The weather forecast screamed I should head north towards Ely this morning (11F, sunny and calm winds). Taking Lake County #2 out of Two Harbors one quickly enters the Superior National Forest, and although my home is within the Boreal Forest, getting north of Two Harbors means true wilderness. Near a small river as one approaches Mn Hwy 1 is a hot spot for Spruce Grouse, and this year … Crossbills. The four miles from the Sand River to the radio tower are fantastic birding, just watch for logging trucks in the rear view mirror. Otherwise the traffic is very light.
Most people head to this region for Spruce Grouse, but my target birds also included Red Crossbills. Neither bird disappointed! The numbers of Crossbills I saw shortly after sunrise was amazing, and I was extremely fortunate to spot nest building is process. Red Crossbills will nest at any time of year given an ample supply of pine cones. Their unique shaped beak is perfect for cracking open pine cones. Most other animals and birds are not able to access the seeds within, so the food is all theirs. The Northwoods definitely has a great supply of pine cones this winter from last summer’s growing season.
A Female Red Crossbill works nest building while her mate supervises! The female eventually walked around the tree and sat down. I could see her with my binoculars, but not the camera.
More Red Crossbill images 
Spruce Grouse in a Pine Tree (very lucky view up into the tree)
There are very few confirmed records of Red Crossbills nesting in Minnesota and no recent records. Hope you can keep track of this nesting and confirm young it would be a great record for Minnesota. Bob Janssen
Bob: While I do not have GPS coordinates for the location, I know the location. Will try to follow up. Thanks for the heads-up.
Rich
Thanks so much , look forward to hearing from you
Great pictures! Love the one where they appear to be looking into each other’s eyes.
Excellent photos… amazing to see the crossbills working on the nest. Wow.
As always, thanks for sharing.