They’re back! After not being around for a few years, Yellow-Headed Blackbirds are back nesting on Mud Lake (St. Louis River backwaters). Our group of five was treated to great views from as close as 10 yards. We lost track of the number of males, and saw several recently arrived females which were being actively courted. Leaving the pull out at 7:05 am for the 20 minute hike was perfect timing. As we arrived at the colony the males increasingly stopped their morning feed and started advertising for a mate!
Directions:
- Park at the pullout on the left as one faces Wisconsin just before the Oliver Bridge in Gary New Duluth.
- Hike the RR Tracks (not in service) towards downtown Duluth across the small bridge and almost to the other side of Mud Lake nearing the tree line. The Yellow-Heads were nesting in this area.
We also saw a pair of courting Green Herons and an Osprey fishing as well as many other birds. The birding excursion was fun for everyone and I will host more of these events later in the Spring / Summer.
Here are some photographs from this morning:
Yellow-Headed Blackbirds looking for a mate
Yellow-Headed Blackbird (female)
Some more pics of the guys!
Thank you Rich. What a treat this morning seeing these beauties! Inspirational. Our paths shall cross again!
Thank you so much Richard for taking me on the adventure this morning. What a thrill to see this beautiful yellow headed blackbird a first for me. What a unique birdsong they have one that I won’t forget. I look forward to the next guided tour!! Carol
It was a fun time. Great to have you along!
I’m coming to Duluth for Sat. My friend is not a birder so I’ll need to plan our bike/walk in areas I will see something new… shore birds for sure. I’ll try to get her to the park Point airport area and biking will be near McQuade Harbor. As her house is on 61 near there. I’d rather stay out of Downtown Duluth but I don’t know many other places as good as Park Point. Anyhoo I’ll look back at other posts you sent about birding in Duluth