March Nature Notes
According to MPR's chief meteorologist Paul Huttner, last month's temperatures were more typical of February in Kansas City than February in Minneapolis. While we reveled in the warmth, what was the impact on the birds? It turns out that many birds responded to the unseasonably warm temperatures by beginning their journey to northern breeding grounds earlier than usual.
One risk of early migration is the return of harsh winter conditions which could be devastating for already tired and hungry birds. Another hazard is that the birds arriving later may find their food sources depleted by early returning birds. Fortunately, we can help our winter birds and our new arrivals by adjusting what we offer at our feeders. Learn more.
Did You Know?
In a recent study reported by Audubon, researchers have identified a hormone that can trigger bird migration since it sends signals to stop eating and start moving on.
Eagles are also returning early, however, some eagles do not migrate, remaining near open water so they can get a head start on prime nesting sites. One such eagle pair is being monitored by the DNR, and their first eaglet is expected to hatch today. DNR staff have noticed the baby eagle using its "egg tooth" to break through its egg. Two more are expected to arrive in the next few days. Watch the developments at the DNR's EagleCam. Please note that today's activity has stirred a lot of interest so the video may be choppy. If you're worried about today's 40-50 mile-per-hour winds affecting the eagles and their nest, remember that this strong and substantial home is 2-4 feet deep, and weighs roughly 1000 pounds!
Upcoming Birding Events
March 3-26 (Saturdays & Sundays), Wabasha
Soar with the Eagles
Experience flying birds, wildlife programs, and more! This year’s lineup includes flying bird shows, live animals, arts & crafts, exotic birds, and presentations: Eathquest, March 4-5; Wild World of Animals, March 11-12; Wings to Soar, March 18-19; Cincinnati Zoo, March 25-26. National Eagle Center. 651-565-4989
March 11, Little Falls
Habitat Day
Participants will learn about two avian species that use nest boxes, the bluebird and the wood duck, then assemble a nest box to take home and place on your property. Numerous resource-oriented groups and organizations co-sponsor this annual event, with a variety of exhibits available. Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge. 320-632-1575
March 18, Minneapolis
Heron Watch at Marshall Terrace Park
Join a National Park Service ranger to view a great blue heron rookery and learn more about why great blue herons thrive along the Mississippi River. 651-291-8164
March 18, Victoria
Bird Banding
See wild song birds safely trapped, studied, and tagged with numbered rings. Lowry Nature Center. 763-694-7650
March 18, Marine on St. Croix
Those Beautiful Bluebirds
Learn all about the eastern bluebird, find out how you can attract bluebirds to your backyard, and how you can establish your own bluebird trail. William O'Brien State Park. 651-433-0500
March 24, Hastings
Bird Banding
Have you ever wondered what bird banding is all about? Banding records help us learn how long birds live, where they travel, when they migrate and many other interesting facts. Banding programs run continuously for 3 ½ hours but visitors may come and go at any time. Please call ahead. Donations of bird seed or suet are greatly appreciated! Carpenter Nature Center’s Minnesota Campus. 651-437-4359
March 25, Stillwater
Bird Watching for Beginners
Join the naturalist for a birding stroll and learn about the basic techniques of bird identification during spring migration. Binoculars and bird guides will be available. Brown's Creek State Trail. 651-231-6968
April 1, Hastings
Bird Hike
Join expert birders on a morning hike, and learn to identify birds by sight and sound. Field guides and binoculars are available to use. Please call ahead to reserve a spot. Carpenter Nature Center’s Minnesota Campus. 651-437-4359
Rare Bird Alerts and Recent Sightings
A harlequin duck was observed by David Brislance on March 4 in the Grand Marais Harbor. Harlequin ducks are considered "rare regulars" in Minnesota.
On March 4, a hermit thrush was found by Jon Swanson in the Reno State Forest. These birds are considered "uncommon" in Houston County in the spring.
A red-bellied woodpecker was discovered March 3 in Cook County by David Brislance. Red-bellied woodpeckers are considered “uncommon” in Cook County in the spring.
Check the Duluth/North Shore Rare Bird Alert and the Northwest Minnesota/Detroit Lakes Rare Bird Alert for other recent bird sightings.
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