[mou-net] At the Feeders
The past three days have seen some interesting activity at the feeders. Monday and Tuesday are Project Feederwatch count days for me and produced two season high counts. These counts consist of the most birds of each species seen at ONE time. 47 American Goldfinch and 19 Northern Cardinal are season highs and the Cardinal count ties my record since 2000. As is often the case today is outside the count days and two great sightings occurred. Upon our return from Mankato early this afternoon we found a Sharp-shinned Hawk dining on what happily turned out o be a House Sparrow on a snow pile next to the garage door. We parked not 10 feet away and it was not the least bothered until we finally got out of the truck. It flew to the woods with rest of its meal. Curious as to what was going on at the feeders on the other side of the house, I found only a few Downy WP, but 21 Black-capped Chickadees! In checking back 15 years I found I have never counted more than 11 Chickadees at one time. The activity was amazing. Of the 47 Goldfinches, 22 were on thistle sacks, 18 at raised feeders with #2 sunflower, the rest on the ground. Thank goodness for the birds entertaining us during this unpleasant coldspell !! John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] At The Feeders
Only three species at the feeders right now. We counted 11 Cardinals, 30 Juncos, and 9 American Tree Sparrows, all frantically foraging BOSS on the ground. The weather has turned really nasty in the last half hour, sleet and a very strong south wind. It's going to be a hard night for our wild friends tonight and tomorrow. I hope everyone is putting out lots of BOSS in sheltered places on the ground. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Fwd: Downy WP
Begin forwarded message: From: john c nelson dsgaba...@gmail.com Subject: Downy WP Date: January 6, 2014 4:44:21 PM CST To: Project Feederwatch feederwa...@cornell.edu We have apparently reached our high temp for the day, -12F. In the past hour I counted 20 Downy Woodpeckers, making 3 different counts before calling it confirmed. Today was the first of my PFW count days. If ever they need our feedersit is now. Missing our White-throated Sparrow today. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] recent visitors
In spite of the miserable weather our regular feeder visitors seem to be doing well. Unusual visitors for our location and season: For the past several weeks 4 American Tree Sparrows a lone White-throated Sparrow 4-6 Mourning Doves a single female Yellow-shafted Flicker Also 12 Robins dropped by yesterday and sampled berries from a viburnum bush, -4F at the time. Odd observances include NO activity at Nyjer feeders and only a handful of Goldfinches all of which are on the ground foraging #2 sunflower. The latter are joined by 30-40 House Finch, numbers I have never experienced here in 15 years counting for PFW. Personal opinion: sunny, 0F, and windless absolutely beats cloudy, 24F, and gale force wind for outdoor activity. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Swans Blue Earth Cty
A few minutes ago as I walked down our driveway to retrieve the mail, I was a bit startled to see a pair of swans fly over the neighbor's grove across the road from us. They were flying low and dropped down toward the fields to the south and out of sight. No idea whether trumpeter or tundra. Seems late , certainly no open water other than possibly the rivers Cobb or Maple. Aeration units were activated on Lura and Ida lakes on the 5th, but no open water as yet. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Fwd: [mou-net] Grant Co/Baltimore Oriole
We had two adult male and two adult female Baltimore Orioles at the grape jelly today at various times. Growing numbers of hummers as well. John Nelson Goood Thunder MN Begin forwarded message: From: Jim Charlene Nelson jnel...@runestone.net Subject: [mou-net] Grant Co/Baltimore Oriole Date: September 9, 2013 2:11:10 PM CDT To: MOU-NET@LISTS.UMN.EDU Reply-To: Jim Charlene Nelson jnel...@runestone.net at my feeders yet - male and female. anyone else have them yet? Charlene Nelson Elbow Lake 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] Scarlet Tanager
Our FOY Scarlet Tanager is at the grape jelly right now with an assortment of Baltimore and orchard orioles, catbirds and two Tennessee Warblers. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
Re: [mou-net] Pine Siskins
I have only a couple Pine Siskins but ANY at this date is unprecedented in our yard. On the other hand 100-200 Goldfinch have been the norm for the past two weeks. This past weekend at the store 9 out of 10 customers reported incredible numbers of goldfinches, whether someone who had never had any and were seeing 20, or experienced bird feeders seeing hundreds. Also, both Saturday and Sunday I received numerous calls asking, What is the little blue bird at my feeders. Never have had so many people seeing Indigo Buntings singly and in multiples. Several inquiries about females and molting males. Easily 1000# of Nyjer went out the doorover the weekend. Many customers seeing their first Orchard Orioles, as well. John Nelson Good Thunder MN On May 20, 2013, at 12:02 PM, ssmorton ssstn...@mvtvwireless.com wrote: And...what about the goldfinches? I had over 200 in my yard over the weekend. Sue Morton Cottonwood -Original Message- From: Minnesota Birds [mailto:MOU-NET@LISTS.UMN.EDU] On Behalf Of North, Michael R (DNR) Sent: Monday, May 20, 2013 9:27 AM To: MOU-NET@LISTS.UMN.EDU Subject: Re: [mou-net] Pine Siskins I am going to go out on a limb here and suggest that we are possibly seeing an irruption of pine siskins rather than a normal spring movement. I have been having hundreds swarming at my home near Pillager (Cass County) since May 15th. On the 19th I caught one that was banded near Revelstoke, British Columbia on August 22, 2012, as a hatch-year bird. Also, I have banded another 65 and they are all second-year and after second-year birds (no young-of-the-year), and they all have wing lengths in the shorter spectrum of the range of possible wing lengths, suggesting to me they are mostly females with few males. They are also heavy with fat and weighing in far above the normal weight. None have shown any signs of breeding activity (i.e., no brood patches, no cloacal protuberances). Definitely atypical. The next few days or weeks should tell if we are having an irruption or whether I am all wet. -Original Message- From: Minnesota Birds [mailto:MOU-NET@LISTS.UMN.EDU] On Behalf Of Alan Stankevitz Sent: Friday, May 17, 2013 3:10 PM To: MOU-NET@LISTS.UMN.EDU Subject: [mou-net] Pine Siskins Very strange... I have had a few Pine Siskins that have stuck around since Winter but this afternoon there must be hundreds of Pine Siskins in the trees nearby. The sound of iii... is everywhere. I have never seen/heard so many Pine Siskins and usually they are gone by April. Alan Stankevitz Near Hokah in Houston 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
[mou-net] Unusual numbers
Startled to see 7 male indigo Buntings beneath and on the Nyjer feeders this morning. Also 4 adult male Orchard Orioles, never before seen more than one at a time. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Morning birds
While enjoying the morning paper and coffee on the deck this morning our featured entertainers were: Ruby-throated Hummingbird Red-breasted Nuthatch FOY An adult and 1st yr male Orchard Orioles Four Indigo Buntings 3m 1f -most ever here Two Gray Catbirds apparently courting a third Lots of AM Goldfinch still in excess of 25 Harris' Sparrows John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Harris' Sparrows
The past few days the migrant sparrow numbers have dropped drastically. I assumed the pleasant weather had sent them north. However, there are presently 22 Harris's foraging below the Nyjer feeders along with several White-crowned, a Mourning Dove, and a PAIR of Indigo Buntings. JohnNelson Good Thunder, 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
[mou-net] Orchard Oriole
FOY Orchard Oriole just appeared at the grape jelly. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Bad weather brings birds
Just after posting the Orchard Oriole, looked out the window and our FOY female Rose-breasted Grosbeak was on a golden safflower feeder. We had three males earier today. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] FOY Parade
Our FOY male Ruby-throated Hummingbird just appeared There are 5 Rose-breasted Grosbeaks (3M-2F) presently at the feeders. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Sorry state of affairs
My FOY Gray Catbird is hopping around on the snow looking for a bite to eat, while a male Baltimore Oriole is sitting on a branch above slowly turning from brilliant orange and black--to white !! John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] FOY Oriole
Just now our FOY Baltimore Oriole appeared at the grape jelly feeders. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Red Polls
Common Redpoll count at the feeders reached 70 the past three days. Combined with 30-40 American Goldfinch, Nyjer and #2 sunflower daily consumption is geting out of hand. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Birds and snow
After clearing the ground around some of our shrubs this morning and spreading seed, a flock of 50Am Goldfinch with 9 Red Polls came in and cleaned up. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Morning surprise
After filling all the feeders for my second count day for PFW I was surprised to see 3 male Brewer's Blackbirds in one of the ground feeding areas. Also 18 House Finches and 33 American Goldfinch all on the same feeding areas, making counts difficult. I'll probably have to use the camera and computor. Only one Common Redpoll (3 yesterday) and I haven't seen Pine Siskins in several weeks. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] First Redpoll
FOY Common Redpoll at 1:30 this afternoon feeding on sunflower feeder. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Orioles and Hummingbirds
While 8-10 Baltimore Oriole, including two adult males, continue to go through 2+ pounds of grape jelly daily at my feeders I was particularly pleased to see a 1st year female Orchard Oriole with them this afternoon. Also hosting an unusually large number of Ruby- throated Hummngbirds. I have never before felt compelled to make three quarts of nectar at a time and even that is only a two and a half day supply. Perch Lake east of Beauford has 200 plus Great White Egrets and Great Blue Herons although little if any water. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Red-headed Woodpeckers
On 557 Lane to Schimek County Park east of Good Thunder, we have spotted a Red-headed Woodpecker on numerous occasion on the power poles along the road. However,we missed a great photo op this morning when two (hopefully a pair) posed nicely on opposite sides of the same pole. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Eastern Bluebirds Fledged
All five of our eastern bluebird youngsters successfully fledged earlier today. This would not be particularly noteworthy save for the fact the male has fed and cared for them all by himself the past 10 days. The female disappeared seven days after hatching five eggs. We have continued to provide mealworms and the male all but takes them from the can. He is feeding them in the nearby trees and it has been difficult to see the fleglings at this point. In cleaning out the nestbox we found no feces but a number of live mealworms he had apparently brought while or after fledging. As we were gone when the young birds left the nestbox we will not know how many have survived until we hopefully see them at the feeders. We observed a female in the area this afternoon, it will be interesting if he will be interested in another romantic relationship after his ordeal the past week and a half. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Bluebirds and Butterflies
Watched on nest cam as our eastern bluebird laid her fifth egg, like clockwork, each one delivered between 9:30 and 10 am. I feel for her, a great deal of effort involved. We have been amazed at the number of Painted Ladies on our lawn, horse pasture, and grape jelly feeders. We've never seen such numbers in 40 years here. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] new email address john and donna
This is our new email addressdsgaba...@gmail.com John and Donna 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] Snow and cold not all that bad...?
Bird activity has , not unexpectadly picked up exponentialy this morning with colder temps and a fair amount of snowfall. At present 50-80 American Goldfinch at the feeder area. While that is not unusual in our yard, it is interesting to note that no more than a handful are on Nyjer sacks, the vast majority are on feeders and the ground (snow) feasting on #2 sunflower. They are accompanied by Dark-eyed Juncos and Northern Cardinals in considerable numbers. I have gone to #2 sunflower exclusively since BOSS has increased in price and the results have been remarkable. The other feeders that are seeing a great deal of activity are the shelled peanut feeders. At present 9 Downys, a pair of Red-bellys, a pair of Hairys, a male Flicker, along with WB Nuthatches and an uncountable number of BC Chicksdees are eating peanuts as fast as I can put them out. Check out the availability of #2 sunflower in your area. We guess 30% more seed per pound and very little mess on the ground. Wild birds are pretty practical when it comes to nutrition-what gives me the most value for the effort? John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Goldfinches
Nothing like a little cold weather to perk up bird activity. 63 American Goldfinches at the feeders this morning. Also a friend reported 5 Common Redpolls at his feeders yesterday south of Mapleton near Lura Lake. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Brewer's Blackbird a mistake
A pair of Rusty Blackbirds in bright sun under my feeders this morning lead me to believe I was mistaken in my idenification yesterday of a Brewer's Blackbird. It's ironic that while we require a photograph to confirm rare bird sightings, had I submitted the best of yesterday's photos a lively debate may have ensued. I believe the conclusion would have been possible- not confirmed. Fortunately the presence of the Rustys today in much better light leaves me certain that the blackbird yesterday was most likely a Rusty as well. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Brewer's Blackbird
This morning on the ground beneath our feeders among the HSP, Am Goldfinches, and Dark-eyed Juncos a female Brewer's Blackbird. First in January in Blue Earth County? John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Snowy Owl Delavan
After arriving for New Years dinner at in-laws today brotherinlaw showed me photos he had taken of a young Snowy Owl near Delavan last Friday. He had been informed of the owl by a Schwan's driver who had seen it twice on the same power pole several hours before. Dwayne drove down and it was still there. I will try to post a photo. He didn't think I would want to drive all the way down there given the duration since it was last seen. It will take a while, but I will forgive him eventually. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Fwd: Osprey and Snowy Owl
I received this message from a fellow Feederwatcher in Saskatoon SK in reply to my posting yesterday relating to Snowy Owls. John Nelson Good Thunder MN Begin forwarded message: Hi John, A friend who is a Field Biologist was recently on a work-related trip from Saskatoon to the Swift Current area, a distance of about 150 miles. In an e-mail he said that where, in a normal year, he'd see at least a dozen or more Snowy owls, his total for that return trip at this time of year, was 2. Another friend from Saskatoon, who is a 'Train Driver', (his words), for the Canadian National Railway on the Edmonton route, this year reports seeing one or two Snowies on his route when he would regularly see a dozen or so on his 500 mile return run. With those two reports in mind, it's going to be interesting to see what the upcoming results will be once the tally for the Christmas Bird Counts are in the book... re the BOSS situation: If I'm reading the PFW maps correctly, it seems like the numbers of FeederWatchers is significantly down across both the States and Canada. That, too, will have an impact on the 2011 BOSS crop. However, in talking to a local farmer who did grow some BOSS this past season, he said that he had a bumper crop of excellent quality. O f course, he had no problem selling it and wished he'd planted more than 80 acres. This far north, however, BOSS is always an 'iffy' crop. We normally get a killing frost about the last quarter of September, keeping in mind that the last of our crops is normally planted in early June. Moe Mareschal Birch Hills, SK On the farm in the Aspen Woodland zone between the Great Plains and the Boreal Forest. __ ( ' / ) ) // 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] Osprey and Snowy Owl
This morning, as I left home for work at Pet Expo, I noticed a large bird cross over the road (CTY 10 mile west of Beauford). I assumed an eagle, as they are becoming almost common around that area, and as I caught up to it guessed it was an immature eagle. However, as I passed it and took another look, saw a beautiful Osprey. Not a common bird around us at any time, a bit late here I would guess. While I have been on the lookout for a Snowy, I have not been successful. However,customer from Minnesota Lake reported having one fly by twice while he was in a duck blind on the north side of the lake late last week. This would be the year to see one here, I would guess. The camera will be with me at all times! Customers report varying numbers of birds at their feeders, particularly Cardinals and Goldfinches lots or few. We still have a first year Harris Sparrow daily, but no Pine Siskins or Red Polls. A report from the National Sunflower Assoc. states that the BOSS crop is expected to be down 24% with both acreage and yield lower. Not good news. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
Re: [mou-net] Sherburne cranes, rusty BBs and purple finches
Our thanks again Betsy for the crane alert. The crane viewing was spectacular and the Trumpeters were a wonderful bonus. The Rusty Blackbird in the tree above your doorway was also a nice touch. John and Donna Nelson Good Thunder MN On Nov 7, 2011, at 6:08 PM, Betsy Beneke wrote: I left work later than normal this afternoon, and pulled over to watch hundreds of sandhill cranes pouring into the refuge between 4:40 and 4:50. I was sitting at the corner of CRs 3 and 5 (info kiosk there) quite a bit farther east than where we've seen large number of birds earlier in the fa 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] Correction Cooper's
Acting on a suggestion from Dennis Martin, we were able te correctly identify the raptor at St John's Lutheran in Mapleton as a Cooper's Hawk. Much better lighting and photos made proper id possible. The hawk was at the Lutheran church again, with the Collered Dove next door at St Theresa's. As soon as the Cooper's departed, the dove moved back to the Lutheran steeple. A truly ecumenical bird ! Earlier on arrival at Perch Lake a swan flew over us and two more were on the lake. Probably Trumpeters? Large numbers of American Pelicans with far fewer Great Egrets and Blue Herons scattered around the lake. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Collared Dove
In Mapleton: The Eurasian Collared Dove's regular perch on St. John's Lutheran steeple was usurped by a Sharp-shinned Hawk this morning. The dove took up residence on St. Theresa's Catholic next door. Conversion possible? John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Bluebirds Fledged
First thing this morning when we checked the nest cam found that te Eastern Bluebirds had fledged-right on time. This afternoon while sitting on the deck we observed two adults losading up on mealworms and flying off into the woods. Interestingly on several occasions we observed a juvenile also collect a mouthful and head in the same direction. This would be the third fledge from this pair in this house this summer and it appears that all four left the nest successfully. We took Samantha our Golden Retriever and two of her puppies for a walk at Schimek Park today. Spotted a Black and White Warbler as we walked through the park. Counted as many as 9 Baltimore Orioles devouring grape jelly this afternoon including two adult males. Hummingbird numbers increasing daily, highlight of the summer season. Grosbeaks, Orchard Orioles, and Catbirds not present for about a week. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Eastern Bluebird 3rd hatch
Our Eastern Bluebird successfully hatched her 3rd set of eggs this morning. The four nestlings appear to be doing well. Through daily observation at the mealworm feeders and direct observation via the nest cam there is no doubt all three hatches were by the same pair. We know the first four fledglings (from five eggs) survived. Survival of the second hatch of five is uncertain as the extreme heat caused some to leave the nestbox early. We have seen two from that hatch being fed in nearby trees. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Hummers
At our house the hummingbird numbers are higher than ever before at this point in the season. Normal in the past would be pehaps two males and two or three females. A month ago this summer I was able to count three males at a time and six females. This morning at 7 am there were too many to count. I would assume a first hatch is present and hopefully more to come. At my my job talking with seveal hundred folks over the past week, comments on hummers are pretty much the same as in past years. One person has more than ever, the next has fewer. While hardly scientific and not claiming to be any sort of authority, I suggest the following: How many nested near you last year? How many females fledged two broods successfully? How many of the fledglings survived the summer? How many of those migrated to the Gulf, crossed the Gulf, and then returned to your home this spring? My two females last year could have produced four young each and those ten birds could have all come back this spring. What are the odds? John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Bluebirds
Planned to remove our nestcam Tuesday, but discovered new nesting material in the bluebird box. Today checked on camera and found a completed nest and one egg. She has fledged 11 in two nestings already, we have never recorded three. Fingers crossed. Also for the first time two pair of Orchard Orioles visiting grape jelly daily and an Indigo Bunting male continues to visit daily for Nyjer and shelled sunflower John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Scarlet Tanager
For the fourth consecutive day a Scarlet Tanager was at the grape jelly. Yesterday before leaving for work there were two. Never before had more than one for more than a brief one day visit. No female. Four Eastern Bluebird hatchlings 14 days old and doing well . John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Scarlet Tanager
We have a male Scarlet Tanager eating grape jelly from our orange shells this afternoon. A very rare visit at our feeders. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Red-headed Woodpecker(s)
The Red-headed Woodpecker came down to an in-shell peanut feeder yesterday afternoon. Later, while sitting on the deck one flew over the yard and I happened to glance up and see another in a tree in front of me. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Yard birds
Backyard surprises continue every day. Yesterday it was a Tennessee Warbler competing with the orioles and catbirds for the grape jelly. This morning it was TWO Red-breasted Nuthatches, one on the bay window feeder, the other on a nearby peanut feeder. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Orchard Orioles
At the grape jelly this morning 4 Orchard Orioles- 2 adult males, an adult female, 1 1st yr female, and 1 1st yr male John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] new arrivals
Nothing like spring migration for constant surprises. Upon arriving home from work FOY Indigo Bunting on a Nyjer sack. While getting a photo of the bunting the first Red-breasted Nuthatch in some time appeared on a suet log just outside the window. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Longbilled Dowitchers
On a trip from Mapleton to Albert Lea and back, we had a nice encounter with 10 Long-billed Dowitchers working in a flooded farm field near Freeborn. On return stopped at in-laws east of Lura Lake and looked at photos they took yesterday of a male Baltimore Oriole and three Rose-breasted Grosbeaks (2 M 1 F) which visited their feeders yesterday. The real highlight was their photos of a beautiful male Cattle Egret which spent the day with them, at one point walking within feet of their bedroom window. Their Black Lab, an experienced hunter, was totally at a loss as to what the thing was doing in their yard. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Willets
Yesterday afternoon I came across 4 Willets at Lake Ida NE of Amboy. Also a nice Green Heron. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Google logo
The birds on theG oogle logo are John James Audubon paintings and yes they do look strange to our modern eye. Not having a camera his paintings were done with birds in hand (dead) for models. They were done150-200 years ago. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] new arrivals
FOY a Brown Thrasher beneath our feeders, 5-6 days earlier than the past two years. This afternoon at Schimek Park near Good Thunder a long look at a very tame Veery. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] nesting bluebirds
Our Eastern Bluebird showed signs of nesting April 8. We installed our nest cam and this morning she is putting the finishing touches on her nest. This is the earliest we have them nest here, last year it was on or around April 28. We had our first Tree Swallows yesterday and hope they pick out a house (or TWO). John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Bluebirds
We have been feeding a male Eastern Bluebird the past week and yesterday it was joined by a female. We have seen her on and in and out of the house. If she does nest it will be the eariest for us. Darned cold and windy, but we will try to install the video camera in the house this afternoon. Numerous flickers along the road this morning. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Bald Eagles Perch Lake Blue Earth County
I have counted as many as 32 Bald Eagles on the ice and in the trees around Perch Lake north of Mapleton the past two days. This morning two were feeding on somthing near the open water on the south end. A Sandhill Crane flew over us this morning while doing yard work. The bird was headed due east down BE Cty 10 toward Beauford. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Bluebirds
On Blue Earth Cty 16 between Perch and Cobb WPA 12 Eastern Bluebirds on the power line. Wish the sun had been out. Hope they wait a few days before venturing further north. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Perch Lake Sunday afternoon
Hard to believe a gloomy day like today could provide a wonderful nature walk. Then again it's been a long, long winter. We walked dowwn the dead end lane at Perch Lake WPA and enjoyed a variety of our feathered friends. Most prominent was a flock of well over 100 Cackling Geese which appeared out of the fog in deafening fashion. An imm Bald Eagle awaited us in the trees at the end of the lane and a Northern Harrier coursed back and forth in search of what, based on the profusion of tunnels in the grass, has to be a huge population of mice and voles. We nearly stepped on several and they appeared to be very healthy. In the marsh on the west side of the lane we observed 6 American Coots. A very large flock of Tree Sparrows were in the trees at the top of the hill. The flooded area on the west side of cty 16 between Perch and Cobb WPAs held a handful of Common and Hooded Mergansers and a pair of Green-wing Teal. The open water area on the south end of Perch is growing with both of the mergansers and a pair of Buffleheads As we watched the ducks and geese, one after another Bald Eagles lit on the ice out on the lake totalling 8 by the time we left. In the course of travel to and from home we counted 6 Kestrels, three Red-tail Hawks, and a harrier north of the lake that may or may not have been the same one we had seen earlier. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Northern Shrike
Just had a glimpse of a Northern Shrike as it made a u turn in front of our bay window in pursuit of a house finch. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Bald Eagles
This morning 15 Bald Eagles in three groups of five near our house and in trees along the river below us. They can be very noisy and very spectacular. Running out of carp and it's raining. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] eagles
After replenishing the carp piles Friday, as many as 8 adult and subadult Bald Eagles were present today. One and a half miles west of Beauford north side of BE Cty 10. The vocals are fascinating. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Swans
I found 12 swans on Perch L. this morning. A scope would be needed to id species. A flock of 50+ were present yesterday. There were 2-5 birds on three different small patches of open water. At one spot there were two adults and two juveniles. The north sewage pond at Mapleton is frozen over and the south pond has only a few ducks. There was an adult Bald Eagle over the open water, which lit in the field nearby alongside an immature eagle. Another adult eagle passed over me as I arrived back home. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Red-Breasted Nuthatch
We had a brief visit from a Red-Breasted Nuthatch yesterday morning. This afternoon an extended appearance at a feeder next to our bay window on a peanut feeder. Unfortunately we had no yet removed the screen from that window so was unable to get a photo. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
Re: [mou-net] Winter Question
Winter months are a great time for me for a number of reasons: Project Feederwatch begins in a week affording commmunication with dozens of folks from around the country comparing results. Always the chance of a surprise visitor at the feeders. Will the Pine Siskins and or Red Polls appear in the numbers experienced two years ago? What will the January/February Cardinal numbers be this year? Christmas and GBBC counts. Traveling the backcountry roads looking for Pheasants and maybe a Gray Patridge as well as swarms of Snow Buntings and Horned Larks. What else can brighten a snowy cold winter day like the birds? John Nelson Good Thunder MN On Nov 9, 2010, at 4:42 PM, Pastor Al Schirmacher wrote: Despite balmy temperatures here in the northern Midwest, winter is obviously coming. For most of us, bird numbers have greatly dwindled, plumages have diminished, songs are occasional or fragmented. How do you find satisfaction in your birding hobby (or passion, or obsession) during the December to February timeframe? Thanks! Al Schirmacher Princeton, MN Mille Lacs Sherburne Counties (Happy to compile results if significant) 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] Snow Buntings
On Blue Earth County 10 just west of Alma City at 11 am this morning a flock of a dozen or so Snow Buntings flushed from the roadside. This afternoon Dwayne Smothers (brother-in-law) reported a much larger flock on the north side of Lura Lake along Inshore Drive. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Common Moorhen
There was a Common Moorhen (possibly two) at Perch Lake WPA yesterday afternoon. They were located on the Pond off the dead end road north of Cty 4. They were standing on a log near the road at the base of the hill. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Perch L. WPA Moorhen?
After reading Dennis Martin's posting, I lean to his suggestion an immature American Coot may have been what I saw. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Eastern Bluebirds
Our E Bluebird pair which lost their first nestlings has renested in a different house and we found 5 eggs today, which would indicate she will begin setting at any time. Our concern is the box 50' down the fence line occupied by HSP. We had removed the first HSP eggs from that house a while ago, but they have apparently renested as we see only the male at the house. I'm sure the EBB will be at risk but unsure as to what course of action I should take. Remove the nest and possibly have the HSP go after the house occupied by the EBB? I'm sure the bluebird nest will be at risk at some point, but I don't want to create a problem. My main concern is the safety of the female bluebird. Once she sets she will be in danger from the HSP. Any suggestions would be appreciated from those who have had a similar experience. Closing the HSP box is an easy option, but I'm not sure what the male might do in that event. John Nelson Good Thunder, 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
[mou-net] Perch Lake South WPA Snow Geese
On a quick visit to Perch lake WPA this morning I found two Blue Morph Snow Geese on the pond east side of 597 Lane in Perch Lake South WPA. Also a male Gadwall -no hen, hopefully nesting. Did not find the two Trumpeters or the Sandhill Crane which I observed last Sunday. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Bluebirds
Thanks for the replies, it seems clear now that the fledglings left the nest box prematurely. They were just 13 days old and clearly unable to fly. The one we found alive and placed back in the box got out an hour or so later and we did not find it again. I had considered both cat and racoon both of which we have seen in the area, however we think they probably left the nest after sunup (sunrise app. 5:30, we first checked the nestcam at 7:30). With our two Golden Retrievers present we don't see those two predators during daylight hours. Also none of the young birds showed any sign of injury of any kind. This female had displayed some odd behavior during the course of this entire senario and we had speculated that she may be a young first time nester. We have not seen Bluejays in the area I cleaned out the house this morning and found the nest to be clean and found no sign of blowflies or parasites. Hopefully they will renest and it will work out next time. In the seven years this nest box has been used Bluebirds have nested successfully each year with a second brood three times and one succssful nesting by Tree Swallows following the EBBs. One nest of 5 eggs was destroyed by House Wrens and last year after fledging one brood and laying three new eggs HSP threw them out. However the Bluebirds renested quickly after I cleaned out the house and fledged four more young birds. Sad, but nature is not always what we would like it to be. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Bluebird disaster
Upon checking the nest cam first thing this morning we found that all five babies were gone. Only 12 days old and just begining to feather. We found two dead near the nest with no sign of injury,then found one alive and seemingly unharmed, which we returned to the nest box. In the past we have lost eggs to sparrows and wrens, but this was new. Anyone have any ideas? John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Indigo Bunting
A moulting male Indigo Bunting visited a BOSS feeder at our house this morning. Only three reports of Ruby-throated Hummingbirds at work today. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Hummer
FOY female Ruby-throated Hummingbird was at a feeder this morning as we had breakfast. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Orchard Oriole
I have a FOY male Orchard Oriole at my grape jelly feeders and adjacent cherry tree as I post. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Mankato area reports
At work at Pet Expo in Mankato 5/6-8: Two reports of Ruby-throated Hummingbirds Several individual Baltimore Oriole sightings one report of three A number of Rose-breasted Grosbeak sightings two of females At my home: House Wrens since the 5th-on suet log Gray Catbirds and Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers at the grape jelly feeders frequently Individual male and female Baltimore Orioles since the 6th-this morning a pair Brown Thrasher appeared again today at one of the suet logs Both male and female Rose-breasted Grosbeaks Constant serenade by Harris' Sparrows At Perch Lake WPA this morning: My FOY Great Egret A pair of Trumpeter Swans that have been seen either on the lake itself or adjacent wetlands Ross's Goose not seen today 100+ American Pelicans on the lake Hundreds of shorebirds unidentified- to far away and couldn't hold binoculars steady with the wind shaking the car one drake Northern Shoveler A number of Blue-wing Teal in pairs Waiting for Indigo Bunting, Hummers, Eastern Towhee, and Orchard Oriole Has the Target Field Kestrel been officially named Kirby yet? John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] First Baltimore Oriole
FOY Baltimore Oriole at our house about 10 AM --- On a Nyjer sack !! John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Lots of birds
Snowing lightly, but steadily birds very active. Notable at last count: 4 Rusty Blackbirds-8 yesterday 13 Cardinals 29 Juncos 32 House Finches-males are unusually bright red 36 Goldfinches 12 Downy WP 1 Yellow-Shaft Flicker usual numbers of BC Chickadees, WB Nuthatches Hiairy and Red-Bellied WPs, HOSP,Blue Jays John Nelson Good Thunder, Blue Earth Cty 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] Cedar Waxwings-Robin
The Varied Thrush has not reappeared.However, we were greeted this morning by 6 Cedar Waxwings in the same viburnum favored by the thrush and in the same bush a young Robin. While winter Robin sightings have become fairly common around the state, it is very unusual here. I wish I had a lot more Wentworths, I have only one and the other nameless ones don't see any activity until spring. On a back country drive yesteday saw very few birds. 3 Horned Larks in one spot, 8 in another. Other than that just HSP. John Nelson Good Thunder, Blue Earth Cty 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] Varied Thrush Blue Earth Cty
The thrush was not seen at our residence today. We will be waching closely and will post immediately if it appears. Upon arriving at work this afternoon, I found I had just missed a lady from Judson who brought in a photo of a bird a fellow employee helped identify as a Varied Thrush! I had my photos from the 10th and they confirmed the Judson lady's bird as a V. Thrush. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Varied Thrush
A male Varied Thrush is presently feeding on Wentworth Viburnum berries, a first here. John Nelson Good Thunder, Blue Earth Cty. 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] Blue Earth Cty Ibis
The Ibis at Roberts WPA between Good Thunder and Mapleton was present at 8:30 am this morning. I as able to take 100 or more photos from several angles from as close as 20'. A most cooperative bird and looking quite out of place walking ahead of me on ditch ice-in December-in Minnesota. Dennis Martin is probably on site at this time and hopefully he will have some insight as to which ibis it is. On the computer my photos offer some tantalizing hints that require more expertise than I possess. Although we have recently acquired broadband internet service, I have had no success in negotiating the MOU site to upload photos. John Nelson Good Thuder 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
[mou-net] Swans on Perch Lake
Yesterday 3:30 PM I saw 12 swans, four of them immature, on Perch Lake north of Mapleton, adjacent to the Maple River WMA. I only had binoculars and could not definitively identify them as either Tundra or Trumpeter. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Mon Oct 7 yard sightings
On a cold rainy generally miserable day: 50+ goldfinches emptying Nyjer sacs as fast as I fill them 1 f. Ruby-throated Hummingbird foraging among the Rugosa roses John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Red Crossbill
The one-eyed Red Crossbill was still present at the feeders of Dwayne Smothers as of yesterday July 1. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Red-Headed Woodpecker
Dwayne Smothers reported two sightings of a Red-Headed Woodpecker at his son Richard's home 1/2 mile west of Lura Lake, Blue Earth Cty. First he has seen in that area in several years. He has NOT seen the Red Crossbill today. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Red Crossbill
The Red Crossbill was still present this morning at home of Dwayne Smothers south of Mapleton on the east side of Lura Lake. Noted yesterday; the bird is missing its right eye. It does not seem to be handicapped at all and has healthy appetite. Dwayne can be reached at 507-524-3529, email smoth...@hickorytech.net. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Red Crossbill
I received a call from brother-in-law at 1:30 this afternoon reporting a bird at his Nyjer sacks, which he had never seen before. The key word in his description was CROSSBILL. I arrived 45 minutes later and the bird 15 minutes after that. It is a young male Red Crossbill, a life bird for me after chasing all over in search of a White-Wing all winter. I was able to get some excellent photos. I would like to know how unusual this is. The bird was feeding hungrily while I was there and has been there from 11:30 AM until I left at 3 PM. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Yellow-Bellied Sapsucker
I'm curious as to other folks experience with Sapsuckers at feeders. I have had one since May 17 regularly feeding on grape jelly all day long and the past few days I have identified a male and female. We have never had this happen before. Input appreciated. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Harris' Sparrow
This morning awoke to the haunting vocals of a Harris' Sparrow near the house. Around 8 AM while filling a grape jelly feeder in a dead dwarf apple tree we maintain as a feeder station, the Harris' sat a few feet above me singing. While I was gone all day at work my wife became convinced its calls were being answered by another in the nearby woods. This evening a Harris' made a brief appearance at the feeder station outside our bay window. Always one of my favorites during migration, I have never seen one here after early May. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Blessed Event
Turned on the camera this morning and there were 4 brand new baby Eastern Bluebirds. They apparently hatched overnght. They all seem healthy and are responding quickly to parents with food. Her first egg was on 5/17, the fourth on 5/20, so they hatched in exactly two weeks. These two birds wasted no time as the entire process from their arrival at the box, nest building, laying, and hatching took place in about three weeks. Bob Dunlap speculated this may have been a second nesting, I agree, as four eggs were less than we have seen in the past also. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
Re: [mou-net] Potential First State Record Won't Be Shared
On May 19, 2009, at 12:52 PM, Pastor Al Schirmacher wrote: While I have not had a bad experience with postings, I caught on early to make sure of sightings with local authorities before posting. Not to be critical, my experience of a few weeks ago surprised me in that some very knowledgeable birders seem to jump to conclusions on sightings very quickly, though on reflection they do modify first impressions. Wishful thinking is not a flaw exclusive to novice birders. I encounter numerous erroneous reports of bird sightings at my store job. As nutty as some are, I try to keep in mind the interest people have in their birds and try to help them correctly id the birds they encounter. Watched on nest cam while my EBB laid her third egg. Early this morning a Harris' Sparrow lit on the driveway. I approached within 10' before it flew. Very unusual here in every way. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] orange rind grape jelly
Another first (for me), a Yellow-Bellied Sapsucker eating grape jelly from an orange half. Latest Rose-Breasted Grosbeak count at the BOSS--7 females and three males. Anyone know if they pair or are (for lack of a better word) polygamus? Got my Bluebird nest cam up and running, her nest is about finished. Our Bluebirds are always rather late. Perhaps a dozen Baltimore Orioles and one Orchard. Interesting that a Grackle will spook the Grosbeaks, but the Orioles don't seem bothered. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Summer Tanager
While eating supper this evening an immature male Summer Tanager appeared at the grape jelly feeders. A little more advanced in color transition to adult, than the one seen here at the end of April. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Orioles
6 Baltimore and 1 Orchard Orioles this morning, all gobbling grape jelly. Yesterday while doing yard work, a flyover by a Peregrine Falcon and later a very close pass by a Turkey Vulture. The way he eyeballed me, I wondered if he knew something I didn't. Counted 24 species in feeder areas last evening, just listening to them a joy. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] New
First Red-Breasted Nuthatch in a year yesterday and FOY male Orchard Oriole this morning. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Great evening
I have to second Al Batt's comments about backyard birding today. While enjoying a glass of vintage Vella burgundy boxed wine on the deck around si FOY 2 Indigo Buntings 1 1st year female N Oriole 1 Gray Catbird 1 female RB Grosbeak 1 Ruby-Throated Hummingbird 8 Harris' Sparrow Others 5 male Northern Oriole- 1 1st year 1 male Rose-Breasted Grosbeak 1 White-Throated Sparrow 4 White-Crowned Sparrows Eastern Bluebird Blue Jay Chipping Sparrow Hairy WP Downy WP BC Chickadee House Wren Lincoln's Sparrow WB Nuthatch Tree Sparrow Brown-Headed Cowbird Red-Wing Blackbird Mourning Dove 30 American Goldfinch- almost all males 1 pair Northern Cardinal There are many more Harris' Sparrows than seen. Their music surrounded the house early this morning. What a great way to wake up! There was a pair of Greater White-Fronted Geese on the Maple R. WMA on May 5 did not see them last two days in brief visits. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Thank yous and FOY
Thanks so much for the visits by great birders the past four days. A great group of people and I picked up a number of valuable tips on birding. Particular thanks of course to the Summer Tanager and his opening act the Eastern Towhee, both cooperated wonderfully by appearing within 15-20 minutes of visitors arrivals Thursday thru Saturday. Other birds seen during visits: White-Crowned and White-Throated Sparrows Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher Black-White Warbler Ruby-Crowned Kinglet House Wren Downy, Hairy, and Red-Bellied WPs Yellow-Rumped Warbler Blue Jay Cardinal Lincoln's Sparrow BC Chickadee WB Nuthatch Common Grackle Red-Wing Blackbird Mourning Dove Brown-Headed Cowbird HSP E. Starling Goldfinch and of course a brief look at a female Blue Grosbeak Sadly the Tanager and Towhee have left, not seen since Saturday evening Today FOY Harris' Sparrow Buzzed by a Ruby-Throated Hummingbird Rose-Breasted Grosbeak and 2 male Northern Orioles am anticipating Indigo Buntings and Orchard Orioles If the three young ladies who visited Friday afternoon could send me their names I would appreciate it. I didn't write them down and memory is terrible. Also my apology for messing up some names in earlier postings, I've been corrected by others who know them well. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Western Tanager-Brown/Cottonwood Cty
Kim Eckerts MInnesota Birding Weekends found a adult male WesternTanager about 11:00 today in Red Rock Cty Park. this park is on the Brown Cottonwood county line. The bird was still present when they left shortly thereafter. 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
Summer Tanager eating orange first thing this morning. John Nelson 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] Visitors
A number of folks have come to see the Summer Tanager this morning-all successful. A bonus was a female Blue Grosbeak confirmed and photographed by Jim Hollander and and Bob Janson. Itwas present for only a feww minutes, but its call was heard by several others. Also of note Brown Thrasher, Eastern Towhee, Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher, House Wren, Ruby-Crowned Kinglet, Lincoln and White-Crowned Sparrow. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Immature Male Summer Tanager
Bob Dunlap has confirmed a male immature Summer Tanager at my feeders today from an iphoto I mailed him earlier this evening. Obviously I have never seen a Summer Tanager here before and along with the Eastern Towhee (2nd sighting in my feeder area) I took 114 photos today. Thank God for digital photography! The Tanager is absolutely gorgeous. ohn Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] Summer Tanager
Having had several inquiries, I am rural between Good Thunder and H 22. I'd be happy to host visitors. My phone 507-278-3949. John Nelson 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] Lincoln's Sparrow
Today 12 White_throated Sparrows accompanied by FOY Lincoln's. Hear Harris' haven't seen as yet. John Nelson Good Thunder 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
[mou-net] rainy day birding
On a rainy cold Sunday our birding has been confined to the house, but a few rewards. 8 White-Throated Sparrows- 3 tan striped 1 Brown Thrasher FOY 2 Harris' Sparrow FOY John Nelson Good Thunder 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
