Grand Marais migratory bird observations from Cook County resident Ann Russ

The migratory season for birds continues to ramp up along the North Shore. With each day that passes, new species are arriving in the budding limbs and branches of the Superior National Forest. 

The local birding community in Grand Marais is a tight-knit group of individuals who gather on Wednesdays to observe new birds and share their favorite moments of recent sightings or calls throughout the week. 

WTIP’s Kalli Hawkins spoke with one of those passionate birding individuals, longtime Grand Marais resident Ann Russ. Russ explains why she enjoys birding. “I just enjoy being outdoors. And birds are a good excuse to get out.”

Russ and fellow birding friends witnessed numerous species in the harbor and around the Cook County area this spring. Some of the highlights have been American Wigeon, Northern Pintail, Blue-headed Vireo, Magnolia Warblers, Dickcissel, American Woodcock, and even a Western Tanager. 

As spring slowly continues to emerge, so do new bird species. Russ said, “ I don’t feel like I’m seeing the numbers yet.” But, she adds, “I think the migration is really heating up down in the Twin Cities and just west and north of there. And so you know, maybe our time is still going to come.”

Russ is hopeful that new warblers and birds will be arriving soon. She has yet to spot an American Bittern, but she’s keeping a watchful eye for it. Russ is hopeful that they will be arriving any day now, along with many other bird species. 

WTIP’s Kalli Hawkins spoke with Grand Marais birder Ann Russ for an update on the migratory season along the North Shore. Audio below. 

Kalli Hawkins May 20, 2022