As I have noted in many posts over the past week or so … it’s heavenly out in the countryside between the wildflowers and birds. If you have the opportunity, drive Scenic 61 between Duluth and Stony Point. The Lupine are at their peak. Purple will rule the day, and I am not even a fan of Prince! 🙂

One early morning stop is the intersection of Stebner and Martin Road. Two Broad-Winged Hawks were sitting within yards of each other … which implies there has to be a nest in the vicinity. The big dead tree upon which one hawk was perched starts an area which was logged a few years back. The logging company left a decent number of deadheads, snags and other trees. This area (Google Maps link) will only get better for birding in the months and years ahead. If you visit, then drive further on Martin Road to Lavaque Road (next intersection in about one mile). Turn right and go visit Steam Shovel Sally (on left about one mile along the road). Finally, notice the American Goldfinch which photobombed the last Broad-Winged Hawk image! A few minutes later I saw a flock of goldfinches take a very large detour around the hawk.

Broad-Winged Hawk

For the past month I have attempted many times to get both good views, and photographs of Meadowlarks. Their melodious song is a beautiful part of driving Wisconsin 13 towards Cloverland. Take any back dirt road, and enjoy their song. I like Windy Lane.

Eastern Meadowlark

Tree Swallow