My middle child came to visit this weekend, and this provided me the opportunity to take an extended birding excursion yesterday morning as he would be there for Molly. While everyone else seems to head to Sax-Zim Bog these days, I decided to trust in my own birding skills and avoid the crowds by going elsewhere. About 45 minutes after sunup I struck gold! I found a Northern Hawk Owl well north of Duluth. Although it was -22F (not windchill, but actual temperature), I spent almost 75 minutes with the owl as it hunted less than 15 yards from where I was standing. You will see by watching the video (video link for email subscribers) the owl barely acknowledged my presence.
And some still images plus Northern Hawk Owl impact points … where prey met their demise.
Awesome find Rich, and beautiful shots!
I’m visiting from Kansas and about to head up towards the Bog today. Planning to follow some of your routes and check out a few of your other suggested locations in Northern MN. Hopefully I’ll be treated to something as neat as this!
Beautiful!!! I’ll be going to Sax Zim this coming Friday. Where else are your favorite birding spots?
Just to be very clear, I did NOT see this Northern Hawk Owl in Sax-Zim Bog. However, make certain you visit the Welcome Center to learn current sightings, but most folks enjoy these three roads … Admiral and McDavitt Roads, plus Hwy #7.