While there were not a lot of different species of birds migrating down the North Shore yesterday, there were hundreds and hundreds of Cedar Waxwings. While inland from the big lake the wind was out of the south (poor for fall migration), as is often the case down at Lake Superior the wind was from the NE. Birds understand these weather patterns and one will often see migration next to the lake, but almost no birds 3 to 5 miles inland where the winds are not favorable.

Apparently some crows that were also at Stoney Point (about midway between Duluth and Two Harbors) took major umbrage with all the waxwings … see these first set of images. Other crows had started their dive bomb runs, which is why the waxwings are scattering.

Stoney Point (GPS Coordinates) is a most excellent spot for birding during the fall migration. The point (lava lows from ancient volcanoes) sticks out into Lake Superior, which means birds tend to fly by the point. Make certain you spend significant time on Alseth Road (dirt road between Stoney Point Drive and Scenic 61). This road tends to get most of the bird action.

More Stoney Point Cedar Waxwings

A Broad-Winged Hawk Hunts Early in the Morning (just uphill from Two Harbors)

My local bald eagles … yesterday morning just after sunrise on Stony Point. Momma eagle was just arriving. They often perch together on the tallest white pine. While lots of eagles migrate through the area, we also have resident birds which stay year next to Lake Superior. (a few folks are waiting and want to read my Greenwood Forest Fire Burning Area Post … don’t worry … it’s coming!)

Waiting for one’s mate

Screaming a greeting

The arrival

I had time for a quick bird before church yesterday morning, and I focused upon the North Shore near my home. Remember I said October is “big bird month” for migration through the Duluth area? While these two could be resident eagles, in the 12 miles between my home and Stony Point I saw six eagles. That section of shore definitely does not support that many eagles. Thus, some has to be migrants. However I am thinking this pair must be our locals. They issued a strong protect when some other eagles overflew the area.