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MARCH 15 WSHC UPDATE!The first half of March has flown by, with warm, sunny days and migrating birds! 1,615 raptors and 4,301 total birds have been counted thus far (plus one butterfly)! Early March is typically a cold, snowy start to the spring count, but this year breaks that mold. Temps soared to 65F on the warmest day, and Lake Superior and the St. Louis river are ice free. Eagle numbers are fairly average thus far, and the biggest stories in the raptor world are early arrivals of a Turkey Vulture and Northern Harriers. Buteo numbers are slightly above average. In non-raptor news, geese and swans have been abundant, robins and blackbirds have made some small arrivals, and on March 6, the earliest ever Sandhill Crane was seen flying northward! A huge THANK YOU to our many supporters of the spring watch. From baked goods and spotting skills to pleasant conversation and site maintenance, the work of our volunteers and friends of Hawk Ridge is greatly appreciated. Fear not! Migration is truly just beginning and thousands of birds are still to come. The count continues every day at Enger Tower or Thompson Hill (NE winds). Hope to see you at the watch!-Sean McLaughlin, Spring Counter ... See MoreSee Less
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A week into the Spring Count at WSHC has proved that migration is here! In just the first week of March, over 500 Bald Eagles have been counted, and 10 total raptor species have been seen! This includes a remarkably early Turkey Vulture!Highlights outside of the raptor count include an early Sandhill Crane and Greater White-fronted Geese! (pictured) White-fronts migrate en masse through the midwest, but Duluth is just to the east of their usual route, making them UNusual in spring. Many more birds to come, and as always hope to see you at the watch. ... See MoreSee Less
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March 1st marks the first day of the 2024 Spring Count! Strong SW winds and sunny skies produced over 100 migrant Bald Eagles, 3 Golden Eagles and 7 total species of raptors! Close passes from eagles, Peregrine Falcons and Rough-legged Hawks offered great photo opportunities! The spring count continues every day until May 31. Hope to see you at the watch! ... See MoreSee Less
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