there aren't any decent viewing opportunities there right now anyway.
>
> Currently, the best viewing areas are the peninsula across from Zoar
> Church on the South Dakota side (but once you step out onto the
> peninsula, you're technically back in Minnesota) and at the east
> corner of the lake from the roadside.
>
> Thank you!
>
> Jason Frank
> Salt Lake Birding Weekend Coordinator
> Ortonville, MN
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting:
> https://moumn.org/listservice.html > Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html >
> During the pandemic, the MOU encourages you to stay safe, practice social
> distancing, and continue to bird responsibly.
>
Thanks to Jesse for suggesting I may have mistaken an orange-crowned for Tennessee. He is spot on. The bird had distinct yellow undertail coverts - yellow white yellow pattern.
Spring brain reboot is still underway 😆
Still surprised to see it on suet. Off to Google....
Date: 4/26/24 6:28 am From: Stephen Ewing <ewingsl66...> Subject: [mou-net] ticks
> On Apr 26, 2024, at 12:00 AM, MOU-NET automatic digest system <LISTSERV...> wrote:
>
> There are 6 messages totaling 301 lines in this issue.
>
> Topics of the day:
>
> 1. Lyme Disease Awareness, Salt Lake Weekend and beyond (3)
> 2. FOR Tennessee - Afton
> 3. Gargeny (2)
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting: https://moumn.org/listservice.html > Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html >
> During the pandemic, the MOU encourages you to stay safe, practice social distancing, and continue to bird responsibly.
>
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
>
> Date: Thu, 25 Apr 2024 16:52:55 +0000
> From: Trey Weaver <trweaver89...>
> Subject: Lyme Disease Awareness, Salt Lake Weekend and beyond
>
> All,
>
> Brandon Lentz warned Minnesota birders recently about losing count of the number of ticks he found on him at Salt Lake in Lac Qui Parle County. None of us are safe from ticks and the diseases they carry, so I want each and every one of you to be safe and healthy while engaging in your avian endeavors. Members of our own community have been impacted by this, one such person you may know is Peter Nichols, who talks openly about his struggle with chronic Lyme disease many years after he contracted the disease from a tick bite.
>
> Being that it is almost May (which is Lyme Disease Awareness Month) I wanted to warn participants of Salt Lake Weekend to come prepared. I personally like to treat my hiking clothes with permethrin, it seems to do a great job. Before going into the field on a hike, I then also tuck my pants into my socks and spray 100% deet on my clothes, especially at the ankles and on my boots. Permethrin is the active ingredient in a lot of dog tick mitigation treatments, but is toxic to cats, so please be aware of this if you have feline friends at home when treating or storing clothes treated with permethrin. Of course, follow the instructions on the bottle for proper application and storage.
>
> There is a whole lot of excellent information at a website called projectlyme.org<https://projectlyme.org/>, I invite you to peruse the site for more information.
>
> Thank you for taking the time to read this. I will see you out there among the birds!
>
> Best,
> Trey Weaver
>
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting: https://moumn.org/listservice.html > Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html >
> During the pandemic, the MOU encourages you to stay safe, practice social distancing, and continue to bird responsibly.
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Date: Thu, 25 Apr 2024 17:27:05 +0000
> From: Tami Vogel <tvogel...>
> Subject: FOR Tennessee - Afton
>
> I did a double take yesterday when I got home from work. It wasn't the pine warbler at my suet feeder but a FOY Tennessee warbler.
>
> This may be the first time there has been a Tennessee on suet (need to check my phenology). Not a new yard bird but fascinating to see it join the yellow-rumpeds and pine eating suet.
>
> Should be a great bird weekend - maybe even hummingbirds! I wish you all a fun weekend.
>
>
>
>
>
> * Tami in Afton
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Tami Vogel
> Executive Director
> Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota
> www.wrcmn.org<http://www.wrcmn.org> > FB/IG/Twitter @WRCMN
>
> Thank you for donating to provide medical care for more than 17,000 patients this year.<https://wrcmn.org/donate> >
>
>
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting: https://moumn.org/listservice.html > Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html >
> During the pandemic, the MOU encourages you to stay safe, practice social distancing, and continue to bird responsibly.
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Date: Thu, 25 Apr 2024 13:36:08 -0500
> From: Birdnird57 <birdnird57...>
> Subject: Re: Lyme Disease Awareness, Salt Lake Weekend and beyond
>
> I had my first tick at least two weeks ago in Grant County. Mosquitoes followed soon after.
>
> Charlene Nelson
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> On Apr 25, 2024, at 11:53 AM, Trey Weaver <trweaver89...> wrote:
>
> All,
>
> Brandon Lentz warned Minnesota birders recently about losing count of the number of ticks he found on him at Salt Lake in Lac Qui Parle County. None of us are safe from ticks and the diseases they carry, so I want each and every one of you to be safe and healthy while engaging in your avian endeavors. Members of our own community have been impacted by this, one such person you may know is Peter Nichols, who talks openly about his struggle with chronic Lyme disease many years after he contracted the disease from a tick bite.
>
> Being that it is almost May (which is Lyme Disease Awareness Month) I wanted to warn participants of Salt Lake Weekend to come prepared. I personally like to treat my hiking clothes with permethrin, it seems to do a great job. Before going into the field on a hike, I then also tuck my pants into my socks and spray 100% deet on my clothes, especially at the ankles and on my boots. Permethrin is the active ingredient in a lot of dog tick mitigation treatments, but is toxic to cats, so please be aware of this if you have feline friends at home when treating or storing clothes treated with permethrin. Of course, follow the instructions on the bottle for proper application and storage.
>
> There is a whole lot of excellent information at a website called projectlyme.org<https://projectlyme.org/>, I invite you to peruse the site for more information.
>
> Thank you for taking the time to read this. I will see you out there among the birds!
>
> Best,
> Trey Weaver
>
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting: https://moumn.org/listservice.html > Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html >
> During the pandemic, the MOU encourages you to stay safe, practice social distancing, and continue to bird responsibly.
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting: https://moumn.org/listservice.html > Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html >
> During the pandemic, the MOU encourages you to stay safe, practice social distancing, and continue to bird responsibly.
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Date: Thu, 25 Apr 2024 14:17:40 -0500
> From: Ellen Doll <ellenmdoll...>
> Subject: Re: Lyme Disease Awareness, Salt Lake Weekend and beyond
>
> I really appreciate your thoughtful early season reminder. Thanks for sending!
> Ellen Doll
>
>> On Apr 25, 2024, at 1:36 PM, Birdnird57 <birdnird57...> wrote:
>>
>> I had my first tick at least two weeks ago in Grant County. Mosquitoes followed soon after.
>>
>> Charlene Nelson
>>
>> Sent from my iPhone
>>
>> On Apr 25, 2024, at 11:53 AM, Trey Weaver <trweaver89...> wrote:
>>
>> All,
>>
>> Brandon Lentz warned Minnesota birders recently about losing count of the number of ticks he found on him at Salt Lake in Lac Qui Parle County. None of us are safe from ticks and the diseases they carry, so I want each and every one of you to be safe and healthy while engaging in your avian endeavors. Members of our own community have been impacted by this, one such person you may know is Peter Nichols, who talks openly about his struggle with chronic Lyme disease many years after he contracted the disease from a tick bite.
>>
>> Being that it is almost May (which is Lyme Disease Awareness Month) I wanted to warn participants of Salt Lake Weekend to come prepared. I personally like to treat my hiking clothes with permethrin, it seems to do a great job. Before going into the field on a hike, I then also tuck my pants into my socks and spray 100% deet on my clothes, especially at the ankles and on my boots. Permethrin is the active ingredient in a lot of dog tick mitigation treatments, but is toxic to cats, so please be aware of this if you have feline friends at home when treating or storing clothes treated with permethrin. Of course, follow the instructions on the bottle for proper application and storage.
>>
>> There is a whole lot of excellent information at a website called projectlyme.org<https://projectlyme.org/>, I invite you to peruse the site for more information.
>>
>> Thank you for taking the time to read this. I will see you out there among the birds!
>>
>> Best,
>> Trey Weaver
>>
>>
>> ----
>> General information and guidelines for posting: https://moumn.org/listservice.html >> Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html >>
>> During the pandemic, the MOU encourages you to stay safe, practice social distancing, and continue to bird responsibly.
>>
>> ----
>> General information and guidelines for posting: https://moumn.org/listservice.html >> Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html >>
>> During the pandemic, the MOU encourages you to stay safe, practice social distancing, and continue to bird responsibly.
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting: https://moumn.org/listservice.html > Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html >
> During the pandemic, the MOU encourages you to stay safe, practice social distancing, and continue to bird responsibly.
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Date: Thu, 25 Apr 2024 17:42:24 -0500
> From: <jellisbird...>
> Subject: Gargeny
>
> Still there today! John Ellis Saint Paul
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting: https://moumn.org/listservice.html > Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html >
> During the pandemic, the MOU encourages you to stay safe, practice social distancing, and continue to bird responsibly.
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Date: Thu, 25 Apr 2024 21:27:09 -0500
> From: Jesse Ellis <calocitta8...>
> Subject: Re: Gargeny
>
> Not to brag... well, yes, to brag, the Garganey my father reported here was
> his 400th Minnesota bird species. Congrats Dad! Heckuva bird to hit 400
> with!
>
> Jesse Ellis
> Cedar Rapids, IA
>
> On Thu, Apr 25, 2024 at 5:42 PM <jellisbird...> wrote:
>
>> Still there today! John Ellis Saint Paul
>> Sent from my iPhone
>>
>> ----
>> General information and guidelines for posting:
>> https://moumn.org/listservice.html >> Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html >>
>> During the pandemic, the MOU encourages you to stay safe, practice social
>> distancing, and continue to bird responsibly.
>>
>
>
> --
> Jesse Ellis
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting: https://moumn.org/listservice.html > Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html >
> During the pandemic, the MOU encourages you to stay safe, practice social distancing, and continue to bird responsibly.
>
> ------------------------------
>
> End of MOU-NET Digest - 24 Apr 2024 to 25 Apr 2024 (#2024-61)
> *************************************************************
Date: 4/26/24 6:16 am From: Jason Frank <jmfrank84...> Subject: [mou-net] Salt Lake Viewing Platform
For those many, many birders who will be visiting Salt Lake this weekend:
Please be aware that the viewing platform on the Minnesota side is pretty rough shape.
I'm requesting that groups and caravans of birders avoid using it this weekend.
With extremely high water and no mudflats on that side of the lake, there aren't any decent viewing opportunities there right now anyway.
Currently, the best viewing areas are the peninsula across from Zoar Church on the South Dakota side (but once you step out onto the peninsula, you're technically back in Minnesota) and at the east corner of the lake from the roadside.
Thank you!
Jason Frank Salt Lake Birding Weekend Coordinator Ortonville, MN
Not to brag... well, yes, to brag, the Garganey my father reported here was
his 400th Minnesota bird species. Congrats Dad! Heckuva bird to hit 400
with!
Jesse Ellis
Cedar Rapids, IA
On Thu, Apr 25, 2024 at 5:42 PM <jellisbird...> wrote:
> Still there today! John Ellis Saint Paul
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting:
> https://moumn.org/listservice.html > Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html >
> During the pandemic, the MOU encourages you to stay safe, practice social
> distancing, and continue to bird responsibly.
>
Date: 4/25/24 12:27 pm From: Ellen Doll <ellenmdoll...> Subject: Re: [mou-net] Lyme Disease Awareness, Salt Lake Weekend and beyond
I really appreciate your thoughtful early season reminder. Thanks for sending!
Ellen Doll
> On Apr 25, 2024, at 1:36 PM, Birdnird57 <birdnird57...> wrote:
>
> I had my first tick at least two weeks ago in Grant County. Mosquitoes followed soon after.
>
> Charlene Nelson
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> On Apr 25, 2024, at 11:53 AM, Trey Weaver <trweaver89...> wrote:
>
> All,
>
> Brandon Lentz warned Minnesota birders recently about losing count of the number of ticks he found on him at Salt Lake in Lac Qui Parle County. None of us are safe from ticks and the diseases they carry, so I want each and every one of you to be safe and healthy while engaging in your avian endeavors. Members of our own community have been impacted by this, one such person you may know is Peter Nichols, who talks openly about his struggle with chronic Lyme disease many years after he contracted the disease from a tick bite.
>
> Being that it is almost May (which is Lyme Disease Awareness Month) I wanted to warn participants of Salt Lake Weekend to come prepared. I personally like to treat my hiking clothes with permethrin, it seems to do a great job. Before going into the field on a hike, I then also tuck my pants into my socks and spray 100% deet on my clothes, especially at the ankles and on my boots. Permethrin is the active ingredient in a lot of dog tick mitigation treatments, but is toxic to cats, so please be aware of this if you have feline friends at home when treating or storing clothes treated with permethrin. Of course, follow the instructions on the bottle for proper application and storage.
>
> There is a whole lot of excellent information at a website called projectlyme.org<https://projectlyme.org/>, I invite you to peruse the site for more information.
>
> Thank you for taking the time to read this. I will see you out there among the birds!
>
> Best,
> Trey Weaver
>
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting: https://moumn.org/listservice.html > Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html >
> During the pandemic, the MOU encourages you to stay safe, practice social distancing, and continue to bird responsibly.
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting: https://moumn.org/listservice.html > Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html >
> During the pandemic, the MOU encourages you to stay safe, practice social distancing, and continue to bird responsibly.
Date: 4/25/24 11:36 am From: Birdnird57 <birdnird57...> Subject: Re: [mou-net] Lyme Disease Awareness, Salt Lake Weekend and beyond
I had my first tick at least two weeks ago in Grant County. Mosquitoes followed soon after.
Charlene Nelson
Sent from my iPhone
On Apr 25, 2024, at 11:53 AM, Trey Weaver <trweaver89...> wrote:
All,
Brandon Lentz warned Minnesota birders recently about losing count of the number of ticks he found on him at Salt Lake in Lac Qui Parle County. None of us are safe from ticks and the diseases they carry, so I want each and every one of you to be safe and healthy while engaging in your avian endeavors. Members of our own community have been impacted by this, one such person you may know is Peter Nichols, who talks openly about his struggle with chronic Lyme disease many years after he contracted the disease from a tick bite.
Being that it is almost May (which is Lyme Disease Awareness Month) I wanted to warn participants of Salt Lake Weekend to come prepared. I personally like to treat my hiking clothes with permethrin, it seems to do a great job. Before going into the field on a hike, I then also tuck my pants into my socks and spray 100% deet on my clothes, especially at the ankles and on my boots. Permethrin is the active ingredient in a lot of dog tick mitigation treatments, but is toxic to cats, so please be aware of this if you have feline friends at home when treating or storing clothes treated with permethrin. Of course, follow the instructions on the bottle for proper application and storage.
There is a whole lot of excellent information at a website called projectlyme.org<https://projectlyme.org/>, I invite you to peruse the site for more information.
Thank you for taking the time to read this. I will see you out there among the birds!
Date: 4/25/24 10:27 am From: Tami Vogel <tvogel...> Subject: [mou-net] FOR Tennessee - Afton
I did a double take yesterday when I got home from work. It wasn't the pine warbler at my suet feeder but a FOY Tennessee warbler.
This may be the first time there has been a Tennessee on suet (need to check my phenology). Not a new yard bird but fascinating to see it join the yellow-rumpeds and pine eating suet.
Should be a great bird weekend - maybe even hummingbirds! I wish you all a fun weekend.
* Tami in Afton
Tami Vogel
Executive Director
Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota
www.wrcmn.org<http://www.wrcmn.org> FB/IG/Twitter @WRCMN
Thank you for donating to provide medical care for more than 17,000 patients this year.<https://wrcmn.org/donate>
Date: 4/25/24 9:53 am From: Trey Weaver <trweaver89...> Subject: [mou-net] Lyme Disease Awareness, Salt Lake Weekend and beyond
All,
Brandon Lentz warned Minnesota birders recently about losing count of the number of ticks he found on him at Salt Lake in Lac Qui Parle County. None of us are safe from ticks and the diseases they carry, so I want each and every one of you to be safe and healthy while engaging in your avian endeavors. Members of our own community have been impacted by this, one such person you may know is Peter Nichols, who talks openly about his struggle with chronic Lyme disease many years after he contracted the disease from a tick bite.
Being that it is almost May (which is Lyme Disease Awareness Month) I wanted to warn participants of Salt Lake Weekend to come prepared. I personally like to treat my hiking clothes with permethrin, it seems to do a great job. Before going into the field on a hike, I then also tuck my pants into my socks and spray 100% deet on my clothes, especially at the ankles and on my boots. Permethrin is the active ingredient in a lot of dog tick mitigation treatments, but is toxic to cats, so please be aware of this if you have feline friends at home when treating or storing clothes treated with permethrin. Of course, follow the instructions on the bottle for proper application and storage.
There is a whole lot of excellent information at a website called projectlyme.org<https://projectlyme.org/>, I invite you to peruse the site for more information.
Thank you for taking the time to read this. I will see you out there among the birds!
Date: 4/24/24 1:16 pm From: Jason Frank <jmfrank84...> Subject: Re: [mou-net] Garganey at Long Lake WPA, Cottonwood Co.
UPDATE: I'm told by Brandon Semel that the bird is being reported on Discord.
What is Discord, you ask?
It is: "an instant messaging and VoIP social platform which allows
communication through voice calls, video calls, text messaging, and
media and files. Communication can be private or take place in virtual
communities called servers".
If anyone out there can get some more information, feel free to post
it here in this thread!
I would be open to caravanning down there during Salt Lake Weekend if
the bird is still present and being seen on Saturday.
On Wed, Apr 24, 2024 at 2:16 PM Jason Frank <jmfrank84...> wrote:
>
> I have a second-hand report of a Garganey at Long Lake WPA, near the
> small town of Westbrook, in Cottonwood County.
>
> This is a report coming from US F&WS Biologist Brandon Semel.
>
> I am not going to have time to drive down there and take a look this
> week, so I'm not fielding advice on how to find the bird, where to
> view, where to park, etc.
>
> Coordinates I've been given are:
>
> 43.9635603, -95.3770522
>
> If anyone who uses Facebook notices that there are sustained sightings
> of this bird leading up to the weekend, please keep me informed via
> email!
>
> Thanks,
>
> Jason Frank
> Ortonville
Date: 4/24/24 12:16 pm From: Jason Frank <jmfrank84...> Subject: [mou-net] Garganey at Long Lake WPA, Cottonwood Co.
I have a second-hand report of a Garganey at Long Lake WPA, near the small town of Westbrook, in Cottonwood County.
This is a report coming from US F&WS Biologist Brandon Semel.
I am not going to have time to drive down there and take a look this week, so I'm not fielding advice on how to find the bird, where to view, where to park, etc.
Coordinates I've been given are:
43.9635603, -95.3770522
If anyone who uses Facebook notices that there are sustained sightings of this bird leading up to the weekend, please keep me informed via email!
Date: 4/24/24 8:16 am From: Anthony Smith <smithwndcrl...> Subject: [mou-net] Bob Holtz
In addition to all of the activities mentioned, Bob was an early chair of the MOU Conservation Committee. He also arranged at least on trip to TCAAP property. I remember he had a "self challenge" of consecutive days of seeing an American Crow (?). I don't remember how many days the string lasted.
Date: 4/23/24 11:49 am From: Dan Ahlman <daahlman...> Subject: Re: [mou-net] Bob Holtz Obit
Thanks Michelle for sending this out. Dr. Holtz was my advisor at CSP. I attended from 1981-85. He got me started with birding when I took his field biology class in 1983 and then a couple years later took his ornithology class. I’ve been a birder ever since. He was a wonderful teacher and advisor. He helped me get my degree. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Thanks again!
Dan Ahlman
New Hope, Mn
Sent from my iPhone
> On Apr 23, 2024, at 12:29 PM, Michelle Terrell <mterrell.mou...> wrote:
>
> I am sorry to share the news that longtime MOU member Bob Holtz passed away
> this past Saturday, April 20. Bob was an MOU past-president, youth birding
> mentor, and 2002 recipient of the Thomas S. Roberts Award. In 2007, he
> created and funded the MOU's "Biology Bob Binocular Fund" for young
> birders. Many of you may also have known Bob through St. Paul Audubon, in
> his role as an Anoka County Parks naturalist where he hosted the
> "Birdwatching with Bob" podcast, or through one of the myriad other ways in
> which he contributed to Minnesota's birding community.
>
> Link to obituary and service information (Saturday, April 27):
> https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/robert-holtz-obituary?id=54929911 >
> Michelle
> *____________________________________*
> *Michelle M. Terrell, Ph.D.*
> *Past President, Minnesota Ornithologists' Union*
>
> ----
> General information and guidelines for posting: https://moumn.org/listservice.html > Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html >
> During the pandemic, the MOU encourages you to stay safe, practice social distancing, and continue to bird responsibly.
Date: 4/23/24 10:28 am From: Michelle Terrell <mterrell.mou...> Subject: [mou-net] Bob Holtz Obit
I am sorry to share the news that longtime MOU member Bob Holtz passed away this past Saturday, April 20. Bob was an MOU past-president, youth birding mentor, and 2002 recipient of the Thomas S. Roberts Award. In 2007, he created and funded the MOU's "Biology Bob Binocular Fund" for young birders. Many of you may also have known Bob through St. Paul Audubon, in his role as an Anoka County Parks naturalist where he hosted the "Birdwatching with Bob" podcast, or through one of the myriad other ways in which he contributed to Minnesota's birding community.
Date: 4/23/24 8:13 am From: Susan Barnes Elliott <honeywarbler...> Subject: [mou-net] Join Bob Dunlap for Identification Challenge Potluck on May 2 at 7 p.m. via Zoom!
Birding is easy…except when it’s not! Having trouble telling apart
flycatchers? Is that a female House Finch or a female Purple Finch at your
feeders? Uh oh, you’re looking at a dowitcher…in early May!
Fear not birders, Bob Dunlap is here to help! Fresh from the 2024 Spring
Primer, Bob is back as your host for a full hour of Identification
Challenge Potluck. Whether you just picked up binoculars for the first time
or finally found your 200th species in Norman County, there’s a place for
you at the table. BYOBC (bring your own birding challenge). Bob will use
online resources, including the Macauley Library, to compare and contrast
some of our trickiest species.
Go to Carpenter Nature Center's website to register online (under Plan Your
Visit, go to Program and Event Calendar for May 2). See you soon!
Date: 4/23/24 4:46 am From: Trey Weaver <trweaver89...> Subject: [mou-net] Salt Lake Weekend carpooling thread
Please do not reply all to this email! Reply only to <trweaver89...>
I wanted to start a conversation with participants of Salt Lake Weekend to encourage carpooling to the event. If you're interested in either hosting a ride, or hitching a ride, please send me an email and I will start a separate email thread in the next day with more details for those interested in coordinating ride sharing.
Even if you aren't interested in carpooling out to the event, it would be highly encouraged that participants be open to carpooling on the day of to help your guides with the logistics of leading a caravan of vehicles.
*Reminder, please do not reply all to this email! Reply only to <trweaver89...>
Date: 4/22/24 5:27 am From: Tom Gilde <00002247eb7407f6-dmarc-request...> Subject: [mou-net] Shorebirds
Does anyone have any thoughts about the absence/presence of shorebirds within, say, a 75-mile radius of the metro area this spring? It seems like they’ve been largely absent this year or I’ve slept through their various migrations. I don’t know whether drought and further environmental degradation alone explains this. Thanks for any insights.
Date: 4/21/24 10:50 pm From: Steve Weston <sweston2g...> Subject: [mou-net] MRVAC Meeting This Thursday 4-25
*The Minnesota River Valley Audubon Chapter (MRVAC) invites you to join us
for:*
*"Special Report on Ornithology Research atthe University of
Minnesota"Simone Maddox:Researcher and Ph.D. candidate in the Barker Lab at
UMN*
*David Wolfson:Wildlife ecologist and Ph.D. candidate in the Fieberg Lab at
UMNThursday, April 25, Reception at 7:00 p.m., Program at 7:30 p.m.*
We’ll get a look into some very interesting ornithological research at
the University of Minnesota (UMN) with two speakers. First, Simone Maddox
will speak about her research investigating the ways that city living
affects our local birds, especially their brains. Then, David Wolfson
will report on his research on the annual movement and migration patterns
of Trumpeter Swans in the Midwest.
This meeting will be held in-person at the refuge and simulcast via
Zoom*. * The
refuge visitor center is located at 3815 American Boulevard East in
Bloomington and is accessible after a short walk from the METRO blue line.
All MRVAC meetings are free and open to the public.
Date: 4/20/24 6:54 pm From: Kris Eichers <kriseichers...> Subject: [mou-net] April Western Suburbs Birds & Beer
Hello Birders!
Please join us Thursday, April 25 for Western Suburbs Birds and Beer at The Choo Choo Restaurant in Loretto. Click on the link below to get to the menu and address.
http://www.choochooloretto.com/
We will be meeting in the main dining room from 5:30-8:30.
We hope to see you and hear about your recent bird sightings!
Please RSVP to Kris Eichers at <kriseichers...> by Tuesday, April 23 if you plan to attend so I can give the restaurant a numbers estimate.
Date: 4/20/24 5:29 am From: Sid Stivland <norlastiv...> Subject: [mou-net] another good birding day
Another good birding day with the 3rd graders. Several kids who missed birding outdoors last week due to holidays and time constraints wanted to bird yesterday, even though it was 35 degrees outside. Couldn't talk them out of it so, out we went, iPads in hand and Mr.Merlin listening. In spite of a cold, 25 MPH NW wind we logged several species including White-throated Sparrows, Chipping Sparrows, and a fly-over Wood Duck besides the regulars. I didn't think they would last 10 minutes but they hung in there for almost a half hour.
So it was back to birding inside through the classroom window. We had some very cooperative White-throated Sparrows less than 10 feet away - birds very smartly dressed in their finest attire. The kids birding at the other classroom window came and fetched me for an ID. They had spotted an Eastern Towhee (I suppose you could call it a "spotted" Towhee), a first for our location in 5 years.
Date: 4/16/24 10:53 am From: Gordon Andersson <gpandersson...> Subject: [mou-net] the book launch of "The Breeding Birds of Minnesota"--- Bell Museum
May 09, 2024 Thursday 6:00-8:30pm at the Bell Museum in St Paul.
From 2009 to 2013, volunteer observers conducted the first comprehensive survey of breeding birds in MN. A nine-square-mile block in every township was sampled by birders who ranked four categories of evidence of behavior. Some of you may have participated in documenting breeding behavior in one or more "blocks" that covered the entire state. Two of the scientists who coordinated this massive project will present the study. You can register for the event in the link provided.
About The Breeding Birds of Minnesota A University of Minnesota Press publication by Lee A. Pfannmuller , Gerald J. Niemi, and Janet C. Green, 2024. The first comprehensive and in-depth assessment of Minnesota's breeding birds in nearly a century, <https://www.upress.umn.edu/book-division/books/the-breeding-birds-of-minnes ota> The Breeding Birds of Minnesota offers an unprecedented, extraordinarily detailed, finely illustrated account of 250 of those birds, including their historical and present breeding distribution, habitat, population abundance, and prospects for the future.
Date: 4/16/24 8:41 am From: linda whyte <0000004e7b0e779a-dmarc-request...> Subject: [mou-net] White-throated Sparrows, St. Paul
Several White-throated Sparrows blew, (probably literally), into our yard this morning, a worthy distraction from breakfast preparations. They're sharing ground space with our current Juncos, who are fewer in number of late, and granting lovely looks at their bright crown stripes and yellow lores. Linda Whyte
