AIDING IN AVIAN OBSERVATION

Bird watching tips from the Austin Audubon

By Michael Stoll • PhotoS Provided By dick SMaBy

As spring and summer progress through southeast Minnesota, there will be ample opportunity for bird enthusiasts to get outdoors and watch their feathered friends.

For those interested in bird watching, Austin Audubon member Dick Smaby has a few suggestions. “You really

“You really only need a pair only need of binoculars and a bird book, a pair of though there are apps you can put on your phone that help binoculars you identify birds,” he said. “If and a bird you’re just starting out, going book, though out with an experienced bird watcher is advised. If you don’t there are apps know much about birds, it’s you can put on good to have someone to help your phone that point them out.” For those looking for an ample spot, the Jay C. Hormel help you identify birds.” Nature Center provides an ideal Dick Smaby location.

“The Nature Center is a prime spot; they have feeders located behind the buildings that attract birds,” Smaby said. “The state parks are also good.”

“The best time when migration is going on is early morning; 6 a.m. or earlier, when the sun is coming out,” he continued. “Some of these little birds migrate at night and land to feed in the morning, so earlier morning times are good times to find them.”

Taking a Hike

The Austin Audubon will be hosting birding hikes at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center in May. Times and dates are subject to change.

•May 5: 6:30-8 p.m. •May 7: 6:30-8 a.m. •May 12: 6:30-8 p.m. •May 14: 6:30-8 a.m. • May 16: 9-10:30 a.m.

American Goldfinch

This is a common bird found in all seasons in Southeast Minnesota. American Goldfinch males are distinguished by their bright yellow feathers. “They’re interesting because when you see them in the summer, they’re yellow with black wings,” Smaby said. “In late winter, they’re malting, so their coat is kind of drab.”

Blue Jay

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One of the most recognizable birds on this list, the Blue Jay is considered one of the loudest, according to the “Audubon Guide to North American Birds.” These birds also enjoy feeders, using their beaks to crack through hard seeds.

Black-capped Chickadee

Another common bird found all seasons in southeast Minnesota, these birds are identifiable by the unmistakable black cap and bib surrounding their white faces. Smaby said that these birds can also be seen at the Nature Center feeders, where they will eagerly grab sunflower seeds, then fly to a tree to hammer the seed open on the bark.

Cardinals

Sometimes called the Northern Cardinals, despite being more prevalent in the southeastern United States, these birds have extended their range into the area in recent decades. The males are easily recognized with their distinguishable bright red feathers. Like the Black-capped Chickadees, Cardinals are fond of sunflower seeds.

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Woodpeckers

When it comes to Woodpeckers in the area, Smaby said there are three in particular to look for: • Downy Woodpecker – The smallest Woodpecker species in North America, this common bird boasts black and white feathering with a small red spot on the back of its head.

• Hairy Woodpecker – Similar in appearance to the Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpeckers are the larger of the two species. • Red-bellied Woodpecker – Not quite as common to the area as other birds on this list, these Woodpeckers have bright red heads, black and white wings and back feathers, and white feathers with a reddish tint on their stomachs.