[mou-net] Dakota Cnty Buff-breasted Sandpipers

[Rick Gibson]

Hi All -

11 - 12 Buff-breasted Sandpipers (with a handful of Killdeer) in the usual
Jirik Sod Farm fields. Today, 12noon, west side of Blaine Ave, just south
of the Jirik Farm buildings.

Have fun!

Rick Gibson, Mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
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.

[mou-net] Hooded Warbler, Washington County

[Rick Gibson]

While at William O'Brien State Park this afternoon with my friend, Mae, we
managed to find two interacting Black-billed Cuckoos, two interacting
Yellow-billed Cuckoos, and a Hooded Warbler. The Warbler was at the western
intersection of Hardwood Hills Trail and Woodland Edge Trail.

Have fun out there!

-rick gibson, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
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.

[mou-net] New Germany ice free??

[Rick Gibson]

Hello -

I am curious if anybody has passed by the New Germany and/or Cologne area
wetlands (both in the way west Twin Cities metro) recently.  Is New Germany
ice-free yet?  Is there any water at Cologne?

Thanks for your responses.

--rick


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
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.

[mou-net] Lewis's Woodpecker?

[Rick Gibson]

I am, once again, late to the party. Can anybody share (privately) contact
info for the Morrison County home owners with the visiting Lewis's
Woodpecker?

Much thanks.

-rick gibson, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
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.

[mou-net] Spotted Towhee

[Rick Gibson]

Hi -

Is anybody aware if the Hastings area homeowners with the visiting Spotted
Towhee are still open to having people stop by for a peek?

Thanks for your help.

-rick gibson, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
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.

[mou-net] Brownsville?

[Rick Gibson]

I am curious if anybody has a report of ducks and geese on the Mississippi
in the Brownsville/Winona area. Have the flocks arrived? Have they passed?
Any news would be helpful in planning a stay-at-home holiday drive.

Thanks for the notes and be safe this season.

-rick gibson, Mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
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.

[mou-net] LTJ near Lynd

[Rick Gibson]

I can finally make a run out to Lynd to see the Jaeger today if it's still
being seen. Any news of morning sightings will be appreciated.

Thanks.

-rick gibson, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
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.

[mou-net] Fwd: [mou-net] Little Blue Heron, New Germany wetlands, Carver County

[Rick Gibson]

Any update on the Little Blue Heron from later in the day?

Thanks.

-rick gibson, mpls

-- Forwarded message -
From: Doug Kieser 
Date: Tue, Aug 4, 2020, 11:08 AM
Subject: [mou-net] Little Blue Heron, New Germany wetlands, Carver County
To: 


Bob Williams is currently looking at an immature Little Blue Heron in the
Crane Creek area west of New Germany.
Take Yale Ave south of Carver county 30, the wetland will be to the west.

Doug Kieser
Minneapolis


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
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.


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
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.

[mou-net] Byllesby shorebirds

[Rick Gibson]

Inspired by reports of shorebirds on the move, I visited Lake Byllesby
(Dakota Cnty) this evening and found loads of them on the west end: Least,
Baird's, White-rump, Semi-palmated Plovers, a single Dunlin and plenty of
Lesser Yellowlegs and Pectoral Sandpipers. On the drive home, I stopped by
to see whats left of 140th St Marsh and found a Hudsonian Godwit in the
south pond. A nice evening to be out.

-rick gibson, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
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.

[mou-net] Painted Bunting?

[Rick Gibson]

I would welcome any news today (Tuesday), pro/con, about the Painted
Bunting in Rochester. If still present, I'll pop down this afternoon for a
look. I might even comb my hair. Or at least wear a hat. Probably just wear
a hat.

Thanks - rick g, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
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.

[mou-net] Cinnamon Teal hybrid, Lake Byllesby

[Rick Gibson]

Possible Cinnamon Teal hybrid at Lake Byllesby boat ramp, to the west,
along with 4 - 5 Avocets. The bird is ruddier overall than nearby Blue Wing
Teal and has very little face marking. Blue flash of feathers above larger
white patch on the wings.

-rick gibson, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
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.

[mou-net] Lake Byllesby and Grey Cloud Dunes SNA, south metro

[Rick Gibson]

Hello -

A few stops over the weekend and some notes to consider:

*Lake Byllesby*, near the cemetery/county park, is a vast field of mud.
Several dozen Lesser Yellow Legs present on Saturday and hopefully good for
more shorebird variety in the next few weeks ahead.  The trail between the
county "park" and the cemetery, alongside the railroad tracks, has been
blocked with a No Trespassing sign.  Horned Grebes and Ruddy Ducks can be
seen from the boat launch on the south side.

On Saturday evening, Vesper Sparrows, Field Sparrows and a single Brown
Thrasher were singing at *Grey Cloud Dunes SNA* near Cottage Grove.  Wild
strawberries are greening up, too.  Also had a nice trio of American
Woodcocks peenting at sunset on the northern end.  All in all, a fine day
before the snow.

--rick gibson, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Cologne, Carver Cnty

[Rick Gibson]

Just visited the flooded fields south of Cologne, MN (Carver Cnty) - they
are ice-free and full of ducks and swans. South of Hwy 212 and west of the
intersection of Hwy 53 and 150th St.  A scope is necessary to see:
Gadwalls, Green-wing Teal, Pintail, scaup, Tundra Swans A Black Duck
and Blue-wing Teal have also been reported but not for my eyes today. Plus,
it's peaceful out there.

Stay strong and wash your hands,

-rick gibson, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Great Black-back, Dakota Cnty

[Rick Gibson]

The Great Black-back Gull, initially reported by Ezra Hosch, is still
present at Spring Lake Park in Dakota Cnty.  The best view this afternoon
(3ish) was from the parking area at the end of Fahey Rd (near the archery
range). A short hike to the river was necessary.

Amongst other early birds, I had fly-overs of Greater White-fronted Geese
and Sandhill Cranes.

What I could see of 180 St Marsh near Vermillion was all frozen - except
the water over the road. From the Goodwin Ave side (east), the road is
flooded and closed immediately past the Century Farm. Maybe in a few weeks?

-rick, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Grant Cnty - Ottawa

[Rick Gibson]

I visited the Ottawa Retainment on Sunday and, despite the wind, had a fun
day.  No ibis for me but at least 3 Snowy Egrets in the field north of the
kiosk and lots of good mud in the NW cell. Quite a few shorebirds, mostly
yellowlegs, but also Pectoral Sandpipers, peeps and 3 Golden Plovers. The
greatest diversity seemed to be along the northern section of the Traverse
County line road.

Have fun!

rick gibson, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Bell's Vireo, Washington County

[Rick Gibson]

A great walk this morning through Grey Cloud Dunes SNA in Washington
County. Lots of prairie roses and spiderwort and a singing and active
Bell's Vireo. It was in a large cluster of sumac on the northern 1/3 end of
the hilltop prairie area.  Only got quick glimpses.

-rick gibson, Mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Chat, Washington County

[Rick Gibson]

I stopped by Afton State Park this morning (6:30) to look for the Chat
which has been recently mentioned on ebird but not yet on MOU.

He was present, singing loudly and flopping about. Same area as last year:
enter from the north, take the first main path to the right/west, follow
the curve around, past the bench and into the next open space. He was in
the flowering tree near the trail when I arrived.

Also present were Tennessee and Blue-winged Warblers and what seemed like
two dozen Henslow's Sparrows - only one of which was brazen enough to sit
atop a short, scraggly tree and sing.

Have fun!

-rick, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Summer Tanager, Northfield

[Rick Gibson]

Spent 2 hrs along with a few others this morning at the Northfield Carleton
Arboretum searching for the Kentucky Warbler with no luck. Lots of great
birds but no Kentucky seen or heard this morning.

I did, however, see a first spring, multi-colored Summer Tanager eating a
bee. It was in the trees along the ballfield downstream from the footbridge
nearest the Oak and 2nd St entrance.

Have fun.

-rick gibson


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Lac Qui Parle open water??

[Rick Gibson]

Hello -

Any recent reports on open water and ducks/geese at Lac Qui Parle (or any
other western lakes) would be greatly appreciated.  Open water in the metro
area is still pretty limited and I am getting antsy for spring.

Thanks for any updates you can provide.

--rick


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] No Tufted Duck today

[Rick Gibson]

Quite a group of folks out at Colville Park this afternoon in Redwing with
no luck spotting tbe Tufted Duck. The water is open with lots of Common
Mergs, Eagles and Goldeneyes but no Tufted Duck.

As of this afternoon, there is no open water visible from Frontenac State
Park. I did not check the Wacouta neighborhood.

Updates from tomorrow (Sunday), pro or con, will be helpful.

Good luck!

-rick g, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Fwd: Goodhue Cnty Townsend's Solitaire

[Rick Gibson]

Whoops - those "spruce" trees are more likely junipers. Still so much to
learn...

-rick
-- Forwarded message --
From: "Rick Gibson" <rjoegib...@gmail.com>
Date: Dec 10, 2017 3:44 PM
Subject: Goodhue Cnty Townsend's Solitaire
To: "MOU" <mou-net@lists.umn.edu>
Cc:

While strolling through Lake Byllesby Park in Goodhue County this
> afternoon, I ran across a Townsend's Solitaire in the cedars and spruce
> trees to the north of the entrance road.
>
> -rick gibson, mpls
>


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Goodhue Cnty Townsend's Solitaire

[Rick Gibson]

While strolling through Lake Byllesby Park in Goodhue County this
afternoon, I ran across a Townsend's Solitaire in the cedars and spruce
trees to the north of the entrance road.

-rick gibson, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Sabine's Gull, Rice County

[Rick Gibson]

I'm a little unclear as to who initially spotted it but a Sabine's Gull was
found and reported on ebird yesterday. It is still present in Warsaw (Rice
County) flying back and forth over the channel bridge (Farwell Ave).

Additionally, there is a group of 10 Avocets in amongst the gulls on the
lake on the western end of town viewable from Finland Ave.

Have fun.

-rick gibson, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Say's Phoebe, Western Wood Pewee, Clay Cnty

[Rick Gibson]

This afternoon, Monday, re-found both the Say's Phoebe (Felton Prairie,
3-ish) and the Western Wood Pewee (Buffalo River State Park, 5-ish, after
an hour or so of listening).

Many thanks to the initial finders and to those of you who continued to
post their presence all summer. It takes some of us longer to get our stuff
together.

-Rick Gibson, Mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Felton Prairie reports

[Rick Gibson]

Thanks to all of you who responded to my question about Chestnut-collared
Longspurs at Felton Prairie.  Below is a quick summary of the responses
(without names):

Last week:
Birder #1: saw a pair of Chestnut-collared Longspurs at the north end of
the "traditional" field (which I assume to be on 170th St, north of 90th
Ave/County 26, generally SE of Felton in Clay County);

Birder #2: saw a pair of possible fly-bys on the south end of the
traditional field;

May 26 - Birder #3 saw Longspurs;

Birders 4 and 5: mentioned that none had been seen during the Detroit Lakes
Bird-fest.

Several others reported spending quite a bit of time out there with no luck
so it seems the numbers are, once again, down.  BUT... others have had luck
so maybe its worth another look.

Have fun!

--rick gibson, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Felton Prairie??

[Rick Gibson]

Hi -

With all the excitement about the Western Wood Peewee in west-central MN, I
am curious to know if anybody has had a chance to pop up to Felton Prairie
to check on the Chestnut-collared Longspurs?

Any reports, pro or con, would be helpful.  Thanks.

--rick gibson, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

Re: [mou-net] Chat

[Rick Gibson]

The Chat was present this morning (7am) at the previously described Afton
State Park spot - singing loudly and showing himself clearly.

Also saw a Black-billed Cuckoo in the trees near the 50th St entrance and
never heard so many Henslow's Sparrows in this field before.

Have fun!

-rick gibson, mpls

On May 30, 2017 10:47 AM, "Roy Zimmerman" <roymz...@gmail.com> wrote:

Present and singing at 10:45, Afton State Park, 50th St to 4 corners,  then
west.


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

Re: [mou-net] Red-necked Phalarope - Anoka County

[Rick Gibson]

There were no Red-necked Phalarope at this Forest Lake field this morning
at 7ish (plus, the road was terribly rutty). The previously reported Ruddy
Turnstones, however, we're present in Forest Lake and visible from Lakeside
Park.

-rick gibson, mpls

On May 23, 2017 5:10 PM, "Missy Bowen" <missybo...@gmail.com> wrote:

> Anyone know if this is still present?
>
> Missy Bowen
> Otisville, MN
>
> On Mon, May 22, 2017 at 6:23 PM, Erik Collins <suee...@msn.com> wrote:
>
> > There's a Red-necked Phalarope in a flooded field on Elmcrest Ave. south
> > of 165th St.  Elmcrest is the Anoka/Washington County line.  The bird is
> in
> > the wet area just south of the tan house.
> >
> > Erik Collins
> > Shoreview, MN
> > 
> > Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
> > Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html
> >
>
> 
> Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
> Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html
>


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Hooded Warbler, Wash Cnty

[Rick Gibson]

Lots of great birds at William OBrein State Park today but best was a
singing male Hooded Warbler on the northwest edge of the Transition Trail.

Happy Mother's Day Weekend.

-rick gibson, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Mixed warblers in Mpls

[Rick Gibson]

Just ran into my first warbler "wave" of the year in North Minneapolis.
Near Vincent Ave, N and 42nd happened upon a very mixed flock including (in
no particular order):

Gold winged Warbler
Black and White Warbler
Nashville
Tennessee
Blue-headed Vireo
Red-eyed Vireo
Swainson's Thrush
Veery
Catbird

Eloise Butler and/or Theodore Wirth Park might be worth a visit today.

--rick gibson, Mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Ibis, Scott County

[Rick Gibson]

The White-faced Ibis is still present at the Scott County Marsh WMA as of
7am today (Thursday).

The Marsh is easily found - south of Jordan at the intersection of 250th
Street/Country Road 4 and Aberdeen Avenue.  The bird was in the SW corner
of the marsh ducking in and out of the reeds.

Thanks to Cara Cox and others who continued to update.

--rick gibson, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Cinnamon Teal

[Rick Gibson]

The Cinnamon Teal is still present this morning (Monday, 7:15) at the
Atwood Circle site in Washington County.

-Rick, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Cologne, Carver County

[Rick Gibson]

The flooded field, (150th St, just west of Carver County 53) south of
Cologne, was ducky this morning with scaup, Red Heads, Tundra Swans,
Greater White Fronteds, Pectoral Sandpipers and American Golden Plover this
morning. Lots of mud and likely good for more shorebirds in the coming days.

Have fun!

-Rick, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Fwd: [mou-net] Townsend's Solitaires, Carver Park Reserve 11/13 and 11/17

[Rick Gibson]

The Townsend Solitaire is still present at Carver Park, Hennepin County
(thanks for original post, Doug!).

This afternoon (4pm), it was in the center of the open field/hillside just
to the west of the copse of Juniper tees, west of the cross country ski
rental building at the Springview Preserve parking area (also the archery
range).

Have fun!

-rick, mpls
-- Forwarded message --
From: "Doug Kieser" 
Date: Nov 13, 2016 8:54 AM
Subject: [mou-net] Townsend's Solitaires, Carver Park Reserve 11/13
To: 
Cc:

There are currently a minimum of Two Townsend's Solitaire just west of
> Springview Reservation Area of Carver Park Reserve.  Take the grass past
> west of the building here about100 yards and the birds were calling and
> feeding on red cedar berries.  I would have never found them if they hadn't
> been loudly calling.  TOSO have been in this area in previous years.
>
> Doug Kieser
> Hennepin County
>
> 
> Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
> Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html
>


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Swans in Brownsville?

[Rick Gibson]

I am curious to know if Brownsville is filling with Tundra Swans yet. I'll
swing by on my way back from Iowa after Thanksgiving if there's been any
swan action by then.

Thanks.

-rick, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Grandma's Marathon at Park Point

[Rick Gibson]

Hello -

Its possible that I am the last person in Minnesota to know this but, just
in case: Grandma's Marathon runs on Saturday, June 18, ie: *this Saturday*.
Getting to Park Point to look for the Calliope Hummingbird this weekend
might be a challenge.

None the less, any news of sightings between now and then will be greatly
appreciated.

--rick, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

Re: [mou-net] Chucker - Washington County (Woodbury)

[Rick Gibson]

The Chukar is still present, on the rooftop, next to a security camera,
near the entrance to Rue 21. He/She was calling from the edge of the roof.

-Rick, mpls
On Apr 13, 2016 6:34 PM, "Mike Majeski"  wrote:

> There's currently a Chucker, in of all places, in front of Total Wine in
> Woodbury. It was hunkered down near a landscape boulder and a few small
> ornamental bushes near the parking lot. Total Wine is located on Valley
> Creek Plaza north of Valley Creek Road.
> Mike Majeski
>
> Sent from mobile device
>
> 
> Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
> Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html
>


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

Re: [mou-net] Short-eared owls

[Rick Gibson]

>From a conversation earlier this morning, I understand the Short-eared Owls
were seen yesterday (Friday) afternoon on the north end of Afton State
Park. The north entrance/gate is on 50th St., just east of St Croix Trail
(no parking lot but I have never had a problem parking on the side of the
road by the gate). I believe the owls were first seen near the trails south
of this entrance and also on the north side of 50th St over private land.
It was also suggested that 3 - 5 pm was a good time to be looking.

If the weather tomorrow is a repeat of today, there might be a nice group
of people out there.  Good luck.

-rick
On Jan 2, 2016 10:19 PM, "MOU admin"  wrote:

> (Posted by anonymous <> via moumn.org)
>
> I see from the posts that Ron Taube and Jill Beam have spotted the birds
> on North Prarie
> Loop at Afton SP.  if you have and more specific directions and time of
> day. It would be
> greatly appreciated.  Thank you for your posts and pics.
>
> Bob Larocca
> 
> Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
> Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html
>


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Brownsville geese?

[Rick Gibson]

Hi -

With such a mild and long-running fall, I am curious to know if there are
any recent updates from the Mississippi River around the Winona and
Brownsville area.

Have the geese and duck numbers peaked yet or is that already behind us for
the year?

Thanks for any news you might have.

--rick


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Clark's Nutcracker?

[Rick Gibson]

I am, apparently, the last Minnesotan to see the Clark's Nutcracker near
Winona. I see that Mr. Hoekstra saw it on the 4th. Has it been seen since
then?

Thanks!

-Rick, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Ottawa Impoundment

[Rick Gibson]

I stopped by the Ottawa Impoundment Pools today to see what was what. Lots of 
water and a few birds: a single Wilson's Phalarope, a single Wester Grebe and a 
Great horned owl working the water's edge in the eastern pool. Lots of distant 
Cormorants, a few Shovellers and some distant shorebirds. Other lakes in the 
general area held lots heron and egrets. It was a beautiful June day to be out 
and about.

-rick, mpls
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Oberg Mountain

[Rick Gibson]

I took a trip to the North Shore this weekend in hopes of finding a
Black-throated Blue.  On Saturday afternoon, I heard what was very likely
two of them on Oberg Mountain very near where the Oberg Loop connects to
the spur trail.  Unfortunately, I never saw them.  Sigh.  On Sunday
morning, the wind was howling and I could barely hear the Red-eyed Vireos.

I did, however, see Parula, Black-throated Green, Blackburnian, Nashville,
Yellow and Chestnut Warblers at Tettegouche, Crosby Manitou and Silver Bay
Marina.  Lots of Ovenbirds and Veery, as well.

--rick, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Egrets??

[Rick Gibson]

Has anybody run across any Cattle Egrets yet this year?  I don't recall
seeing anything posted on the listserv.

I hope to visit Grant County this weekend.  If so, I'll report what I find.

--rick, mpls


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Acadian at Big Woods State Park

[Rick Gibson]

While not quite on par with a Worm-eating Warbler (nice find, Brad), I did find 
an Acadian Flycather at Nerdstrand-Big Woods State Park. Very vocal in the 
early evening about 100 yrds up the Campground Trail from the waterfall area 
- very near a little sign describing Ovenbirds.

-rick, mpls
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Longtail ducks, Duluth

[Rick Gibson]

Group of 30 or so Long-tail Ducks at pull off #7702, just north of Brieghton 
Beach Park, north of Duluth.

-rick, mpls
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] 180th St Marsh, Dakota County

[Rick Gibson]

I stopped by the 180th St Marsh (Dakota County? just north of Vermillion) to 
find it mostly open water. Three of the four main pools are fully clear of ice 
and the fourth is about 2/3rds clear. 

Toward the back of the larger pool, there were a couple dozen Ring-necked 
ducks, two Redheads, two Hooded mergs, two Common goldeneye, two Killdeer, 100 
Canada geese and several hundred Mallards. Redwing blackbirds in the century 
farmyard to the east and a few Horned larks in the grass. Several muskrats in 
each pool swimming laps.

There was no other standing water along 180th. C'mon spring rain!

-rick, mpls
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Lake Byllesby and south

[Rick Gibson]

Drove south from the Twin Cities today - most ponds and marshes are all still 
frozen. 

Byllesby has lots of open water on the Randolph end but water very low. Is it 
always this low in March? Saw a Red shouldered hawk perched in the farmhouse 
yard across the road from the county park entrance at the northwest end of 
Byllesby. Also lots of singing House finches. 

Red-winged blackbirds just east of the Geneva wtp but water still frozen - 
which didn't seem to bother a couple of Killdeer. 

Big Island State Park ponds and marshes all still frozen but did see a Song 
sparrow. Turns out, there's pretty much always something to see.

-rick, mpls
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Lake Byllesby ice out?

[Rick Gibson]

For any of you living in the Cannon Falls area, I'll be very interested to
hear as soon as the ice on Lake Byllesby starts to clear.  With the warmer
weather this week, one can hope for early ice-out dates across the
southern part of the state.

Thanks.

--rick


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Golden eagle

[Rick Gibson]

I've found my new favorite road in MN: County road 17, south from Witoka (off 
I90, east of Rochester) - it connects up with Hwy 76 north of Houston. Early 
this afternoon: pheasants, turkey, rough leg hawk, golden eagle, bald eagle, 
horned lark - spread along a beautiful valley road between the bluffs. Spring 
is happening!

-rick, mpls
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Two Harbors Spruce Grouse

[Rick Gibson]

Went to Two Harbors this weekend - chilly but birdy.

Saturday: No luck with the Three Toed Woodpecker on Three Lakes Road north of 
Duluth but a beautiful drive on a sunny morning (10 - 11:15am). Lots of Downy's 
and Red Breasted Nuthatch trying to look like a Three Toed.

Found some Hoary Redpolls just south of Two Harbors on Scenic 61 at about noon 
(thanks Jim Lund!) and, at about 1pm, quickly found the Harlequin Duck in Agate 
Bay - very busy diving but clearly in view near the ore docks.

This morning, drove up Hwy 2 and found a White Wing Crossbill on the road about 
one mile to the west of where Hwy 2 meets Hwy 1 (about 8am). On the way back 
south on Hwy 2, a nice couple pointed out a Spruce Grouse eating in the trees 
at the magic spot 0.4 miles north of Sand River (8:15am - thanks, Kim Eckert, 
for your guidance).

And, if that wasn't enough, I passed a trio of Pine Grosbeaks (9am) about 1 
mile north of the wayside picnic stop just north of the split on Hwy 2.

Only a very small portion of open water at Canal Park in Duluth - a handfull of 
Mallards, Common Goldeneye and Common Mergs. I did not see the eider and there 
were no gulls save for two or three in flight. You can't always get what you 
want.

All in all, a fun winter weekend in the North.

-rick, mpls
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

[mou-net] Eurasian Tree Sparrow

[Rick Gibson]

The Eurasian Tree Sparrow is still hanging out at the house south of Hastings. 
Still with a large flock of House Sparrows and still preferring the blue 
feeder. No birds when we first arrived but they showed up in a big flock at 
about 10:30

Thanks for notes encouraging another look and thanks for the original post..

-rick
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Hastings area Eurasian Tree Sparrow?

[Rick Gibson]

I missed the Eurasian Tree Sparrow south of Hastings a few weeks ago and
would like to try again this weekend.  Has anybody heard any
reports recently?

Thanks for your updates.

--rick


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Willmar area Varied Thrush??

[Rick Gibson]

I noticed a photo on the MOU site of a Varied Thrush being seen in Willmar
the past week or so.

Has anybody seen it recently?  Is it still in the neighborhood?

Many thanks for your response.

--rick


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] open water near Albert Lea??

[Rick Gibson]

I will be near Albert Lea this weekend and curious to know if anybody can
share news on open water and/or aerated lakes in the area.

A few ducks and mergs might help the drive move along.

Thanks.

--rick


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Point Douglas

[Rick Gibson]

To those of you living in the Prescott/Hastings area: 

Is there open water near Point Douglas right now? And, any birds of note 
hanging about?

Feel free to respond directly.

Thanks - rick
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Virginia rail

[Rick Gibson]

The Virginia Rail is still hanging around the North Woods Nature Center in 
Richfield. He came out, briefly, several times last night, between 7 and 8pm. 
Look along the nearest edge of the cattail mat on the western end of the main 
boardwalk, on the away side from the office/classroom bldg. Patience is helpful.

-rick, mpls
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html

[mou-net] Parasitic Jaeger?

[Rick Gibson]

I spent the weekend on the North Shore and saw on Saturday afternoon (2pm) what 
may have been a dark phase Parasitic Jaeger on the small point, just above the 
water, just north of Shovel Point at Tetteguche State Park. 

Black cap, dark greyish/buff all over becoming much darker toward the tail.  
About the length of the Ring-billed on the rocks above but clearly heavier set. 
He flew up once and re-settled and I distinctly saw the leading edge of his 
wings (top) were darker black than the rest of the wing. I could see no longer 
tail feathers but I have read those are only present during breeding season.

I'll be interested in hearing other possible identifications or if anybody else 
saw anything similar. I am relatively new to this so open to alternate 
suggestions and comments.

Thanks. 

Rick, Mpls
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry


Join or Leave mou-net: http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=mou-net
Archives: http://lists.umn.edu/archives/mou-net.html