I saw a SWAINSON'S HAWK in Carver Park, on the Tamarack Trail between the bog and Lake Trail. It was flying over the path by the grassy area to the SW of the lake. I was able to get good looks at its dark rusty head, white body (with some faint streaking) and white wing linings, dark flight feathers. It had something in its beak and flew over a rise then disappeared. I've seen Swainson's several times this year in Dakota county and SW MN. I'm as certain as can be that my ID is correct. I checked with the naturalist and she told me that this would be a 1st record for the park. Also seen: Cerulean Warbler, male - the best look I've had! He was singing, then came into view in a tree right off the path, about 15 feet up. Aspen Trail, between Oak Trail and the boardwalk. Scarlet Tanager, male - Aspen Trail Blue-winged Warbler - by the south entrance to the Tamarack Bog. Veery - singing in the Tamarack Bog. Bobolinks, male and female - Tamarack Trail in the same area as the Swainson's Trumpeter Swans - King Blind - no babies
Lots of the "Usual Suspects" for a colorful, musical day. Linda Sparling Hennepin County
