Thinking yesterday's dismal weather may have forced some warblers down, I went out in the rain after dinner to snoop. I found a single water thrush (4th warbler species for the year, and a single catbird). But I'm not complaining, because as I was sneaking along a wooded wetland a night heron flew in and landed about 25 yards away. I looked at it and thought "NO WAY." There, perched on a snag was a bird that has eluded me in Minnesota for my entire life: a yellow crowned night heron. After 4 unsuccessful "chases" and over 1300 miles, I gave up on these guys deciding that "some day" I would find one of my own. Instead this bird found me, and it was so rewarding! I just stood there in the dark dismal rain, elated. There was lots of brush between myself and the bird, so I snuck to within about 20 yards to see all the classic field marks. Then I turned and slowly snuck away to alert other birders in town. The bird was there when I left but not when I returned about 20 minutes later. Nor was it there this morning when I checked before work. If it is seen again, I will post directions and location.
Randy Frederickson Willmar, Kandiyohi county
