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Boundary Waters Quetico Forum :: Group Forum: Bird Watchers :: 2022 Spring Migration
 
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airmorse
04/09/2022 08:00AM
 
As of three days ago i still had dark eyed junco's here in NW Indiana.


However the gold finches have their summer colors.
 
airmorse
04/30/2022 10:38AM
 
Amazing what warmer temps will do.


Now if I can only get the grass seed to grow.
 
mr.barley
04/09/2022 12:33PM
 
I had 3 fox sparrows scratching around under my feeder this morning.
 
sedges
04/30/2022 09:49AM
 
I woke up to the wood thrushes singing their flute-like song this morning in north GA. Right on time.
 
airmorse
04/30/2022 09:05AM
 
Hummingbirds have arrived in my backyard this morning as well.


Just waiting for the white crowned Sparrows and scarlet tanagers.
 
airmorse
04/23/2022 06:52AM
 
It has been a good morning so far.


Rose Breasted Grosbeaks are back.


And....wait for it................


White Throat Sparrows.
 
airmorse
04/30/2022 10:36AM
 
White Crowned Sparrows have just arrived.
 
jillpine
04/17/2022 09:46AM
 
List of migrants this morning on the Kinni:
brown creeper
Eastern phoebe
ruby-crowned kinglet (many!)
golden-crowned kinglet (many more, and gregarious)
house wren
and for a real treat - orange-crowned warbler (a first for me)
haven't seen/heard catbird yet!
 
Bearpath9
03/16/2022 06:38AM
 
airmorse: "When birds disappear like that in my yard it usually means they are taking cover because something is hunting them, like a cat or Coopers hawk."


But these birds have been gone for over a week, maybe two. I do have a variety of raptors around, even a couple of eagles, but they aren't around continuously. It's like the bunch of them decided to relocate. I don't know, it is pretty strange. Heck, I even cleaned the feeder and everything. Time will tell, I guess.
 
JWilder
03/16/2022 08:24AM
 
Bearpath9: "airmorse: "When birds disappear like that in my yard it usually means they are taking cover because something is hunting them, like a cat or Coopers hawk."



But these birds have been gone for over a week, maybe two. I do have a variety of raptors around, even a couple of eagles, but they aren't around continuously. It's like the bunch of them decided to relocate. I don't know, it is pretty strange. Heck, I even cleaned the feeder and everything. Time will tell, I guess."



Here is a short section from a Minnesota Phenology book I have, written by Larry Weber.


“Longer days with plenty of sunlight and milder temperatures have slowed the activity at my bird feeders. I still get about eight kinds of birds visiting each day, but those that come by seem to stay for a shorter time and the numbers are down from earlier days. The goldfinch flocks that were composed of about fifty just a couple of weeks ago have now dropped to about ten. And some days only a few purple finches arrive. Perhaps a snowstorm or cold will bring them back.” (Page 55)


He does not go into detail as to why, but it sounds like it is just a seasonal change occurring this time of year. I am experiencing this as well. Just a couple weeks ago I was refilling my feeders daily. Now it is once every several days. I’m guessing other food sources are becoming available. Just a guess of course.


JW



 
airmorse
02/07/2022 12:49PM
 
I was out with the dogs at lunch and heard the unmistakable sound of a Red Wing Black Bird.

 
JWilder
03/11/2022 05:18PM
 
Grackles we’re flocked at the feeders today…
 
airmorse
04/18/2022 09:43PM
 
jillpine: "airmorse: "jillpine: "List of migrants this morning on the Kinni:
brown creeper
Eastern phoebe
ruby-crowned kinglet (many!)
golden-crowned kinglet (many more, and gregarious)
house wren
and for a real treat - orange-crowned warbler (a first for me)
haven't seen/heard catbird yet! "





I would love to see a male Ruby crowned kinglet!!! Jelly!!!"




They are in large flocks right now with the golden crowned kinglets. Drive to river falls, park at Glen park, then walk to the “swinging bridge”. There, you will be suspended above the south fork of the Kinni, migrating bird highway. And, you’ll be eye-level with the tree canopies, so you’ll get some great sightings. The trails all around the park are terrific for birding. Kinni state park is another hot spot. PM if you want take a bird walk and have a coffee! "



Ha. That would be a long drive from the armpit of America otherwise known as Indiana.


Thank for the info and invite I love a good cup of coffee. Especially in the morning watching the birds in my backyard with the dogs.


I was walking in the front door at work and found this guy. Unfortunately the front of the building is almost all glass and I find a lot of migrating birds dead bc they flew into the building. Sad.



 
jillpine
04/19/2022 06:23AM
 
airmorse: "jillpine: "airmorse: "jillpine: "List of migrants this morning on the Kinni:
brown creeper
Eastern phoebe
ruby-crowned kinglet (many!)
golden-crowned kinglet (many more, and gregarious)
house wren
and for a real treat - orange-crowned warbler (a first for me)
haven't seen/heard catbird yet! "






I would love to see a male Ruby crowned kinglet!!! Jelly!!!"





They are in large flocks right now with the golden crowned kinglets. Drive to river falls, park at Glen park, then walk to the “swinging bridge”. There, you will be suspended above the south fork of the Kinni, migrating bird highway. And, you’ll be eye-level with the tree canopies, so you’ll get some great sightings. The trails all around the park are terrific for birding. Kinni state park is another hot spot. PM if you want take a bird walk and have a coffee! "




Ha. That would be a long drive from the armpit of America otherwise known as Indiana.



Thank for the info and invite I love a good cup of coffee. Especially in the morning watching the birds in my backyard with the dogs.



I was walking in the front door at work and found this guy. Unfortunately the front of the building is almost all glass and I find a lot of migrating birds dead bc they flew into the building. Sad.



"



In the face of overwhelming challenges, there is hope:
better glass for birds
 
airmorse
04/15/2022 06:21PM
 
I had a pair of Brown Creepers going up and down one of my trees today looking for food.


Also had a pair of Catbirds at the feeder.


Juncos are still here.
 
JWilder
03/23/2022 11:26AM
 
JWilder: "Robins are here!



I was told last week that when the robins arrive, there are three more snow events to come. Never heard that before. Time will tell..



JW"



A few inches of snow today. The first of three?? We will see…
 
Bearpath9
03/15/2022 11:42AM
 
Haven't had any new arrivals yet, as far as I can tell. In fact, I have seen a decline in the birds at my feeder. During the winter, I would go through 10 pounds of seed about every ten days. Now, I fill the feeder about every 3 days. Still have the occasional junco, but they all seem to have left. Had juncos all winter, along with a pair of blue jays, couple of cardinals, and the usual mix of chickadees and sparrows. On a different note, I added another albino squirrel coming onto my deck for a handout of peanuts (unsalted).
 
Bearpath9
04/27/2022 01:50PM
 
Finally saw a Pileated today. Of course it was in flight, and landed about 100 feet away from me, and scooted around to the opposite side of the tree it was on. Also either a young male or a female goldfinch. Maybe. Lime green in color, light gray or white patch on wing. Couldn't see the tail feathers. Little smaller than my fist.
 
JWilder
05/07/2022 07:12AM
 
airmorse: "Arcola: "First Wren back in the hood singing double over-time this morning!!"



Same here."



I am literally sitting here this Saturday morning with my coffee hearing the the first wren of the year. Jumped on to share and see others are gifted with the same thing!


Still waiting for that first hummingbird….


JW
 
airmorse
05/07/2022 07:17AM
 
I was up earlier today because the sun has made its first appearance in several weeks. The birds, (myself and my dogs) were loving it. The birds were singing and looking for food. Robins activity nesting and taking care of their little ones.

 
LindenTree
03/12/2022 06:39PM
 
I just spent 5 days dispersed camping in Mittry Lake WIldlife Area 10 miles north of Yuma, AZ. Joint area managed by the BLM, AZ Fish and Game and others.
Wish I knew more about birds but every evening around sunset flocks of ducks/I think, would fly into the marsh. The ducks were fast and smallish, and in flocks from 30 -100 I would guess. I was close to Yuma Proving Grounds, military base and I, at first thought it was jets flying by. Then I looked up and saw these birds flying in somewhat of a formation heading for the interior of the marsh. I should know what they are but I let my birdig skills slide 30 years ago. They sounded like an aircraft was above me.


Mittry Lake Wildlife area.
 
jillpine
04/11/2022 05:00PM
 
Ruby crowned kinglets in the lilacs today
 
jillpine
04/23/2022 01:27PM
 
Rose-breasted grosbeaks - hooray! Now who's jelly!? :)

Meanwhile, south of Brule, spring waits with abundant patience this year. The late snowfall is a blessing for the parched duff.



 
Arcola
03/13/2022 05:46AM
 
LindenTree: "I just spent 5 days dispersed camping in Mittry Lake WIldlife Area 10 miles north of Yuma, AZ. Joint area managed by the BLM, AZ Fish and Game and others.
Wish I knew more about birds but every evening around sunset flocks of ducks/I think, would fly into the marsh. The ducks were fast and smallish, and in flocks from 30 -100 I would guess. I was close to Yuma Proving Grounds, military base and I, at first thought it was jets flying by. Then I looked up and saw these birds flying in somewhat of a formation heading for the interior of the marsh. I should know what they are but I let my birdig skills slide 30 years ago. They sounded like an aircraft was above me.



Mittry Lake Wildlife area. "



Most likely Teal, they winter in Mexico mostly.
 
jillpine
04/23/2022 06:39PM
 
Me too. Breaks my heart to not be feeding them during this harsh migration, and I’m not shaming those who are. But Minnesota Ornithologists’ Union is also recommending to help curb spread of AI infection by taking down the feeders right now.
This strain has been particularly (and uncommonly) pathogenic in wild birds. As if they need another challenge.
 
bhouse46
03/02/2022 02:09PM
 
For several days the cardinals have been calling in the morning, "what cheer, what cheer, Spring is near". Yesterday red wing blackbirds were at the feeder and back today with some ladies.
 
Jaywalker
03/12/2022 04:35PM
 
I saw three Trumpeter Swans flying close to the river in downtown Minneapolis the other day. Not sure if they went south for winter or not, but they have not been around here all winter. I regularly see migratory birds who stop downtown to visit, but this is the first time I've seen Trumpeters right downtown.
 
airmorse
03/15/2022 02:14PM
 
When birds disappear like that in my yard it usually means they are taking cover because something is hunting them, like a cat or Coopers hawk.
 
Bearpath9
04/11/2022 12:27PM
 
First mourning dove this morning, south of the TC.
 
Arcola
03/20/2022 06:25PM
 
The Cranes just got back. Stillwater.
 
Arcola
04/07/2022 09:08PM
 
Saw Loons, Red wing Blackbirds, Cormorants, Herons, and an Osprey today.
 
Bearpath9
04/08/2022 09:56AM
 
The Juncos came back, if they even left. Also had the first Red Wing Blackbird show up, a Robin that I had been hearing for a week I finally saw. And the annual visit from a mallard and hen. After the blackbird showed up, I put a pound of Safflower seed in and never saw him again. But I did see an uptick in cardinals after that, along with many smaller birds that I thought had left.
 
Frenchy19
04/18/2022 02:13PM
 
Not much here in Apple Valley, MN to report.


I did post an article from the Star Trib about the Raptor Center at the U of MN asking people to remove feeders due to an increase in Avian Flu. I deleted the post as I did not want it to deteriorate into a political "debate" as happened in the Strib article.


That said, I sure hope the lack of birds in our yard (prior to removing the feeders a couple days ago) is not related to avian flu.

 
airmorse
04/18/2022 04:35PM
 
jillpine: "List of migrants this morning on the Kinni:
brown creeper
Eastern phoebe
ruby-crowned kinglet (many!)
golden-crowned kinglet (many more, and gregarious)
house wren
and for a real treat - orange-crowned warbler (a first for me)
haven't seen/heard catbird yet! "



I would love to see a male Ruby crowned kinglet!!! Jelly!!!
 
jillpine
04/18/2022 07:31PM
 
airmorse: "jillpine: "List of migrants this morning on the Kinni:
brown creeper
Eastern phoebe
ruby-crowned kinglet (many!)
golden-crowned kinglet (many more, and gregarious)
house wren
and for a real treat - orange-crowned warbler (a first for me)
haven't seen/heard catbird yet! "




I would love to see a male Ruby crowned kinglet!!! Jelly!!!"



They are in large flocks right now with the golden crowned kinglets. Drive to river falls, park at Glen park, then walk to the “swinging bridge”. There, you will be suspended above the south fork of the Kinni, migrating bird highway. And, you’ll be eye-level with the tree canopies, so you’ll get some great sightings. The trails all around the park are terrific for birding. Kinni state park is another hot spot. PM if you want take a bird walk and have a coffee!
 
Bearpath9
04/19/2022 11:54AM
 
Frenchy19: "Not much here in Apple Valley, MN to report.



I did post an article from the Star Trib about the Raptor Center at the U of MN asking people to remove feeders due to an increase in Avian Flu. I deleted the post as I did not want it to deteriorate into a political "debate" as happened in the Strib article.



That said, I sure hope the lack of birds in our yard (prior to removing the feeders a couple days ago) is not related to avian flu.
"



Saw the article, read the comments on the stribs page. I didn't think it would last long, I just hope people read it. Over here in Eagan, I walk the trails of Lebanon West. There are Piliateds out there, I hear them all the time. and quite a few others. I expect the Piliateds will continue to frustrate my desire for a picture of one.
 
tumblehome
04/22/2022 09:50AM
 
Long time a amateur ornithologist. Basically just a bird lover.
First time poster. Hi.


North of Duluth we are getting hammered with large flocks of Redpolls. Almost a 100 in my yard for a short time yesterday.


Every year on almost the same day (May 1) the white throated sparrow will return. Their timely arrival is Devine.


Tom
 
NMJim
04/22/2022 06:58PM
 
Bearpath9: " In fact, I have seen a decline in the birds at my feeder. "


With the spread of a new avian flu, I understand the best advice is to take down bird feeders in order to stem the spread of disease. I understand that jays, crows, waterfowl or raptors are the most affected.
 
tumblehome
04/23/2022 05:36PM
 



We need to a talk about if this is a good idea with the avian flu spreading.
I have a hundred birds on this feeder.
 
Frenchy19
04/23/2022 06:30PM
 
tumblehome: "



We need to a talk about if this is a good idea with the avian flu spreading.
I have a hundred birds on this feeder."



Very legitimate post. I am erring on the side of caution and listening to what the U of MN Raptor Center is recommending: removing feeders until more is known about this.
 
jillpine
04/25/2022 07:14AM
 
Maybe some southern winds in the weekend rain. Hearing the sweet, constant two-song mimicry of a catbird this morning. I like to imagine the early migrants bring mimicked phrases of songs from the neotropics, though that is probably just wishful thinking. White throated sparrow scratching the ground yesterday, and the cheerful and bustling yellow rumped warblers in the budding maples. Eastern towhee bonus! Birds on the wing!
 
bhouse46
04/25/2022 08:35PM
 
First Baltimore Oriole and jelly is now out.
 
airmorse
04/30/2022 08:08AM
 
Baltimore Orioles have arrived in my backyard.
 
JWilder
05/08/2022 07:26AM
 
Busy morning.


Rose breasted Grosebeaks, Orioles AND hummingbirds! All at the same time!
 
airmorse
05/08/2022 09:13AM
 
JWilder: "Busy morning.



Rose breasted Grosebeaks, Orioles AND hummingbirds! All at the same time!"



That's a good day!
 
JWilder
05/08/2022 09:39AM
 
airmorse: "JWilder: "Busy morning.




Rose breasted Grosebeaks, Orioles AND hummingbirds! All at the same time!"




That's a good day!"



4 pairs of Grosbeaks. Half a dozen Orioles…
 
Arcola
05/06/2022 05:59AM
 
First Wren back in the hood singing double over-time this morning!!
 
airmorse
05/06/2022 06:43AM
 
Arcola: "First Wren back in the hood singing double over-time this morning!!"


Same here.
 
quark2222
03/02/2022 01:04PM
 
Heard sandhill cranes on the move the last few days in the NW Chicago suburbs.


Tomster
 
airmorse
04/19/2022 08:05AM
 
Thanks for the article. I wish more people would take into consideration the wildlife when constructing buildings.
 
JWilder
04/07/2022 08:32PM
 
Second (maybe third) snow event. Depending on what is signified as a snow event.


Also, Eastern Bluebirds in the yard during dinner…
 
JWilder
03/02/2022 12:14PM
 
I witnessed a flock of Canada geese heading north this morning. Maybe they are making a stop here before heading on? Or just staying put…


JW
 
airmorse
02/24/2022 10:15AM
 
The last two days I've had Blue Birds at my feeder.


A first for me.


 
Mocha
02/24/2022 02:32PM
 
What state are you guys seeing these birds?
 
Bearpath9
03/16/2022 09:42AM
 
That is probably it. Now with the melt going on, a lot more food sources should be available.
 
JWilder
03/16/2022 03:23PM
 
Robins are here!


I was told last week that when the robins arrive, there are three more snow events to come. Never heard that before. Time will tell..


JW
 
airmorse
02/24/2022 06:11PM
 
Mocha: "What state are you guys seeing these birds?"


NW Indiana.
 
JWilder
02/27/2022 01:20PM
 
No sightings of migrating birds yet here in southern Minnesota.


But, there are plenty of signs the seasons are changing; flocks of crows are becoming more vocal and active. The woods are getting noisier from woodpeckers, nuthatches, cardinals and chickadees. We are now beyond the “dead of winter”. And that sun has some warmth to it!!


Bird houses are cleaned out and I installed several more today, for those wanting to make our location their home…


I love the seasonal changes!!


JW
 
jillpine
02/27/2022 03:19PM
 
The bird song and activity has really increased this past week with the longer daylight, stronger sun beams and puddles of water.
In the northland, Canada jays will be nesting and hatching young soon. Chickadees will start their funny courtship rituals. And our northern visitors will soon be headed for nesting territory in the arctic circle. We had some common redpolls at the feeder yesterday - expect them to be leaving soon!