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
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