Questions: Nathan and I are hoping to head to Murphy-Hanrehan & Jirik Sod Farms tomorrow (four state bird possibilities for him). We have not yet been to either location (shame on us).
We will be heading down 169 to 94. Couple of questions: * Is there a "best route" from 94 to the Murphy Hanrehan 175th & Natchez intersection? * Is there a good route from Murphy-Hanrehan to Jirik that does not involve backtracking to 94? We do have Internet maps (which are dependable 50% of the time), as well as park directions - which, unfortunately, are from 35W (not our best option coming from Princeton). Thanks for any assistance. Sherburne/Mille Lacs/Benton County Summary (for the last week, Saturday to Friday): * 107 species * 12 shorebirds (including last Saturday's Willet) * 9 raptors (including Osprey, Sharp-shinned, Broad-winged) * 7 flycatchers * 7 warblers (had to work for each; included a rather "chummy" Golden-winged/Blue-winged probable couple) * 8 sparrows (including a surprise Lincoln's in northern Mille Lacs; this is down from much of the summer) * Song has diminished heavily. Only one Dickcissel for the week (had been up to 18). Only one Purple Martin along Mille Lacs this morning. Did not re-find Summer Tanager on Blue Hill. Trumpeter Swans (5 couples) very obvious in Sherburne NWR. Sparrows have become harder finds (Lark still present). Had Purple & House Finches at same southern MIlle Lacs feeder. Feel free to ask for further information. Good birding to all! Al (and Nathan) Schirmacher
