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2024 News
December 14, 2024 - Christmas Bird Count
Conditions were not ideal for our Christmas Bird Count on Saturday, Dec. 14. Last year we tolerated misty conditions but this year we had actual ice to contend with. Roads were slick first thing in the morning - then we had a bit of a break before conditions deteriorated and forced most of our teams to give up by 3pm. It was just too dangerous to be out.
All was not lost though, and our nine teams were able to locate 52 species on count day. One additional "count week" bird was found earlier making our total 53 as of the moment. Last year we found 57 species on count day plus 7 count week birds giving us a total of 64. We'll be able to add additional species that are found by the end of Tuesday, Dec 17. Some birds to look for include Cackling Geese, Snow Geese, Merlin, Pine Siskins, White-crowned Sparrow, Song and Swamp Sparrows.
Incredibly, a Gray Catbird was found this year by Dave Gross. It's the first time a Catbird has been found on our count - and he even got a photo! Other great finds included Red-shouldered Hawks, an immature Northern Harrier, Eastern Screech Owl, Red-headed Woodpeckers, Tufted Titmouse and Rusty Blackbirds.
Several teams were able to meet up for a quick lunch at Quarry Hill that day, but icy roads later in the day meant our traditional pot luck and final tally was not well attended. We want to thank our coordinator Clifford Hanson, our team leaders and all the volunteers who went out in search of birds. Thanks also to Quarry Hill for the use of their facilities during the day,
See our preliminary species list here - scroll down on the page.
Conditions were not ideal for our Christmas Bird Count on Saturday, Dec. 14. Last year we tolerated misty conditions but this year we had actual ice to contend with. Roads were slick first thing in the morning - then we had a bit of a break before conditions deteriorated and forced most of our teams to give up by 3pm. It was just too dangerous to be out.
All was not lost though, and our nine teams were able to locate 52 species on count day. One additional "count week" bird was found earlier making our total 53 as of the moment. Last year we found 57 species on count day plus 7 count week birds giving us a total of 64. We'll be able to add additional species that are found by the end of Tuesday, Dec 17. Some birds to look for include Cackling Geese, Snow Geese, Merlin, Pine Siskins, White-crowned Sparrow, Song and Swamp Sparrows.
Incredibly, a Gray Catbird was found this year by Dave Gross. It's the first time a Catbird has been found on our count - and he even got a photo! Other great finds included Red-shouldered Hawks, an immature Northern Harrier, Eastern Screech Owl, Red-headed Woodpeckers, Tufted Titmouse and Rusty Blackbirds.
Several teams were able to meet up for a quick lunch at Quarry Hill that day, but icy roads later in the day meant our traditional pot luck and final tally was not well attended. We want to thank our coordinator Clifford Hanson, our team leaders and all the volunteers who went out in search of birds. Thanks also to Quarry Hill for the use of their facilities during the day,
See our preliminary species list here - scroll down on the page.
December 11, 2024 - Bird banding talk at Whitewater SP
It was a cold, windy and snowy day but the folks who attended this month's H.O.P. (Healthy Older People) program at the Whitewater SP Visitor Center were warm and inside, enjoying a talk about bird banding presented by Terry Grier. Terry is well known to many of us as he and his wife Joyce lead the monthly bird walks at Quarry Hill.
In today's talk he talked about the history of bird banding, some of the methods used, and shared stories about banding adventures he's had over the years. Did you know that Chickadees are the toughest birds to get out of the nets? They put up a fight every time, while Saw-whet Owls are docile and are tolerant of a lot of handling. And most birds can be temporarily "hypnotized" and will remain still if placed on their backs. It was a fun talk and we hope he'll give it again at a future ZVAS meeting.
After the talk a few of us had lunch by the feeders and then drove around looking for birds. Highlights included, Red-breasted Nuthatch, White-throated Sparrow, Purple Finch, Tufted Titmouse, Pileated Woodpecker, Pintail Duck and even a few Snipe.
Keep on birding!
It was a cold, windy and snowy day but the folks who attended this month's H.O.P. (Healthy Older People) program at the Whitewater SP Visitor Center were warm and inside, enjoying a talk about bird banding presented by Terry Grier. Terry is well known to many of us as he and his wife Joyce lead the monthly bird walks at Quarry Hill.
In today's talk he talked about the history of bird banding, some of the methods used, and shared stories about banding adventures he's had over the years. Did you know that Chickadees are the toughest birds to get out of the nets? They put up a fight every time, while Saw-whet Owls are docile and are tolerant of a lot of handling. And most birds can be temporarily "hypnotized" and will remain still if placed on their backs. It was a fun talk and we hope he'll give it again at a future ZVAS meeting.
After the talk a few of us had lunch by the feeders and then drove around looking for birds. Highlights included, Red-breasted Nuthatch, White-throated Sparrow, Purple Finch, Tufted Titmouse, Pileated Woodpecker, Pintail Duck and even a few Snipe.
Keep on birding!
December 7, 2024 - Bird walk at Quarry Hill
Warm Saturday morning temperatures in the 40's with almost no wind brought out 25 birdwatchers for the December version of our monthly bird walk at Quarry Hill Nature Center. There was already a lot of activity due to the annual Nature Art Show and Sale this weekend.
Terry Grier gave us his usual pep talk and we started watching the feeders, finding many of the normal winter resident birds. We had a surprise visitor at the pond when a Big Brown Bat was spotted flying over the south end of the pond! This may be the only sighting of a bat on these walks ever, and certainly the only one in the winter! The woodpeckers were active in the woods, and 3 Brown Creepers gave us lots of good looks at them. Two Red-tailed Hawks soared high over our heads enjoying the sunshine.
Many thanks to Sue Hayes for keeping the bird list and posting it to E-bird. Thanks to all of the Audubon members who helped point out and identify birds, and of course to the leaders Joyce and Terry Grier. All photos by Terry Grier
Birds seen on the walk, 18 species:
Canada Goose, Rock Pigeon, Red-tailed Hawk, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, Brown Creeper, American Robin, House Sparrow, House Finch, American Goldfinch, Dark-eyed Junco, White-throated Sparrow, Northern Cardinal
Warm Saturday morning temperatures in the 40's with almost no wind brought out 25 birdwatchers for the December version of our monthly bird walk at Quarry Hill Nature Center. There was already a lot of activity due to the annual Nature Art Show and Sale this weekend.
Terry Grier gave us his usual pep talk and we started watching the feeders, finding many of the normal winter resident birds. We had a surprise visitor at the pond when a Big Brown Bat was spotted flying over the south end of the pond! This may be the only sighting of a bat on these walks ever, and certainly the only one in the winter! The woodpeckers were active in the woods, and 3 Brown Creepers gave us lots of good looks at them. Two Red-tailed Hawks soared high over our heads enjoying the sunshine.
Many thanks to Sue Hayes for keeping the bird list and posting it to E-bird. Thanks to all of the Audubon members who helped point out and identify birds, and of course to the leaders Joyce and Terry Grier. All photos by Terry Grier
Birds seen on the walk, 18 species:
Canada Goose, Rock Pigeon, Red-tailed Hawk, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, Brown Creeper, American Robin, House Sparrow, House Finch, American Goldfinch, Dark-eyed Junco, White-throated Sparrow, Northern Cardinal
November 26, 2024 - Foxloft Conservancy: Working to Build Southern Minnesota's First Wildlife Hospital
Last night 45 people came out to Quarry Hill Nature Center to hear Foxfeather Zenkova talk about her work with Vultures and wildlife rehabilitation. Her ultimate goal is to open the first Wildlife Rehabilitation Hospital in southern MN - something which is sorely needed!
Currently based near Mantorville, Zenkova is a licensed Falconer who has been working with wildlife for 25 years. She described the lengthy process involved to become a licensed rehabilitator and also encouraged interested people to start by volunteering. There is always a need for more help with feeding, cleaning and transporting animals. This work can be heartbreaking when a bird doesn't make it. But also joy-filled when one is successfully released into the wild.
She told us several stories about her successes, including one about a little hummingbird which hit a window, suffering spinal injuries and swelling. Zenkova initially didn't have much hope but was able to craft tiny tools using toothpicks with soft rubber tips and used them to massage the bird and flex its tail and wing muscles. Eventually the bird regained full motion and it started flying again. It migrated normally and she's almost positive it was the same bird that came back the following spring looking for a feeder exactly where it was housed during rehabilitation.
Zenkova also described the plight of vultures worldwide. Sixteen out of only 23 species worldwide are threatened or endangered. In India the local populations have declined as much as 99% mostly due to people making ill-considered decisions with no regard for the future or long-term needs (that’s a worldwide problem).
At the end of the talk she pointed out a few ways everyone can help birds:
Zenkova's Foxloft Conservancy has grown over the years and is in constant need of funds. Did you know it can cost $25 a day to feed one eagle? She and her husband (along with a faithful group of volunteers) do most of the work and she even sells her unique art work to help support the cause.
We encourage everyone to visit their web sites to learn more about what's happening and how to support the Foxloft and Vulture Conservancies:
https://linktr.ee/Foxfeather
https://vultureconservancy.org/help/
Last night 45 people came out to Quarry Hill Nature Center to hear Foxfeather Zenkova talk about her work with Vultures and wildlife rehabilitation. Her ultimate goal is to open the first Wildlife Rehabilitation Hospital in southern MN - something which is sorely needed!
Currently based near Mantorville, Zenkova is a licensed Falconer who has been working with wildlife for 25 years. She described the lengthy process involved to become a licensed rehabilitator and also encouraged interested people to start by volunteering. There is always a need for more help with feeding, cleaning and transporting animals. This work can be heartbreaking when a bird doesn't make it. But also joy-filled when one is successfully released into the wild.
She told us several stories about her successes, including one about a little hummingbird which hit a window, suffering spinal injuries and swelling. Zenkova initially didn't have much hope but was able to craft tiny tools using toothpicks with soft rubber tips and used them to massage the bird and flex its tail and wing muscles. Eventually the bird regained full motion and it started flying again. It migrated normally and she's almost positive it was the same bird that came back the following spring looking for a feeder exactly where it was housed during rehabilitation.
Zenkova also described the plight of vultures worldwide. Sixteen out of only 23 species worldwide are threatened or endangered. In India the local populations have declined as much as 99% mostly due to people making ill-considered decisions with no regard for the future or long-term needs (that’s a worldwide problem).
At the end of the talk she pointed out a few ways everyone can help birds:
- Don't throw food in ditches - food attracts rodents which attracts hawks and owls - and large birds aren't always fast enough to get out of the way of speeding cars.
- Take down sports nets after each game and don't use decorative "spider webs" out doors. Both entangle owls.
- Don't use rodenticides which also sicken and kill birds when they eat the rodents that weren't killed outright. Glue traps also kill birds as the glue gets all over their feathers and is impossible to remove.
- Use window treatments to prevent bird strikes.
Zenkova's Foxloft Conservancy has grown over the years and is in constant need of funds. Did you know it can cost $25 a day to feed one eagle? She and her husband (along with a faithful group of volunteers) do most of the work and she even sells her unique art work to help support the cause.
We encourage everyone to visit their web sites to learn more about what's happening and how to support the Foxloft and Vulture Conservancies:
https://linktr.ee/Foxfeather
https://vultureconservancy.org/help/
November 23, 2024 - Tundra Swan Field Trip to Brownsville
Sixteen people traveled over to the Mississippi River this morning on a quest to see migrating Tundra Swans. It was a calm, gray overcast morning with just a few peeks of sunshine and temps were in the 30s. When we arrived at the north overlook (south of Brownsville) we found a few hundred Tundra Swans, one lonely Great Blue Heron, plenty of assorted ducks (list below) and a few Pelicans. Pretty good, but not super great, as few of the birds were close enough to get good looks without binoculars or scopes.
Next we went to the south overlook and there we found thousands of swans right off the viewing platform! Unfortunately within moments of our arrival (we barely had time to get our cameras out) the majority took flight. It was an incredible sight and the sound of all those wings beating as those heavy birds lifted off will be something we'll never forget! They didn't all leave. Several hundred stayed along with a huge flock of Ring-necked Ducks and we spent a lot of time searching for different species. A small group of 5 Trumpeter Swans flew in while we were looking. We knew they were Trumpeters by their distinctive call - if they had flown in silently we might not have noticed them as Trumpeters and Tundras can be hard to tell apart at a distance.
The DNR Naturalist on duty at the north overlook said there were approx. 4,000 swans currently in the area - but very spread out. She thought the main body of swans hadn't yet arrived and were still up north. Colder weather is coming next week that may finally cause the northern waters to ice up - which will push the swans south. Next weekend might be perfect (unless the water near the overlooks ices up as well)... what can you do.
We had a great time on this trip. Thanks to Brendan Lanpher and Terry Grier for leading. Photos by Sandy Hokanson.
Species seen at the overlooks:
Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Tundra Swan, Wood Duck, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Mallard, Northern Pintail, Green-winged Teal, Canvasback, Ring-necked Duck, Lesser Scaup, Bufflehead, Hooded Merganser, American Coot, Great Blue Heron, American White Pelican, Bald Eagle, Hairy Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Blue Jay
Species seen on the road:
Rock Pigeon, Mourning Dove. Gull species, Red-tailed Hawks (at least 8), Rough-legged Hawk 1, Kestrels (at least 7), Starlings, Crows
Sixteen people traveled over to the Mississippi River this morning on a quest to see migrating Tundra Swans. It was a calm, gray overcast morning with just a few peeks of sunshine and temps were in the 30s. When we arrived at the north overlook (south of Brownsville) we found a few hundred Tundra Swans, one lonely Great Blue Heron, plenty of assorted ducks (list below) and a few Pelicans. Pretty good, but not super great, as few of the birds were close enough to get good looks without binoculars or scopes.
Next we went to the south overlook and there we found thousands of swans right off the viewing platform! Unfortunately within moments of our arrival (we barely had time to get our cameras out) the majority took flight. It was an incredible sight and the sound of all those wings beating as those heavy birds lifted off will be something we'll never forget! They didn't all leave. Several hundred stayed along with a huge flock of Ring-necked Ducks and we spent a lot of time searching for different species. A small group of 5 Trumpeter Swans flew in while we were looking. We knew they were Trumpeters by their distinctive call - if they had flown in silently we might not have noticed them as Trumpeters and Tundras can be hard to tell apart at a distance.
The DNR Naturalist on duty at the north overlook said there were approx. 4,000 swans currently in the area - but very spread out. She thought the main body of swans hadn't yet arrived and were still up north. Colder weather is coming next week that may finally cause the northern waters to ice up - which will push the swans south. Next weekend might be perfect (unless the water near the overlooks ices up as well)... what can you do.
We had a great time on this trip. Thanks to Brendan Lanpher and Terry Grier for leading. Photos by Sandy Hokanson.
Species seen at the overlooks:
Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Tundra Swan, Wood Duck, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Mallard, Northern Pintail, Green-winged Teal, Canvasback, Ring-necked Duck, Lesser Scaup, Bufflehead, Hooded Merganser, American Coot, Great Blue Heron, American White Pelican, Bald Eagle, Hairy Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Blue Jay
Species seen on the road:
Rock Pigeon, Mourning Dove. Gull species, Red-tailed Hawks (at least 8), Rough-legged Hawk 1, Kestrels (at least 7), Starlings, Crows
November 2, 2024 - Bird walk at Quarry Hill
The weather was crisp and sunny on our walk at Quarry Hill this morning. Most of the leaves had fallen in the high winds a few days ago - we miss them - but it's also easier to spot the birds now. Out of the 20 species we found today a small flock of Golden-crowned Kinglets and a pair of female Purple Finches were our best birds. We also noted several Robins and White-threated Sparrows still in the area. Juncos have arrived and should stick around for the winter.
Most of the regular resident birds were seen, but we were a bit disappointed not to find more sparrow species. No hawks were flying this morning either - but they were likely waiting for things to warm up a bit more before heading out to search for today's lunch.
Many thanks to Sandy Hokanson and Brendan Lanpher for leading today's walk. And thank you to the new participants who reminded us just how beautiful our common Blue Jays really are.
Species list:
Canada Goose, Mallard, Rock Pigeon (Feral Pigeon), Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Golden-crowned Kinglet, White-breasted Nuthatch, American Robin, House Sparrow, House Finch, Purple Finch, Pine Siskin, American Goldfinch, Dark-eyed Junco, White-throated Sparrow, Northern Cardinal
Photos by Sandy Hokanson
Don't miss the surprise bonus photos from Terry Grier at the end of the photos!
The weather was crisp and sunny on our walk at Quarry Hill this morning. Most of the leaves had fallen in the high winds a few days ago - we miss them - but it's also easier to spot the birds now. Out of the 20 species we found today a small flock of Golden-crowned Kinglets and a pair of female Purple Finches were our best birds. We also noted several Robins and White-threated Sparrows still in the area. Juncos have arrived and should stick around for the winter.
Most of the regular resident birds were seen, but we were a bit disappointed not to find more sparrow species. No hawks were flying this morning either - but they were likely waiting for things to warm up a bit more before heading out to search for today's lunch.
Many thanks to Sandy Hokanson and Brendan Lanpher for leading today's walk. And thank you to the new participants who reminded us just how beautiful our common Blue Jays really are.
Species list:
Canada Goose, Mallard, Rock Pigeon (Feral Pigeon), Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Golden-crowned Kinglet, White-breasted Nuthatch, American Robin, House Sparrow, House Finch, Purple Finch, Pine Siskin, American Goldfinch, Dark-eyed Junco, White-throated Sparrow, Northern Cardinal
Photos by Sandy Hokanson
Don't miss the surprise bonus photos from Terry Grier at the end of the photos!
October 22, 2024 - Seed Dispersal Program by Joel Dunnette
Are you fond of breathing? Then thank a plant as they provide us with oxygen we need to live. Last night at the Quarry Hill Nature Center Joel Dunnette talked to us about the world of plants and specifically about the ways they disperse their seeds. Joel brought dozens of dried plants gathered from local prairies for us to handle. He even and even used a small fan to simulate the wind blowing seeds around the room. It was a very interactive experience!
Over the millennia plants have evolved many ways to spread their seeds including flying on the wind, floating down rivers and streams, propelling them up to 10ft away, and being carried off by insects, birds and animals (just walk through the woods on a fall day wearing a fleece jacket and see how many seeds you come back with).
Some seeds need "special" processing (being eaten and pooped out) to be viable. Others, like Porcupine Grass, have a unique method of planting themselves. The seed head is attached to an "awns" which expands and contracts with variations in temperature and moisture, and this action drills it the seed into the soil. You can watch a 2 minute YouTube video of it doing just that here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVOlYLNcFNQ
Thank you Joel for such a fascinating look into the world of seeds!
Are you fond of breathing? Then thank a plant as they provide us with oxygen we need to live. Last night at the Quarry Hill Nature Center Joel Dunnette talked to us about the world of plants and specifically about the ways they disperse their seeds. Joel brought dozens of dried plants gathered from local prairies for us to handle. He even and even used a small fan to simulate the wind blowing seeds around the room. It was a very interactive experience!
Over the millennia plants have evolved many ways to spread their seeds including flying on the wind, floating down rivers and streams, propelling them up to 10ft away, and being carried off by insects, birds and animals (just walk through the woods on a fall day wearing a fleece jacket and see how many seeds you come back with).
Some seeds need "special" processing (being eaten and pooped out) to be viable. Others, like Porcupine Grass, have a unique method of planting themselves. The seed head is attached to an "awns" which expands and contracts with variations in temperature and moisture, and this action drills it the seed into the soil. You can watch a 2 minute YouTube video of it doing just that here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVOlYLNcFNQ
Thank you Joel for such a fascinating look into the world of seeds!
October 13, 2024 - Bird Walk at Cascade Meadow Wetlands
ZVAS hosted a local Rochester American Heritage Girls troop for a walk as they worked on their bird-related badges. Despite the howling cold wind, we saw a few interesting birds. Most notable, was an immature Great Blue Heron across the pond with some fly-bys of another heron and a Turkey Vulture. Some of us got to see a rooster Ring-Necked Pheasant fly across the meadow. A few American Goldfinch flitted by and several Killdeer were on the shores or flying high above us. We expected a lot of sparrows but only heard a single song sparrow. Our walk the previous day at Chester Woods gave us 11 sparrow species.
Our ZVAS mission statement includes: "supporting environmental education of our youth" and we were happy to do that with this outing. We had about 25 join us on this walk and was great to see the girls' siblings and parents join in.
Thank you Mike Degerstrom and Dave Gross for leading this walk.
Birds seen: Canada goose, Mallard, Ring-necked Pheasant, Killdeer, Great Blue Heron, Turkey Vulture, Red-tailed Hawk, Northern Flicker, American Crow, American Goldfinch, Song Sparrow
ZVAS hosted a local Rochester American Heritage Girls troop for a walk as they worked on their bird-related badges. Despite the howling cold wind, we saw a few interesting birds. Most notable, was an immature Great Blue Heron across the pond with some fly-bys of another heron and a Turkey Vulture. Some of us got to see a rooster Ring-Necked Pheasant fly across the meadow. A few American Goldfinch flitted by and several Killdeer were on the shores or flying high above us. We expected a lot of sparrows but only heard a single song sparrow. Our walk the previous day at Chester Woods gave us 11 sparrow species.
Our ZVAS mission statement includes: "supporting environmental education of our youth" and we were happy to do that with this outing. We had about 25 join us on this walk and was great to see the girls' siblings and parents join in.
Thank you Mike Degerstrom and Dave Gross for leading this walk.
Birds seen: Canada goose, Mallard, Ring-necked Pheasant, Killdeer, Great Blue Heron, Turkey Vulture, Red-tailed Hawk, Northern Flicker, American Crow, American Goldfinch, Song Sparrow
October 12, 2024 - Bird Walk at Chester Woods
The sun was out, the fall colors were gorgeous and birds were everywhere on our Global Big Birding Day Walk at Chester Woods this morning. Eleven people came out and found at least 46 species - a very good total! Sparrows ruled the day as we found 11 species of them. Early on we stopped in one location for at least 20 minutes just pointing out sparrows. Best sparrow of the day was probably the Harris's Sparrows - they are good looking birds and quite uncommon here. Later a Vesper Sparrow was sighted but not everyone saw that bird.
Other favorites today included a Rusty Blackbird, Tufted Titmouse, Golden-crowned Kinglets and Hermit Thrush. The complete list is below. All the birds were very active feeding and fueling up to continue their journeys south. We will miss them!
Many thanks to Mike Degerstrom and Dave Gross for leading this walk, and to the other experts who helped spot and identify birds along the way. Report and photos by Sandy Hokanson.
Species list:
Canada Goose
Mallard
Wild Turkey
Ring-necked Pheasant
Killdeer
Wilson's Snipe (10)
Great Blue Heron
Turkey Vulture
Cooper's Hawk
Bald Eagle
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker
Hairy Woodpecker
Northern Flicker
Blue Jay
American Crow
Black-capped Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Golden-crowned Kinglet
White-breasted Nuthatch
Eastern Bluebird
Hermit Thrush
American Robin
Cedar Waxwing (very numerous)
House Finch
American Goldfinch
Field Sparrow
Fox Sparrow
Dark-eyed Junco
White-crowned Sparrow
Harris's Sparrow
White-throated Sparrow
Vesper Sparrow
Savannah Sparrow
Song Sparrow
Lincoln's Sparrow
Swamp Sparrow
Eastern Meadowlark
Red-winged Blackbird
Rusty Blackbird
Common Grackle
Orange-crowned Warbler
Palm Warbler
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Northern Cardinal
The sun was out, the fall colors were gorgeous and birds were everywhere on our Global Big Birding Day Walk at Chester Woods this morning. Eleven people came out and found at least 46 species - a very good total! Sparrows ruled the day as we found 11 species of them. Early on we stopped in one location for at least 20 minutes just pointing out sparrows. Best sparrow of the day was probably the Harris's Sparrows - they are good looking birds and quite uncommon here. Later a Vesper Sparrow was sighted but not everyone saw that bird.
Other favorites today included a Rusty Blackbird, Tufted Titmouse, Golden-crowned Kinglets and Hermit Thrush. The complete list is below. All the birds were very active feeding and fueling up to continue their journeys south. We will miss them!
Many thanks to Mike Degerstrom and Dave Gross for leading this walk, and to the other experts who helped spot and identify birds along the way. Report and photos by Sandy Hokanson.
Species list:
Canada Goose
Mallard
Wild Turkey
Ring-necked Pheasant
Killdeer
Wilson's Snipe (10)
Great Blue Heron
Turkey Vulture
Cooper's Hawk
Bald Eagle
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker
Hairy Woodpecker
Northern Flicker
Blue Jay
American Crow
Black-capped Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Golden-crowned Kinglet
White-breasted Nuthatch
Eastern Bluebird
Hermit Thrush
American Robin
Cedar Waxwing (very numerous)
House Finch
American Goldfinch
Field Sparrow
Fox Sparrow
Dark-eyed Junco
White-crowned Sparrow
Harris's Sparrow
White-throated Sparrow
Vesper Sparrow
Savannah Sparrow
Song Sparrow
Lincoln's Sparrow
Swamp Sparrow
Eastern Meadowlark
Red-winged Blackbird
Rusty Blackbird
Common Grackle
Orange-crowned Warbler
Palm Warbler
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Northern Cardinal
October 5, 2024 - Bird Walk at Quarry Hill
Nineteen people had a cool but sunny start to the monthly Quarry Hill Bird Walk this morning. Many of the usual feeder birds were seen near the nature center. The strong south wind made it difficult to find birds, but in a protected area of the woods we found Ruby and Golden Crowned Kinglets, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Cedar Waxwings, and a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker. We even found an interesting plant, a Limber Honeysuckle vine with red berries on their opposite leaves that are fused together around the stem. It was a great day for a walk in the woods with other bird people!
Species list: Mallard, Turkey Vulture, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Golden-crowned Kinglet, White-breasted Nuthatch, American Robin, Cedar Waxwing, House Sparrow, House Finch, American Goldfinch, White-throated Sparrow, Lincoln's Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Northern Cardinal
Report and photos by Terry Grier
Nineteen people had a cool but sunny start to the monthly Quarry Hill Bird Walk this morning. Many of the usual feeder birds were seen near the nature center. The strong south wind made it difficult to find birds, but in a protected area of the woods we found Ruby and Golden Crowned Kinglets, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Cedar Waxwings, and a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker. We even found an interesting plant, a Limber Honeysuckle vine with red berries on their opposite leaves that are fused together around the stem. It was a great day for a walk in the woods with other bird people!
Species list: Mallard, Turkey Vulture, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Golden-crowned Kinglet, White-breasted Nuthatch, American Robin, Cedar Waxwing, House Sparrow, House Finch, American Goldfinch, White-throated Sparrow, Lincoln's Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Northern Cardinal
Report and photos by Terry Grier
September 28, 2024 - Sparrow Walk at Kalmar Reservoir
The morning sun quickly burned off some low pockets of fog at the Kalmar Reservoir this morning where we gathered for our annual Sparrow Walk. The grass was quite wet but nobody minded as Jerry Pruett lead our group of 18 along the dam outflow, then down to the lake shore and over the fields.
We saw lots of birds! Best bird of the day was a very cooperative LeConte's Sparrow that posed out in the open long enough for everyone to get a good look. We also found a single White-throated Sparrow, several Savannahs, a Lincoln's, a Swamp and a Song Sparrow. One person who was looking farther out from the main group spotted a Nelson's Sparrow but we were unable to relocate it when we caught up to him. Jerry also thought he got a brief glimpse of a Henslow's Sparrow, but we couldn't confirm it.
Warblers and wrens were also on the menu (see list below), several Meadowlarks were singing, and we enjoyed watching 2 Northern Harriers scaring up a flock of Blue-winged Teal while a Great Blue Heron calmly patrolled the shoreline. We even had a small flock of Sandhill Cranes fly by. In all it was a fabulous morning walk.
Many thanks to Jerry Pruett and the other expert birders who helped spot birds on this walk!
At least 33 Species (I may have missed a few):
Canada Geese, Wood Duck, Blue-winged Teal, Mallard, Mourning Dove, Sandhill Crane, Killdeer. Wilson's Snipe. Ring-billed Gull. Double-crested Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, Northern Harrier, Bald Eagle, Blue Jay, American Crow, Barn Swallow. House Wren, Sedge Wren, Marsh Wren, Cedar Waxwing, American Goldfinch, White-throated Sparrow, LeConte's Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Lincoln's Sparrow, Swamp Sparrow, Nelson's Sparrow, Eastern Meadowlark, Red-winged Blackbird, Common Yellowthroat, Palm Warble,
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Photos by Sandy Hokanson
The morning sun quickly burned off some low pockets of fog at the Kalmar Reservoir this morning where we gathered for our annual Sparrow Walk. The grass was quite wet but nobody minded as Jerry Pruett lead our group of 18 along the dam outflow, then down to the lake shore and over the fields.
We saw lots of birds! Best bird of the day was a very cooperative LeConte's Sparrow that posed out in the open long enough for everyone to get a good look. We also found a single White-throated Sparrow, several Savannahs, a Lincoln's, a Swamp and a Song Sparrow. One person who was looking farther out from the main group spotted a Nelson's Sparrow but we were unable to relocate it when we caught up to him. Jerry also thought he got a brief glimpse of a Henslow's Sparrow, but we couldn't confirm it.
Warblers and wrens were also on the menu (see list below), several Meadowlarks were singing, and we enjoyed watching 2 Northern Harriers scaring up a flock of Blue-winged Teal while a Great Blue Heron calmly patrolled the shoreline. We even had a small flock of Sandhill Cranes fly by. In all it was a fabulous morning walk.
Many thanks to Jerry Pruett and the other expert birders who helped spot birds on this walk!
At least 33 Species (I may have missed a few):
Canada Geese, Wood Duck, Blue-winged Teal, Mallard, Mourning Dove, Sandhill Crane, Killdeer. Wilson's Snipe. Ring-billed Gull. Double-crested Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, Northern Harrier, Bald Eagle, Blue Jay, American Crow, Barn Swallow. House Wren, Sedge Wren, Marsh Wren, Cedar Waxwing, American Goldfinch, White-throated Sparrow, LeConte's Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Lincoln's Sparrow, Swamp Sparrow, Nelson's Sparrow, Eastern Meadowlark, Red-winged Blackbird, Common Yellowthroat, Palm Warble,
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Photos by Sandy Hokanson
September 24, 2024 - International Owl Center Program at Quarry Hill
Tonight a bunch of interested folks came out to hear Karla Bloem, Executive Director of the International Owl Center in Houston, MN, talk about their exciting plans for a new Center. She also brought Ruby, a 10 year old Great Horned Owl Ambassador to help us understand a bit more about owls and why we need to educate people about them to save them for future generations.
Ruby stayed perched on Karla's arm while she told us how the Owl Center started and explained how it's now bursting at the seams with inadequate plumbing (just a single toilet for staff and guests alike), space issues and more. She showed us the incredibly well thought out plans for a new Center which will be the "gold standard" in owl aviaries going forward. It truly puts the owl's needs front and center, while also providing a tremendous experience for visitors.
But new facilities, feeding owls, hiring staff and creating programs all cost money. They have already raised one million dollars of the 17 million needed and hope to complete the new building by 2026 or 2027. If you would like to learn more about this big project and donate to this very worthy cause, visit: https://www.internationalowlcenter.org/future.html
And be sure to visit the Center soon - so you'll be able to compare "before and after" experiences!
Tonight a bunch of interested folks came out to hear Karla Bloem, Executive Director of the International Owl Center in Houston, MN, talk about their exciting plans for a new Center. She also brought Ruby, a 10 year old Great Horned Owl Ambassador to help us understand a bit more about owls and why we need to educate people about them to save them for future generations.
Ruby stayed perched on Karla's arm while she told us how the Owl Center started and explained how it's now bursting at the seams with inadequate plumbing (just a single toilet for staff and guests alike), space issues and more. She showed us the incredibly well thought out plans for a new Center which will be the "gold standard" in owl aviaries going forward. It truly puts the owl's needs front and center, while also providing a tremendous experience for visitors.
But new facilities, feeding owls, hiring staff and creating programs all cost money. They have already raised one million dollars of the 17 million needed and hope to complete the new building by 2026 or 2027. If you would like to learn more about this big project and donate to this very worthy cause, visit: https://www.internationalowlcenter.org/future.html
And be sure to visit the Center soon - so you'll be able to compare "before and after" experiences!
September 14, 2024 - Bird Walk at Assisi Heights
Seven people participated in a Bird Walk at Assisi Heights this morning and we found some really great birds. A small family group of Red-headed Woodpeckers (including one juvenile) were gathering acorns not far from where a Merlin was being harassed by Blue Jays. We even saw the Merlin swoop after a smaller bird but didn't see him make a catch. Northern Flickers were quite numerous and probably migrating through - though we hope some may stay through the winter.
We also found a few warblers (list below), a Red-eyed and a Blue-headed Vireo. But like nearly all the birds we saw today the were very high in the trees and moving fast so our photographer didn't have much luck getting good photos. Skies were gray and it did sprinkle occasionally but not enough to bother us.
The mature pines, spruces and oaks with open spaces between provide great habitat for birds and wildlife of all kinds. Many thanks to Assisi Heights for inviting us on this private walk and to our leaders Sue Hayes and Mike Degerstrom for spotting the birds.
Species seen or heard today:
Wild Turkey, Mourning Dove, Turkey Vulture, Cooper's Hawk, Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Merlin, Blue-headed Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, European Starling, American Robin, Cedar Waxwing, House Finch, American Goldfinch, Nashville Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Photos by Sandy Hokanson
Seven people participated in a Bird Walk at Assisi Heights this morning and we found some really great birds. A small family group of Red-headed Woodpeckers (including one juvenile) were gathering acorns not far from where a Merlin was being harassed by Blue Jays. We even saw the Merlin swoop after a smaller bird but didn't see him make a catch. Northern Flickers were quite numerous and probably migrating through - though we hope some may stay through the winter.
We also found a few warblers (list below), a Red-eyed and a Blue-headed Vireo. But like nearly all the birds we saw today the were very high in the trees and moving fast so our photographer didn't have much luck getting good photos. Skies were gray and it did sprinkle occasionally but not enough to bother us.
The mature pines, spruces and oaks with open spaces between provide great habitat for birds and wildlife of all kinds. Many thanks to Assisi Heights for inviting us on this private walk and to our leaders Sue Hayes and Mike Degerstrom for spotting the birds.
Species seen or heard today:
Wild Turkey, Mourning Dove, Turkey Vulture, Cooper's Hawk, Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Merlin, Blue-headed Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, European Starling, American Robin, Cedar Waxwing, House Finch, American Goldfinch, Nashville Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Photos by Sandy Hokanson
September 7, 2024 - Quarry Hill Bird Walk
Two dozen people came out this morning to look for birds in the oak savannah on the west side of Quarry Hill. The weather was a bit chilly to start, around 50 degrees, but the bright sun warmed us up quickly. We found at least 31 species of birds - many of which were hard to spot as they dashed through the leaves and branches searching for insects. Goldfinches were numerous and parents were busy feeding their chicks seeds gathered from the surrounding prairie plants.
Favorite birds seen today included a juvenile Red-headed Woodpecker (they have brown heads - not red like the adults), a Tufted Titmouse, several American Redstarts and an Olive-sided Flycatcher. Other warblers seen included Black-and-white, Tennessee, Nashville, Bay-breasted, and Chester-sided, bringing the warbler count to six. Warblers are migrating through now and won't be here much longer.
The savannah is looking good and many plants are still blooming - especially the asters which attract lots of pollinators. We did see a couple Monarch butterflies headed south as well. All in all we had a great walk and could have stayed longer. Many thanks to Joyce Grier and Dave Gross for leading today.
Bird Species: Canada Geese, Mourning Dove, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Great Blue Heron (right at the end of the walk), Turkey Vulture, Cooper's Hawk, Red-headed Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Olive-sided Flycatcher, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Great Crested Flycatcher,
Red-eyed Vireo, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, House Wren, Gray Catbird, Cedar Waxwing, American Goldfinch, Black-and-white Warbler, Tennessee Warbler, Nashville Warbler, American Redstart, Bay-breasted Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Photos by Sandy Hokanson
Two dozen people came out this morning to look for birds in the oak savannah on the west side of Quarry Hill. The weather was a bit chilly to start, around 50 degrees, but the bright sun warmed us up quickly. We found at least 31 species of birds - many of which were hard to spot as they dashed through the leaves and branches searching for insects. Goldfinches were numerous and parents were busy feeding their chicks seeds gathered from the surrounding prairie plants.
Favorite birds seen today included a juvenile Red-headed Woodpecker (they have brown heads - not red like the adults), a Tufted Titmouse, several American Redstarts and an Olive-sided Flycatcher. Other warblers seen included Black-and-white, Tennessee, Nashville, Bay-breasted, and Chester-sided, bringing the warbler count to six. Warblers are migrating through now and won't be here much longer.
The savannah is looking good and many plants are still blooming - especially the asters which attract lots of pollinators. We did see a couple Monarch butterflies headed south as well. All in all we had a great walk and could have stayed longer. Many thanks to Joyce Grier and Dave Gross for leading today.
Bird Species: Canada Geese, Mourning Dove, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Great Blue Heron (right at the end of the walk), Turkey Vulture, Cooper's Hawk, Red-headed Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Olive-sided Flycatcher, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Great Crested Flycatcher,
Red-eyed Vireo, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, House Wren, Gray Catbird, Cedar Waxwing, American Goldfinch, Black-and-white Warbler, Tennessee Warbler, Nashville Warbler, American Redstart, Bay-breasted Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Photos by Sandy Hokanson
August 30, 2024 - Chimney Swift Sit
On August 30 a couple dozen people came to watch the Swifts enter the Assisi Heights tower to roost for the night. The weather was perfect and we'd had a report of 700 entering the chimney just 2 days before. But last night only 75 swifts showed up - a very low number and nothing like the spectacle that we normally see.
We can think of a couple possibilities for the low numbers. One is that the very stormy weather of the previous night encouraged the bulk of the swifts to head south a bit early. Or, the insect population is so low that could have pushed them south. Or they just felt conditions were right to move on - we may never know. Normally we see large numbers of swifts in our area from from about August 23 - September 5.
In any case - we've secured permission to visit the site again tonight - so we'll give it one more go to see if there are more birds coming through or if we missed the peak of migration. If you want to come bring a lawn chair and binoculars. At the very least we'll likely see deer, turkey and other birds. Last night we even had a skunk family wander by as everyone was leaving.
UPDATE:
On August 31 we watched the chimney again but only 36 Swifts made an appearance. So we're sorry to say that we missed the big migration this year. next year we promise to schedule an earlier date (and hope they don't decide to be late)!
Thanks to Sandy Hokanson for organizing this event.
On August 30 a couple dozen people came to watch the Swifts enter the Assisi Heights tower to roost for the night. The weather was perfect and we'd had a report of 700 entering the chimney just 2 days before. But last night only 75 swifts showed up - a very low number and nothing like the spectacle that we normally see.
We can think of a couple possibilities for the low numbers. One is that the very stormy weather of the previous night encouraged the bulk of the swifts to head south a bit early. Or, the insect population is so low that could have pushed them south. Or they just felt conditions were right to move on - we may never know. Normally we see large numbers of swifts in our area from from about August 23 - September 5.
In any case - we've secured permission to visit the site again tonight - so we'll give it one more go to see if there are more birds coming through or if we missed the peak of migration. If you want to come bring a lawn chair and binoculars. At the very least we'll likely see deer, turkey and other birds. Last night we even had a skunk family wander by as everyone was leaving.
UPDATE:
On August 31 we watched the chimney again but only 36 Swifts made an appearance. So we're sorry to say that we missed the big migration this year. next year we promise to schedule an earlier date (and hope they don't decide to be late)!
Thanks to Sandy Hokanson for organizing this event.
August 21, 2024 - Monarch Festival at Quarry Hill
Wow! More than 500 kids and adults came out to Quarry Hill this afternoon to take part in our Monarch Festival. This year Listos (a bilingual preschool) joined the fun and they brought lots of new, fun activities including make and take milkweed pods, face painting, displays about the monarch's life cycle, storytelling, cultural dance and much more.
The ZVAS walk-in butterfly tent was a big hit and an over-sized monarch caterpillar was seen mingling through the crowds. Lots of families made the trek up the hill into the savannah to catch their own monarch, after practicing netting bubbles down below, and several were successful.
Monarch numbers are seriously down this year so even though our butterfly wranglers spent many hours searching they were only able to catch a few dozen. That wasn't enough for everyone to tag their own so instead we showed everyone how tagging is done and then put all the butterflies in the walk-in tent. Small groups then entered the tent and coaxed the butterflies onto their fingers (it tickles) for special photo ops. All the butterflies were released after the event.
The monarch's plight is very serious as their numbers continue to fall. According to JourneyNorth.org, the eastern monarch population declined by 59% in 2024. You can help by creating pollinator gardens, growing milkweed, not using pesticides and supporting the environmental organizations working to solve the problem.
Many thanks to Joel Dunnette, Quarry Hill, Listos, our butterfly wranglers and the many, many volunteers who helped make this a fun day of learning for everyone.
You can learn more about monarch butterflies here: https://journeynorth.org/
Wow! More than 500 kids and adults came out to Quarry Hill this afternoon to take part in our Monarch Festival. This year Listos (a bilingual preschool) joined the fun and they brought lots of new, fun activities including make and take milkweed pods, face painting, displays about the monarch's life cycle, storytelling, cultural dance and much more.
The ZVAS walk-in butterfly tent was a big hit and an over-sized monarch caterpillar was seen mingling through the crowds. Lots of families made the trek up the hill into the savannah to catch their own monarch, after practicing netting bubbles down below, and several were successful.
Monarch numbers are seriously down this year so even though our butterfly wranglers spent many hours searching they were only able to catch a few dozen. That wasn't enough for everyone to tag their own so instead we showed everyone how tagging is done and then put all the butterflies in the walk-in tent. Small groups then entered the tent and coaxed the butterflies onto their fingers (it tickles) for special photo ops. All the butterflies were released after the event.
The monarch's plight is very serious as their numbers continue to fall. According to JourneyNorth.org, the eastern monarch population declined by 59% in 2024. You can help by creating pollinator gardens, growing milkweed, not using pesticides and supporting the environmental organizations working to solve the problem.
Many thanks to Joel Dunnette, Quarry Hill, Listos, our butterfly wranglers and the many, many volunteers who helped make this a fun day of learning for everyone.
You can learn more about monarch butterflies here: https://journeynorth.org/
August 3, 2024 - Bird Walk at Quarry Hill
We found 24 species of birds on our walk at Quarry Hill this morning, that's one for each person participating. Many of our views were obstructed by the dense leaves but that's to be expected in August. The flowers are in full bloom as well - it was a really nice summer day.
Our favorite find was an early migrating Chestnut-sided Warbler. It took awhile to identify as it was moving quickly in and out of the leaves and quite high up. We were happy when it eventually it gave us a good enough look. We enjoyed watching Ruby-throated Hummingbirds at the feeders near the nature center and got a quick glimpse of a Baltimore Oriole there as well. We found a 1st year Yellow-bellied Sapsucker and many of the regular resident birds.
Many thanks to Terry and Joyce Grier for leading this walk!
Species seen:
Wood Duck, Mallard, Mourning Dove, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Great Blue Heron, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Downy Woodpecker, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Barn Swallow, White-breasted Nuthatch, Gray Catbird, Cedar Waxwing, House Sparrow, House Finch, American Goldfinch, Baltimore Oriole, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting
Photos by Brendan Lanpher & Sandy Hokanson
We found 24 species of birds on our walk at Quarry Hill this morning, that's one for each person participating. Many of our views were obstructed by the dense leaves but that's to be expected in August. The flowers are in full bloom as well - it was a really nice summer day.
Our favorite find was an early migrating Chestnut-sided Warbler. It took awhile to identify as it was moving quickly in and out of the leaves and quite high up. We were happy when it eventually it gave us a good enough look. We enjoyed watching Ruby-throated Hummingbirds at the feeders near the nature center and got a quick glimpse of a Baltimore Oriole there as well. We found a 1st year Yellow-bellied Sapsucker and many of the regular resident birds.
Many thanks to Terry and Joyce Grier for leading this walk!
Species seen:
Wood Duck, Mallard, Mourning Dove, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Great Blue Heron, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Downy Woodpecker, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Barn Swallow, White-breasted Nuthatch, Gray Catbird, Cedar Waxwing, House Sparrow, House Finch, American Goldfinch, Baltimore Oriole, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting
Photos by Brendan Lanpher & Sandy Hokanson
July 20, 2024 - Bug Hunt!
So what happens when you get a bunch of kids together and give them each a net? They catch bugs!
About 30 adults and kids came out to Chester Woods today to explore the world of insects. These kids were fearless - wading through the prairie (that was taller than many of them) - stalking insects of all kinds, and even gently holding them. They brought their captives back to our "bug table" and were able to get close up looks using magnifiers while Joel (our expert) told them about bug life cycles and how to handle bugs safely. The adults seemed to be having fun too.
We found dozens of different kinds of insects including dragonflies, damselflies, bumblebees, wasps, beetles, moths, butterflies, ants, grasshoppers, crickets, flower flies, daddy longlegs, spiders and more.
Many insects species are in decline and need your help. Please plant natives and avoid pesticides. And remember: insects are bird food!
Many thanks to Joel Dunnette for sharing his knowledge today along with volunteer assistants Carol, Joan, Terry and Sandy.
Photos by Sandy Hokanson.
So what happens when you get a bunch of kids together and give them each a net? They catch bugs!
About 30 adults and kids came out to Chester Woods today to explore the world of insects. These kids were fearless - wading through the prairie (that was taller than many of them) - stalking insects of all kinds, and even gently holding them. They brought their captives back to our "bug table" and were able to get close up looks using magnifiers while Joel (our expert) told them about bug life cycles and how to handle bugs safely. The adults seemed to be having fun too.
We found dozens of different kinds of insects including dragonflies, damselflies, bumblebees, wasps, beetles, moths, butterflies, ants, grasshoppers, crickets, flower flies, daddy longlegs, spiders and more.
Many insects species are in decline and need your help. Please plant natives and avoid pesticides. And remember: insects are bird food!
Many thanks to Joel Dunnette for sharing his knowledge today along with volunteer assistants Carol, Joan, Terry and Sandy.
Photos by Sandy Hokanson.
July 13, 2024 - 26th Annual Butterfly Count
Count day was extremely hot and humid (plus the gnats were everywhere). Our teams of volunteers surveyed Chester Woods, Quarry Hill, Willow Creek, Essex Park and several other areas around Rochester. Here are some highlights for the day:
See the entire report and species list on our Butterfly Count Page.
We couldn't do this without our volunteers!
Many thanks to Sandy Hokanson, Joel Dunnette, Ruthann Yaeger, Jerry Pruett, Jim Peterson, John Weiss, Greg Munsen, Joyce Grier, Terry Grier, Rosemary Braus, Roberta Bumann, Larry Boutelle, Ross Roenigk, Anna Lovrien, Sue Hayes, Terri Dugan, Greta Gosewisch, Toby Weingarten, Tracy Harrison, Kara Ledbetter and Sara Locher.
Count day was extremely hot and humid (plus the gnats were everywhere). Our teams of volunteers surveyed Chester Woods, Quarry Hill, Willow Creek, Essex Park and several other areas around Rochester. Here are some highlights for the day:
- 34 species. This is a more than last year (26) and more than our average of 30. Our highest species count (42) was found in 2007.
- 421 individual butterflies. This is a very low number - the 4th lowest in our 26 years. Our highest count was 1,249 in 2007. A "typical" year averages in the 600s.
- Only 31 Monarchs were seen - again the 4th lowest overall and the 3rd year in a row that we found fewer than 50. We typically find more than 100 Monarchs each year.
- Only one Eastern Tiger Swallowtail was found this year, but several Black Swallowtails were located.
- The top five species in 2024 by number were:
- Clouded Sulphur 97
- Orange Sulphur 62
- Spring/Summer Azure 40
- Great Spangled Fritillary 30
- Monarch 31
- Good news - Several American Coppers and a good variety of Hairstreaks (Banded, Edwards, Coral & Acadian) were located in Chester Woods Park. Last year we didn't find a single Hairstreak.
See the entire report and species list on our Butterfly Count Page.
We couldn't do this without our volunteers!
Many thanks to Sandy Hokanson, Joel Dunnette, Ruthann Yaeger, Jerry Pruett, Jim Peterson, John Weiss, Greg Munsen, Joyce Grier, Terry Grier, Rosemary Braus, Roberta Bumann, Larry Boutelle, Ross Roenigk, Anna Lovrien, Sue Hayes, Terri Dugan, Greta Gosewisch, Toby Weingarten, Tracy Harrison, Kara Ledbetter and Sara Locher.
July 6, 2024 - Bird Walk at Quarry Hill
It was bright and sunny on our Bird Walk this morning at Quarry Hill - a welcome contrast from all the rain we've had lately. The little creek is running high and the vegetation is lush and green - meaning the birds were very difficult to see. Plus, many birds are feeding their young now so they are quiet to not call attention to themselves.
We persevered and eventually saw or heard 29 species of birds along with lots of flowering plants, some butterflies, a few dragonflies and even one fairly large snake (around 24" long). We think it was probably a Fox Snake, but the reddish markings edged in black on its tail could also suggest Milk Snake (check out the photo and let us know what you think). Both types are harmless and it slithered off into tall grass before we could get a better look to confirm its identity.
All in all it was a very enjoyable walk in the woods! Many thanks to our leaders Terry & Joyce Grier and Dave Gross. Photos by Sandy Hokanson.
Bird Species seen or heard:
Mallard, Rock Pigeon (Feral Pigeon), Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Turkey Vulture, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Eastern Phoebe, Great Crested Flycatcher, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue Jay. American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Barn Swallow, White-breasted Nuthatch, House Wren, Gray Catbird, Eastern Bluebird, American Robin, House Sparrow, House Finch, American Goldfinch, Baltimore Oriole, Red-winged Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Common Yellowthroat, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak
It was bright and sunny on our Bird Walk this morning at Quarry Hill - a welcome contrast from all the rain we've had lately. The little creek is running high and the vegetation is lush and green - meaning the birds were very difficult to see. Plus, many birds are feeding their young now so they are quiet to not call attention to themselves.
We persevered and eventually saw or heard 29 species of birds along with lots of flowering plants, some butterflies, a few dragonflies and even one fairly large snake (around 24" long). We think it was probably a Fox Snake, but the reddish markings edged in black on its tail could also suggest Milk Snake (check out the photo and let us know what you think). Both types are harmless and it slithered off into tall grass before we could get a better look to confirm its identity.
All in all it was a very enjoyable walk in the woods! Many thanks to our leaders Terry & Joyce Grier and Dave Gross. Photos by Sandy Hokanson.
Bird Species seen or heard:
Mallard, Rock Pigeon (Feral Pigeon), Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Turkey Vulture, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Eastern Phoebe, Great Crested Flycatcher, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue Jay. American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Barn Swallow, White-breasted Nuthatch, House Wren, Gray Catbird, Eastern Bluebird, American Robin, House Sparrow, House Finch, American Goldfinch, Baltimore Oriole, Red-winged Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Common Yellowthroat, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak
June 20, 2024 - Annual Potluck Social at Chester Woods
Yesterday evening the skies were gray but the rain held off as a dozen people came out to enjoy our annual potluck social at Chester Woods. We filled up on great food and conversation while watching various birds as they went about their business nearby. After eating we took a short walk along the prairie to see what we could identify. A fun time!
Birds seen included: Robins, Blue Jay, eastern Bluebirds, Tree Swallows, Hairy Woodpecker, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Northern Flicker, Kingfisher, Baltimore oriole, and just as we were leaving 2 Sandhill Cranes flew over.
Nearby plants seen included: Wild Quinine, Gary Coneflower, Cup Plant, Common Milkweed, Ground Cherry, Daisy Fleabane, Wild Indigo, Stiff Goldenrod, Canada Goldenrod, Ironweed, Maryland Figwort, Hoary Alyssum and many more!
Photos by Sandy Hokanson
Yesterday evening the skies were gray but the rain held off as a dozen people came out to enjoy our annual potluck social at Chester Woods. We filled up on great food and conversation while watching various birds as they went about their business nearby. After eating we took a short walk along the prairie to see what we could identify. A fun time!
Birds seen included: Robins, Blue Jay, eastern Bluebirds, Tree Swallows, Hairy Woodpecker, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Northern Flicker, Kingfisher, Baltimore oriole, and just as we were leaving 2 Sandhill Cranes flew over.
Nearby plants seen included: Wild Quinine, Gary Coneflower, Cup Plant, Common Milkweed, Ground Cherry, Daisy Fleabane, Wild Indigo, Stiff Goldenrod, Canada Goldenrod, Ironweed, Maryland Figwort, Hoary Alyssum and many more!
Photos by Sandy Hokanson
June 16, 2024 - Damsels & Dragons at Chester Woods
Damsels and Dragons was held at Chester Woods on Father's Day this year due to the rainy weather the previous day. The sunny, humid, and very summery 87 degree afternoon brought the dragonflies out in good numbers and variety. Joel Dunnette shared his extensive knowledge with participants and volunteers alike. A number of dragonflies were captured in hand nets before the event for people to look at. The flashy Twelve-spotted Skimmer with white and black wing markings was common as was the colorful blue and green Eastern Pondhawk. A number of people came to checkout the little flying wonders, and some even tried their hand at trying to capture some with our nets, which was quite a challenge! They were moving very fast on this warm day, but there was a multi-family group of 10 canoeists that had a lot of fun trying, and they even caught some damselflies!
A big than you to Joel Dunnette for making this happen, and to all of the volunteers: Jay, Kirk, Nancy, Trish, and Terry.
Photos by Terry Grier
Damsels and Dragons was held at Chester Woods on Father's Day this year due to the rainy weather the previous day. The sunny, humid, and very summery 87 degree afternoon brought the dragonflies out in good numbers and variety. Joel Dunnette shared his extensive knowledge with participants and volunteers alike. A number of dragonflies were captured in hand nets before the event for people to look at. The flashy Twelve-spotted Skimmer with white and black wing markings was common as was the colorful blue and green Eastern Pondhawk. A number of people came to checkout the little flying wonders, and some even tried their hand at trying to capture some with our nets, which was quite a challenge! They were moving very fast on this warm day, but there was a multi-family group of 10 canoeists that had a lot of fun trying, and they even caught some damselflies!
A big than you to Joel Dunnette for making this happen, and to all of the volunteers: Jay, Kirk, Nancy, Trish, and Terry.
Photos by Terry Grier
June 8, 2024 - Bird Song Walk at Chester Woods
Light rain, mist and drizzle wasn't enough to discourage the 15 people who came out for our Bird Song Walk at Chester Woods this morning. Our focus was on identifying calls and songs - a good skill to develop when the leaf canopy is thick. We heard and/or saw at least 51 species today. That's a good number considering the rainy conditions but it was down from the previous two years when we found more than 60 species.
Near the dam we startled a Turkey Vulture roosting in a tree. it was reluctant to fly in the misty weather and we got a pretty good look at it. Other highlights included Cedar Waxwings, Indigo Buntings, Bluebirds and a couple Lark Sparrows. Photography was a challenge as most birds just looked like gray silhouettes against the gray sky - and cameras don't like getting wet.
Many thanks to Mike Degerstrom and Dave Gross for leading the walk and helping us to better distinguish bird songs! Photos by Sandy Hokanson.
Species seen or heard: Red-tailed Hawk, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Willow Flycatcher, Great Crested Flycatcher, Eastern Kingbird, Yellow-throated Vireo, Warbling Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Tree Swallow. Barn Swallow, White-breasted Nuthatch, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, House Wren, Gray Catbird, Eastern Bluebird, Wood Thrush, American Robin, Cedar Waxwing, American Goldfinch, Chipping Sparrow, Field Sparrow, Lark Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Eastern Towhee, Eastern Meadowlark, Orchard Oriole, Baltimore Oriole, Red-winged Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Common Grackle, Blue-winged Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, American Redstart, Yellow Warbler, Scarlet Tanager, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting, Dickcissel
Light rain, mist and drizzle wasn't enough to discourage the 15 people who came out for our Bird Song Walk at Chester Woods this morning. Our focus was on identifying calls and songs - a good skill to develop when the leaf canopy is thick. We heard and/or saw at least 51 species today. That's a good number considering the rainy conditions but it was down from the previous two years when we found more than 60 species.
Near the dam we startled a Turkey Vulture roosting in a tree. it was reluctant to fly in the misty weather and we got a pretty good look at it. Other highlights included Cedar Waxwings, Indigo Buntings, Bluebirds and a couple Lark Sparrows. Photography was a challenge as most birds just looked like gray silhouettes against the gray sky - and cameras don't like getting wet.
Many thanks to Mike Degerstrom and Dave Gross for leading the walk and helping us to better distinguish bird songs! Photos by Sandy Hokanson.
Species seen or heard: Red-tailed Hawk, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Willow Flycatcher, Great Crested Flycatcher, Eastern Kingbird, Yellow-throated Vireo, Warbling Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Tree Swallow. Barn Swallow, White-breasted Nuthatch, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, House Wren, Gray Catbird, Eastern Bluebird, Wood Thrush, American Robin, Cedar Waxwing, American Goldfinch, Chipping Sparrow, Field Sparrow, Lark Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Eastern Towhee, Eastern Meadowlark, Orchard Oriole, Baltimore Oriole, Red-winged Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Common Grackle, Blue-winged Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, American Redstart, Yellow Warbler, Scarlet Tanager, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting, Dickcissel
June 6, 2024 - Visiting the Schmidt Family Farm
Yesterday we visited the Schmidt Family Farm in Fillmore County. This is an organic farm which we thought might provide good habitat for birds, wildlife and pollinators. We weren’t disappointed as we found 48 bird species in about 2-1/2 hours, several deer and many butterflies, moths, bees and other insects. Karen Schmidt graciously took the time to show us some of her favorite viewing areas. The overall trend in agriculture has been to leave less room for wildlife. But our visit today shows that healthy, organic food can be produced while still leaving room for the natural world. Paul Schmidt also freed himself from farming duties near the end of the visit to show us around and give us some history of his family’s farm.
We probably all realize that it is important to support local businesses, including our farmers that sell their offerings locally. And we know that local produce tastes better and is better for your health. But another important aspect of farm-to-table agriculture is that nature co-exists so well on many of these farms. With the Schmidt farm bordering Forestville State Park, it offered a lot of different species. Karen showed us the prairie meadows and other natural areas being developed on their farm that brought in so many different bird species. There was abundant grassland for many Bobolinks, Eastern Meadowlarks, and Savanah Sparrows. It was very exciting to find two Henslow’s Sparrows singing on their breeding territories. The Henslow’s Sparrow is one of a few species listed as Endangered Minnesota birds. Learn more about the Henslow's Sparrow here: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Henslows_Sparrow/overview
So if you buy direct from local farmers, by visiting a farmer’s market fir example, please realize that you are also likely helping out our wildlife which may include species in need of help, such as the Henslow's Sparrow. Thanks again to Karen and Paul for the tour and working so hard to improve habitat on their farm. You can learn more about their farm here: https://www.myschmidtfarm.com/
Species found: Canada Goose, Ring-necked Pheasant, Rock Pigeon (Feral Pigeon), Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Killdeer, Turkey Vulture, Buteo sp., Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Eastern Phoebe, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, Barn Swallow, White-breasted Nuthatch, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, House Wren, European Starling, Gray Catbird, Eastern Bluebird, American Robin, House Sparrow, American Goldfinch, Chipping Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow, Henslow's Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Eastern Towhee, Bobolink, Eastern Meadowlark, Baltimore Oriole, Red-winged Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Common Grackle, Blue-winged Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, American Redstart, Scarlet Tanager, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting, Dickcissel
Yesterday we visited the Schmidt Family Farm in Fillmore County. This is an organic farm which we thought might provide good habitat for birds, wildlife and pollinators. We weren’t disappointed as we found 48 bird species in about 2-1/2 hours, several deer and many butterflies, moths, bees and other insects. Karen Schmidt graciously took the time to show us some of her favorite viewing areas. The overall trend in agriculture has been to leave less room for wildlife. But our visit today shows that healthy, organic food can be produced while still leaving room for the natural world. Paul Schmidt also freed himself from farming duties near the end of the visit to show us around and give us some history of his family’s farm.
We probably all realize that it is important to support local businesses, including our farmers that sell their offerings locally. And we know that local produce tastes better and is better for your health. But another important aspect of farm-to-table agriculture is that nature co-exists so well on many of these farms. With the Schmidt farm bordering Forestville State Park, it offered a lot of different species. Karen showed us the prairie meadows and other natural areas being developed on their farm that brought in so many different bird species. There was abundant grassland for many Bobolinks, Eastern Meadowlarks, and Savanah Sparrows. It was very exciting to find two Henslow’s Sparrows singing on their breeding territories. The Henslow’s Sparrow is one of a few species listed as Endangered Minnesota birds. Learn more about the Henslow's Sparrow here: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Henslows_Sparrow/overview
So if you buy direct from local farmers, by visiting a farmer’s market fir example, please realize that you are also likely helping out our wildlife which may include species in need of help, such as the Henslow's Sparrow. Thanks again to Karen and Paul for the tour and working so hard to improve habitat on their farm. You can learn more about their farm here: https://www.myschmidtfarm.com/
Species found: Canada Goose, Ring-necked Pheasant, Rock Pigeon (Feral Pigeon), Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Killdeer, Turkey Vulture, Buteo sp., Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Eastern Phoebe, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, Barn Swallow, White-breasted Nuthatch, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, House Wren, European Starling, Gray Catbird, Eastern Bluebird, American Robin, House Sparrow, American Goldfinch, Chipping Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow, Henslow's Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Eastern Towhee, Bobolink, Eastern Meadowlark, Baltimore Oriole, Red-winged Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Common Grackle, Blue-winged Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, American Redstart, Scarlet Tanager, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting, Dickcissel
June 1, 2024 - Bird Walk at Quarry Hill
Gray skies greeted the 20 people who came out in search of birds at Quarry Hill this morning. The rain had stopped but everything was damp and dripping. The birds were very adept at hiding from us but we eventually found 34 species - though we heard more birds than we actually saw. Indigo Buntings were fairly numerous and singing loudly, we got a glimpse of a Baltimore Oriole and enjoyed watching a pair of White-breasted Nuthatches bring food to their chicks in a nest very near the trail. A Pileated Woodpecker called loudly near us several times and one person got a quick glimpse before it headed deeper into the woods.
The predominant color of the day was green, but several wildflowers are blooming giving the woods some needed bursts of color. Mushrooms should be popping up everywhere soon but we didn't notice any today. A pair of muskrats were swimming in the pond along with more than 2 dozen Canada Geese.
It was a very enjoyable morning! Thanks to Terry & Joyce Grier and Dave Gross for leading this walk. Photos by Sandy Hokanson and Lucas Lin.
Species: Canada Geese, Mallard, Mourning Dove, Chimney Swift, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Great Blue Heron, Turkey Vulture, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Eastern Phoebe,
Great Crested Flycatcher, Yellow-throated Vireo, Warbling Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo,
Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Barn Swallow, White-breasted Nuthatch, House Wren, Gray Catbird, American Robin, House Sparrow,
House Finch, American Goldfinch, Baltimore Oriole, Red-winged Blackbird,
Brown-headed Cowbird, American Redstart, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting
Gray skies greeted the 20 people who came out in search of birds at Quarry Hill this morning. The rain had stopped but everything was damp and dripping. The birds were very adept at hiding from us but we eventually found 34 species - though we heard more birds than we actually saw. Indigo Buntings were fairly numerous and singing loudly, we got a glimpse of a Baltimore Oriole and enjoyed watching a pair of White-breasted Nuthatches bring food to their chicks in a nest very near the trail. A Pileated Woodpecker called loudly near us several times and one person got a quick glimpse before it headed deeper into the woods.
The predominant color of the day was green, but several wildflowers are blooming giving the woods some needed bursts of color. Mushrooms should be popping up everywhere soon but we didn't notice any today. A pair of muskrats were swimming in the pond along with more than 2 dozen Canada Geese.
It was a very enjoyable morning! Thanks to Terry & Joyce Grier and Dave Gross for leading this walk. Photos by Sandy Hokanson and Lucas Lin.
Species: Canada Geese, Mallard, Mourning Dove, Chimney Swift, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Great Blue Heron, Turkey Vulture, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Eastern Phoebe,
Great Crested Flycatcher, Yellow-throated Vireo, Warbling Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo,
Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Barn Swallow, White-breasted Nuthatch, House Wren, Gray Catbird, American Robin, House Sparrow,
House Finch, American Goldfinch, Baltimore Oriole, Red-winged Blackbird,
Brown-headed Cowbird, American Redstart, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting
May 28, 2024 - Kestrel Presentation by Kirk Payne
More than 40 people came out last night to hear Kirk Payne talk about Kestrels at the Quarry Hill Nature Center. Did you know that Kestrels used to be called "Sparrowhawks"? Then scientists decided they were more like the many species of Kestrels found worldwide and they were renamed "American Kestrel". Of course, science has advanced even further and now we know our Kestrel is actually more closely related to the Peregrine Falcon! Science continues on...
Kirk also talked about the Kestrel nest box program he and ZVAS have collaborated on for many years. A couple dozen boxes have been erected around the area and Kirk and a team of volunteers monitor them each year. The program has been successful and many chicks have been fledged. (It was interesting to note that by and large more female chicks are being hatched than males - but we can only speculate why).
Unfortunately Kestrel numbers are declining and there doesn't seem to be a single reason why. Multiple issues are likely ganging up on these beautiful raptors:
Kirk also told us some fun stories about his long association with Kestrels as a professional Falconer. It was a very enjoyable evening and the crowd had lots of questions. Thank you, Kirk!
If you have land suitable for Kestrels and are interested in hosting a nest box please email us at contactZVAS@zumbrovalleyaudubon.org and we'll get you in touch with Kirk.
More than 40 people came out last night to hear Kirk Payne talk about Kestrels at the Quarry Hill Nature Center. Did you know that Kestrels used to be called "Sparrowhawks"? Then scientists decided they were more like the many species of Kestrels found worldwide and they were renamed "American Kestrel". Of course, science has advanced even further and now we know our Kestrel is actually more closely related to the Peregrine Falcon! Science continues on...
Kirk also talked about the Kestrel nest box program he and ZVAS have collaborated on for many years. A couple dozen boxes have been erected around the area and Kirk and a team of volunteers monitor them each year. The program has been successful and many chicks have been fledged. (It was interesting to note that by and large more female chicks are being hatched than males - but we can only speculate why).
Unfortunately Kestrel numbers are declining and there doesn't seem to be a single reason why. Multiple issues are likely ganging up on these beautiful raptors:
- • Habitat loss equals fewer nesting cavities and not enough open fields and grasslands for hunting
- Rodenticides weaken kestrels which get sick when eating poisoned mice
- Pesticides and the insect apocalypse mean there may not enough food for young Kestrels which live off insects when they're learning to hunt
- Climate change brings warmer spring temps triggering Kestrels to start nesting too soon - only to have chicks die in a cold spell.
Kirk also told us some fun stories about his long association with Kestrels as a professional Falconer. It was a very enjoyable evening and the crowd had lots of questions. Thank you, Kirk!
If you have land suitable for Kestrels and are interested in hosting a nest box please email us at contactZVAS@zumbrovalleyaudubon.org and we'll get you in touch with Kirk.
May 18, 2024 - Hike at Moon Valley WMA
Fourteen participants journeyed for a first time visit to the newest wildlife management area (WMA) in Olmsted County. This is a huge WMA with interesting karst geology (specifically the "Decorah Edge"). Birding was challenging with the early leaf-out this Spring. But good looks of Great-Crested Flycatcher, Indigo Bunting and Blue-Winged Warbler were had. Highlights were a Sandhill Crane that flew low from across a field directly toward and nearly directly over us. And secondly, we heard a pair of vocalizing Black-billed Cuckoos soon followed by a Yellow-billed Cuckoo. Some birders got a brief look at the bb-cuckoos which is rare for these secretive birds.
We were pleased to be accompanied by David Ruff with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) who did a lot of the work to secure this important area for conservation. Much of the vast agricultural areas within this WMA are being put into forest and prairie. Thanks to David for coming out and sharing so much interesting information about Moon Valley. Thanks to Mike Degerstrom for leading the outing and to Dave Gross and others for finding the birds.
Species seen or heard:
Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Black-billed Cuckoo, Ruby-throated Hummingbird,
Sandhill Crane, Turkey Vulture, Bald Eagle, Red-tailed Hawk, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Eastern Phoebe, Great Crested Flycatcher, Yellow-throated Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Bank Swallow, House Wren, Gray Catbird, Cedar Waxwing, Chipping Sparrow, Field Sparrow, Song Sparrow , Baltimore Oriole, Brown-headed Cowbird, Blue-winged Warbler, Black-and-white Warbler, Tennessee Warbler , Common Yellowthroat, American Redstart, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting.
Photos by Mike Degerstrom
Fourteen participants journeyed for a first time visit to the newest wildlife management area (WMA) in Olmsted County. This is a huge WMA with interesting karst geology (specifically the "Decorah Edge"). Birding was challenging with the early leaf-out this Spring. But good looks of Great-Crested Flycatcher, Indigo Bunting and Blue-Winged Warbler were had. Highlights were a Sandhill Crane that flew low from across a field directly toward and nearly directly over us. And secondly, we heard a pair of vocalizing Black-billed Cuckoos soon followed by a Yellow-billed Cuckoo. Some birders got a brief look at the bb-cuckoos which is rare for these secretive birds.
We were pleased to be accompanied by David Ruff with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) who did a lot of the work to secure this important area for conservation. Much of the vast agricultural areas within this WMA are being put into forest and prairie. Thanks to David for coming out and sharing so much interesting information about Moon Valley. Thanks to Mike Degerstrom for leading the outing and to Dave Gross and others for finding the birds.
Species seen or heard:
Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Black-billed Cuckoo, Ruby-throated Hummingbird,
Sandhill Crane, Turkey Vulture, Bald Eagle, Red-tailed Hawk, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Eastern Phoebe, Great Crested Flycatcher, Yellow-throated Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Bank Swallow, House Wren, Gray Catbird, Cedar Waxwing, Chipping Sparrow, Field Sparrow, Song Sparrow , Baltimore Oriole, Brown-headed Cowbird, Blue-winged Warbler, Black-and-white Warbler, Tennessee Warbler , Common Yellowthroat, American Redstart, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting.
Photos by Mike Degerstrom
May 18, 2024 - Spanish Bird Walk at Quarry Hill
This morning a small group of Spanish-speaking people came out for a short walk around Quarry Hill. We enjoyed seeing the birds and learning their names in Spanish. We saw or heard at least 21 species - with our favorite being a Spotted Sandpiper walking along the pond. Muchas Gracias Eric Matteson for leading this walk!
Un Paseo para observar Aves (en Español)
Esta mañana un pequeño grupo de personas de habla hispana salió a dar un corto paseo por Quarry Hill. Disfrutamos viendo los pájaros y aprendiendo sus nombres en español. Vimos o escuchamos al menos 21 especies, siendo nuestra favorita el correlimos moteado caminando por el estanque. ¡Muchas gracias Eric Matteson por liderar esta caminata!
Canada Goose - Ganso de Canadá
Spotted Sandpiper - Playero manchado
Red-tailed Hawk - Halcón de cola roja
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker - Chupazavia de vientre amarillo
Red-bellied Woodpecker - Carpintero de vientre rojo
Downy Woodpecker - Carpintero velloso menor
Hairy Woodpecker - Carpintero velloso mayor
Yellow-throated Vireo - Vireo Garganta Amarilla
Warbling Vireo -Vireo gorjeante
Blue Jay - Chara azul
Black-capped Chickadee - Carbonero de gorra oscura
Barn Swallow - Golodrina Tijerta
White-breasted Nuthatch - Sita de pecho blanco
House Wren - Reyezuelo doméstico
American Robin - Petirrojo americano
American Goldfinch - Dominico americano
Baltimore Oriole - Bolsero de Baltimore
Red-winged Blackbird - Tordo sargento
Tennessee Warbler - Chipe peregrino
Northern Cardinal - Cardenal norteño
Rose-breasted Grosbeak - Picogordo de pecho rosa
This morning a small group of Spanish-speaking people came out for a short walk around Quarry Hill. We enjoyed seeing the birds and learning their names in Spanish. We saw or heard at least 21 species - with our favorite being a Spotted Sandpiper walking along the pond. Muchas Gracias Eric Matteson for leading this walk!
Un Paseo para observar Aves (en Español)
Esta mañana un pequeño grupo de personas de habla hispana salió a dar un corto paseo por Quarry Hill. Disfrutamos viendo los pájaros y aprendiendo sus nombres en español. Vimos o escuchamos al menos 21 especies, siendo nuestra favorita el correlimos moteado caminando por el estanque. ¡Muchas gracias Eric Matteson por liderar esta caminata!
Canada Goose - Ganso de Canadá
Spotted Sandpiper - Playero manchado
Red-tailed Hawk - Halcón de cola roja
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker - Chupazavia de vientre amarillo
Red-bellied Woodpecker - Carpintero de vientre rojo
Downy Woodpecker - Carpintero velloso menor
Hairy Woodpecker - Carpintero velloso mayor
Yellow-throated Vireo - Vireo Garganta Amarilla
Warbling Vireo -Vireo gorjeante
Blue Jay - Chara azul
Black-capped Chickadee - Carbonero de gorra oscura
Barn Swallow - Golodrina Tijerta
White-breasted Nuthatch - Sita de pecho blanco
House Wren - Reyezuelo doméstico
American Robin - Petirrojo americano
American Goldfinch - Dominico americano
Baltimore Oriole - Bolsero de Baltimore
Red-winged Blackbird - Tordo sargento
Tennessee Warbler - Chipe peregrino
Northern Cardinal - Cardenal norteño
Rose-breasted Grosbeak - Picogordo de pecho rosa
May 13, 2024 - Early Morning Walk at Kutzky Park
Our early morning walk at Kutzky park this morning only attracted 4 birders - which was too bad as the trees were full of a variety of warblers (15 species). They were moving fast but we got some good looks as they dashed between the leaves snatching insects for their breakfast. Hopefully they'll hang around for a day before continuing north. Another great find was a pair of Scarlet Tanagers and just as the last person left a lone Wood Duck appeared. We found 41 species in all. The sky was still hazy from the Canadian fires and the low morning sun meant photography was iffy at best.
There's still time to see migrating birds - but don't wait too long! Thanks to Mike Degerstrom for leading. Photos by Sandy Hokanson.
Species:
Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Mallard, Rock Pigeon (Feral Pigeon), Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Least Flycatcher, Philadelphia Vireo. Red-eyed Vireo, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, European Starling, Gray Catbird, Swainson's Thrush, American Robin, Cedar Waxwing, House Sparrow, American Goldfinch,
Chipping Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Common Grackle, Northern Waterthrush, Black-and-white Warbler, Tennessee Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, American Redstart, Magnolia Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, Palm Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Canada Warbler, Wilson's Warbler, Scarlet Tanager, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Our early morning walk at Kutzky park this morning only attracted 4 birders - which was too bad as the trees were full of a variety of warblers (15 species). They were moving fast but we got some good looks as they dashed between the leaves snatching insects for their breakfast. Hopefully they'll hang around for a day before continuing north. Another great find was a pair of Scarlet Tanagers and just as the last person left a lone Wood Duck appeared. We found 41 species in all. The sky was still hazy from the Canadian fires and the low morning sun meant photography was iffy at best.
There's still time to see migrating birds - but don't wait too long! Thanks to Mike Degerstrom for leading. Photos by Sandy Hokanson.
Species:
Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Mallard, Rock Pigeon (Feral Pigeon), Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Least Flycatcher, Philadelphia Vireo. Red-eyed Vireo, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, European Starling, Gray Catbird, Swainson's Thrush, American Robin, Cedar Waxwing, House Sparrow, American Goldfinch,
Chipping Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Common Grackle, Northern Waterthrush, Black-and-white Warbler, Tennessee Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, American Redstart, Magnolia Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, Palm Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Canada Warbler, Wilson's Warbler, Scarlet Tanager, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak
May 12, 2024 - Field trip to Hok-si-la Park
Do you see it? It's in that tree ... it's right there! Oh, the challenges of birding when the leaves are out. But we persevere because we love spotting the birds as they migrate through.
Today at Hok-si-la Park in Lake City our group of 16 birders saw or heard 66 species (including 19 warblers) - a really good number. It was hot in the sun and cool in the shade and the birds were staying in shadowed areas high up in the canopy. We had to crane our necks and wait patiently for those fleeting seconds when they'd pop into view. It was worth it.
Thanks to Leaders Dave Gross, Sandy Hokanson and the other experienced birders who helped us along the way! Photos by Sandy Hokanson
Species list: Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Blue-winged Teal, Mallard, Sandhill Crane, Double-crested Cormorant, American White Pelican, Green Heron, Great Blue Heron, Bald Eagle, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Least Flycatcher, Eastern Phoebe, Great Crested Flycatcher, Yellow-throated Vireo, Blue-headed Vireo, Philadelphia Vireo, Warbling Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, White-breasted Nuthatch, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, House Wren, Gray Catbird, Swainson's Thrush, Hermit Thrush, American Robin, Cedar Waxwing, American Goldfinch, Chipping Sparrow,
Baltimore Oriole, Red-winged Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Common Grackle, Golden-winged Warbler, Black-and-white Warbler, Prothonotary Warbler, Tennessee Warbler, Orange-crowned Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, American Redstart, Cape May Warbler, Northern Parula, Magnolia Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, Palm Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Scarlet Tanager, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting
Do you see it? It's in that tree ... it's right there! Oh, the challenges of birding when the leaves are out. But we persevere because we love spotting the birds as they migrate through.
Today at Hok-si-la Park in Lake City our group of 16 birders saw or heard 66 species (including 19 warblers) - a really good number. It was hot in the sun and cool in the shade and the birds were staying in shadowed areas high up in the canopy. We had to crane our necks and wait patiently for those fleeting seconds when they'd pop into view. It was worth it.
Thanks to Leaders Dave Gross, Sandy Hokanson and the other experienced birders who helped us along the way! Photos by Sandy Hokanson
Species list: Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Blue-winged Teal, Mallard, Sandhill Crane, Double-crested Cormorant, American White Pelican, Green Heron, Great Blue Heron, Bald Eagle, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Least Flycatcher, Eastern Phoebe, Great Crested Flycatcher, Yellow-throated Vireo, Blue-headed Vireo, Philadelphia Vireo, Warbling Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, White-breasted Nuthatch, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, House Wren, Gray Catbird, Swainson's Thrush, Hermit Thrush, American Robin, Cedar Waxwing, American Goldfinch, Chipping Sparrow,
Baltimore Oriole, Red-winged Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Common Grackle, Golden-winged Warbler, Black-and-white Warbler, Prothonotary Warbler, Tennessee Warbler, Orange-crowned Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, American Redstart, Cape May Warbler, Northern Parula, Magnolia Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, Palm Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Scarlet Tanager, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting
May 11, 2024 - BIG Birding Day!
ZVAS birders were out in force at local parks, wetlands and reservoirs to see what we could find in celebration of Global Birding Day. We found 126 species. That's down from last year's record high of 143 when conditions were near perfect. Read on and see more photos here.
ZVAS birders were out in force at local parks, wetlands and reservoirs to see what we could find in celebration of Global Birding Day. We found 126 species. That's down from last year's record high of 143 when conditions were near perfect. Read on and see more photos here.
May 9, 2024 - Bird Walk at Kutzky Park
Cloudy gray skies, temps in the 50s and even a few sprinkles greeted the 22 participants on today's "Lunch Hour" Bird Walk at Kutzky Park. The birds were unfazed about the weather and were busy foraging for insects high up in the tree canopy and along the creek. Once again we didn't see a lot of "new" birds but were very pleased to find a Spotted Sandpiper out in the open where everyone could get a good look. Thanks to Lance Vrieze for leading the walk! Photos by Sandy Hokanson.
34 species seen today:
Mallard, Mourning Dove, Spotted Sandpiper, Turkey Vulture, Bald Eagle, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Least Flycatcher, Blue Jay, Black-capped Chickadee, House Wren, Gray Catbird, Swainson's Thrush, American Robin, House Sparrow, House Finch, American Goldfinch, Chipping Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Common Grackle, Tennessee Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, American Redstart, Yellow Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting
AND in case you missed it - Sean Macaday of KIMT3 interviewed Sandy Hokanson about our upcoming BIG Birding Day. Here's a link to view it: https://www.kimt.com/video/big-birding-day/video_64429762-579b-539f-98ab-1dccc0817844.html
Cloudy gray skies, temps in the 50s and even a few sprinkles greeted the 22 participants on today's "Lunch Hour" Bird Walk at Kutzky Park. The birds were unfazed about the weather and were busy foraging for insects high up in the tree canopy and along the creek. Once again we didn't see a lot of "new" birds but were very pleased to find a Spotted Sandpiper out in the open where everyone could get a good look. Thanks to Lance Vrieze for leading the walk! Photos by Sandy Hokanson.
34 species seen today:
Mallard, Mourning Dove, Spotted Sandpiper, Turkey Vulture, Bald Eagle, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Least Flycatcher, Blue Jay, Black-capped Chickadee, House Wren, Gray Catbird, Swainson's Thrush, American Robin, House Sparrow, House Finch, American Goldfinch, Chipping Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Common Grackle, Tennessee Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, American Redstart, Yellow Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting
AND in case you missed it - Sean Macaday of KIMT3 interviewed Sandy Hokanson about our upcoming BIG Birding Day. Here's a link to view it: https://www.kimt.com/video/big-birding-day/video_64429762-579b-539f-98ab-1dccc0817844.html
May 8, 2024 - Bird Walk at Kutzky Park
Sixteen folks came out to Kutzky Park early this morning to check on the status of migrating warblers. We did find a few - but were a bit disappointed in the low numbers. Everyday is different - just the day before a small group of birders reported several more birds. Perhaps they moved on overnight or maybe they were waiting for the sun to warm things up a bit more. Regardless our group did find 32 species - not a bad total over all. Our next walk at Kutzky Park will be tomorrow, Thursday, May 9 from noon - 1 pm. Meet near the picnic shelter. With luck another blast of warblers will come through tonight!
Thanks to Mike Degerstrom for leading this morning.
Species: Mallard, Rock Pigeon (Feral Pigeon), Chimney Swift, Downy Woodpecker, Least Flycatcher, Blue Jay, American Crow, White-breasted Nuthatch, House Wren, European Starling, Gray Catbird, Catharus (thrush) sp., American Robin, House Sparrow, House Finch, American Goldfinch, Chipping Sparrow, Clay-colored Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Baltimore Oriole, Red-winged Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Common Grackle, Tennessee Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Yellow Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler. Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Photos by Sandy Hokanson
Sixteen folks came out to Kutzky Park early this morning to check on the status of migrating warblers. We did find a few - but were a bit disappointed in the low numbers. Everyday is different - just the day before a small group of birders reported several more birds. Perhaps they moved on overnight or maybe they were waiting for the sun to warm things up a bit more. Regardless our group did find 32 species - not a bad total over all. Our next walk at Kutzky Park will be tomorrow, Thursday, May 9 from noon - 1 pm. Meet near the picnic shelter. With luck another blast of warblers will come through tonight!
Thanks to Mike Degerstrom for leading this morning.
Species: Mallard, Rock Pigeon (Feral Pigeon), Chimney Swift, Downy Woodpecker, Least Flycatcher, Blue Jay, American Crow, White-breasted Nuthatch, House Wren, European Starling, Gray Catbird, Catharus (thrush) sp., American Robin, House Sparrow, House Finch, American Goldfinch, Chipping Sparrow, Clay-colored Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Baltimore Oriole, Red-winged Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Common Grackle, Tennessee Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Yellow Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler. Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Photos by Sandy Hokanson
May 6, 2024 - Bird Walk at Kutzky Park
Birding was a bit slow at Kutzky Park today on our first "Lunch Hour" walk of the season. Maybe the birds were napping - the weather was perfect for a mid-day snooze, But eventually our group of 22 people teased out 32 species. Our favorite was a Blackpoll Warbler - one of eight warbler species we found today (see list below). Orioles were chasing each other and one person spotted an Orchard Oriole but it was gone before the rest of the group got a look. Migration will be hitting it's peak by the end of this week so we expect species numbers to continue to rise.
Our next Kutzky Park walk is Wednesday, May 8 at 6:45 am. Meet near the picnic shelter.
Thanks to Lance Vrieze for leading today. Photos by Sandy Hokanson.
Species seen:
Mallard, Mourning Dove, Great Blue Heron, Turkey Vulture, Hairy Woodpecker, Least Flycatcher, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, House Wren, Gray Catbird, American Robin, House Sparrow, House Finch, American Goldfinch, White-crowned Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Orchard Oriole, Baltimore Oriole, Red-winged Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Common Grackle, Northern Waterthrush, Tennessee Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, American Redstart, Yellow Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, Palm Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Birding was a bit slow at Kutzky Park today on our first "Lunch Hour" walk of the season. Maybe the birds were napping - the weather was perfect for a mid-day snooze, But eventually our group of 22 people teased out 32 species. Our favorite was a Blackpoll Warbler - one of eight warbler species we found today (see list below). Orioles were chasing each other and one person spotted an Orchard Oriole but it was gone before the rest of the group got a look. Migration will be hitting it's peak by the end of this week so we expect species numbers to continue to rise.
Our next Kutzky Park walk is Wednesday, May 8 at 6:45 am. Meet near the picnic shelter.
Thanks to Lance Vrieze for leading today. Photos by Sandy Hokanson.
Species seen:
Mallard, Mourning Dove, Great Blue Heron, Turkey Vulture, Hairy Woodpecker, Least Flycatcher, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, House Wren, Gray Catbird, American Robin, House Sparrow, House Finch, American Goldfinch, White-crowned Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Orchard Oriole, Baltimore Oriole, Red-winged Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Common Grackle, Northern Waterthrush, Tennessee Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, American Redstart, Yellow Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, Palm Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak
May 5, 2024 - Root River Walk
A bright sunny morning greeted the 16 people who came out for this morning's walk around Root River Park. Because the group was so large we decided to split into two groups and walk the trails from opposite directions. We compared notes when we met in the middle - and we mostly saw the same birds - though not everyone saw everything.
We saw or heard at least 45 species (I may have missed a few in the list below). Some favorites of the day were Yellow-throated Vireo, Magnolia warbler, Orioles, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks and a Red-headed Woodpecker. A Blue-winged warbler was seen by one person and heard by a few more - but we were unable to relocate it.
Spring wildflowers are still blooming, too - though we only found one lonely Snow Trillium. Bluebells and Wild Blue Phlox are going strong, May Apple is getting tall and Trout Lily has started blooming. We also found some unexpected Bishop's Cap and a small patch of Cutleaf Toothwort.
Birds are streaming into the area this week during the peak of migration. Get out there and see them!
Many thanks to Jim Sullivan for doing some early scouting, to Joel Dunnette, Terry and Joyce Grier for sharing their plant and birding expertise, and to Sandy Hokanson for leading the trip and taking photos. Other photos (marked) were taken by Terry Grier and Kambiz Kalantari.
Bird Species:
Ring-necked Pheasant, Mourning Dove, Turkey Vulture, Bald Eagle, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Red-headed Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Least Flycatcher, Eastern Phoebe, Great Crested Flycatcher, Yellow-throated Vireo, Veery, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Tree Swallow, Barn Swallow, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, White-breasted Nuthatch, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, House Wren, Gray Catbird, Eastern Bluebird, American Robin, House Finch, American Goldfinch, Field Sparrow, White-crowned Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Baltimore Oriole, Red-winged Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Ovenbird, Blue-winged Warbler, Black-and-white Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Palm Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Flower Species:
May Apple, Jacob's Ladder, Violets, Rue Anemone, False Rue Anemone, Spring Beauty (not much left), Wild Blue Phlox, Bishop's Cap, Cutleaf Toothwort, Trout Lily, Trillium, Wild Ginger, Virginia Bluebells, Buttercup, Snow Trillium, Yellow Bellflower
And no doubt there were many more (birds and flowers) that we missed!
A bright sunny morning greeted the 16 people who came out for this morning's walk around Root River Park. Because the group was so large we decided to split into two groups and walk the trails from opposite directions. We compared notes when we met in the middle - and we mostly saw the same birds - though not everyone saw everything.
We saw or heard at least 45 species (I may have missed a few in the list below). Some favorites of the day were Yellow-throated Vireo, Magnolia warbler, Orioles, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks and a Red-headed Woodpecker. A Blue-winged warbler was seen by one person and heard by a few more - but we were unable to relocate it.
Spring wildflowers are still blooming, too - though we only found one lonely Snow Trillium. Bluebells and Wild Blue Phlox are going strong, May Apple is getting tall and Trout Lily has started blooming. We also found some unexpected Bishop's Cap and a small patch of Cutleaf Toothwort.
Birds are streaming into the area this week during the peak of migration. Get out there and see them!
Many thanks to Jim Sullivan for doing some early scouting, to Joel Dunnette, Terry and Joyce Grier for sharing their plant and birding expertise, and to Sandy Hokanson for leading the trip and taking photos. Other photos (marked) were taken by Terry Grier and Kambiz Kalantari.
Bird Species:
Ring-necked Pheasant, Mourning Dove, Turkey Vulture, Bald Eagle, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Red-headed Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Least Flycatcher, Eastern Phoebe, Great Crested Flycatcher, Yellow-throated Vireo, Veery, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Tree Swallow, Barn Swallow, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, White-breasted Nuthatch, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, House Wren, Gray Catbird, Eastern Bluebird, American Robin, House Finch, American Goldfinch, Field Sparrow, White-crowned Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Baltimore Oriole, Red-winged Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Ovenbird, Blue-winged Warbler, Black-and-white Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Palm Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Flower Species:
May Apple, Jacob's Ladder, Violets, Rue Anemone, False Rue Anemone, Spring Beauty (not much left), Wild Blue Phlox, Bishop's Cap, Cutleaf Toothwort, Trout Lily, Trillium, Wild Ginger, Virginia Bluebells, Buttercup, Snow Trillium, Yellow Bellflower
And no doubt there were many more (birds and flowers) that we missed!
May 4, 2024 - Wildflower Walk at Izaak Walton Wetlands
Ten people braved the cloudy, misty weather this afternoon to search for spring wildflowers at the Izaak Walton Wetlands. The mist stopped shortly after we arrived and we even enjoyed an occasional burst of sunshine while we walked. Many plants were in full bloom while others, like Bloodroot, had already finished blooming and yet others hadn't started yet. We were happy to find a new flower that we hadn't seen in the park before called Cuckoo Flower - also known as Ladies Smock. It's fairly rare in Minnesota so it was a great find. We were able to identify 22 species (but are sure we missed many more). The complete list is below.
Many thanks to our guides, Terry & Joyce Grier and to everyone who helped identify the birds and plants along the trail.
Wildflowers seen:
Baneberry, Bellflower, Bloodroot, Blue Flag Iris, Buttercup, Canada Anemone, Cleavers (Bedstraw), Cuckoo Flower (Ladies smock), False Rue Anemone, False Solomon's Seal, Jack-in-the-pulpit, Jacobs's ladder, May Apple, Rue Anemone, Spring Beauty, Trout Lily, Trillium, Violets, Virginia Bluebells, Wild Blue Phlox, Wild Ginger, Wild Geranium
Bird Species seen or heard:
Canada Goose, Blue-winged Teal, Mallard, Wild Turkey, Sandhill Crane, Killdeer, Great Blue Heron, Belted Kingfisher, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Least Flycatcher, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, White-breasted Nuthatch, House Wren, Gray Catbird, American Robin, Chipping Sparrow, Lincoln's Sparrow, Song Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Harris's Sparrow, Swamp Sparrow, Baltimore Oriole, Red-winged Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Northern Waterthrush, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Northern Cardinal
Photos by Sandy Hokanson
Ten people braved the cloudy, misty weather this afternoon to search for spring wildflowers at the Izaak Walton Wetlands. The mist stopped shortly after we arrived and we even enjoyed an occasional burst of sunshine while we walked. Many plants were in full bloom while others, like Bloodroot, had already finished blooming and yet others hadn't started yet. We were happy to find a new flower that we hadn't seen in the park before called Cuckoo Flower - also known as Ladies Smock. It's fairly rare in Minnesota so it was a great find. We were able to identify 22 species (but are sure we missed many more). The complete list is below.
Many thanks to our guides, Terry & Joyce Grier and to everyone who helped identify the birds and plants along the trail.
Wildflowers seen:
Baneberry, Bellflower, Bloodroot, Blue Flag Iris, Buttercup, Canada Anemone, Cleavers (Bedstraw), Cuckoo Flower (Ladies smock), False Rue Anemone, False Solomon's Seal, Jack-in-the-pulpit, Jacobs's ladder, May Apple, Rue Anemone, Spring Beauty, Trout Lily, Trillium, Violets, Virginia Bluebells, Wild Blue Phlox, Wild Ginger, Wild Geranium
Bird Species seen or heard:
Canada Goose, Blue-winged Teal, Mallard, Wild Turkey, Sandhill Crane, Killdeer, Great Blue Heron, Belted Kingfisher, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Least Flycatcher, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, White-breasted Nuthatch, House Wren, Gray Catbird, American Robin, Chipping Sparrow, Lincoln's Sparrow, Song Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Harris's Sparrow, Swamp Sparrow, Baltimore Oriole, Red-winged Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Northern Waterthrush, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Northern Cardinal
Photos by Sandy Hokanson
May 4, 2024 - Earthfest!
It was a busy day!
Besides a bird walk in the morning and a wildflower walk in the afternoon, ZVAS also participated in the Annual Earthfest Celebration at the Northrup Community Center. All sorts of environmental organizations were on hand to share information about what a great planet we have and how we can take better care of it for us and future generations.
A huge thank you to all of the organizers, volunteers and people who took the time to come out and participate!
It was a busy day!
Besides a bird walk in the morning and a wildflower walk in the afternoon, ZVAS also participated in the Annual Earthfest Celebration at the Northrup Community Center. All sorts of environmental organizations were on hand to share information about what a great planet we have and how we can take better care of it for us and future generations.
A huge thank you to all of the organizers, volunteers and people who took the time to come out and participate!
May 4, 2024 - Bird Walk at Quarry Hill
It was a raining during our walk at Quarry Hill this morning so we 5 participants decided to do our birding from the bird room in the Nature Center. It was warm and dry and we were quite pleased with what we saw (though our photographer had a very difficult time taking photos through the rain).
We saw 20 species - with highlights being a Harris's Sparrow, White-crowned Sparrows and numerous Rose-breasted Grosbeaks and Baltimore Orioles.
Many thanks to Terry and Joyce Grier for pointing out and educating us about the birds we saw today!
Species list: Canada Goose, Mallard, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Blue Jay, Black-capped Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, American Robin, House Sparrow, House Finch, American Goldfinch, White-crowned Sparrow, Harris's Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Baltimore Oriole. Red-winged Blackbird, Common Grackle, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak
It was a raining during our walk at Quarry Hill this morning so we 5 participants decided to do our birding from the bird room in the Nature Center. It was warm and dry and we were quite pleased with what we saw (though our photographer had a very difficult time taking photos through the rain).
We saw 20 species - with highlights being a Harris's Sparrow, White-crowned Sparrows and numerous Rose-breasted Grosbeaks and Baltimore Orioles.
Many thanks to Terry and Joyce Grier for pointing out and educating us about the birds we saw today!
Species list: Canada Goose, Mallard, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Blue Jay, Black-capped Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, American Robin, House Sparrow, House Finch, American Goldfinch, White-crowned Sparrow, Harris's Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Baltimore Oriole. Red-winged Blackbird, Common Grackle, Northern Cardinal, Rose-breasted Grosbeak
April 26, 2024 - Arbor day
A tidal wave of energetic kids flooded the RCTC Field House today in Celebration of Arbor Day. They all had a great time learning about nature and making various crafts. The Bird Wheel at the ZVAS Booth was in constant motion and our volunteers struggled to hear and answer questions over the constant roar or happy kid's voices.
Many thanks to RPU for hosting this event and to all the companies, organizations and volunteers who make it happen!
A tidal wave of energetic kids flooded the RCTC Field House today in Celebration of Arbor Day. They all had a great time learning about nature and making various crafts. The Bird Wheel at the ZVAS Booth was in constant motion and our volunteers struggled to hear and answer questions over the constant roar or happy kid's voices.
Many thanks to RPU for hosting this event and to all the companies, organizations and volunteers who make it happen!
April 23, 2024 - Birding in Colombia
Last night about 40 people came out to Quarry Hill Nature Center to hear Jerry Pruett talk about birding in Colombia. Besides the fantastic photos of colorful tropical birds, Jerry also talked about the country itself. Colombia is a modern country and walking down the street in the capitol of Bogata felt the same as walking in Chicago or New York. But there are also some more remote places where horses are still used more than cars. Many of the remote small towns are adding solar power - and he even heard one man complaining that the kids just want to watch cartoons on TV instead of being outside!
Jerry saw more than 750 different birds while in Colombia which is the size of Texas and California combined. The country hosts 1,900 species (20% of the world's bird population! In Minnesota you can find about 300 species - if you really work at it. Colombia is a rich and beautiful place with coastal and interior mountains, tropical forests, high mountain plains and deep river valleys.
Thank you Jerry for sharing your trip with us!
Last night about 40 people came out to Quarry Hill Nature Center to hear Jerry Pruett talk about birding in Colombia. Besides the fantastic photos of colorful tropical birds, Jerry also talked about the country itself. Colombia is a modern country and walking down the street in the capitol of Bogata felt the same as walking in Chicago or New York. But there are also some more remote places where horses are still used more than cars. Many of the remote small towns are adding solar power - and he even heard one man complaining that the kids just want to watch cartoons on TV instead of being outside!
Jerry saw more than 750 different birds while in Colombia which is the size of Texas and California combined. The country hosts 1,900 species (20% of the world's bird population! In Minnesota you can find about 300 species - if you really work at it. Colombia is a rich and beautiful place with coastal and interior mountains, tropical forests, high mountain plains and deep river valleys.
Thank you Jerry for sharing your trip with us!
April 21, 2024 - Armstrong Wetlands / Rice Lake State Park Field Trip
Recent rains raised the water level and benefitted our group of 11 birders today on our field trip to the Armstrong Wetlands and Rice Lake State Park. It was bright and sunny, if a bit chilly, at just 30 degrees when we met up at 7am for the drive. We took the back roads and encountered several interesting birds along the way including Turkeys, 4 Great Egrets perched in a tree, Red-breasted Mergansers, Kingfishers and Eurasian Collared Doves.
When we arrived at Armstrong Wetlands we found a great selection of waterfowl, some Sandhill Cranes, 2 Northern Harriers and got a brief glimpse of a Yellow-headed Blackbird. Shorebirds were mostly absent except for a trio of Lesser Yellowlegs and a few Killdeer.
Continuing on to Rice Lake State Park we were happy to see a large flock of Pelicans, cormorants and more ducks. We tallied our only warbler of the day, a Yellow-rumped, heard a Pileated Woodpecker, and found a single Greater White-fronted Goose. We also noticed many spring wildflowers in full bloom including False Rue Anemone, Bloodroot, Cutleaf Toothwort, Trout Lily, Violets, Wild Blue Phlox, Spring Beauty, Ramps, Mayapple and more. Although the wind got stronger as the day went on the temps also climbed into the 50s and we enjoyed a picnic lunch at the park.
Traveling back to Rochester we decided to stop at the East Kalmar Reservoir and visited a nearby Great Horned Owl nest (mom and 2 chicks seemed to be doing fine). Then we heard about a Sanderling sighting at Cascade Lake Park so had to stop and check that bird out. We ended the day with a final stop at St Mary's Park where we got pretty good looks at a Merlin, and that brought our total for the day to 66 species!
Many thanks to Terry and Joyce Grier for leading today's adventure.
Photos by Lucas Lin and Sandy Hokanson
Species list:
Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Wood Duck, Gadwall, Mallard, Blue-winged Teal, Northern Shoveler, Northern Pintail, Canvasback, Redhead, Ring-necked Duck, Lesser Scaup, Bufflehead, Red-breasted Merganser, Ruddy Duck, Ring-necked Pheasant, Wild Turkey, Pied-bill Grebe, Grebe species (likely Horned), American White Pelican, Double-crested Cormorants, Great Blue Heron, Great Egret, Turkey Vulture, Osprey, Bald Eagle, Northern Harrier, American Kestrel, Merlin, American Coot, Sandhill Crane, Killdeer, Lesser Yellowlegs, Spotted Sandpiper, Sanderling, Common Snipe, Ring-billed Gull, Rock Pigeon, Eurasian Collared Dove, Mourning Dove, Great Horned Owl, Belted Kingfisher, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker,
Downy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Pileated Woodpecker, Blue Jay, American Crow, Horned Lark, Tree Swallow, Black-capped Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, American Robin, European Starling, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Song Sparrow, Swamp Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Northern Cardinal, Red-winged Blackbird, Eastern Meadowlark, Yellow-headed Blackbird, Common Grackle, Brown-headed Cowbird
Recent rains raised the water level and benefitted our group of 11 birders today on our field trip to the Armstrong Wetlands and Rice Lake State Park. It was bright and sunny, if a bit chilly, at just 30 degrees when we met up at 7am for the drive. We took the back roads and encountered several interesting birds along the way including Turkeys, 4 Great Egrets perched in a tree, Red-breasted Mergansers, Kingfishers and Eurasian Collared Doves.
When we arrived at Armstrong Wetlands we found a great selection of waterfowl, some Sandhill Cranes, 2 Northern Harriers and got a brief glimpse of a Yellow-headed Blackbird. Shorebirds were mostly absent except for a trio of Lesser Yellowlegs and a few Killdeer.
Continuing on to Rice Lake State Park we were happy to see a large flock of Pelicans, cormorants and more ducks. We tallied our only warbler of the day, a Yellow-rumped, heard a Pileated Woodpecker, and found a single Greater White-fronted Goose. We also noticed many spring wildflowers in full bloom including False Rue Anemone, Bloodroot, Cutleaf Toothwort, Trout Lily, Violets, Wild Blue Phlox, Spring Beauty, Ramps, Mayapple and more. Although the wind got stronger as the day went on the temps also climbed into the 50s and we enjoyed a picnic lunch at the park.
Traveling back to Rochester we decided to stop at the East Kalmar Reservoir and visited a nearby Great Horned Owl nest (mom and 2 chicks seemed to be doing fine). Then we heard about a Sanderling sighting at Cascade Lake Park so had to stop and check that bird out. We ended the day with a final stop at St Mary's Park where we got pretty good looks at a Merlin, and that brought our total for the day to 66 species!
Many thanks to Terry and Joyce Grier for leading today's adventure.
Photos by Lucas Lin and Sandy Hokanson
Species list:
Greater White-fronted Goose, Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Wood Duck, Gadwall, Mallard, Blue-winged Teal, Northern Shoveler, Northern Pintail, Canvasback, Redhead, Ring-necked Duck, Lesser Scaup, Bufflehead, Red-breasted Merganser, Ruddy Duck, Ring-necked Pheasant, Wild Turkey, Pied-bill Grebe, Grebe species (likely Horned), American White Pelican, Double-crested Cormorants, Great Blue Heron, Great Egret, Turkey Vulture, Osprey, Bald Eagle, Northern Harrier, American Kestrel, Merlin, American Coot, Sandhill Crane, Killdeer, Lesser Yellowlegs, Spotted Sandpiper, Sanderling, Common Snipe, Ring-billed Gull, Rock Pigeon, Eurasian Collared Dove, Mourning Dove, Great Horned Owl, Belted Kingfisher, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker,
Downy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Pileated Woodpecker, Blue Jay, American Crow, Horned Lark, Tree Swallow, Black-capped Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, American Robin, European Starling, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Song Sparrow, Swamp Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Northern Cardinal, Red-winged Blackbird, Eastern Meadowlark, Yellow-headed Blackbird, Common Grackle, Brown-headed Cowbird
April 20, 2024 - Rochester Reservoirs Walk
A lucky group of 13 hardy birders went to 6 reservoirs spread around Rochester. The morning was brisk, starting at 30 degrees, but it was the biting 15 mph NW wind that made birding a challenge. That's springtime in Minnesota for you. We did find a good variety of the water birds that we expected to find, including 15 different duck species, as well as many other birds that use the water and shorelines.
More surprising were the raptors, including a Great Horned Owl on a nest with young, Northern Harriers, and even an early Broad-winged Hawk, which we only see in migration. The Broad-wings do sometimes eat small mammals, but mainly rely on snakes, frogs, amphibians and large insects, so are having a problem with the cold weather. Warmer weather will be welcomed by birds and bird watchers alike!
52 species were seen by the group:
Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Blue-winged Teal, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Mallard, Green-winged Teal, Canvasback, Redhead, Ring-necked Duck, Greater Scaup, Lesser Scaup, Bufflehead, Common Merganser, Ruddy Duck, Wild Turkey, Ring-necked Pheasant, Pied-billed Grebe, Mourning Dove, American Coot, Killdeer, Spotted Sandpiper, Lesser Yellowlegs, Greater Yellowlegs, Common Loon, Double-crested Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, Northern Harrier, Bald Eagle, Broad-winged Hawk,
Red-tailed Hawk, Great Horned Owl, Belted Kingfisher, Downy Woodpecker, American Kestrel, Blue Jay , American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee , Tree Swallow, Barn Swallow, American Robin, House Finch, American Goldfinch, Field Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Eastern Meadowlark, Red-winged Blackbird. Brown-headed Cowbird, Common Grackle, Yellow-rumped Warbler,
Northern Cardinal
Photos by Lucas Lin & Terry Grier
A lucky group of 13 hardy birders went to 6 reservoirs spread around Rochester. The morning was brisk, starting at 30 degrees, but it was the biting 15 mph NW wind that made birding a challenge. That's springtime in Minnesota for you. We did find a good variety of the water birds that we expected to find, including 15 different duck species, as well as many other birds that use the water and shorelines.
More surprising were the raptors, including a Great Horned Owl on a nest with young, Northern Harriers, and even an early Broad-winged Hawk, which we only see in migration. The Broad-wings do sometimes eat small mammals, but mainly rely on snakes, frogs, amphibians and large insects, so are having a problem with the cold weather. Warmer weather will be welcomed by birds and bird watchers alike!
52 species were seen by the group:
Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Blue-winged Teal, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Mallard, Green-winged Teal, Canvasback, Redhead, Ring-necked Duck, Greater Scaup, Lesser Scaup, Bufflehead, Common Merganser, Ruddy Duck, Wild Turkey, Ring-necked Pheasant, Pied-billed Grebe, Mourning Dove, American Coot, Killdeer, Spotted Sandpiper, Lesser Yellowlegs, Greater Yellowlegs, Common Loon, Double-crested Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, Northern Harrier, Bald Eagle, Broad-winged Hawk,
Red-tailed Hawk, Great Horned Owl, Belted Kingfisher, Downy Woodpecker, American Kestrel, Blue Jay , American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee , Tree Swallow, Barn Swallow, American Robin, House Finch, American Goldfinch, Field Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Eastern Meadowlark, Red-winged Blackbird. Brown-headed Cowbird, Common Grackle, Yellow-rumped Warbler,
Northern Cardinal
Photos by Lucas Lin & Terry Grier
April 12, 2024 - Woodcock Walk at Chester Woods
The rain stopped, the skies cleared up a bit and the winds calmed down just in time for our Woodcock Walk at Chester Woods last night. About 20 people came out to learn more about these small birds that "peent", do a funny walk and spiral high into the sky on spring evenings.
While waiting for the show to start we heard and saw several other birds including Pheasant, E Meadowlark, Robin, Red-winged Blackbird, Common Grackles, Canada Geese, Pied-bill Grebe, Blue-winged Teal, Green-winged Teal, N, Shoveler, Coot, Scaup, Sandhill Cranes, Song Sparrow, and Tree Sparrow.
We started hearing the Woodcocks shortly after 8pm. We estimated that there were 12 - 18 birds calling in the area west of the horse trailer parking lot. We waited patiently and soon they started shooting into the sky! They were tough to see, but most everyone got a few good looks (and lots of quick glimpses).
The Woodcocks will continue doing their sky dance through April so you have plenty of time to go see them. Listen to their calls and learn more about Woodcock here: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/American_Woodcock
Thank you to Mike Degerstrom for leading the walk.
Photos by Sandy Hokanson
The rain stopped, the skies cleared up a bit and the winds calmed down just in time for our Woodcock Walk at Chester Woods last night. About 20 people came out to learn more about these small birds that "peent", do a funny walk and spiral high into the sky on spring evenings.
While waiting for the show to start we heard and saw several other birds including Pheasant, E Meadowlark, Robin, Red-winged Blackbird, Common Grackles, Canada Geese, Pied-bill Grebe, Blue-winged Teal, Green-winged Teal, N, Shoveler, Coot, Scaup, Sandhill Cranes, Song Sparrow, and Tree Sparrow.
We started hearing the Woodcocks shortly after 8pm. We estimated that there were 12 - 18 birds calling in the area west of the horse trailer parking lot. We waited patiently and soon they started shooting into the sky! They were tough to see, but most everyone got a few good looks (and lots of quick glimpses).
The Woodcocks will continue doing their sky dance through April so you have plenty of time to go see them. Listen to their calls and learn more about Woodcock here: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/American_Woodcock
Thank you to Mike Degerstrom for leading the walk.
Photos by Sandy Hokanson
April 6, 2024 - Bird Walk at Quarry Hill
About two dozen folks enjoyed a wonderful bird walk around Quarry Hill this morning. We saw or heard 27 species and were surprised by some of the things we did and didn't see.
We were happy to see a Great Blue Heron fly over the pond. We saw several first of year Brown-headed Cowbirds and were astonished to see a Wild Turkey fly over us (and several more in the woods). We rarely see turkeys at Quarry Hill and can only guess that the mild winter has their population soaring.
We didn't see many sparrows. Junco and House Sparrows yes, and we heard a single Song Sparrow. But we had hoped to find some White-throated, White-crowned and maybe Harris's Sparrows - no luck today. We'll keep our eyes out as they should arrive by the end of the month. We also didn't see any kinglets - but again - we're sure they'll be arriving soon.
Species list:
Canada Geese, Mallard, Killdeer (heard only), Great Blue Heron, Brown-headed Cowbird, Red-winged Blackbird, Crow, Blue Jay, White-breasted Nuthatch, Black-capped Chickadee. Bald Eagle, Red-tailed Hawk, Turkey Vulture, Wild Turkey, American Robin, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Eastern Phoebe (heard only), Goldfinch, House Finch, Song Sparrow (heard only), Dark-eyed junco, Pine Siskin, House Sparrow, Northern Cardinal
Thanks to Joyce and Terry Grier for leading today's walk.
Photos by Sandy Hokanson & Lucas Lin
About two dozen folks enjoyed a wonderful bird walk around Quarry Hill this morning. We saw or heard 27 species and were surprised by some of the things we did and didn't see.
We were happy to see a Great Blue Heron fly over the pond. We saw several first of year Brown-headed Cowbirds and were astonished to see a Wild Turkey fly over us (and several more in the woods). We rarely see turkeys at Quarry Hill and can only guess that the mild winter has their population soaring.
We didn't see many sparrows. Junco and House Sparrows yes, and we heard a single Song Sparrow. But we had hoped to find some White-throated, White-crowned and maybe Harris's Sparrows - no luck today. We'll keep our eyes out as they should arrive by the end of the month. We also didn't see any kinglets - but again - we're sure they'll be arriving soon.
Species list:
Canada Geese, Mallard, Killdeer (heard only), Great Blue Heron, Brown-headed Cowbird, Red-winged Blackbird, Crow, Blue Jay, White-breasted Nuthatch, Black-capped Chickadee. Bald Eagle, Red-tailed Hawk, Turkey Vulture, Wild Turkey, American Robin, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Eastern Phoebe (heard only), Goldfinch, House Finch, Song Sparrow (heard only), Dark-eyed junco, Pine Siskin, House Sparrow, Northern Cardinal
Thanks to Joyce and Terry Grier for leading today's walk.
Photos by Sandy Hokanson & Lucas Lin
March 30, 2024 - Seeding Native Plants
This morning Joel Dunnette led a group of Master Naturalists and Zumbro Valley Audubon volunteers in planting native seeds at Prairie Crossings Park in NW Rochester. This work is a continuation of the oak savanna restoration that Rochester Parks started a few years ago.
Today's volunteers hand tossed a wide variety of seed mixed with wood shavings & sawdust over selected parts of the 8.5 acres park. Our next rain will settle this seed into the ground and then we wait. When repeated for a few years, this process has proven very effective in restoring natural areas. Rochester Parks have been putting a lot of effort into this area, cutting and burning invasive Buckthorn, removing invasive plants, creating walking paths and more.
Many thanks to Joel, Rochester Parks and all the volunteers who came out to help today - you made a difference!
The birders in the group also noted 18 species of birds as we walked along, including a Woodcock which surprised us all and a Sandhill Crane flyover.
Birds list:
Turkey Vulture, Sandhill Crane, Killdeer, American Woodcock, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Blue Jay, Crow, Black-capped chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, American Robin, Brown-headed Cowbird, Starling, House Finch, House Sparrow
Photos by Sandy Hokanson
This morning Joel Dunnette led a group of Master Naturalists and Zumbro Valley Audubon volunteers in planting native seeds at Prairie Crossings Park in NW Rochester. This work is a continuation of the oak savanna restoration that Rochester Parks started a few years ago.
Today's volunteers hand tossed a wide variety of seed mixed with wood shavings & sawdust over selected parts of the 8.5 acres park. Our next rain will settle this seed into the ground and then we wait. When repeated for a few years, this process has proven very effective in restoring natural areas. Rochester Parks have been putting a lot of effort into this area, cutting and burning invasive Buckthorn, removing invasive plants, creating walking paths and more.
Many thanks to Joel, Rochester Parks and all the volunteers who came out to help today - you made a difference!
The birders in the group also noted 18 species of birds as we walked along, including a Woodcock which surprised us all and a Sandhill Crane flyover.
Birds list:
Turkey Vulture, Sandhill Crane, Killdeer, American Woodcock, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Blue Jay, Crow, Black-capped chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, American Robin, Brown-headed Cowbird, Starling, House Finch, House Sparrow
Photos by Sandy Hokanson
March 26, 2024 - Birding Under the Influence
What a journey! Last night's talk by Dorian Anderson was full of adventures (and birds). Dorian told us how he loved birds as a young child, but lost interest when he was consumed by the challenges of medical school and the need to be perfect. He dreamed of being a professor but somehow along the way he got mixed up in alcohol and drugs. He was successful in his field but very unhappy, and eventually gave up his career, got sober and returned to the birds he loved.
In 2014 he challenged himself to do a low impact "Big Birding Year" via bicycle. He traveled across the United States, tallying 17,830 miles by bike, 493 miles (at least) by foot, had 34 flat tires, ate countless pizzas, raised $49,000 for conservation, and met many new lifetime friends. Oh - and he also saw 618 species of birds.
What a story! Dorian is now a Birding Advocate, Author, Guide and public speaker. You can read more about his story in his book "Birding Under the Influence" available via his website at https://www.doriananderson.com/
Dorian, thank you for sharing your journey with us!
What a journey! Last night's talk by Dorian Anderson was full of adventures (and birds). Dorian told us how he loved birds as a young child, but lost interest when he was consumed by the challenges of medical school and the need to be perfect. He dreamed of being a professor but somehow along the way he got mixed up in alcohol and drugs. He was successful in his field but very unhappy, and eventually gave up his career, got sober and returned to the birds he loved.
In 2014 he challenged himself to do a low impact "Big Birding Year" via bicycle. He traveled across the United States, tallying 17,830 miles by bike, 493 miles (at least) by foot, had 34 flat tires, ate countless pizzas, raised $49,000 for conservation, and met many new lifetime friends. Oh - and he also saw 618 species of birds.
What a story! Dorian is now a Birding Advocate, Author, Guide and public speaker. You can read more about his story in his book "Birding Under the Influence" available via his website at https://www.doriananderson.com/
Dorian, thank you for sharing your journey with us!
March 4, 2024 - International Owl Festival
We had a great time at the International Owl Festival in Houston, MN this past weekend. It was invigorating to talk with hundreds of people who were interested in owls, (really all birds), and wanted to learn how they can help preserve habitat and help them survive in these changing times. A big thank you to our ZVAS volunteers and all the staff and volunteers from The International Owl Center and the city of Houston - your hard work made for a fun and informative festival once again.
We had a great time at the International Owl Festival in Houston, MN this past weekend. It was invigorating to talk with hundreds of people who were interested in owls, (really all birds), and wanted to learn how they can help preserve habitat and help them survive in these changing times. A big thank you to our ZVAS volunteers and all the staff and volunteers from The International Owl Center and the city of Houston - your hard work made for a fun and informative festival once again.
March 2, 2024 - Bird Walk at Quarry Hill
Sunny skies brought 29 people to Quarry Hill Nature Center on Saturday morning for our monthly bird walk. The temperature was very mild, more spring than winter, like so much of this past winter. Walk leader Joyce Grier gave out binoculars for some to use and Minnesota bird lists for people to keep track of what they see.
We took our time starting out in the sunshine at the feeders by the nature center and saw many of the common resident birds including 5 Northern Cardinals at one time. Mixed in with our locals birds were a few wintering Pine Siskins on finch feeders and Dark-eyed Juncos on the ground.
The pond, which was covered by ice 2 days ago, was totally open and ice-free. Some Canada Geese and Mallard Ducks had already discovered that as well as a Muskrat who was out enjoying his newfound freedom. It was a very nice morning for a nature walk. Thanks to Joyce and Terry for leading the trip!
Species list:
Muskrat (in the pond)
Canada Geese (in the pond)
Mallard (in the pond)
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker
Hairy woodpecker
Northern Flicker
Blue Jay
American Crow
Black-capped Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse (heard)
White-breasted Nuthatch
Brown Creeper
House Finch
Pine Siskin
American Goldfinch
Dark-eyed Junco
Photos by Terry Grier
Sunny skies brought 29 people to Quarry Hill Nature Center on Saturday morning for our monthly bird walk. The temperature was very mild, more spring than winter, like so much of this past winter. Walk leader Joyce Grier gave out binoculars for some to use and Minnesota bird lists for people to keep track of what they see.
We took our time starting out in the sunshine at the feeders by the nature center and saw many of the common resident birds including 5 Northern Cardinals at one time. Mixed in with our locals birds were a few wintering Pine Siskins on finch feeders and Dark-eyed Juncos on the ground.
The pond, which was covered by ice 2 days ago, was totally open and ice-free. Some Canada Geese and Mallard Ducks had already discovered that as well as a Muskrat who was out enjoying his newfound freedom. It was a very nice morning for a nature walk. Thanks to Joyce and Terry for leading the trip!
Species list:
Muskrat (in the pond)
Canada Geese (in the pond)
Mallard (in the pond)
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker
Hairy woodpecker
Northern Flicker
Blue Jay
American Crow
Black-capped Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse (heard)
White-breasted Nuthatch
Brown Creeper
House Finch
Pine Siskin
American Goldfinch
Dark-eyed Junco
Photos by Terry Grier
February 28, 2024 - From Billions to None
Last night's talk by Joel Greenberg on the extinction of the Passenger Pigeon was fascinating! It's just crazy to think that a bird could number in the billions in 1800 and be extinct on Sept. 1, 1914 - when Martha - the last one died. And we did that. Humans killed them all for cheap food.
We killed them even though they benefitted farms with free fertilizer for their field. They were an important part of the ecosystem and we still killed them. Did you know that before "clay pigeons" were invented, hunters trapped and used used live Passenger Pigeons for target practice? Humans were like the asteroid that killed the Dinosaurs.
Hopefully we can stop ourselves from repeating this tragedy in the years to come. Our insects, our oceans, in fact most life on earth is struggling because of us. But there is some hope. When we put our minds to it we can do great things. We saved the whales, we brought back the Sandhill and Whooping Cranes, we're working on the Condors, and hopefully we can save the Monarch Butterfly. Small successes that add up.
Please support the environment and the other lives we share this planet with - they need space and resources, too. Learn more about the story of the Passenger Pigeon here: http://passengerpigeon.org/
Thank you Mr. Greenberg for spreading this important message.
Watch the video on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sjwyO5BGluI
Last night's talk by Joel Greenberg on the extinction of the Passenger Pigeon was fascinating! It's just crazy to think that a bird could number in the billions in 1800 and be extinct on Sept. 1, 1914 - when Martha - the last one died. And we did that. Humans killed them all for cheap food.
We killed them even though they benefitted farms with free fertilizer for their field. They were an important part of the ecosystem and we still killed them. Did you know that before "clay pigeons" were invented, hunters trapped and used used live Passenger Pigeons for target practice? Humans were like the asteroid that killed the Dinosaurs.
Hopefully we can stop ourselves from repeating this tragedy in the years to come. Our insects, our oceans, in fact most life on earth is struggling because of us. But there is some hope. When we put our minds to it we can do great things. We saved the whales, we brought back the Sandhill and Whooping Cranes, we're working on the Condors, and hopefully we can save the Monarch Butterfly. Small successes that add up.
Please support the environment and the other lives we share this planet with - they need space and resources, too. Learn more about the story of the Passenger Pigeon here: http://passengerpigeon.org/
Thank you Mr. Greenberg for spreading this important message.
Watch the video on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sjwyO5BGluI
February 3, 2024 - Quarry Hill Bird Walk
A small group of Pine Siskins made an appearance at the Nature Center feeders on our walk around Quarry Hill this morning - our bird of the day! We'd hoped to find the Tufted Titmouse and Hermit Thrush that were spotted earlier in the week near the Prairie House - but no luck today.
Gray skies and a chilly wind kept our group of 20 on the move but we didn't see anything else of note - just the regular winter resident birds (which are still great, of course). We did enjoy watching Black-capped Chickadees, White-breasted Nuthatches, Juncos, Downy Woodpeckers, Hairy Woodpeckers, Red-bellied Woodpeckers, Cardinals, Blue Jays, a pair of Canada Geese, Crows, House Sparrows, Goldfinches and dozens of House Finches. Plus we had a Bald Eagle fly over just as the walk was starting. As a bonus we also got a quick look at a muskrat in the pond with the geese. Thanks to Terry & Joyce Grier for leading the walk.
Photos by Lucas Lin and Sandy Hokanson.
A small group of Pine Siskins made an appearance at the Nature Center feeders on our walk around Quarry Hill this morning - our bird of the day! We'd hoped to find the Tufted Titmouse and Hermit Thrush that were spotted earlier in the week near the Prairie House - but no luck today.
Gray skies and a chilly wind kept our group of 20 on the move but we didn't see anything else of note - just the regular winter resident birds (which are still great, of course). We did enjoy watching Black-capped Chickadees, White-breasted Nuthatches, Juncos, Downy Woodpeckers, Hairy Woodpeckers, Red-bellied Woodpeckers, Cardinals, Blue Jays, a pair of Canada Geese, Crows, House Sparrows, Goldfinches and dozens of House Finches. Plus we had a Bald Eagle fly over just as the walk was starting. As a bonus we also got a quick look at a muskrat in the pond with the geese. Thanks to Terry & Joyce Grier for leading the walk.
Photos by Lucas Lin and Sandy Hokanson.
January 20, 2024 - Golden Eagle Survey
Our team was very hopeful that we'd find some Golden Eagles today during the National Eagle Center's annual survey. The morning started out in the extreme cold range (at one point our car registered -17 degrees), be we thought the clear sunny skies would certainly get a few birds up in the air.
Our first stop was a favorite perching spot on Middle Valley Road where we've found Goldens in years past - but this year a Bald Eagle was sitting in that spot - not good. Throughout the day we drove 80 miles up and down, criss crossing the bluff country around Rollingstone, MN.
We found Red-tailed Hawks, a Kestrel, Bluebirds, Flickers, Starlings, Blue Jays, Cardinals, Robins, Red-bellied Woodpeckers, 4 Pileated Woodpeckers, Mourning Doves, Rock Doves, Juncos, Chickadees, House Sparrows and more than 220 Bald Eagles (most of the Bald Eagles were seen near Lock & Dam #5 on the way home) - but no Golden Eagles today. Disappointing to be sure - but that doesn't mean they weren't there - just that we weren't in the right place at the right time.
We'll try again another day - half the fun is in the searching
Photos by Lucas Lin & Sandy Hokanson
Our team was very hopeful that we'd find some Golden Eagles today during the National Eagle Center's annual survey. The morning started out in the extreme cold range (at one point our car registered -17 degrees), be we thought the clear sunny skies would certainly get a few birds up in the air.
Our first stop was a favorite perching spot on Middle Valley Road where we've found Goldens in years past - but this year a Bald Eagle was sitting in that spot - not good. Throughout the day we drove 80 miles up and down, criss crossing the bluff country around Rollingstone, MN.
We found Red-tailed Hawks, a Kestrel, Bluebirds, Flickers, Starlings, Blue Jays, Cardinals, Robins, Red-bellied Woodpeckers, 4 Pileated Woodpeckers, Mourning Doves, Rock Doves, Juncos, Chickadees, House Sparrows and more than 220 Bald Eagles (most of the Bald Eagles were seen near Lock & Dam #5 on the way home) - but no Golden Eagles today. Disappointing to be sure - but that doesn't mean they weren't there - just that we weren't in the right place at the right time.
We'll try again another day - half the fun is in the searching
Photos by Lucas Lin & Sandy Hokanson
January 6, 2024 - Bird Walk at Quarry Hill
The sun made a brief appearance on our walk at Quarry Hill this morning - then it was back to our familiar gray skies. No wind and temps in the upper 20s made for a pleasant winter walk but the woods were unusually quiet. The majority of the 15 species we found were near the bird feeders. The best bird of the day was a Brown Creeper - but it didn't linger and not everyone got to see it.
Terry & Joyce had brought a dead Black-capped Chickadee (for show and tell) and everyone get a closeup look at the wings and feet (they have super long claws). He explained to us how those long claws and their strong grip make them very difficult to extract from bird banding nets.
And our leaders were quick to point out other interesting finds along the trail. We found parts from a fallen wasps nest, green growing garlic mustard (a very invasive plant), and a recently fallen hollow tree trunk filled with grassy material - something had been nesting in there! All in all it was a nice day for a walk. Thanks to Terry and Joyce for leading the way!
Species list:
Canada Geese (flying overhead), Crow, Blue Jay, Black-capped Chickadee, Northern Cardinal, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, House Finch, Goldfinch, White-breasted Nuthatch, Rock Dove, Junco, House Sparrow, Brown Creeper
Photos by Sandy Hokanson & Lucas Lin
The sun made a brief appearance on our walk at Quarry Hill this morning - then it was back to our familiar gray skies. No wind and temps in the upper 20s made for a pleasant winter walk but the woods were unusually quiet. The majority of the 15 species we found were near the bird feeders. The best bird of the day was a Brown Creeper - but it didn't linger and not everyone got to see it.
Terry & Joyce had brought a dead Black-capped Chickadee (for show and tell) and everyone get a closeup look at the wings and feet (they have super long claws). He explained to us how those long claws and their strong grip make them very difficult to extract from bird banding nets.
And our leaders were quick to point out other interesting finds along the trail. We found parts from a fallen wasps nest, green growing garlic mustard (a very invasive plant), and a recently fallen hollow tree trunk filled with grassy material - something had been nesting in there! All in all it was a nice day for a walk. Thanks to Terry and Joyce for leading the way!
Species list:
Canada Geese (flying overhead), Crow, Blue Jay, Black-capped Chickadee, Northern Cardinal, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, House Finch, Goldfinch, White-breasted Nuthatch, Rock Dove, Junco, House Sparrow, Brown Creeper
Photos by Sandy Hokanson & Lucas Lin
January 1, 2024 - Whitewater Christmas Bird Count
This morning several teams of ZVAS birders celebrated New Year's Day by participating in Whitewater State Park's Annual Christmas Bird Count. One of the best birds of the day was seen at the Visitor Center just before we headed out to our territories - a Sharp-shinned Hawk. It was perched near the feeders and several people watched as it suddenly flew out and caught a Downy Woodpecker. What a sight!
Skies were gray, temps were in the 20s, and the roads were mostly clear giving us easy access to our favorite birding areas. My team covered Section 3 and we struggled to find just 20 species before noon. We especially noticed a lack of waterfowl. Most teams gathered back at the Visitor Center for lunch and to compare notes. After lunch at the Visitor Center - where we found a Chipping Sparrow which is rare for this time of year - my team drove around some more and found a few more notable birds including a Common Snipe, a Tufted Titmouse and a Rough-legged Hawk.
Here's what my team found throughout the day:
Trumpeter Swans, Canada Geese, Mallards, Ring-necked Pheasant, Bald Eagle, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, Rough-legged Hawk, Kestrel, Wilson's Snipe, Rock Pigeon, Mourning Dove, Belted Kingfisher, Red-bellied Woodpecker. Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Blue Jay, Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, Robin, European Starling, American Tree Sparrow, Chipping Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, Northern Cardinal, House Finch, Goldfinch, House Sparrow
Other teams added: Merlin, Shrike, Golden Eagle, Purple Finch, Pine Siskin (and probably many more). I'll post the list when the final tally is available.
Many thanks to Jeremy Darst, Whitewater SP Naturalist, for organizing the count and providing muffins for snacks.
Report by Sandy Hokanson.
Photos by Lucas Lin and Sandy Hokanson.
This morning several teams of ZVAS birders celebrated New Year's Day by participating in Whitewater State Park's Annual Christmas Bird Count. One of the best birds of the day was seen at the Visitor Center just before we headed out to our territories - a Sharp-shinned Hawk. It was perched near the feeders and several people watched as it suddenly flew out and caught a Downy Woodpecker. What a sight!
Skies were gray, temps were in the 20s, and the roads were mostly clear giving us easy access to our favorite birding areas. My team covered Section 3 and we struggled to find just 20 species before noon. We especially noticed a lack of waterfowl. Most teams gathered back at the Visitor Center for lunch and to compare notes. After lunch at the Visitor Center - where we found a Chipping Sparrow which is rare for this time of year - my team drove around some more and found a few more notable birds including a Common Snipe, a Tufted Titmouse and a Rough-legged Hawk.
Here's what my team found throughout the day:
Trumpeter Swans, Canada Geese, Mallards, Ring-necked Pheasant, Bald Eagle, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, Rough-legged Hawk, Kestrel, Wilson's Snipe, Rock Pigeon, Mourning Dove, Belted Kingfisher, Red-bellied Woodpecker. Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Blue Jay, Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, Robin, European Starling, American Tree Sparrow, Chipping Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, Northern Cardinal, House Finch, Goldfinch, House Sparrow
Other teams added: Merlin, Shrike, Golden Eagle, Purple Finch, Pine Siskin (and probably many more). I'll post the list when the final tally is available.
Many thanks to Jeremy Darst, Whitewater SP Naturalist, for organizing the count and providing muffins for snacks.
Report by Sandy Hokanson.
Photos by Lucas Lin and Sandy Hokanson.