Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory Non-Profit P.O. Box 3006 Organization Taking Flight: News From The Ridge Duluth, MN 55803-3006 U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 1009 Fall/Winter Issue | 2011-2012 Duluth, MN Winter Forecast: A Flurry of Snowy Owls By Erik Bruhnke far north, has come a bird species that is often associated with giving bird- watchers goosebumps… both by the unique beauty of the bird, as well as the cold conditions that one must en- dure to view this species. This bird species’ beauty alone is frosty, ethereal, and its body is clearly designed for living in the cold- est, snow-swept regions of the world. This bird is a circumpolar species; that is, they are found on all continents throughout a specific hemisphere of the world; the northern hemisphere for this species. In addition to the physi- cal and physiological build of this bird (hint, it is a raptor species), this bird is Continued On Page 14 Notes From The Director By Janelle Long EducationINSIDE Stories p. 3 With the birth of my daughter this past August, I’ve been thinking more about long-term financial planning for Snowy Owl, alert and aweake at night - photo by Erik Bruhnke Wintering Snowy Owls p. 4 our family. Being a mom, I want to provide that security for my children’s future. I have that same feeling and concern The world of birds is ever- species which have shown up in im- for Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory, as the Executive Director. At our most recent Finance and Fundraising Committee changing. The flow of seasons paves pressive numbers throughout the Fall Raptor Banding Report p. 4 meetings, we have discussed the topic of planned gifts and other ways of giving. We are currently working on better the routes for bird migration, which of- northwoods this winter. The built-for- Western Great Lakes Owl Monitoring p. 6 ten takes place during the spring and extreme-cold Common Redpolls have means of communicating these options with you. Encampment Forest Banding Project p. 6 If you are looking to give a gift of stock or bond, listing a beneficiary on your pension/IRA or will/estate, in- fall. Those brisk late-autumn storms formed flocks by the hundreds, and that come through the prairies fun- made roughly the northern third of the Fall Raptor Migration Report p. 7 terested in creating an endowed fund, setting up a bequest, we ask that you do please consider Hawk Ridge Bird nel raptors towards Hawk Ridge. In Lower 48 states their home for the win- Observatory. These gifts will help ensure the sustainability of the organization for future generations. We hope you Fall Non-Raptor Migration Report p. 9 the spring, intense bursts of southern, ter. Locally, here in Duluth and up the find the stories and summaries enclosed in this newsletter as inspiring evidence that we are working hard to put your warming winds help spark migration North Shore of Lake Superior, redpolls Volunteer Voices p. 10 contributions to good use for bird conservation research, education, and stewardship. Please feel free to contact me northward into the boreal forest. There and their cross-billed counterparts; the Volunteer Report p. 11 directly at 218-428-6209 or [email protected], if you have further questions on how to go about doing this. Thank is another factor that comes into play White-winged Crossbills, have made Stewardship Notes p. 11 you! with bird species which thrive in the their presence known by flocking to boreal forest and northward into the their favored food sources; paper birch Comments from the Board p. 12 A special thanks to the following grantors and sponsors for fall 2011 support: far reaches of the arctic tundra. That and alder catkins (seed clusters) for Hawk Weekend 2011 p. 13 sole factor is food availability, and bird- the redpolls, while the White-winged Donald M. Weesner Foundation Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation watchers and non-birdwatchers alike Crossbills are congregating in the con- Birdathon 2012 p. 15 Lloyd K. Johnson Foundation (Biodiversity Fund) have been captivated by a winter phe- centrations of tiny cones from tama- RRF Conference 2011 p. 16 Marshall Hardware The Edge Resort & Waterpark (ZMC Hotels, Inc) nomenon currently taking place. rack and black spruce trees. In addi- Family Owl Banding Experience p. 16 Radisson Hotel Downtown Duluth Holiday Inn & Suites - Duluth There have been several bird tion to these beautiful finches from the Sax-Zim Bog Winter Birding Tour p. 16 Encampment Forest Association (Lion Hotel Group & Labovitz Enterprises) Erik Bruhnke / Naturally Avian The Nature Conservancy (Cathedral Grove Committee) Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory Call: 218.428.6209 Advanced Raptor ID Workshop p. 18 P.O. Box 3006 Contact: [email protected] Michael Furtman, michaelfurtman.com The College of St. Scholastica (Bluestone Agency) New Merchandise Trailer! p .18 Duluth, MN 55803-3006 Visit: www.hawkridge.org 20 Notes from the Director p. 20 2011.2012 Fall 2011 Raptors Raffle The 3rd annual Raptors Raffle was held this fall to help raise proceeds to benefit Membership Contribution Board of Directors the research, education, and stewardship activities of Hawk Ridge Bird Obser- Chair: vatory. $5 raffle tickets were sold through the day of the raffle drawing on Sun- Please  Begin  Renew day October 23. The drawing was held in the rain (for the 2nd year in a row) with Karen Stebenvoll My Hawk Ridge Membership about 6 people in attendance at Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve. Name  Student (Vulture) $15 Address Treasurer:  Individual (Osprey) $30 Thank you to the prize donors, staff/volunteers for ticket sales, Molly Thompson City  Family (Hawk) $50 and all those that purchased tickets totaling close to $1200. State  Sustaining (Owl) $100 Prizes and winners were as follows: Secretary: Zip  Soaring (Harrier) $250 Jan Green Phone  Supporting (Falcon) $500 Duluth Pack Sparky Bag (Duluth Pack Store) Prize #1: E-mail  Steward (Eagle) $1000 Winner: Seth Spencer, Duluth, MN  Additional Donation: Member:  I want to volunteer, please contact me David Alexander  Check here if you’d like to be added to Help Fund Education Programs Prize #2: Guided Sax-Zim Bog Winter Birding Tour for 4 our e-mail list for Hawk Ridge $ Fall Public Education Programs at Hawk Ridge (Erik Bruhnke/Naturally Avian) Member: information and updates $ Hawk Ridge Volunteer Program Tim Bates Winner: Paula Maidl, Loretto, MN WE DO NOT RENT, SELL, OR TRADE MAILING LISTS $ “Peregrine Watch” outreach at Lake Place Park $ “Raptors in the Classroom” school outreach Member: Prize #3: Eagle Optics Ranger 8x42 Binoculars (Eagle Optics) Total Enclosed: $ $ “Experience Hawk Ridge” school lesson at John Baumgarten Winner: Joan Stemig, Eagan, MN Payment (circle): Cash or Check or Credit Card Hawk Ridge Type (circle): Visa or MasterCard Member: Help Fund Research Programs Martha Markusen Cardholder Name: $ Fall Count Spring Count 2012 Number: Exp. Date: $ Raptor Banding Member: Signature: $ Songbird Banding Mark Martell This March-May, efforts will be put forth to run the West Skyline Hawk Count $ Spring Count on a volunteer basis. If you are interested in volunteering for the spring count, Member: please contact Frank Nicoletti at 218-591-0174 or [email protected]. Help Us Meet Our Financial Obligations! SEND FORM & PAYMENT TO: Gerald Niemi Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory depends on the generous contributions made by Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory If you have any questions or would like to contribute for the future of the its members and friends. You’ll receive special member discounts and behind- P.O. Box 3006 Member: spring count, please contact Janelle Long at [email protected]. the-scenes with tours as well as knowing these funds go to support education Duluth, MN 55803-3006 Robert M. Owens and research. Your membership contribution is tax deductible! Please make checks payable to Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory. Member: Andrew Streitz Hawk Weekend Festival 2012 Executive Director: Make plans now for the annual Hawk Weekend Festival, Janelle Long September 14-16, 2012! Our social events will be held at the Radisson Hotel in downtown Du- luth. Friday night we will hear Ph.D. candidate, Anna Peterson, discuss her research on “Mitigating Conflicts between Potential Wind Turbines Newsletter and Migratory Birds on the North Shore”. Our Saturday evening fundraiser will feature a silent & live auction, and Editor: the popular “Birdchick” from Minneapolis, Sharon Stiteler. Sharon will Janelle Long entertain us from her repertoire of birding adventures. The full registra- tion includes meals both nights, field trips on Saturday & Sunday, and Design: admission to an “Advanced Hawkwatching” workshop at the Overlook. Ashley Lindsey An optional digi-scoping workshop with Sharon will be held on Saturday. Gretchen McDaniel helping get things orga- nized in the new mer- Blocks of rooms are reserved for Hawk Weekend participants at several chandise trailer - photo 2 area hotels, including the Radisson. Details will be on our website. by Debbie Waters 19 Advanced Raptor ID Workshop with Bill Clark Education Stories By Debbie Waters Hawk Ridge hosted an Advanced Rap- tor Identification Workshop this past As I drove away from October. This weekend workshop was the overlook on the last day taught by Bill Clark, author of the Peter- of my last season working for son Guide to Hawks and other raptor Hawk Ridge, I felt an over- books. The small class size allowed for whelming mix of emotions: a very personal learning experience. loss, relief, excitement and One of the participants gave this feed- peace. With the retirement of back on the workshop, “The Bill Clark David Evans (Fud), the hiring class was terrific. We can hardly believe of Frank Nicoletti as our chief we had this opportunity to spend so raptor bander, and my deci- much time with such an expert. Bill's sion to leave Hawk Ridge, it knowledge of raptors is simply incred- was evident that these rather ible. The classroom sessions were profound changes would jam-packed. We have a much greater mean growing pains for the appreciation for the detailed drawings organization. While the fall in field guides after hearing Bill point season provided its share of out the importance of the small details challenges, it also brought in each picture. The field trips and birds many triumphs! in hand were first-class. We wouldn't One of the education change a thing. We can't begin to tell department’s greatest chal- you how much we learned and how lenges from year to year is much we enjoyed the class.” We hope Workshop participants (left to right) Myron Peterson, Harold Nordin, Edwin Longhway, Lou finding those amazing Margie Menzies (left) and Kaitlin Erpestad (right) teaching songbird banding - photo by Janelle Long to hold this workshop again in fall of Albin, Karen Rylander, Bill Clark, Pam Albin, Molly Peterson - photo submitted by Bill Clark naturalists that are the heart 2013. We thank Bill Clark for conduct- of the main overlook. We Erpestad, Matti Erpestad, Lizzy Schnabel and Jessamy ing the workshop and University of MN typically have a large percentage return for several years Schwartz. Duluth for use of the Bagley Outdoor in a row, but this fall all of their end times coincided, Matti, Kaitlin and Margie also were able to share Classroom. leaving us with one returning naturalist, (the amazing) another of their passions with the overlook visitors: Sarah Glesner. The search was on! Not only were we passerine banding. The previous fall we had begun doing able to find superb naturalists Gail Johnejack, Jenni passerine banding several days a week at the main Poliseno, Margie Menzies and Tessa Enroth, but we also overlook. By talking with visitors, we had found that a New Merchandise Trailer! learned from our challenge and began a new naturalist major piece of our education program was missing—visi- We express much appreciation substitute program. tors get to see the banded birds and their release, but the to the Donald M. Weesner Foun- Becoming a naturalist at the main overlook catching and banding part was still a mystery. By dation for funding our new mer- requires an overwhelming amount of training and experi- conducting passerine banding at the overlook, we are chandise trailer and point of sale ence, which, as you can imagine, is impossible to able to fill our visitors in on the rest of the story. Matti, system! accomplish during our two pre-season training days. It Kaitlin and Margie volunteered their passerine banding takes new naturalists almost the entire season to really skills several days per week, and could often be seen We also thank Widdes Trailer get a feel for the knowledge and bird handling skills they with a crowd of kids and adults surrounding them, awed Sales (Josh Widdes) in Esko, MN, need to perform successfully. The “sub” program is meant by the smallest of our migrating birds. Debbie Waters, Julie O’Connor, as a training program for naturalists, where they can You should have seen a pattern in the above Harold Nordin, and other Hawk begin slowly, go through all the trainings with the natural- paragraphs. Part of what makes Hawk Ridge such a Ridge staff/volunteers for their ists, but with less pressure. This program will assure that wonderful organization is the ability to turn challenges into time in helping customize the trail- the education department always has knowledgeable, opportunities. I have been fortunate to be a part of this er and with merchandise sales. experienced people ready to step into a naturalist role at organization for eleven years, and have seen what the overlook. creativity and positive energy can do. I will bring those The naturalist subs, as an added bonus, have a lessons along with me as I begin my new career as a tendency to become addicted to Hawk Ridge and spend science teacher. inordinate amounts of their free time (and not-so-free I want to thank every single “Hawk Ridger”, past time!) helping out the naturalists at the overlook. This was and present. You have contributed to the suc- fortunate, because the sheer volume of birds available for cess of the organization, and have enriched my adoption and release this year far exceeded our natural- tenure as the ists’ capacity. Thanks to all these hardworking, dedicated education director. You all have reason to be New Hawk Ridge merchandise trailer - naturalist subs who made our pilot year a huge success: proud. 18 photo by Debbie Waters Beth Miller, Gretchen McDaniel, Katie Borg, Kaitlin 3 Wintering Snowy Owls at the Tip of Lake Superior David ‘Fud’ Evans – Lifetime Achievement Award By David L. Evans By Jerry Niemi David Evans, best known as individual, and not prone to brag. Yet, questions about raptors. Few knew I’ve been studying wintering throughout the winter. Male territo- absent after 1983. I averaged 15 owls ‘Fud,’ banded raptors at Hawk Ridge ask him a question about a raptor that he has been assessing popu- Snowy Owls at the western tip of Lake ries tend to be more ephemeral over caught per year through 1982/83 and since 1972. His retirement from Hawk species and he will quietly tell you lations and movements of Snowy Superior in the Duluth, Minnesota – time, in part because of being evicted 8.9 owls per year thereafter. Ridge in 2010 represented 39 years that such and such published a paper Owls for over 20 years in the Duluth- Superior, Wisconsin harbor area since by new females. I monitor the study Numbers of individual owls of continued banding at the Ridge twenty years ago in this or that jour- Superior Harbor. I had the pleasure 1974. My study area is about 30 sq. area on a semi-daily basis, recording returning in a subsequent winter also and in 2010 he reached the monu- nal. You would not know this unless of joining Fud on one of his afternoon mi., or 75 sq. km. Excluding residential and plotting locations of owls seen. reflected the die off of Norway Rats. mental mark of banding his 100,000th you asked him or worked with Fud. “Snowy Owl Tours” – an amazing areas, which are infrequently used as I began using wing tags with unique Prior to 1983, 19 of 150 (13%) re- raptor! There are few individuals, if Fud authored or co-authored journey through the maze of back habitat, it’s closer to 25 sq. mi., or 65 alphanumeric codes in 1977, which turned in at least one subsequent any, in the world that can make that over 30 publications on raptors. He roads and alleyways in the Duluth- sq. km. Useable habitat is largely in- greatly facilitated identification of indi- winter. After 1983 the number of owls claim. This included over 60,000 co-authored papers with some of the Superior area. dustrial in nature, including rail yards, vidual owls for this purpose. returning in a subsequent winter was Sharp-shinned Hawks, over 8,000 top raptor biologists of the country, At Hawk Ridge Weekend grain elevators, an oil refinery, an air- Territory size has varied with about 7% (16 of 231). Northern Goshawks, and over 20,000 including Keith Bildstein, Bill Bower- on September 17, 2011, Fud was port, and a variety of smaller commer- habitat and over the years. In the Sightings of wing tagged owls Northern Saw-whet Owls. man, Fran Hammerstrom, Pat Redig, presented the Lifetime Achievement cial concerns. Owls with territories ad- 1970’s, into the early 80’s, we had an have also complemented normal re- From 1972 to 2010, inclusive, and Bob Rosenfield. He co-wrote the Award for his dedication and exten- jacent to the waterfront typically utilize exuberant population of Norway Rats covery data. Owls from Duluth – Su- the Hawk Ridge banding station was Birds of North America document for sive efforts at Hawk Ridge. On Octo- the ice for daytime roosting. and territory size was typically smaller perior have been identified in South Fud’s home every fall from mid-Au- the Long-eared Owl with Jeff Marks, ber 8, 2011 at the banquet of the An- Since 1974 I’ve banded al- with greater densities of owls in the Dakota, Minnesota (7), Wisconsin (2), gust and often into December. It was Denver Holt, and Dean Amadon. nual Meeting of the Raptor Research most 400 owls on the study area, from rail yards and around grain elevators. Illinois, Indiana, Michigan (2), Mani- 22/7 during those fall seasons – he Besides his 39 years of band- Foundation held in Duluth, Fud was 0 to 33 per year. The majority of owls Rat densities began declining in the toba, Ontario (3), Quebec, and Nuna- would usually only take 2 hours off ing activities at Hawk Ridge, Fud was again presented with the Lifetime seen establish territories and remain early 80’s and they were essentially vut. in the late afternoon to tend to per- involved with raptors throughout the Achievement Award by his long-term sonal business and touch bases with year. If you wanted to know about colleague, Dr. Robert Rosenfield, his wife, Molly. His dedication was Peregrine Falcons in the area – ask now Professor at the University Fall 2011 Hawk Ridge Raptor Banding Report By Frank Nicoletti extraordinary. Fud. If the federal government or of Wisconsin, Stevens Point. Fud The fall of 2011 saw numer- Moose Valley ran from 19 August-20 that ran simultaneously during the en- Fud’s knowledge of raptors state agencies wanted someone to mentored Bob early in his career and ous changes to the Hawk Ridge November while Paine Farm ran from tire night with one for Northern Saw- and the literature was immense. I climb to the nest of a Bald Eagle or was instrumental in Bob’s rise as a banding station. After 39 years of run- 1 September -15 November. A total of whet and one for Long-eared Owls. know of nobody associated with the Osprey, they called Fud. Recently he preeminent raptor scientist today. The ning the station, David (Fud) Evans 252 days were logged and the overall Owl flights were consistent during the Hawk Ridge community that knew has been traversing the landscape of applause and standing ovation were retired from his post. I have taken his average number of hawks banded migration period, although weather more about the details of raptor biol- Wisconsin on the lookout for nesting a touching moment and an absolutely position as the director of the band- per day was just over 13. The flights conditions seemed less than ideal, ogy. However, you would never know Northern Goshawk for the Wisconsin appropriate salutation to the lifetime ing program. In so, I made several seem to be consistent especially considering the large number of owls it because Fud is a quiet, humble DNR. He was constantly answering achievements of David ‘Fud’ Evans. changes. To begin with, I incorpo- during September when 2294 raptors captured. There was no designated rated my existing banding stations were banded representing 68% of owl bander this season, due to bud- (Moose Valley and Paine Farm) that the season total. This was mainly due get constraints. The three daytime I operated for the past five years and to a good flight of hatch year Sharp- banders and volunteers took turns put them under Hawk Ridge. Each shinned Hawks. October was slower staffing as many of the nights as pos- station was operated by a trained and until the 11th, when we had a cold sible. We are hoping to hire an owl licensed bander and was also staffed front that produced a good flight until bander in future. with volunteers. These volunteers the 20th. November’s flight was good It is somewhat difficult to com- were an essential part of the opera- with a nice flight of hatch year Red- pare numbers from previous years, tion and allowed us to run multiple tailed Hawks (67) that represented due to new protocols and additional stations efficiently without increasing 55.8% of the 120 hawks banded dur- banding stations, so I have included the number of paid staff. ing the month. a chart to view each stations results The 2011 season proved to As mentioned above, the owl and monthly totals of all stations com- be a productive year. A total of 4820 banding was quite spectacular this bined. raptors were banded amongst the season with 1454 owls captured, Bald Eagles, a new record three stations, which does not in- which is the second largest num- of 4 banded this season, in fact only clude 57 foreign recoveries. Among ber banded at Hawk Ridge (1475 in 6 had been banded in the 39 years the 4820 raptors, there were 1454 1995). The owl protocol was changed prior. Three were hatch years and the owls. Most of the owls from previous years. In the past, a fourth was an adult. Northern Har- were banded at the single caller unit was used to broad- riers were banded in good numbers Bob Rosenfield (left) pre- “Main” station at Hawk cast for owls with the first half of the this season with a combined number senting David ‘Fud’ Evans Ridge. The main station night for Northern Saw-whet and the of 64, 48 being from the main sta- Lifetime Achievement award (center) with Dr. Jerry Niemi was in operation from 15 second half for Long-eared Owls. tion, which is well above the average (right) - photo by Wayne 4 August - 30 November. This season, I ran two caller units of 23.8. Continued On Page 5 Nelson 17 Sharp-shinned Hawk totals were all three stations. Raptor Research Foundation Conference 2011 encouraging considering the past Of the 5, one was In October 2011, Hawk Ridge decade of lower than normal num- an adult female. Bird Observatory co-hosted the bers. A combined total of 2642 were North- annual meeting of the Raptor Re- banded, 1651 at the main station, ern Saw-whet search Foundation here in Duluth. which is slightly above the average Owl numbers The Raptor Research Foundation of 1561. We had three returns, one were surprisingly (RRF) is a non-profit scientific soci- each from 2010, 2005 and 2003. high this season ety with 1,000+ members in over 50 Cooper’s Hawks were banded in with 1355 cap- countries. RRF’s primary goal is the good numbers, 49, including 33 at the tured including accumulation and dissemination of main station. This is a good num- 45 encounters scientific information about raptors ber considering that only 133 were (already banded). (hawks, eagles, falcons and owls). counted from the overlook. We had 41 were foreign This information is used to inform the one return banded as a hatch year on recoveries and 4 public (both scientific and lay) about 13 October 2006 and recaptured on returns that were the role of raptors in nature, and to 16 October 2011. Northern Gos- banded last fall promote the conservation of raptors hawk at 129 was better than expect- at Hawk Ridge. whose populations are threatened by ed, again considering that only 231 This total is only human activities. were counted from the overlook. The second to 1995 Over 100 RRF members age and sex breakdown is as follows: seasons of 1402. presented their most recent work in 90 hatch-year males (70%), 25 hatch The age ratio raptor research and discussed issues year females (19%), 6 second year was 814 (62%) Gene Jacobs teaching students at Early Careers in Raptor Research workshop how to prepare that may impact raptors in the future. study skins - photo by Dan Varland males, 5 second year females and 3 after-hatch years These scientists have their finger after-second year males. and 492 (38%) new energy development are just a The conference also had a on the pulse of the state of raptors Broad-winged Hawk was hatch year and Karen Stubenvoll releasing a Bald Eadle - photo by Gretchen McDaniel few of the critical issues facing our poster session, six different sympo- worldwide and they are proactively well represented with a combined 18 there were four Peregrine Falcon from the Twin Cities planet. These researchers are work- sia on raptor-related issues, social examining our changing world to banded, 8 at the main station, which birds aged as unknown. There were was also recaptured at Hawk Ridge ing tirelessly to blend new develop- events, field trips and a silent auction. protect birds of prey and their habitat. is one below the average of 9. Of a high percentage of birds showing in October. ment with safe practices for raptors 230 people attended the Climate, water, toxins, habitat loss, these, 6 were adults and 12 hatch second year molt pattern, indicating Thank you so much to my and the ecosystems in which they conference, from 5 countries, 34 U.S. chemical production/use, water, and years. It was an above average year that many of the 2010 owls survived. fellow banders, Nova Mackentley, thrive. states and 6 Canadian Provinces. for Red-tailed hawks counted at Long-eared Owls were recorded in Chris Neri and David Alexander. I the overlook (7,310). We banded good numbers with a combined total would also like to thank the numerous Family Owl Banding Experience By Karen Stubenvoll 290, 124 at the main station, which of 134, 120 at the main station which volunteers and others that helped in is above the average of 82. We had is the 5th highest number banded many ways, including: Karen Stuben- On October 20, local author, Chair and banding volunteer, Karen naturalists kindly showed all of us the one return, a hatch year banded on there and is double the average of voll, Annmarie Geniusz, Tara Haynes, Sarah Seidelmann MD (What the Stubenvoll, and staff raptor bander, different kinds of feathers they have, 23 October 2006 and recaptured on 59. Barred Owls had a record year Todd Burnside, Jessamy Schwartz, Walrus Knows: An Eccentric’s Field Chris Neri, who, to their delight, how they estimate their age and we 17 October 2011. Of the 290 banded, with 10 banded, which includes1 Stephen Bockhold, Karl Bardon, Cory Guide to working with Beastie Ener- quickly pointed out a tiny saw-whet were allowed to touch their exqui- two were rufous morph and one light banded at Paine Farm. Ritter, Jane Hosking, Andrew Longtin, gies), brought her family to the Hawk perched in a tree. A visit into the sitely soft feathers. Cashmere has Harlan’s, all hatch year. Rough- There were a number of for- Christina Tarasczuk, David Carman, Ridge banding station for a magical banding station followed, where staff nothing on these sweet Beasties!!” legged Hawk at 12 banded, 9 from eign recoveries this season. Among all the education staff and volun- night with Northern Saw-whet Owls. raptor bander, Nova Mackentley, was Each visitor released a saw- the main station, which is slightly the 45 Northern Saw-whets, we have teers, the Hawk Ridge Stewardship The winning bidder for the “Family ready to band the first saw-whet of whet back into the wild, and one by above the average of 7. All were information on 20 that are mainly Committee including Bob Owens, Owl Banding Experience”, Sarah was the evening. one watched them silently flutter hatch year birds, 11 lights and one from the other banding areas includ- Tim Bates and Judy Gibbs, the MN accompanied by her husband Dr. Sarah wrote, “It’s hard to away into the night. To arrange an dark morph. ing: 7 from Wisconsin, 1 from White- Conservation Corps (MCC) crew that Mark Seidelmann, falconer Dr. Ben describe the sweetness of saw-whets Owl Banding Experience for your The falcon numbers were fish Point, Michigan, 8 from Minne- helped clear brush and helped take Rice, and 3 children. They were met -- it’s like they are full of wonder and family or civic group, contact Janelle quite varied. American Kestrel at 62 sota, 3 from Ontario, 2 from Thunder the blind out. Many others helped in at the trailhead by Hawk Ridge Board innocence and yet fearless. The Long at [email protected]. banded seemed lower than expected Cape, Ontario and 1 from Long Point different ways including Dick Green, considering the numbers counted. near Lake Erie. We had five Sharp- Adeline Nunez, Peder Svingen, Ben Sax-Zim Bog Winter Birding Tour There were only 31 banded at the shinned Hawks, 1 from Knife River, Yokel, Eric Helland, Wade, Rich Main station, which is below the Minnesota from 2010, 1 from White- Melcher, and Mary Normandia. I On Saturday, January 28, Amy and Bog. They were led to an amaz- Black-backed Woodpecker, Hoary average of 41. Merlin numbers were fish Point, Michigan from May 2011, would especially like to thank my Tom from Wisconsin, the winning ing day of wildlife by Hawk Ridge Redpoll, Evening Grosbeaks, and good with 91 banded, which repre- and 3 from Thunder Cape, Ontario, 2 wife, Kate Nicoletti, for all her help bidders at our Hawk banding director, Frank Nicoletti. Boreal Chickadees. A Snowy Owl sent 42% of the numbers counted at from August 2011 and 1 from Sep- and support. Finally, thanks Weekend fundraising This included 8 new life-list birds was also spotted in town. A special the overlook. 49 were banded at the tember 2010. A Northern Harrier to all those who supported auction, enjoyed an for Amy and Tom, plus good views thank you goes to Frank for donat- main station. Peregrine Falcon num- banded at Whitefish Point, Michigan the research through their exciting guided field of two moose on Admiral Road! ing his time and expertise. bers were low with 5 banded. Last in 2003 as an adult was recaptured contributions, including the 16 trip at the Sax-Zim Other highlights of the trip included year there were 11 banded between here in November 2011. A banded adopt-a-raptor program. 5 sive year for Snowy Owls up in the Western Great Lakes Owl Monitoring Project tundra. Breeding success was note- By Dave Grosshuesch worthy (in a positive way), and as a This was the seventh year of a collaborative Northern Saw-whet Owl, Eastern Screech Owl, and Long- result of such great nesting success partnership between the Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory eared Owl, respectively. In Minnesota, Great Horned occurring, there was an explosion (HRBO), Natural Resources Research Institute (NRRI), Owls and Eastern Screech Owls were recorded in record of Snowy Owl chicks that suddenly MN-Dept. of Nat. Res. (MN-DNR), and the WI Bird Con- high numbers, Barred Owls were near record high, and N. began to “crowd” the arctic tundra, servation Initiative (WBCI) to monitor owl populations in Saw-whet Owls were second only to 2006. speaking in terms of raptors and their the western Great Lakes region. However, it’s the 138 Partners in the Western Great Lakes Region Owl territories. As I’m typing this story of volunteers willing to spend an evening or more listening Survey received a grant in 2012 to conduct detailed anal- Snowy Owls, lemming populations for owls that make the survey successful! Participants yses of all years’ data prior to the 2013 field season. This are still doing well up in the tundra; survey their route once between April 1 and April 15 lis- analysis will include calculations of detection probabilities, but since this past November, record tening for five minutes per station to the wonderful night- assessment of variables affecting detectability, a power numbers of Snowy Owls have come time sounds. analysis to determine the level of survey effort required down into America to spend their win- The objectives of this survey are to: 1) understand to detect trends, and a revised evaluation of population ter months. the distribution and abundance of owl species in the indices and trends. In addition to data analyses done, Snowy Owls have been mak- region, 2) determine trends in the relative abundance of we would like to begin a pilot survey using playbacks to ing news throughout the nation, from owls in the region, 3) determine if trends are comparable survey for uncommon or hard-to-detect species such as newspaper headlines, blogs, and even large-scale nightly news broadcasts. in surrounding areas and analyze whether these trends Eastern Screech Owl, Long-eared Owl, Short-eared Owl, Common Redpolls flocking for the winter months - photo by Erik Bruhnke could be scaled up or down on the landscape, and 4) Great Gray Owl, and Boreal Owl. This winter is likely going to be one determine if there are habitat associations of owl species Thanks again to all those that participated in the of the most noteworthy times to view good to note that although Snowy be heading back up north to return to in the region. 2011 Owl Survey! If you are interested in participating in Snowy Owls in our lifetime. To look for Owls have been found throughout the flat, brisk expanse of land they call 2011 marked one of the best owl survey seasons the Owl Monitoring Survey in Minnesota, please contact Snowy Owls where you live, check out the inland states this winter, the most home. to date, based on the number of owls detected. The Julie O’Connor (218.348.2291 or joconnor@hawkridge. areas that resemble their arctic habi- likely areas you are to see a Snowy overall mean number of owls per route for both states org). To find more details about the survey and to read tat that I mentioned earlier on. Snowy Owl will be within the rough vicin- combined (2.17) was the highest in survey history. In to- the full 2011 report, go to the Hawk Ridge website at: Owls love to perch on snow bales, flat ity of large bodies of water, such as tal, 379 owls of six species were recorded on 108 routes. www.hawkridge.org/research/springowl.html. rooftops, railings overlooking hillsides, the Great Lakes region, or along the The top five owl species combined between Minnesota etc. The big thing is, look where these West Coast or East Coast. Regard- and Wisconsin were Barred Owl, Great Horned Owl, white fluffballs of the north can find a less of where you are, I wish you luck good place to perch, which overlooks in finding these beautiful arctic birds. a good mouse-hunting area. It is also Over the next month or so, they will Encampment Forest Bird Banding Project By Annie Bracey The HRBO Research Committee has a long term particularly for those species captured. The Encamp- goal of studying the bird migration on the North Shore of ment Forest was a desirable banding location because Live Your Life Like a Movie! Lake Superior. This report by Annie Bracey (Hawk Ridge) of the diverse habitat types available to migrating birds and Peter Harris (Wolf Ridge ELC) is a small part of that and because of its proximity to Lake Superior. During Birdathon 2012 activity. the four day effort, a total of 15 Encampment Forest Bird Banding Project, Lake County, species and 34 individual birds Continued On Page 7 Who loved the film “The Big Year”? I know I did! The opening night audience at the Zinema in Duluth was a shoul- MN der-to-shoulder crowd of Hawk Ridge regulars mingling with Duluth Audubon members. We all could identify with During the fall of 2011, researchers set up the character’s quest for a Snowy Owl, and the birding hot-spots of Duluth, MN and the Sax-Zim Bog (just north of a banding station within the Encampment Forest Duluth) that were featured prominently in the story. as a way to sample to migratory bird population moving along the north shore of Lake Superior. Now, by participating in the 26th Annual St. Louis County Birdathon, Saturday May 19, is your chance to have a The study was designed to 1) capture the move- “Big Year” experience for 24 hours! The Birdathon is our spring-time Hawk Ridge fundraiser event. Previous years’ ments of non-raptorial birds (primarily songbirds) winners have gone on for big careers in Birdathon circles (see Friends of Sax-Zim Bog “BRRRRDathon” results), within the Encampment Forest, 2) record demo- and have even been featured in documentaries, such as “Ghost Bird”. graphic information for each individual bird cap- tured, 3) determine whether there were differenc- This year, you can join a team led by an experienced birder, depending on space available, so get your registration es in capture rates between nets located near the and pledges in early! You can compete in categories, including the St. Louis County Big Day, the Big Sit, the Non- ridgeline verses nets located near the shoreline, Motorized Division, Youth, or Township. The overall winning team will receive the coveted traveling Owl Trophy at and 4) provide an educational experience for resi- the compilation brunch held at Hartley Nature Center on Sunday May 20. Prizes will also be awarded for winners of dents of the Encampment Forest, by each category. offering a close-up view and discussion of the birds migrating through the area, Details can be found on our website at www.hawkridge.org/events/birdathon.html. For more information about join- ing a team, please contact [email protected]. Proceeds benefit the Hawk Ridge education programs. Lori Walewski (left) teaching visitors about 6 Passerine banding - photo by Annie Bracey 15 Snowy Owl continued species of owls that find within the arctic, and these little mam- Fall 2011 Hawk Ridge Raptor Migration Report their home-sweet-home mals can make up as much as 90% By Karl Bardon habitat deep in the for- of the Snowy Owls’ diet! Snowy Owls Highlights Red-tails, 90% of the Rough-legs, and 77% of the Golden ests, Snowy Owls come that live near the coastal regions of For the 40th consecutive season, a full-time raptor count Eagles came in November, underscoring the importance from a land of bitter cold, the tundra will feed on waterfowl and was conducted from the main overlook at Hawk Ride Na- of regular coverage during the month, which did not begin cliffs shooting out along fish too, while more inland-dwelling ture Reserve. A total of 70,757 raptors of 18 species were until after 1991. bluffs, and flat, treeless Snowy Owls will feed on snowshoe counted during 942.9 hours of observation. Unlike previ- expanses. This unique hare. By far though, the lemmings are ous seasons, this report includes only those observations Results - Species region of the world, called the key for the livelihood of Snowy from the main overlook (in previous years a composite Both Osprey and Turkey Vulture numbers were a little be- the arctic tundra, is just Owls. Lemmings, being holding a count between the banding station and the main overlook low average. A very late Osprey that flew by on Novem- what Snowy Owls need very “basic” position on the food chain was tabulated). Although this season’s total was 13% be- ber 6th was the first November report for Hawk Ridge. to thrive. Snowy Owls within the arctic tundra, experience low the average since 1991, it was 16% above the aver- Juvenile Northern Harriers seemed to be everywhere are ground-nesting birds, dramatic population fluctuations ev- age since 1972, and it was the best season since 2004. this season! Of the 755 harriers counted for the season, laying their eggs within a ery few years. With lemmings mak- Many species showed their best season since 2003- 79% were juveniles, including an incredible 100 juveniles slightly sheltered “scrape” ing up such a significant portion of the 2005, and many species showed a high percentage of among the 116 total harriers on 11 September. This was in the ground, and dur- Snowy Owls’ diet, ornithologists have juveniles, suggesting a good breeding season throughout the best season for harriers since 1999 (and 49% above ing their incubation will found that the Snowy Owls’ repro- the north. Highlights included an adult Mississippi Kite on average). fiercely defend their nest ductive success is linked to lemming 15 September, a gray morph Gyrfalcon on 3 November, Sharp-shinned Hawk numbers finally surged to from animals as large as populations for that spring/summer of and a record number of Bald Eagles for the second year 19,474, which is the third best season ever. Much of this arctic foxes and wolves! breeding. In years when lemmings are in a row. flight came early in the season when juveniles predomi- The cold, windswept abundant throughout the arctic tundra, nated, including a record August flight of 466 on the 30th, conditions that exist adult Snowy Owls are not only thriv- Weather and a peak of 1857 on 4 September (very early), which is within the arctic tundra ing, but they are finding enough food Fall 2011 was warmer and drier than normal throughout the third highest daily count for the state. Although we do prevent trees from ever to sustain their chicks on the nest; re- the season, with only one day lost due to rain (August not count the number of juveniles of this species, the per- sprouting and taking-root. sulting in great reproductive success. Snowy Owl in the Duluth Harbor - photo by Erik Bruhnke 31st), and only 3.7 inches of snow (which is 12 inches centage must have been very high. Both Cooper’s Hawk Patches of hardy grasses During years when lemmings are below normal). This pattern held true throughout the en- and Northern Goshawk numbers were below the average only found in the lower 48 states dur- can be found throughout scarce, parenting Snowy Owls could tire season; for example, August was 2.5 degrees warmer since 1991, but still the best seasons since 2005, and ing the winter months. This bird that is the tundra. These little windbreaks, have a hard time finding enough food than average, September was 2.6 inches drier than both species showed a high percentage of juveniles (50% sparking avian awe & interest all over as well as brief undulations that exist to keep themselves alive, let alone normal, October was 5.3 degrees warmer and 1.7 inches for Cooper’s and 84% for Gos). The overall increase in America this winter is the Snowy Owl. within the vast reaches of the tundra, their offspring; resulting in low repro- drier than normal, and November was 4.3 degrees warm- Cooper’s Hawk numbers was especially noticeable this The Snowy Owl is the heavi- are home to the Snowy Owls’ pre- ductive success for that season. er and 1.5 inches drier than normal. Other than account- season. est owl in North America. They are a ferred food source; the lemming. Lem- This past summer was an im- ing for a record high number of observation hours, the As with last year, Rough-legged Hawks also very densely-built species, with white, mings are small rodents that thrive pres- downy feathers surrounding much of Continued On Page 15 warm and dry weather appears to have had little effect on showed a good percentage of juveniles (30%), as can their body, including all the way down Sleeping Snowy Owl photographed through a spotting raptor migration. be expected during what appears to be the high point of their legs and even the soles of their scope on Chequamegon - photo by Erik Bruhnke their four-year cycle. The season total of 618 was 24% feet. All Snowy Owls have rich-yellow Overall Results above average since 1991. For the seventh year in a eyes, with a dark bill that is mostly August and the first half of September had good flights row, Broad-winged Hawk numbers were below average submersed in beautiful, frosty fluff that of early season species such as Sharp-shinned Hawks, without a significant September flight. These fickle fliers coats and protects their faces. Adult American Kestrels, and Northern Harriers, but late Sep- blow where the wind blows and even the lightest easterly males are the palest of the ages and tember and October were relatively poor for migration, breeze pushes them beyond the range of hawk ridge. genders of Snowy Owls. Adult males especially the last two weeks of October which failed to Nevertheless, I am confident that perfect conditions will can be pure white from head to toe. produce any good flights of later season species such again be just right for a spectacular flight. The single adult Immature males and adult females as Golden and Bald Eagles, and Red-tailed and Rough- Red-shouldered Hawk that flew directly over the count- are beautifully-marked in black hori- legged Hawks. All these latter species redeemed them- ing platform on 6 October was well below the average of zontal bars stacked throughout their selves beyond all expectation in November, however, three. mostly-white feathers. The immature with a record number of birds (6160) recorded for the Red-tailed Hawk numbers rebounded somewhat female Snowy Owls are the darkest, month. No less than 51% of the Bald Eagles, 39% of the after four years of low numbers. The total of 7307 is the often appearing sooty overall from a Continued On Page 8 distance, and can look like they have Encampment continued north shore. more black than white throughout were banded. Of the species captured, only two were This was a cooperative educational their barred chests, non-migratory species. There was a difference in capture study with Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory and dark-mottled wings rate between the two major sites sampled, with a higher Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center staff. and speckled faces capture rate occurring near the ridgeline. Many Encamp- Support from the Cathedral Grove Committee of & heads. ment Forest residents participated in the banding process The Nature Conservancy and the Encampment 14 Unlike many and discussion of avian ecology and migration along the Forest Association is gratefully acknowledged. 7 Raptor Report continued Hawk Weekend Festival Summary 2011 best season since 2006, but still 11% below the average Bald Eagles set a new season record, with 5688 indi- By Karen Stubenvoll since 1991. Most rewarding was the overall high percent- viduals recorded, which is 84% above average and 25% On the weekend of Sep- Tekeila of the Twin Cities, our key- who served as Hawk Ridge chief age of juvenile Red-tails (32%), and most surprising was higher than last season’s record of 4519 individuals. A tember 16-18, 2011, visitors from note speaker, gave a fantastic digital raptor bander for 39 years, and to the large number of juveniles which came in November, peak of 453 was seen on 25 November. Although Golden near and far gathered with staff and photography workshop in the af- Debbie Waters, who served as the including a peak of 235 juveniles outnumbering adults on Eagle numbers did not break 200 individuals as they did volunteers to celebrate the annual ternoon. Dave Carman taught “Ad- Hawk Ridge education director for 11 the very late dates of 12-13 November. Interestingly, this the last two seasons, the season count of 160 was still raptor migration at Hawk Ridge. Our vanced Hawkwatching” workshops years. The impact they have made on high percentage of juveniles carried over into dark morph 24% above average. Unlike the previous few years when two largest Broad-winged Hawk days at the Overlook. Not many raptors the Hawk Ridge research and educa- Red-tails as well, suggesting a good breeding season very strong flights occurred in late October, this year’s of the season actually bracketed were flying, but the crowd was enthu- tion programs is timeless. This was throughout this species’ range; among the total of 72 dark count was mostly in November, with a late peak of 18 on the festival, occurring on Thursday, siastic all the same. The kids espe- followed by an extremely entertaining Red-tailed Hawks seen, 29 were juveniles, a much larger 27 November. September 15 and Monday, Septem- cially were delighted with passerine and informative talk by Stan Tekeila: percentage than I have seen previously. As is typical, The number of Peregrine Falcons did not quite ber 19. Those who came earlier and (songbird) banding that was happen- “Uncommon Facts about Common most of the dark type Red-tails were birds of the Western break 100 birds as it did the last two years, but was still stayed later were treated to some fine ing at the Overlook. The highlight of Birds”. Now we understand why his race (Buteo jamaicensis calurus), but a greater number well above average (41%), continuing a strong increas- kettles. the day for raptor banding was the favorite bird is the crow! of Harlan’s were also seen. Among the total of six Har- ing trend for this species. As with last year, nearly half of Our Friday evening event was hatch-year Peregrine Falcon which We had a spirited live auction, lan’s this fall were light morph adults on 24 October and all the Peregrines came in October (45), which is much held at the Clearwater Grille & Event was displayed by Julie O’Connor, our thanks to Michelle Lee, of the North- 11 November, a dark morph adult on 20 October, a light later than previous years, when the October average was Center overlooking Lake Superior on Peregrine Watch Coordinator. land News Center, and her husband, morph juvenile at the Moose Valley banding station on 12 only 10 birds. Although the American Kestrel season total beautiful scenic highway 61. Regis- Saturday evening, we re- Gary Kovanen, a professional auc- November, and dark morph juveniles on 26 October and was slightly below average, this was still the best sea- trants were greeted outside by Red- turned to the Clearwater Grille & tioneer. The auction highlight was 12 November. An adult Krider’s was seen on 13 Novem- son since 2005, so perhaps numbers of this species are tailed Hawk, Sky (with Joan Schna- Event Center for the social event and the bidding war for Frank Nicoletti’s ber and a partial albino (75% white) adult light morph was rebuilding after nine years of below average counts. The bel), Bu, an Eastern Screech Owl and auction. We were greeted outside by guided Sax-Zim Bog winter birding seen on 15 October. Merlin count was average with no significant peaks, but a Harris’s Hawk (with Lake Superior an educational Peregrine Falcon on trip. With the close of the silent auc- It was also a good season for other dark morph two Richardson’s Merlins were seen on 29 September Zoo staff). A delicious pasta buffet display with Erin Manning from Wolf tion, we then enjoyed music by Mark buteos as well, since two dark morph Broad-wings were and 7 October. was served, followed by dessert and Ridge ELC. Delicious hors d’oeuvres Zmudy’s band. found among the kettles, and all of the ten Swainson’s coffee. Dr. Jerry Niemi, University of were served, and several visitors Due to Sunday’s dreary Hawks seen were dark morph. One has to wonder why so Acknowledgements MN Duluth Professor of Biology and enjoyed a cocktail from the bar while weather, migration was essentially many of the Swainson’s at Hawk Ridge are dark morph, This was unquestionably my best season yet at Hawk Hawk Ridge board member, present- browsing through the silent auction shut down. So, we reflected on our since the easternmost portion of this western species’ Ridge, and I have many people to thank for their help. ed a very informative talk on “Forty items. happy memories and made plans for population (in western Minnesota) is entirely light morph. First and foremost is assistant counter, Cory Ritter (aka Years of Research at Hawk Ridge”. After the meal & social time, our next visit to Hawk Ridge. The Swainson’s we see here are clearly not coming from telemetry man), whose unyielding work ethic and quiet On Saturday, participants Lifetime Achievement awards were the nearest portion of their range! The total of 10 Swain- enthusiasm certainly made him the best assistant ever. I scattered to various field trips. Stan presented for David “Fud” Evans, son’s was well above the average of six. am equally as grateful to my “team” of volunteer counters What is the saturation point for the burgeoning including long-timers Andrew Longtin, Dave Carman, Joe Non-Raptor Migration continued Bald Eagle population? For the second year in a row, Beck, and Russ Edmonds who have all apparently be- 3 Canvasback on 28 October, local flight, especially for robins, rustys and a number of years struggling with come quite accustomed Common Terns on the lake shore in redpolls. The total count of warblers non-raptor counts solely from Hawk to my idiosyncrasies. August, 3 Semipalmated Plovers 27- this fall was only 7,884, in sharp Ridge, I think we finally have the best Jane Hosking continued 30 August, 2 Sanderling on 29 Au- contrast to last season when over methodology in place to capture the to provide immeasur- gust, single Dunlins on 15 September 31,000 warblers were counted. There greatest number of non-raptors with able moral and culinary and 24 October, and six dowitchers were also low numbers of other the personnel available. support to the entire flying by Hawk Ridge on 29 Septem- neotropical migrants, such as Swain- Now that the non-raptor count team of hungry counters, ber (probably Long-billed Dowitch- son’s Thrushes, Eastern Kingbirds has become a part of the count Stephen Bockhold, Peder ers), the first I have seen at the ridge. (125 compared to 364 last year), and research at Hawk Ridge, we think of Svingen, Kate Nicoletti, I can say quite confidently Rose-breasted Grosbeaks (20 com- ourselves as just bird counters (rather Chris Neri, Nova Mack- that this was the worst fall migration pared to 170 last year). Based on the than just raptor counters)- a fantastic entley, and many others for neotropical migrants that I have high percentage of juvenile raptors improvement, and the way all “hawk” also brought treats and witnessed in over 30 years of birding. recorded at the ridge this season, watches should be conducted! I helped scan the skies. This impression was echoed by other including Sharp-shinned Hawks, it would like single out Jan Green to long-time local birders. In contrast to was a very good breeding season thank for her continued support, as the raptor flight at Hawk Ridge this for many species of raptors- so why well as Janelle Long, the Hawk Ridge fall, which showed a very good flight were there so few songbirds? Since Board and Research Committee, early in the season (especially for the sharpie flight was unusually large and all of the other counters for their Sharp-shinned Hawks) and a relative- and early, it is possible they moved continued help and ly poor flight later in the season, the south so early precisely because of interest in these non- songbird flight was just the opposite the overall lack of songbirds. raptor counts. Karl Bardon (left) and Cory Ritter (right) keeping their eyes a very poor early flight, especially for As with the raptor season, I on the skies - photo by Janelle warblers and other neotropical mi- can honestly say this was my best Long grants, and a very good later season season yet for non-raptors. After 13 Comments From The Board Fall 2011 Hawk Ridge Non-Raptor Migration Report By Karl Bardon By Karen Stubenvoll, Chair For the fifth consecutive season, a full-time non- massive flight of 16,032 Common Redpolls on 28 October What a fantastic fall season raptor count was done at Hawk Ridge during the same (a new high count for the state) helped to bring the sea- we had at Hawk Ridge! Thanks hours as the official raptor count. As we did last year, we son total for this species to an incredible 37,759, which to much hard work and many included early morning observations from the rooftop of is much higher than the previous invasion of 20,139 in hours from our staff, volunteers, the Lester River condominiums (near the mouth of the 2008. The big question is - where did all these redpolls and board, we made 2011 an Lester River) to create a composite total of non-raptors. go? After mid-November, this species seemed to almost overwhelming success. One of the Since most songbirds prefer to fly closer to the shoreline disappear… best parts was making so many of Lake Superior, the Lester River condo site was added It was the best season I have seen for quite a few new friends at the Overlook. Many to better observe and count this migration. Also, since the different species, some of which are much less common of you have been following us on condo site lies a block from the shore of Lake Superior, here in Duluth than elsewhere in Minnesota. Although Facebook, too. Thanks for posting directly in a southeasterly line between Hawk Ridge and perhaps miniscule from a statewide perspective where photos and videos to our page! the shore which is 1.3 miles away, it is the perfect site tens of thousands of white geese can be seen, the sea- As chair of the Board of to do a composite count with Hawk Ridge. Coverage at son counts of 387 Snow Geese and 30 Ross’s Geese Directors, I want to especially the condo rooftop was generally the first three hours of were the best I have seen at Hawk Ridge. On 7 Novem- thank Frank Berdan for his valued the day depending on the number of birds seen. During ber a flight of 220 Snow Geese held 16 Ross’s Geese, service to the Hawk Ridge board September and October when Cory Ritter was present as briefly reminding me of western Minnesota where flocks over the past 2 years. Although he the second raptor and non-raptor counter, he covered the of white geese are often liberally sprinkled with Ross’s in has stepped down from the board, Hawk Ridge main overlook, while I counted at the condo spring, but this is the third highest fall count for the state, he will continue to help us with the rooftop. We tried to avoid duplication by counting only and perhaps the highest for eastern Minnesota at any Sarah Glesner (left) and Gretchen McDaniel (right) with eagle in honor of Camp Leatherneck, birds nearest the shore from the condo, and only birds time. It was also the best season I have seen for Tundra Fundraising Committee. I want to Afghanistan - photo by michaelfurtman.com welcome our newest board mem- nearest the ridge from Hawk Ridge. Using this method, Swans (474), including a peak of 161 on 8 November, ber, Martha Markusen. Martha is of our totals were 188,220 non-raptors early in the morning many of which landed to rest far out in the middle of Lake Counsel with the Fryberger law firm in Duluth. She and her husband, Greg Smith, and their little dachshund, Judy, from the condo rooftop and 132,407 non-raptors through- Superior! This is unusual behavior for a species which spend the winters in Texas where she is a volunteer at Bentsen State Park. All winter, Martha welcomes guests at out the day from the Hawk Ridge main overlook, yielding gathers by the thousands in marshes of southeastern the visitor center and helps them identify birds, then in March she is a volunteer hawk counter. We are fortunate to a composite total of 320,627 migrant non-raptors passing Minnesota at this time of year. Since the acorn-loving add her expertise to our board. by the Hawk Ridge area during fall 2011. This represents Red-headed Woodpecker is quite rare in Duluth (average The year 2011 turned out to be fantastic for Bald Eagles at our banding stations. I feel very fortunate to the best season ever for these non-raptor counts. This only about one per season at the ridge), this season’s have been present for two of them! On August 20, Hawk Ridge board member and volunteer raptor bander, David compares to an average of 146,000 from 2007-2009 count of six was a big surprise. Alexander, captured and banded a hatch-year Bald Eagle at Moose Valley station. Then on September 6, chief when counts were done entirely from Hawk Ridge, and It was also the best season yet for Northern raptor bander Frank Nicoletti captured and banded another hatch-year Bald Eagle at the main Hawk Ridge sta- 274,162 counted in 2010 when the Lester River condo Shrikes (59 counted), including a new state high count tion. It was a highlight of my season to adopt and release this huge bird at the Overlook. Then on September 9, was added as a composite observation site. of 15 tallied by a team of observers at the ridge on 21 staff raptor bander, Chris Neri, captured and banded another hatch-year Bald Eagle at the Moose Valley station. Unlike last year when Cameron Rutt and I were October. Many other species have a history of record Finally, on October 16, staff raptor bander, Nova Mackentley, captured and banded a 4-year old Bald Eagle at often overwhelmed by enormous mixed species flights high state counts from Hawk Ridge, but have yet to be the Paine Farm station. This was at the condo rooftop, this season I was the sole observer seen in such numbers from the ridge during my tenure as the first adult Bald Eagle ever from the condo, but never felt overwhelmed by mixed the raptor and non-raptor counter. For example, a flight captured in the 40-year history of species flights. Although the total number of birds ob- of 125 Eastern Bluebirds on 24 October this season was raptor banding at Hawk Ridge. served this season was significantly higher than last sea- the second highest state count, behind a record 167 from The magnificent bird was adopted son (or any other season!) the large flights of birds were Hawk Ridge on 11 October 1999. The peak of 315 Pine and released by Hawk Ridge more single species affairs. In fact, the greater number of Grosbeaks on 2 November this season was the highest I volunteer, Gretchen McDaniel, in birds this season can really be attributed to just three spe- have seen (and perhaps the third our fourth highest count honor of brother-in-law and other cies: American Robins, Rusty Blackbirds, and Common for the state), but well behind the 1025 counted at Hawk soldiers serving in Afghanistan. Redpolls. This included a season total of 137,612 Ameri- Ridge on 3 November 1997. Flocks of Red Crossbills The moving story of the eagle can Robins, which is four times higher than the average totaling 56 birds on 2 November 2011 were the largest I adoption, with Michael Furtman’s of the previous four years (from 2007-2010, the aver- have seen in five years, but nothing compared to previous inspiring photos, made front-page age was 35,430 and the highest season was 51,623 in daily totals over 200 from Hawk Ridge and the Lakewood news in Duluth. 2008). Robins, robins, robins! Several huge robin flights pumping station. Perhaps next year will be an invasion for As we look back on our fall sea- occurred, including 39,127 on 9 October during light rain some of these species! son, and recall the many moments and fog, and 35,740 high overhead under clear skies on A juvenile Parasitic Jaeger harassing gulls at that gave us joy, I hope you will 12 October (only one higher count for the state of MN). the Lester River mouth on 7 November was plan to spend next September and Equally as impressive was the flight of 13,540 Rusty perhaps the rarest bird sighted this fall. A few October with us up at the Ridge. Blackbirds, during a NW gale on 29 September (which is species were added to my cumulative list of well over twice that of any previous count for the state), species for the Hawk Ridge/Lester River condo Gretchen McDaniel releasing honorary bringing the season total of rustys to 23,860. Similarly, a count, including Bald Eagle - photo by michaelfurtman.com Continued On Page 13 9 Hawk Ridge wouldn’t be Hawk Ridge the end of a show you’ve acted in. It’s Volunteer without the wonderful volunteers, a peaceful, calm feeling, like you’re Volunteer Report By Julie O’Connor naturalists, and staff members up just chilling with nature and its crea- The fall of 2012 was a glori- ment of Labor places a dollar value Weekend, serve on committees, work Voices there. It’s so fun to work with them! I tures. It’s like bonding with birds. ously warm season at Hawk Ridge! on each volunteer hour that can be in our office, help with educational definitely value every minute I’ve had, Aside from watching birds, Balmy temps kept the overlook hop- factored in to the value of the orga- programs, plan and staff national By Samiha Dib learning from them, watching them do I’ve had inspiration at Hawk Ridge ping with visitors and our overlook nization. When we do the math, we conferences hosted by Hawk Ridge, their thing, and just talking to them. for other things as well! My inter- volunteers kept pace with the ac- realize that our volunteer hours repre- lend their artistic talents to our proj- Hawk Ridge. When I think They have this pleasant ability to est in photography spiked incredibly tion, competence, warmth and grace sent over $91,000 of in-kind contribu- ects, and represent Hawk Ridge to of those words, I think of one of the brighten up any day! this past fall, as well as my interest we’ve come to expect from them. tion to Hawk Ridge! the community at large. Words are very best parts of autumn in Duluth. I I can’t count how many times in film-directing (funny, right? - well Our numbers of volunteers We ask our volunteers to inadequate to convey the importance think of lovely, turning trees, beautiful I woke up in the fall and said, first maybe not, since I was inspired to are remarkably stable. Again in 2012, commit to a minimum of 24 hours of of these people to this organization. views, absolutely wonderful people, thing, to my mom: “Can we go to work on a Hawk Ridge documentary) we had 75 active overlook volunteers during the fall season. This year, well Thank you to each and every and, of course, those incredible Hawk Ridge today? So what if it‘s and other things, as well. during September and October. That over half of our volunteers met that one of our incredible volunteers. We creatures that I have the privilege pouring and cold?” It’s one of the very You know, I feel like I should number swells to 107, when we add minimum; 42 exceeded it; 22 logged couldn’t do what we do without you; of learning about and watching… few things in my life that will get me say that hanging out at the Ridge in the behind-the-scenes volunteers more than 40 hours, and our top 5 you truly are the heart and soul of Raptors. I’ve learned so much in my willingly (dare I said… eagerly?) up at when I was seven, eight, and nine that help with the count, office work, volunteers logged in a combined total Hawk Ridge! time at Hawk Ridge and I’ve been seven in the morning, on a Saturday. years old was much different than it is and off-site projects. We’ve gotten of 720 hours! truly inspired to learn even more And that means something! now, at fifteen…, honestly, it‘s always bigger, and we’ve also gotten bet- In addition to what you see We’ll never have too many volun- and definitely do some avian stud- It’s been a fantastic volunteer charming! Of course it’s awesome to ter at recording our volunteer effort at the Main Overlook in the fall, our teers! If 2012 is your year to get ies in my lifetime! I find the fact that I opportunity for me, since I love birds, be old enough to actually, truly, vol- throughout the year. In 2012, our volunteers man booths at events involved, contact Volunteer Coordi- can go and take part in this beautiful outdoors, being around people, and unteer and do jobs other than waving volunteers recorded 2587 hours of and festivals, teach about Peregrine nator, Julie O’Connor at joconnor@ experience simply wonderful. Holding of course, those little dream-fulfillers and smiling at all the visitors (al- service at the overlook, and another Falcons at Peregrine Watch, survey hawkridge.org or 218-348-2291. one of these live wonders and being like cash registers and price-taggers! though, now that I think of it, I still do 1150 off the ridge! The US Depart- for owls in the spring, pull off Hawk able to see, up close, every detail One of my favorite things that… Old habits stick around, eh?) and characteristic is one of the most about the whole experience is that, I hope I can continue volunteering amazing things I’ve done. Of course, although (I admit!) I still can’t tell there for years to come. Yeah, that’d Stewardship Notes many raptors apart, be pretty sweet. and I’m one of the I have so many good memo- By Bob Owens younger volunteers, ries from the Ridge, from over the The month of January picked trail-riders get their horses out of diverse area. I was included in a years, and I wouldn’t replace them up a nick name of “Junuary”, which the barn to enjoy the outdoors. The The Hawk Ridge Nature Re- bunch of different for anything! Things like, (way back was followed by February, which most important fact is since East serve was also blessed to have the jobs. I loved that! when I was a wee little eight-year-old) we could call “Februmay”. We are Skyline Parkway has been closed Minnesota Conservation Corps from The feeling that standing with an extremely curious enjoying a most unusual winter with from both ends, the park is getting Moose Lake for three days of volun- your work makes Saw-whet Owl that insisted on hop- temperatures above normal and heavy use from fun-loving outdoors- teer work. They enlarged the band- everyone else’s jobs ping from my arm to the top of my precipitation well below normal. oriented families and fitness-driven ing station area by cutting brush easier is a wonderful head! Or, ya know, showing up in a With that knowledge and situation, people. to make sight and access easier one! Rough-legged Hawk costume (this the Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve is The local mountain bike for banding research and educa- Sometimes year) and having people actually be experiencing changes both helpful group, known as COGGS (Cy- tional opportunities. Brush was also when I’ve gone on able to identify me! And even things and stressful. The birds in the area clists of Gitchee Gumee Shores), removed from the road right-away for the hundredth like running birds to the Overlook. are enjoying more natural food with received a major grant for trail for nearly 200 yards, eliminating time to a friend Or, hehe, asking the naturalists and buds coming early, insects and ro- construction in Duluth, of which a the hazard of a narrow road to see about Hawk Ridge other volunteers endless questions dent beginning to stir. Other wildlife, portion is designated for trail con- oncoming traffic and people on (guilty as charged… when there weren’t many visitors… such as coyotes and deer, changed struction in the Hawk Ridge Nature foot. Several small areas, where But how can it not I was so happy that they always had their habits making survival easier Reserve for 2013 or 2014. This trail invasive buckthorn was treated, will be talked about?!), answers! There’s nothing like an an- for deer and more challenging for will be designed to have world-class be followed with removal of trees, they’ll ask me why I swered question. the predators. The human use has views of Lake Superior, a range of once they have been declared dead. get so excited about In short, Hawk Ridge is amaz- also changed, as there are many difficulty, and be multiple-use for Many other areas have been des- spending my day ing and I love it. Forever. See you more hikers, dog walkers, mountain hikers, birders, and fitness train- ignated to be treated this summer watching birds, and I next fall! Good bird watching to you, bikers, joggers, birders with binocu- ing with little interference of current and fall. It seems the invasive beast find it hard to explain all! lars, camera-toting walkers and just Hawk Ridge trails. They will review is multiplying; however, mapping to them… It’s not fun-seeking sightseers visiting Hawk the final design with the Hawk Ridge and marking has made identification about endorphins, Ridge Nature Reserve, than we Board of Directors for comments easier with the intent to focus on like with sports. It’s would normally see this time of year. and approval. Some of our marked trail corridors and the core not about the feeling We have fewer snowmobilers, but trails have been upgraded to be banding and viewing area of accomplishment have had a few sled-dog hobbyists less invasive for erosion and gentler this coming season. and success, like at and cross-country skiers, as well to the terrain. Additional trails are as people pulling their children on being marked for later construction Samiha Dib with Northern Goshawk - photo by Erik Bruhnke sleds. We have even started to see to spread human traffic to a more 11