[mou] Townsend's Solitaire, Ann Lake

[Pastor Al]

The Townsend's Solitaire was present this morning along the road to Ann Lake
Campground in Sherburne County (only the second time over the last month
I've seen it).  It was singing and - if you'll pardon the anthropomorphism -
cavorting in the sun & warmth.

This part of Ann Lake is accessible from Sherburne CR 5.  Take 169 to
Sherburne CR 9, proceed west on 9 through the refuge to CR 5, take CR 5
south about five miles to the campground road (CR 4 will be in front of you,
only goes to west there).  The Solitaire was at the one mile mark, park in
the right "lot" (holds about three cars) and walk in the right hand trail
for a couple of minutes.  It tends to perch in the highest bare trees.

If not present there, it is also often found by walking in another half mile
past the gate (closed only to vehicular traffic), perched in the bare trees
on the left hand side.  It has been found elsewhere up and down the 1.5 mile
stretch of road - and sings/calls only irregularly.

Also had an early Belted Kingfisher (Sherburne CR 1 & 87, open water area);
was surprised to see Canadas overhead (has been 6-7 weeks since I've seen
them this far north).

Good birding to all!

Al Schirmacher
Princeton, MN
Mille Lacs & Sherburne Counties