18 birders enjoyed Sherburne's Mahnomen, Blue Hill, and Prairie Wildlife (auto tour) trails on Saturday May 19th. Eight opted for the afternoon trip to northern Mille Lacs County (Kathio State Park for warblers & passerines, since Sherburne's "B" locations have been quiet), three remained to cover the cold & windy lake. Temperatures varied from 60's in the morning to 80's in the early afternoon to 50 along the Crow Wing lakefront at trip's close (5:30 AM).
Of the 106 species heard & seen (in that order), highlights included: * 16 warblers. Excellent looks at Golden-winged, Blue-winged and Brewster's along Blue Hill Trail. Quick peek at a Canada Warbler. Beautiful but fleeting views of a Blackburnian at Kathio, singing an excellent imitation of a Black-and-White. One birder glimpsed a Hooded on Blue Hill, which is certainly possible (past nesting there, one two years ago stayed the summer). * Sanderlings & Ruddy Turnstones along Mille Lacs' western edges (all in Crow Wing County). * Number of Ruffed Grouse drumming, one Turkey scurrying. * Good looks and listens of/to 2-3 Olive-sided Flycatchers, also heard first Alder of season. * Swallow slam. * Golden-crowned Kinglets singing in the conifers on Blue Hill. * Swainson's and Grey-cheeked Thrushes still at Kathio. * Scarlet Tanager males and females throughout Sherburne's woods. * Lark & Grasshopper Sparrows seen and heard. Thanks to all who came, enjoyed our time together. Look for fall Mille Lacs trip details soon! Al Schirmacher Princeton, MN Mille Lacs & Sherburne Counties
