[My apologies if this is double-posted] The Bell's Vireo pair at Minnesota Valley NWR, Black Dog Lake, have built a nest very close to the path. It is very visible and, as such, very susceptible to disturbance, particularly at this early nesting stage. Anyone stopping to view or photograph the nest will certainly cause the birds to move off the nest. They become very agitated and would likely abandon the nest with continued disturbance. The nest is along the path where it passes directly through the patch of willow just north of the 2nd electrical tower. To minimize possible disturbance, I suggest standing at the tower stantion closest to the trail that has a yellow "120" (I think that's the number) painted just above eye level. Looking north, the birds should be readily visible from here - with a little patience. I also recommend not stopping as you pass through the willow thicket as the nest is very close to the trail. Remember, this is a National Wildlife Refuge and we need to be on our best ethical behavior.
Directions: Cliff Fen Park is located just east of I 35 W on the north side of Cliff Road. From the parking lot walk NE along soccer field border to the information kiosk. Then go north across the RR tracks and follow the path until you come to the 2nd electical tower. The NE tower stantion has a yellow "120" painted on it. The vireos are just to the north about 10 yards in the willow thicket. Good birding. Jim Mattsson Regional Refuge Biologist US Fish and Wildlife Service One Federal Drive Ft. Snelling, MN 55111 612-713-5408 612-713-5286
