Waterfowl were concentrated today in areas of marshes, rivers and lakes of northwest Iowa where open water is present. I was able to confirm the presence of 24 species of ducks and geese, but could not find a Snow Goose to save my hide.
A flock of Greater White-Fronted Geese estimated at 17,500 was in the flooded Little Sioux River valley just south of the Minnesota line. Cackling Geese were still mixed in with Canada's, and a group of seven Ross' Geese were with some White-Fronted Geese on a flood plain. Nary a Snow Goose to be found. The only thing I will say about the ducks is that they were everywhere! Each year I am astounded as the waterfowl migration occurs. The restless movement at the edges of the opening water is inspiring. For best dancers on the stage, my vote goes to Hooded Merganser!! May the birds be with you and, keep looking up! Lee A. Schoenewe Spencer --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/membership.asp. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: [email protected]
