While there were not a lot of different species of birds migrating down the North Shore yesterday, there were hundreds and hundreds of Cedar Waxwings. While inland from the big lake the wind was out of the south (poor for fall migration), as is often the case down at Lake Superior the wind was from the NE. Birds understand these weather patterns and one will often see migration next to the lake, but almost no birds 3 to 5 miles inland where the winds are not favorable.
Apparently some crows that were also at Stoney Point (about midway between Duluth and Two Harbors) took major umbrage with all the waxwings … see these first set of images. Other crows had started their dive bomb runs, which is why the waxwings are scattering.
Stoney Point (GPS Coordinates) is a most excellent spot for birding during the fall migration. The point (lava lows from ancient volcanoes) sticks out into Lake Superior, which means birds tend to fly by the point. Make certain you spend significant time on Alseth Road (dirt road between Stoney Point Drive and Scenic 61). This road tends to get most of the bird action.
More Stoney Point Cedar Waxwings
A Broad-Winged Hawk Hunts Early in the Morning (just uphill from Two Harbors)
Wow, so many waxwings together! Jon and Beth said the birds were eating mountain ash berries at their place yesterday
Here in NW WI this morning, the Nighthawk migration was in full swing. So many it was awesome.
stunning images. we were at stoney this morning. saw some eagles, but no wax wings. thanks for sharing the beauty of birds
There were hundreds of waxwings at McQuade Harbor this morning feasting on Mountain Ash berries.