Memorial Day is often thought to be the formal start of summer. Molly and I have had a small cabin the southern most lake of the Hudson Bay Watershed for 34 years. Summer is sometimes a state of mind in northern Minnesota. As I headed out birding one morning the mercury dropped to 38F, but of course … I was wearing shorts (and a sweater!).
My first task upon arriving at the cabin at this time of year is to get the water system working. In our case, we pump water out of the lake (and bring drinking water). Given we were expecting those aforementioned low temperatures on Saturday morning, I decided delaying dinner and working on the water system even given 52F and mosquitoes was the best choice. There is nothing like a brisk dip in the lake as the sun sets (required to get water system working) … water temp in the mid 50’s. However, I was rewarded for my efforts. At the end of my 90 minute task, and heading inside, it started to pour, but I had been inside for five minutes at that point taking a warm shower … enabled by my work.
One of my first birding trips on the lake is always to visit George Washington and Betsy Ross. Yup, for some strange reason I gave our Bald Eagles these two names. Apparently given the names the majestic raptors are living out wedlock!! Regardless, I kayaked the half mile over to the tall white pines, and was pleased to find our local eagles were in residence for the 34th year in a row.
George Washington … Taking Off!
We also have lots of Common Loons on our lake. They will nest soon, but not till the lake’s reeds emerge and grow (loons nest on heavy reed beds … preferably on an island or away from land). Surprisingly if I wish to photograph loons, I am better off using our pontoon boat. The loons recognize pontoon boats are not a threat, but red kayaks are an unknown quantity. If I am in the kayak, the loons always swim or dive away from me!
Northstar Lake Common Loons
The surprise of the weekend is a new cabin bird. We have never had a Black-Billed Cuckoo make our land its home. While BBQ’ing on Saturday evening, I suddenly heard of Cuckoo. Dinner was late. Here is a pic … not the best but gives me proof. I don’t think Molly was surprised that I stopped the evening cooking at the BBQ. She knows I go cuckoo for cuckoos. Once about ten years ago while bicycle touring in Scotland, a cuckoo started sounding off near the small inn where we were staying. I reappeared about 90 minutes later … again late for dinner!
Black-Billed Cuckoo 
Finally some local color … Rose (more than one) are seeking prime breeding grounds near our cabin.
Rose-Breasted Grosbeak
