Tag Archives: MN North: Canal Park

Day 082: Chukar Chills at Dawn

Year 1, ,

In the pre dawn light, the wind was blowing in excess of 20 mph, and the temperature fell to 15F. In short, it was a cold mid April morning in northern Minnesota. However, although the chill factor reminded me of January, I decided to head out before sunrise for some photographing at 5:40 am Wow! I’m glad I skipped the normal sleep, and braved the cold.

Today’s bird is a Chukar. Say the word fast with a guttural accent and both this bird’s name and look / attitude reminds me of Klingons! It’s amazing I even saw a Chukar on the shores of Lake Superior. According to All About Birds from Cornell, this guy belongs in the western Rockies. Thus, he was a rare find on rocky shores of the big lake.

The morning was actually provided a wealth of photo opportunities. Before my photo session with Mr. Chukar, I watched and photographed some lake freighters arriving at the Duluth harbor in the dawn light. The US Coast Guard ice breaker had helped them cross Lake Superior which is still 75% ice covered.

After my photoshoot with the lakers, I drive to a small creek which empties into the Duluth harbor. This creek provides a small bit of open water, and the geese and gulls were enjoying the early morning sun. All in all, it was a great morning!

Chukar on Brighton Beach
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High Bridge Geese and Gulls
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Laker in the Pre-Dawn Light
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Day 067: Flight Reflections

Year 1

Shortly after dawn I made my way down to Canal Park. My hope was some interesting ducks would have moved into the open water over night, but few birds were present and most of those were down by the lighthouse where access was blocked in the Winter by the storm gates. Given the morning sun felt pleasant (+22F!), I just leaned against the pier and enjoyed the peace and calm. While daydreaming I spotted a loan goldeneye near the harbor’s entrance. I decided maybe a good photographic opportunity would avail myself, and I walked the length of the pier and across the bridge to get near this duck. After my ten minute walk, the goldeneye startled due to my increasing presence, but I did get two quick pictures!

Ice Wars! May the Force be with you!
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Approaching Hoth … the Star Wars ice planet!
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Post Update: Later in the day, there were more arrivals at Ice Planet Hoth (Lake Superior)

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Two mallards take a swim next to the Hoth Lighthouse
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Day 066: Owl Alley Afternoon

Year 1,

Lester River Road, now known as “Owl Alley” is a great hangout for owls, and me. My birding spot is only 1/2 mile as the crow flies, and 1.25 miles by car. While a 1/2 mile walk might not seem difficult, I actually drive over because the hike would force me to ford two rivers and scale two deep ravines! This afternoon I drove over in search of my great gray owl, but was treated with spending two hours watching a northern hawk owl on the hunt. While the northern hawk owl was never successful while I was watching, it was fun to see him search and fly. Here are a few photos from this afternoon’s trip to Owl Alley.

I see you!
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I hate meeces to pieces!
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Hanging out in a grove a trees (very difficult photo to take)
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A Pair of Common Mergansers at Canal Park (first Spring sighting!)
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