Late this morning (21 May), I watched a flock of at least 75 Marbled Godwits at Interstate Island in Duluth. It was difficult to get an exact count and more than 75 may have been present. As far as I know, this represents the largest flock of Marbled Godwits ever found along the North Shore. Almost exactly one year ago, 17 May 2004, I photographed a flock of 65 at the same location. Please the next (spring 2005) issue of The Loon for a note of interest on flocks of this species along the North Shore. To reach this area, take the Port Terminal exit off the freeway and park near the boat ramp at the public boat launch across from the UPS building. Look for the island teeming with Ring-billed Gulls. As its name implies, a portion of this island lies in Wisconsin waters. The flock usually landed on the Wisconsin end of the island but they were repeatedly flushed by boat traffic and circled the island several times, calling vigorously. The Cackling Goose found by Tom Auer earlier this month was still present also. -- Peder H. [email protected], MN
