Tag Archives: MN Central

The Owl Next Door! (A Talk by Me!)

Background, Year 9

Does everyone have spring fever? This winter has been cold and long. Thus, what could be better than to escape to a small organic farm a bit north of the Twin Cities on Saturday … enjoy homemade hard cider while I speak about the Amity Owls! Assuming the weather permits, you would also be able to walk around the farm and visit the maple syrup operation in progress. The talk will be in Sapsucker Farms modern cider barn with plenty of warm space. Although you are welcome to bring your own food, the farm will have a food truck present serving “Fireman’s BBQ”! This is a great family friendly event. My talk is just part of Sapsucker Farm’s Spring Day! Learn more.

  • Sapsucker Farm’s Spring Day: Saturday, March 26th
  • Time: 12:00 to 8:00 pm
  • The Owl Next Door Talk (me): 2:00 pm
  • Learn more via Sapsucker Farm’s web site.
  • Cost: Free!
  • Address: 2752 215th Avenue, Mora, MN 55051
  • Google Maps Link
  • Download a free PDF copy of my book, Do You Hoot?

Winter Hike at Banning State Park

Year 8

Saturday morning it was -16F, but at we progress towards March 1st, the sun climbs higher and higher in the sky. Thus by early afternoon the mercury was in the mid 20’s with a brilliant blue sky. Days like the one described make me love winter, but it WAS a long cold snap.

Molly and I met our youngest son and his wife for a hike along the Kettle River. The fast water ensures that no matter how cold, there are still always openings in the river ice. I hope you enjoy the photograph and short video. Northern Minnesota is precious! We will continue to enjoy the milder weather this evening when we visit some friends for an outdoor barbecue.

Hiking next to the Kettle River (video link for email subscribers)

Snow Birds Return

Year 7, ,

The term “snow birds” normally refers to some of my fellow Minnesotans that spend their winters in Florida or Arizona, but in this case I use the words to call out some returning song birds to the Northwoods. My wife and I drove 100 miles south to meet our son and daughter-in-law for a “social distance hike”. During our hike I found some birds which I have not yet seen near Lake Superior, were enjoying the spring weather (50’s and bright sun).

Yellow-Rumped Warbler

Purple Martin (these birds do not live in my area … too cold)

In addition, I made a trip over to the Lester Golf Course ponds which are near my house. My poor Bluebird couple was trying to defend five bird houses from the recently arrived tree swallows.

Tree Swallows trying to take over a birdhouse

Blue-Winged Teal taking a migration break.

Finally all continues well over at the Great Horned Owl nest. These two siblings are really starting to walk around their “home” white pine. The first image was taken right at sunset last night. This morning I found the pair hanging out 20 yards away on the opposite side of the tree … and ten feet higher up … morning sun! Given they are not able to fly, it was quite the walk, but their talons now have great grip strength.