November can be one Minnesota’s best months for birding. The Mississippi River Valley fills with ducks, geese, and Tundra Swans—the largest concentration in the central U.S. can be seen at Weaver Bottoms. Early mornings and late afternoons are perfect for watching these bugling swans in flight.
Events
🗓️ November 13 @ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Up Close and Personal with the Great Gray Owl
Co-Sponsored with Land of Lakes Bird Alliance
Join us for a presentation on Great Gray Owl biology and ecology by Dr. James Duncan. Jim has been studying this “Phantom of the Northern Forest” for over four decades in Manitoba, Ontario, Minnesota, and California. One of his most recent discoveries is how this owl overcomes an auditory illusion when hunting small mammals under thick snow.
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🗓️ November 18 @ 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Birds and Beverages, Saint Paul
Sweeney’s Saloon 96 Dale St N, Saint Paul, MN, United States
A monthly gathering to meet other birders and talk about birds!
More info
Outings
To View Tundra Swans, Visit:
Rieck’s Lake Park near Alma, Wisconsin
Along Highway 61 near Weaver, Minnesota
Bald Eagles are also on the move along the river, gathering near open water to fish and soar overhead. Southeastern Minnesota, especially near Wabasha, offers some of the state’s top eagle-viewing spots.
To View Bald Eagles, Visit:
Red Wing waterfront between Bay Point Park and Colvill Park
For an up-close owl experience, visit the International Owl Center at 126 E Cedar St., Houston, MN. Fall, winter, and spring hours are Sunday, Monday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 AM–4 PM (Tuesday–Thursday for pre-registered groups only). Daily programs at 11 AM and 2 PM last about an hour and mix indoor learning with outdoor observation.
Activities
Here’s an activity you can try at home!
General resources
- Index to exploring birds in each of Minnesota’s 64 State Parks: https://moumn.org/parks.html
- MOU facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MNornithU/
- MOU affiliated Bird Clubs: https://moumn.org/clubs.html