March Nature Notes
March typically marks the beginning of the spring migration. This is an ideal time to take a birding trip to view a variety of vocal and colorful northbound migrants. Most of Minnesota's birding hot spots will offer great birding opportunities for these new arrivals. Check out Sixteen Quality Birding Locations Around the State on the Minnesota Ornithologist Union's website for more information.
Some of the first birds to arrive are ducks and geese. Look for large groups of these and other waterfowl in lakes with early ice out dates in southern Minnesota. Such lakes include Okabena, Ocheda, and Lac Qui Parle.
Sandhill cranes also begin to arrive in March. These large, raucous birds are especially impressive in vast numbers during migration periods. Look for them in wetland areas such as Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge, Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, and Carlos Avery Wildlife Management Area.
Other birds arriving early to secure prime nesting sites and mates include bald eagles, swans, American robins, killdeer, great blue herons, red-winged blackbirds, tree swallows, American woodcock, American kestrels and Eastern bluebirds.
If you happen to encounter a bird that you are unfamiliar with or cannot identify using your bird guide, check out the National Audubon Society's Online Field Guide to North American Birds. While the number of bird species is vast, it can be narrowed down by selecting a specific North American region.
Did You Know?
Many people think spring has sprung when they see an American Robin. While this is prime time for robin migration, it’s the song of robins that is the real harbinger of spring. In an attempt to establish territory and attract a mate, male robins arrive first and become increasingly vocal. When you hear more robins singing, and singing more heartily, then you’ll know spring is just around the corner. Learn more.
Upcoming Birding Events
March 4, 17 & 24, Bloomington
Refuge Bird Walk at Bass Ponds
Enjoy a spring bird walk and search for newly arrived spring migrants. Bring along your binoculars and favorite field guide, and dress appropriately for the weather. Minnesota River Valley National Wildlife Refuge. 952-240-7647
March 10-11, Wabasha
SOAR Weekend #2 -Birdman
Weekend #2 of the annual SOAR with the Eagles Festival will feature a flying bird program out of Las Vegas that is sure to thrill visitors of all ages as they meet a variety of exotic eagles and birds from around the world. Learn about the birds' adaptations, enjoy their colorful feathers and be awed as they fly just a few inches over your head. Plus, enjoy the center's many exhibits and eagle ambassadors. National Eagle Center. 651-565-4989
March 11, St. Anthony
Walk with a Naturalist
Stroll through the park with a naturalist while watching and listening for seasonal birds and wildlife. Bring binoculars if you have them. Admission is free. Silverwood Park. 763-694-7707
March 17, Bloomington
Tech Nature
There are a million apps available for smartphones, and many specialize in wildlife and citizen science projects. Join Ranger Sharon Stiteler to learn about how to find wildlife, report your sightings and even take pictures and video using your amazing smartphone. Bloomington Education and Visitor Center at Minnesota River Valley National Wildlife Refuge. 952-240-7647
March 17-18, Wabasha
SOAR Weekend #3 -Wings to Soar
Weekend #3 of the annual SOAR with the Eagles Festival will feature a flying bird program by a husband-wife duo from Georgia and their collection of education birds. Be amazed as these feathered friends soar just inches over the audience, educate and entertain in a program you won't soon forget. Plus, enjoy visiting exhibits and spend time with the eagle ambassadors. National Eagle Center. 651-565-4989
March 23, Hastings
Bird Banding
Banding records help us learn how long birds live, where they travel, when they migrate and many other interesting facts. Bird banders welcome you to see songbirds up close and learn about the birds who share our ecosystem. Banding runs continuously for 3 ½ hours but visitors may come and go at any time. Donations of bird seed or suet are greatly appreciated in lieu of a program fee. Please call ahead if you plan to attend. Carpenter St. Croix Valley Nature Center. 651-437-4359
March 24, Afton
All About Bluebirds
Bluebirds are one of Minnesota's most admired song birds, yet many people have never seen one. Learn about the life history of bluebirds and how you can help restore their populations. Meet at the Thomas C. Savage Visitor Center. No registration required. Afton State Park. 651-231-6968
March 24-25, Wabasha
SOAR Weekend #4 -World Bird Sanctuary
Weekend #4 of the annual SOAR with the Eagles Festival will feature a flying bird program out of Missouri and their diverse collection of education birds. Learn about the birds' adaptations, enjoy their colorful feathers and be awed as they fly just a few inches over your head. Plus, enjoy the center's many exhibits and eagle ambassadors. National Eagle Center. 651-565-4989
April 7, Hastings
Minnesota Campus Bird Hike
Join expert birder, Kevin Smith, on a morning hike around the Nature Center. Learn to identify birds by sight and sound. Field guides and binoculars are available to use or bring your own. Please call ahead to reserve your spot. Carpenter Nature Center. 651-437-4359
Recent Bird Sightings
Check the Duluth/North Shore Rare Bird Alert and the Northwestern Minnesota/Detroit Lakes Rare Bird Alert for other recent bird sightings. Recent sightings throughout the state can be found at the Minnesota Ornithologists' Union Minnesota Statewide Rare Bird Alert.
For additional information, consider joining the Minnesota Birding community on Facebook.
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