Bohemian Waxwings have invaded Duluth (a somewhat rare winter bird down from further north). Folks are seeing flocks of 100, 250, 500 and even 1,000 Bohemians (like me this afternoon). Check out fruit trees in these neighborhoods … Chester Park, Congdon, Lakeside, and Woodland. My sighting was at 57th Ave East and Superior Street. The sky was swarming with them. We’re in the midst of a 6 inch snowfall, but the white stuff should end soon.
Flocks of Goldeneyes
Two afternoons ago I visited Canal Park in Duluth a bit before sundown. The Goldeneyes were using the only ice free water for miles around to feed. It suddenly dawned on me why this particular afternoon the birds did not spook (often they fly quickly away from me). Remember these birds are “sight feeders” under water. In the winter in northern Minnesota the sun is rather low in the sky, particularly in the afternoon. There is a period of about one hour where the setting sun shines right down the canal, and underwater … setting up good conditions for the Goldeneyes to see underwater. My side of the canal was bathed in sunlight, while the South Pier was not. I now understand why the ducks put up with my presence. Food on a cold day is a good motivator.
Goldeneyes at Canal Park (total flock exceeded 300 birds)
The changed the photo parameters to better capture the number of ducks
Ice Road Aurora Borealis
While not the best part of the Northern Lights display from last night, this pic does show the “Ice Road” on which I was parked last night on a frozen lake north of Two Harbors. I turned on my car’s parking lights to illuminate the scene. The temperature was minus 25F at the time!
Ice Road Aurora Borealis in Northern Minnesota
Additional Photos of last night’s Northern Lights Display
Two Hours Later at McQuade Harbor … 20 minutes before sunrise. Some fishermen get ready for the morning fish!