Shorebird Report for Dakota Co, Sunday afternoon Lake Byllesby Sand bars coming back as water levels drop, but high wind probably chased birds reproted by earlier observers into less exposed locations. One Killdeer Waterfowl: only expected dabblers Other birds: Black-crowned Nightheron - flushed from bank Sandhill Crane Forsters Terns (60+ flock flew in just before I left) Bonaparts Gull (2-3) winter plumage
140th Marsh ( half mile east of Hwy 52) Pumping that resulted in high water has been turned off and water levels are dropping, resulting in improving habitat for shorebirds. Killdeer W. Snipe (5) observed flying at dusk. Good time & place to see Snipe at this time of year. Other birds: Virginia Rail (heard) Swamp Sparrow Etters Bottoms (CR68 into Goodhue Co.) Directions: Go to Hastins and follow signs to Treasure Is. When you cross into Goodhue Co. you are at Etters Bottoms. High water from Vermillion & Mississippi have resulted in flooding and excellant habitat. Broad shoulders on road allow easy viewing. G Yellowlegs 15 L Yellowlegs 40 Pectoral Sandpiper 6 Killdeer Waterfowl: 10 species including Am. Wigeon, & N. Pintail (6) Other birds: Eastern Meadowlark - several locations. I still have found no W. Meadowlarks. Brewers Blackbird Steve Weston on Quiggley Lake in Eagan, MN [email protected]
