Here’s a couple Murray County lakes worth a visit in migration, and during nesting season. There’s not much to them, but they often seem to hold a surprise. In summer look for nesting Western Grebe, or perhaps Common Loon (seen with young in 2013). The diversion structure gives a vantage point at the busy area between the tow lakes, while the North end of Maria has a quaint little park to explore. (Look for Trumpeter Swan on the wetland North of Maria. During dry times, the South end of Sarah along US Why 59 can be good for shorebirds, and sis usually good for waterfowl. In addition, the gravel road to the North of Lake Sarah can prove to have interesting migrants.
Tag Archives: Murray
Big Slough WPA
This vast tract of wetland is a glimpse of what the prairie pothole region was all about. As such, the best way to explore this area is by canoe or kayak. To do so might reveal White-faced Ibis, or Trumpeter Swan, but will certainly take you smack in to the world of nesting rails, and Black Terns. During migration hawks, sparrows, and blackbirds are prevalent.
This 800-acre WPA shares its northwestern border with the Minnesota DNR’s Hiram C. Southwick Wildlife Management Area. Numerous wetlands, including several large wetlands, on the WPA provide excellent resting, nesting and feeding habitat for waterfowl.
Shetek State Park
Lake Shetek and Shetek State Park offer diverse birding in one location. The big water of Lake Shetek has regularly draws a wide array of waterbirds, including an occasional Loon. The State Park – with its mature oaks, and prairie potholes – offers more diversity than most areas in Southwest Minnesota. One can find Western Grebe, Commer Tern, Virginia Rail, Bay-breasted Warbler, and Spotted Towhee all in a few short hours in this area.
Other than the lake itself, a few areas of particular interest include Loon Island, and the Webster, and Hanover Slough areas.
Look for just about anything in migration, but don’t expect anything. The big water is sometimes empty, and the woods silent. But catch this location during a potential migration stop site from bad weather, and the bounty could be great!
CLICK HERE for a birding checklist
Southwest Minnesota Birding Resources 