Spent the morning birding from Duluth to Two Harbors. Counted at least 300+ snow buntings between the two cities. That is a conservative estimate. One flock had close to that many birds in it, plus several smaller flocks of 10 to 15 birds. Also encountered two gray jays right outside of Two Harbors heading back to Duluth. On scenic hwy 61 in between the French River and the Mcquade small craft landing area, I encountered a cattle egret. The first time I drove by, I thought it was a lawn ornament. It was exciting to finally get a north shore cattle egret as I have missed out on previous ones. It was also slightly melancholy, as it was clear this bird is not sure where it is, though it ambles along the ditches on the residential side of 61, snatching at who knows what....earthworms? It wanders around the different yards, walking up a driveway or two as if it belonged. I'll post an image of the bird in the showcase section later tonight. I believe that the area I'm describing still falls within St. Louis County...? There was also a lone bohemian waxwing in a mountain ashberry tree right next to the french river. I would not be surprised if the egret stuck around for a day or two. Regards, Shawn Zierman.
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