Reminder for those attending the Aitkin MOU trip on Saturday at 7:30 AM (trip is full):
We will be meeting at Rice Lake Refuge and carpool from the parking lot. The refuge is on Highway 65 and is easy to find (keep heading north from the cities until you're exhausted). We will probably spend ~ two hours in the refuge, cover Aitkin 5 & 18, then hit some of the less well known areas in the optional afternoon portion. Birds of interest could include LeConte's Sparrow, Yellow-bellied Flycatcher, Connecticut Warbler, Boreal Chickadee, BB Magpie - perhaps even a Great Gray Owl. Yellow Rails and Sharp-tailed Sparrows are unlikely unless you decide to stay in the area overnight. For those of you who have attended past trips with me, remember, hearing is as good as seeing:). (Foliage is full - many nesters will be singing - but may be unresponsive to pishing.) Please bring a lunch and any snacks you may need. While there are a few restaurants in McGregor & Aitkin, we are not likely to be in the area of either of them at lunch time. (Follow up note - we will be in McGregor between 10:30-11:00, so could make a stop at Subway for lunch pickup and/or gas.) Bring powerful bug spray and/or great patience. There is no cost for this trip. Gas assistance for those who drive is often appreciated. For those who are birding Aitkin between now & then, please feel free to forward any sightings that might be of interest. Good birding to all! Al Schirmacher Princeton, MN Mille Lacs & Sherburne Counties
