How often can one write Buff-breasted Sandpiper and both Crossbills on the same trip report? The Buffy was well seen at the ag pond on Aitkin CR 15, across from 441st Place - and the Crossbills (White-winged and Red) were seen and heard flying overhead at CR 18/snowmobile trail. One does not expect a late July trip to produce four year and six county birds - not to mention 22 butterfly species, of which ten were new for this butterfly ID fledgling (Northwoods guide proving its excellence in the field).
Many thanks to Sparky Stensaas - we would not have been keeping our eyes & ears open for crossbills without his recent report - as well as for the field guide publication. Good birding to all (they're out there). Al Schirmacher Princeton, MN Mille Lacs & Sherburne Counties
