The yellow crowned night heron in Willmar, Kandiyohi county, was seen again both Saturday and Sunday. (I did not have time to post earlier, sorry.)
Although I have been searching daily for the bird, without success, it was again at the Berquist park- where it was originally seen - on Saturday. However, it was seen late morning (about 11:00 a.m.) AND was not near the water but instead was walking down the west trail. I presume it was eating worms after the rain. That suspicion was confirmed when on Sunday morning about 6:15 (while looking for warblers at Robin's Island) I found what I presume to be the same bird hunting for and eating worms. It was walking around on the mowed grass about 80 to 90 yards from water and just north of the first (Guri?) shelter. Robin's Island is about 2 miles from the Berquist area and essentially on the same body of water. I know the bird does NOT regularly "hang out" at the Berquist area because there is too much human traffic here and the area is so small. I wonder if it doesn't end up here by default when chased from other areas. Anyone wanting directions to either location, please let me know. Randy Frederickson Willmar
