Saturday was to die for: * Surprise: 74 Greater White Fronted Geese in Mille Lacs County - glad that Bob Janssen, the Perrys (from Brainerd) and others could enjoy these and the abundance of waterfowl on this new (and probably short term) pond along 169, near CR 13 & Long Siding. Bob let us know that the GWF's were a county first. The Snow Geese, couple of Cackling and abundant Pintails were also unusual (in our experience) for the area. Couild not recheck the area this morning due to intense fog.
* Major surprise: the Prairie Falcon that flew over our home and landed in the back trees (see Saturday's post for details). Believe this will also be a county first. Nathan had excellent looks as it, rather leisurely, flew over our yard - and I had solid 20X-60X scope views of it on the top of a tree on the neighbor's property. This morning (Blue Hill Trail, Sherburne NWR) wasn't bad either, although the dense fog rendered visuals difficult. Spring was declared everywhere by numerous meadowlarks, waterfowl, blackbirds, bluebirds and the like. Solid audio fare. Wonder what pushed the "westerners" east this weekend? Nathan may have re-sighted the Prairie briefly in the area on Sunday - will advise if it remains. Should you wish to check out the area, take 169 north to Mille Lacs 12, go west on 12 and scan the first mile or so. Good birding to all! Al Schirmacher Princeton, MN Mille Lacs & Sherburne Counties
