Observed three species at Kunkel WMA (southern Mille Lacs County) this morning that are a bit unusual for the county: Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher, Field Sparrow & Great Egret. All three are relatively common in Sherburne, wonder if they are part of the post-breeding dispersal that seems to happen with a number of species? Would love to understand the dynamics (and which species are impacted) of this dispersal a little better.
For those people who submit their field trips electronically to MOU, please don't forget that August begins the fall 2006 season. Reports seem a little scanty at the moment (otherwise, how would Sherburne & Mille Lacs currently be #3 & #4 in total species?). It's so easy to think of August as summer.... I want to concur with my sons thanks from Saturday - excellent directions from a number of MOU/MnBird subscribers made our first Murphy-Hanrahan and Jirik Sod Farm visits both successful and enjoyable. The Common Moorhen, Black-crowned Night Heron and Buff-breasted Sandpipers were all state birds for Nathan. Good birding to all! Al Schirmacher Princeton, MN Mille Lacs & Sherburne Counties