March Nature Notes
The spring migration has begun and a variety of birds are already traveling to and through Minnesota in search of mates and breeding grounds. While it may seem early, birds respond to changes in daylight and other natural occurrences that signal it’s time to move on.
In March, huge flocks of snow geese travel overhead in V-formations on their way to breeding grounds in the Artic. Canada geese arriving in Minnesota are quick to find a mate and select the best site to raise their goslings. Look for large groups of geese, ducks and other waterfowl in open water areas, and in lakes with early ice out dates in southern Minnesota. National Wildlife Refuges are also ideal sites to view returning waterfowl.
Other migrant birds returning early to claim prime nesting sites include American robins, Eastern bluebirds, wood ducks, great blue herons, red-winged blackbirds, tree swallows, common grackles, common mergansers, American woodcock, American kestrels and killdeer.
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 before the females and become increasingly vocal. When you hear more robins singing (and singing more enthusiastically) then you’ll know spring is just around the corner. Learn more about American robins and their migratory behavior at Cool Green Science's Why Are You Seeing Robins in Winter?
The beginning of March is the best time to prep your bird houses for Eastern bluebirds, and your nesting boxes for wood ducks. "House cleaning" involves removing all debris such as egg shells and old nesting material, and cleaning the interior with soap and water. Once dry, wood duck houses should be filled with a few inches of fresh wood shavings or straw. Learn more at The Cornell Lab of Ornithology's All About Bird Houses. To see which species use nest structures in your area and to find plans to build these structures, check out Right Bird, Right House.
Upcoming Birding Events
March 2-31 (Saturdays & Sundays), Wabasha
SOAR with the Eagles
The SOAR with the Eagles festival takes place each weekend during March with a variety of special programs, exhibits and events for learners of all ages to enjoy. This year’s lineup includes Flying Bird shows, Wings to SOAR, the World Bird Sanctuary and presentations by the Midwest Peregrine Society, Pipestone National Monument, Quarry Hill Nature Center, U.S. Fish & Wildlife, Whitewater State Park and more. Plus, enjoy the center's many exhibits and eagle ambassadors. March is a great time to visit Wabasha as spring bald eagle migration is in full swing in the Upper Mississippi River Valley! National Eagle Center. 651-565-4989
March 3, 16, 23 & 31, Bloomington
Refuge Bird Trek - Bass Ponds
Join naturalist Craig Mandel on a walk in search of migrating and wintering waterfowl, raptors and other species. All levels of experience are welcome. Bring binoculars and a field guide, and dress for the weather. Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge. 952-854-5900
March 9, Bloomington
Learn Minnesota Waterfowl Workshop
Want to learn more about some of the birds that call Minnesota home? Join Volunteer Refuge Naturalist Craig Mandel and study the 45 species of ducks, geese and swans that have been observed in Minnesota. Some of the better locations and times of the year to observe waterfowl will also be covered. This is an indoor workshop. Participants are encouraged to bring their favorite bird book. Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge. 952-854-5900
March 10, 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 22, Hastings
Public 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 birds 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 23, Little Falls
Habitat Day Event at Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
Habitat Day celebrates birds, habitats and natural resources. Highlights include wood duck and bluebird house building, wildlife identification displays, hiking and snowshoeing along the Platte River Trail, and socializing around a roaring bonfire. All activities are free. Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge. 763-389-3323
March 23, Monticello
Swans
Learn about trumpeter swans and swan photography from nature photographer, John Pennoyer. Lake Maria State Park. 763-878-2325
March 24, International Falls
Loons in Flight
The call of the loon is a sound that is deeply tied to the Northland. But what does a loon's call mean, and where do these captivating birds go when winter arrives? Join wildlife photographer and researcher Steve Maanum for an in-depth program about Minnesota's state bird. Recommended ages 8 and up. Free. Rainy Lake Visitor Center at Voyageurs National Park. 218-286-5258
March 28, Bloomington
Bird Migration with Bill Egge
Bird migration is a subject that has always been poorly understood, but modern techniques of research have given us the tools to gather information about bird flights. This program will review recent studies and bird patterns to better understand bird populations in North and South America. Socialize with coffee and cookies beforehand. Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge. 952-854-5900
April 6, 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 St. Croix Valley Nature Center. 651-437-4359
April 6, Rochester
Zumbro Valley Monthly Bird Walk
This monthly bird walk is free and open to the general public. Bring binoculars if you have them. No registration required, and birders of all skill levels are welcome! Quarry Hill Nature Center. 507-289-5662; 507-328-3950
April 7, Bloomington
Bird Language Workshop
Want to learn more about birds, their behavior and what they're chirping about? Naturalist staff will lead an indoor discussion, then the group will head outside for observations and more learning. Bring a notebook, pencils and something to sit on outdoors. Be sure to dress for the weather. Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge. 952-854-5900
Recent Bird Sightings
Check the Minnesota Ornithologists' Union web site for recent bird sightings and rare bird alerts.
For additional information, consider joining the Minnesota Birding community on Facebook.
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