Whether we like it or not it appears the easy ride we’ve all been enjoying here in the Heartland is pulling into the station. Did I hear that correctly, wind gusts to 50 MPH tomorrow? Sheesh.
recent snow bunting near Lake Park, Minn., thanks Jan
Yesterday morning I saw more evidence of the coming change while birding with two friends on the edge of West Fargo: three snow buntings. Indeed, the small tundra-nesting birds are here. Then today I was somewhat surprised to get an email from a friend in Minnesota with an attached photo taken on a dock near Lake Park. Sure enough a snow bunting. Except the shot was taken a full three weeks ago.
Not to be alarmed, however. This arctic bird is a common annual visitor this time of year, often in huge flocks of thousands. The individuals we are seeing now are mere scouts for the armies to be.
