Here at the Head of the Lakes (Duluth, Minnesota) we have settled into a weather pattern caused by Lake Superior’s cool waters, and warm air being blown North from the Gulf. The end result is fog which often does not clear to afternoon (sometimes not at all during the day). We northerners don’t mind the fog too much, as we know the alternative is hot steamy temperatures found even just 30 miles away from the big lake. My daily bike rides are now in beautiful 57F to 65F weather.

Fog does not mean a lack of birding opportunities. In fact, it can be the exact opposite. Assuming the weather is not too damp, the birds will be out feeding and normally closer to the ground (fog can often be thicker a bit higher in elevation). Thus, birds will come down more to ground level to escape the dampness found in the tree tops. This morning was one of those foggy days. I decided to see if my local owls would be somewhat out in the open. I knew they would like the dark light, and desire to get away from the constant dripping in the woods (fog condenses on leaves and branches). Although it really was not raining, during my birding hike I felt like a constant light drizzle. The fog was essentially condensing on me.

Jackpot! I took these images around 8 am, and had a fun time with my owls. I did not even know the second owl was nearby till the owl I had been watching for fifteen minutes flew over to join its sibling. I also found some of Hoot’s friends. In short, fogbound birding can be a great time, but be prepared to get damp!

Two of the Three Great Horned Owl Juveniles

A short video while I was watching the first owl. You can hear the dripping of the fog off the trees. Yes, I was getting damp! (video link for email subscribers)

Individual Owl Portraits

While walking home, I discovered my Pileated Woodpecker family working on a dead tree. I saw them fly off in the direction of my home. I found it humorous  that when I got home the Pileateds were snacking upon my suet. They are able to reach my house muck quicker by flying. I have to take a circuitous route which involves a footbridge at a waterfall. (pileated woodpecker video links for email subscribers … video 1 … video 2)