Tag Archives: MN North: Canal Park

Day 084: Blizzard Birds!

Year 1,

Even if it’s April 16th, we’re in the middle of a big winter storm up here in northern Minnesota. Eight to fifteen inches of snow are expected by tomorrow morning. The current wind is 30 mph, with gusts over 40 mph. Thus, it’s not nice weather for either birds of photographers!

These black-capped chickadees were in the middle of an old fashioned food fight. When food is found after a long winter, it is valuable. For some reason this particular branch and spot is a preferred location for perching and breaking seeds.

On the other hand, just before the snow started these goldeneyes almost seemed to be playing! (or picking upon the third bird)

Food Fight
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Tag! You’re It!
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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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