Listed below are some of the species found in North Dakota that may be
of particular interest to visiting birders. Some may be eastern birds of
interest to western birders. Others may be western birds of interest to
eastern birders. The purpose of the list is to aid finding each species.
Therefore, information is given on abundance, distribution, habitat,
and, where possible, on specific locations where each species may be
found.
Common Loon—Uncommon summer resident on permanent, freshwater lakes in
the Turtle Mountains (Bottineau and Rolette Counties). Try Lake
Metigoshe and Sandy Lake. This species is a rare migrant on large ponds
and lakes throughout the rest of the state.
[Illustration: Black-crowned Night Heron]
Red-necked Grebe—Uncommon summer resident of larger ponds and lakes in
the northern portion. Most common in the Turtle Mountains and on J.
Clark Salyer Refuge. Also seen with some frequency on Des Lacs (try the
Old Lake Road) and Upper Souris Refuges. Rare breeder and uncommon to
rare migrant over the rest of the state.
Horned Grebe—Fairly common summer resident on ponds and lakes in the
northwest, northeast, and southeast sectors. This species does not nest
in large colonies as do the Western and Eared Grebes; hence, it may be
harder to find. However, it should be fairly easy to see at places such
as Des Lacs, Upper Souris, J. Clark Salyer, Lostwood, Long Lake, and
Arrowwood Refuges.
Eared Grebe—Common summer resident on seasonal and permanent ponds and
lakes over much of the state. Often nests in large colonies. Hard to
miss at such places as Long Lake, Hobart Lake, Arrowwood, Audubon, Des
Lacs, Lostwood, Upper Souris, J. Clark Salyer, and Stump Lake Refuges.
Western Grebe—Conspicuous and easy-to-find summer resident on scattered
lakes and permanent ponds throughout the northwest, northeast, and
southeast sectors. Usually nests in large colonies, and prefers areas
with lots of open water. Look for it on Devils Lake and on Des Lacs,
Lostwood, Upper Souris, J. Clark Salyer, Arrowwood, Lake Alice, Long
Lake, Alkaline Lake, Stump Lake, and Tewaukon Refuges.
American White Pelican—Hard-to-miss summer resident over most of the
state. Apparently, the only known breeding colony is on Chase Lake,
where there are about 4,000 pairs nesting. Individuals from this colony
(and many others which nest in neighboring states) range far and wide
all summer. Should be easy to find at Des Lacs, Lostwood, Upper Souris,
J. Clark Salyer, Audubon, Arrowwood, Long Lake, Lake Ilo, Bowman-Haley,
and Tewaukon Refuges, as well as at Beaver Lake and Baldhill Dam (Lake
Ashtabula).
Whistling Swan—Fairly common spring and fall migrant throughout. It can
be found on almost any large marsh or lake, including places like Des
Lacs, Upper Souris, Lostwood, J. Clark Salyer, Audubon, Arrowwood, Long
Lake, and Tewaukon Refuges. The best spot is Hobart Lake, where there
are usually hundreds present for several weeks in fall.
Greater White-fronted Goose—Fairly common migrant throughout the western
half; uncommon in the eastern half. Found on marshlands or grainfields
with congregations of Canada and Snow Geese.
Cinnamon Teal—Rare spring-through-April visitor and probable breeder in
marshlands throughout the central and western parts. Occasionally seen
in the southeast corner (Tewaukon).
Wood Duck—Fairly common summer resident of wooded streams, rivers,
ponds, and lakes through the eastern half. Uncommon in the western half
at places like Des Lacs, Upper Souris, and Audubon Refuges—except along
the Missouri River below Bismarck, where it is fairly common. Should be
easy to find along the Wild Rice and Red (especially at Fargo) Rivers,
along the Sheyenne River below Baldhill Dam, and at Arrowwood and J.
Clark Salyer Refuges.
White-winged Scoter—Rare migrant on lakes and sewage ponds throughout.
Occasionally nests on lakes in the Turtle Mountains and at Des Lacs
Refuge.
Hooded Merganser—Rare migrant on water areas throughout. Fairly common
summer resident along the woodland-bordered stretch of the Souris River
in Bottineau and McHenry Counties (particularly on J. Clark Salyer
Refuge). Uncommon to rare breeder at Arrowwood Refuge.
Northern Goshawk—Rare winter visitor/resident and migrant in wooded
areas throughout. Some possible areas include the river bottoms of the
James, Red, and Sheyenne Rivers in the southeast; Turtle River Park, the
Pembina Hills, the Turtle Mountains, the Souris River bottomlands in J.
Clark Salyer Refuge, and the forest surrounding Devils Lake in the
northeast; and the Missouri and Little Missouri bottomlands and the
wooded hills of the badlands in the western half. The Turtle Mountains
are probably your best bet.
Broad-winged Hawk—Uncommon to fairly common summer resident of mature,
deciduous forests in the Turtle Mountains and Pembina Hills. Rare
breeder in other areas with similar habitat in the eastern half.
Uncommon migrant through wooded areas of the western half.
Swainson’s Hawk—Common summer resident of prairies and agricultural
areas throughout the western three-fourths of the state. Uncommon to
rare in the eastern one-fourth. Easy to find.
Rough-legged Hawk—Uncommon to fairly common migrant and winter
visitor/resident, in prairies and agricultural areas throughout. Most
often seen in November.
Ferruginous Hawk—Fairly common summer resident of open prairies
throughout the western and southeast-central portions. Not hard to find.
Many people confuse this species with juvenile or light-phase Red-tails.
The best mark for separating the two is probably the large, white
windows on the upper side of the Ferruginous’ wings. Also, when soaring,
the Ferruginous flies with a dihedral (not as pronounced as with the
Swainson’s), as opposed to the more flat-winged pattern of the
Red-tailed.
Golden Eagle—Uncommon to fairly common permanent resident of the
badlands along the Little Missouri River. Uncommon to rare winter
visitor throughout. The best areas are the north and south units of the
Roosevelt Memorial (including prairies in between) and on the
sage-grasslands of Slope and Bowman Counties. The road going south from
Marmarth can be especially good. In winter also check Lake Sakakawea,
the Missouri River south of Bismarck, and Audubon Refuge.
Bald Eagle—Rare migrant and winter visitor throughout. A pair nested
along the Missouri River (McLean County) in 1975, for the first nesting
record in several years. In winter it may be found on almost any of the
refuges (most likely Audubon), Lake Sakakawea, or along the Missouri
River.
Prairie Falcon—Uncommon to rare resident of prairies and badlands in the
western quarter. Rare visitor elsewhere. The best areas are the north
and south units of the Roosevelt Memorial and Little Missouri and
Sully’s Creek State Parks.
Ruffed Grouse—Fairly common to uncommon permanent resident of the Turtle
Mountains and Pembina Hills. Can be found almost anywhere in mature
deciduous forests throughout these areas. Try the nature trail at Lake
Metigoshe State Park, the forest surrounding the Pelican-Sandy Lakes
Primitive Recreation Area, the Wakopa and Tongue River Game Management
Areas, and the Gunlogson Arboretum.
Greater Prairie Chicken—Rare permanent resident of remnant tracts of
tall-grass prairie in Grand Forks, Ransom, and Richland Counties. The
booming grounds in Ransom and Richland are on the Sheyenne National
Grasslands. However, many of these spots are hard to find and hard to
get to because of poor roads. Your best bet is on either of the two game
management areas near Manvel in Grand Forks County.
Sharp-tailed Grouse—Common permanent resident over the western half.
Fairly common in the central portion, and uncommon to rare across the
eastern quarter. Found mostly in mixed-grass prairies and abandoned farm
fields. Should be easy to find on the grasslands and sagebrush flats of
both units of the Roosevelt Memorial, on the roads going south from
Marmarth and Rhame, in the sandhills of Ransom and Richland Counties, in
weedy fields along the Missouri River south of Bismarck, and on Des
Lacs, Lostwood, J. Clark Salyer, Audubon, Long Lake, and Arrowwood
Refuges.
Sage Grouse—Uncommon to fairly common resident of sagebrush prairies in
Bowman, Slope, Billings, and Golden Valley Counties. Most common in the
western halves of Slope and Bowman Counties. Try the roads going south
from Marmarth and Rhame, and the road going north from Marmarth to
Amidon. Activity on the dancing grounds usually reaches its peak in
April.
Ring-necked Pheasant—Generally uncommon to fairly common resident over
most of the state. Prefers weedy fields and ditches, shelterbelts, dry
sloughs, and brushy edges of wooded river bottoms. Look for it in
Barnes, Ransom, Richland, Sargent, and Dickey Counties; in the sandhills
on J. Clark Salyer Refuge; around Lake Ilo; along the Missouri River
bottoms near Bismarck; and in the Little Missouri bottomlands of the
Roosevelt Memorial.
Gray Partridge—Fairly common resident over most of the state, becoming
less common in the northeast. Utilizes much the same habitat as the
Ring-necked Pheasant, but is more often found in open prairie areas.
Fairly easy to find, particularly in winter when it is often found in
the open along the roads.
Wild Turkey—Has been introduced in many areas. Has taken hold in the
wooded river bottoms of the Missouri and Sheyenne (locally—around Valley
City) Rivers, and in the Little Missouri badlands, where it occupies an
upland coniferous-forest habitat. In these areas it is a fairly common
to uncommon resident.
Whooping Crane—Rare migrant on its way to and from the nesting grounds
in Canada. At those times it may be seen on almost any of the refuges in
the western and central portions.
Sandhill Crane—Common migrant throughout the western half; uncommon to
rare through much of the eastern half. During migration, may be found in
large concentrations on refuges, in grain fields, or simply flying
through the air in long skeins.
Yellow Rail—Rare and local summer resident of spring-fed sedge fields in
the northern (mostly north-central) portion. Scattered colonies have
been reported in recent years from McLean, Mountrail, Bottineau, and
Benson Counties. Because of its accessibility, J. Clark Salyer Refuge
may offer your best chance of finding it. Check appropriate habitat
along the scenic tour.
Piping Plover—Uncommon summer resident of selected alkaline ponds and
lakes, and occasionally of freshwater lakes, rivers, and impoundments
with open sandy or gravel shores. Watch especially on sandbars along the
Missouri River at Bismarck, and on the alkaline lakes and potholes of
Lostwood Refuge. Other areas include Long Lake Refuge, J. Clark Salyer
Refuge, and the shores of Devils Lake, Stump Lake, and Alkaline Lake.
Lesser Golden Plover—Fairly common migrant throughout, except in the
southwest sector where it is uncommon to rare. In fall found in large
numbers at places such as Stump Lake, Alkaline Lake, Kelly’s Slough, and
the sewage ponds in Fargo, West Fargo, and Grand Forks. Numbers peak in
September and October. In spring (mostly mid-April) seems to prefer
flooded fields (and even some that are not flooded).
Ruddy Turnstone—Uncommon migrant in the eastern half; rare migrant
throughout the western half. Frequently seen on plowed fields
(especially flooded ones), and on artificial water impoundments such as
sewage ponds, flood-control ponds, and fish-removal ponds. Look for it
in Cass and Grand Forks Counties; at the Grand Forks, Fargo, and West
Fargo sewage ponds; at Kelly’s Slough; Rush, Alkaline, and Stump Lakes;
J. Clark Salyer Refuge; and at the fish hatchery in Valley City.
Long-billed Curlew—An uncommon to rare summer resident of scrub-prairie
and short-grass areas in the extreme southwest corner. Most likely in
Bowman and Slope Counties. Try the roads going south from Marmarth and
Rhame, and the road going north from Marmarth to Amidon.
Upland Sandpiper—Fairly common summer resident of prairie grasslands and
wet meadows throughout. Often seen sitting on fence posts in spring.
Look for it at Bowman-Haley, Stewart Lake, Lake Ilo, Lostwood, Des Lacs,
Upper Souris, J. Clark Salyer, Audubon, Long Lake, Arrowwood, and
Tewaukon Refuges; in the Sheyenne Grasslands of Ransom and Richland
Counties; and around Kelly’s Slough and the prairie-chicken areas in
Grand Forks County. Should be easy to find.
Willet—Fairly common summer resident of prairie potholes, marshes, and
lakes throughout. Easy to find at places such as Bowman-Haley, Lake Ilo,
Lostwood, Des Lacs, Upper Souris, J. Clark Salyer, Audubon, Long Lake,
Arrowwood, Lake Alice, and Tewaukon Refuges; Kelly’s Slough; Rush Lake;
Alkaline Lake; and the marshes around Burnstad.
Red Knot—Very rare migrant through the eastern half. Look for it at
Tewaukon, Kelly’s Slough, and the sewage ponds at Grand Forks, Fargo,
and West Fargo.
White-rumped Sandpiper—Uncommon migrant to water areas throughout. Look
for it at Rush Lake, Kelly’s Slough, Stump Lake, Alkaline Lake, Hobart
Lake, the sewage ponds at Grand Forks, Fargo, and West Fargo; and on
marshes on Long Lake, Des Lacs, Upper Souris, Lostwood, J. Clark Salyer,
Audubon, and Arrowwood Refuges.
Baird’s Sandpiper—Fairly common to uncommon migrant to water areas and
flooded fields throughout. Can be found at all of the areas listed for
the White-rumped Sandpiper.
Dunlin—Uncommon migrant throughout the eastern half; rare in the west.
Found on flooded fields as well as on ponds, lake shores, marshes, and
sewage ponds. Check Rush, Stump, Hobart, and Alkaline Lakes; Lake
Ardoch; Kelly’s Slough; the fish hatchery at Valley City; Tewaukon
Refuge; and the sewage ponds at Grand Forks, Fargo, and West Fargo.
Western Sandpiper—Uncommon to rare migrant throughout. Usually
associates with Least and Semipalmated Sandpipers, but seems to feed
farther out from shore. Difficult to separate from Semipalmated except
when in good spring plumage. Look for it on marshes, lake shores, and
sewage ponds, or wherever you find other species of “peeps”.
Buff-breasted Sandpiper—Very rare migrant over most of the state; most
regular in the northeast. Prefers grassy pastures and plowed fields.
Your best bet is to check the farm areas of Grand Forks County.
Marbled Godwit—Fairly common summer resident of prairie wetlands
throughout. Often seen on grasslands far removed from water (excluding
an occasional stock pond) as at Longspur Pasture. Easy to find at places
such as Bowman-Haley, Lake Ilo, Lostwood, Des Lacs, Upper Souris, J.
Clark Salyer, Audubon, Arrowwood, Long Lake, Slade, and Tewaukon
Refuges; Kelly’s Slough; Alkaline Lake; the marshes around Burnstad; and
on the Sheyenne Grasslands of Ransom and Richland Counties.
Hudsonian Godwit—Uncommon to rare migrant to pastures and water areas
throughout (less common in the western half). Try Rush Lake, Lake
Ardoch, Kelly’s Slough, Long Lake and Tewaukon Refuges, and the sewage
ponds at Grand Forks, Fargo, and West Fargo.
American Avocet—Fairly common summer resident of alkaline lakes and
ponds and shallow wetlands throughout (absent as a nesting species over
much of the southwest). Also commonly seen during migration and
throughout the summer on sewage ponds and other areas where it does not
nest. Easy to find at Bowman-Haley, Lostwood, Des Lacs, Upper Souris, J.
Clark Salyer, Audubon, Long Lake, Arrowwood, Stump Lake, and Tewaukon
Refuges; Kelly’s Slough; Alkaline Lake; Rush Lake; Hobart Lake; and the
North Fargo sewage ponds.
Wilson’s Phalarope—Common summer resident of prairie wetlands
throughout. Almost impossible to miss, especially in late summer when it
congregates in large numbers on certain water areas such as Hobart Lake,
Kelly’s Slough, and the North Fargo sewage ponds. Look for it on almost
any of the wildlife refuges, game management areas, and waterfowl
production areas.
Northern Phalarope—Fairly common to uncommon migrant to wetlands, lakes,
and sewage ponds throughout. Look for it in flocks of Wilson’s
Phalarope. In the northwest (around Kenmare) it is more common and can
often be seen in large numbers.
Migrant Shorebirds—In North Dakota the following species can be
considered purely migratory (The species marked by asterisks may be
expected in large numbers.): Semipalmated, Lesser Golden*, and
Black-bellied* Plovers; Ruddy Turnstone; Greater and Lesser* Yellowlegs;
Red Knot; Short-billed and Long-billed Dowitchers*; Dunlin; Solitary,
Pectoral*, White-rumped, Baird’s, Least*, Western, Semipalmated*,
Stilt*, and Buff-breasted Sandpipers; Sanderling; Hudsonian Godwit; and
Northern Phalarope. Remember that some species which breed in one part
of the state may occur only as migrants in other areas. Migrating
shorebirds can be found almost anywhere where there is water. Preferred
areas include sewage ponds, prairie wetlands, flooded fields in
agricultural areas, impounded river areas, and shores of larger lakes.
Some specific spots are Long Lake, Des Lacs, Upper Souris, Lostwood, J.
Clark Salyer, and Stump Lake Refuges; Kelly’s Slough; Rush Lake;
Alkaline Lake; Lake Ardoch; Hobart Lake; the river and settling ponds
below Baldhill Dam; the ponds at the Valley City fish hatchery; and the
sewage ponds at Fargo and Grand Forks. Shorebird migration is usually a
continuous movement from late April through mid-October with peaks
during the first two weeks in May and the entire month of August.
California Gull—Uncommon summer resident of scattered lakes (usually
alkaline) throughout. Occurs over a larger portion of the state as a
summer visitor. There are only a handful of known breeding colonies in
the state. The best known is probably the one at Chase Lake. A more
accessible colony is located near Westby (page 61). Bob Stewart lists
these additional colonies: Stony Lake in Kidder County, East Devils Lake
in Ramsey County, and Lake Williams in McLean County (_Breeding Birds of
North Dakota_, 1975). Other areas are Bowman-Haley, Audubon, Lostwood,
Des Lacs, Long Lake, and Arrowwood Refuges, and Alkaline Lake.
Franklin’s Gull—Common summer resident of extensive marshlands
throughout the northern half and southeast quarter. Nesting colonies can
be found on Devils Lake, Lake Alice, Stump Lake, marshlands in Sargent
County, and on Long Lake, Upper Souris, and J. Clark Salyer Refuges.
Non-nesting birds can be found almost anywhere that wetlands exist. In
fall it moves south in large concentrations numbering in the tens of
thousands.
Bonaparte’s Gull—Uncommon to rare migrant and post-nesting visitor to
water areas throughout. Most likely in the southeast quarter. Usually
occurs with flocks of Franklin’s Gulls. Try the sewage ponds at Fargo in
late summer, or the marshlands in Sargent and Dickey Counties.
Common Tern—Uncommon and local summer resident of large lakes and river
impoundments at scattered locations in the central and northwest
portions. Look for it on Long Lake, Audubon, Des Lacs, Upper Souris, and
J. Clark Salyer Refuges, and on various lakes in the Turtle Mountains.
The Forster’s Tern is more common. The two species can be separated by
bill color (more reddish in Common, orange in Forster’s), tail color
(white to gray in Common, gray to white in Forster’s—going from the
inside or central tail-feathers out), and color of the primaries (darker
in Common, very white in Forster’s). The latter is probably the best
mark.
Little Tern—Uncommon summer resident of sandbars along the Missouri
River near Bismarck. Some years no nesting occurs, because of flooding.
To find this species keep checking exposed sandbars along the river in
the Bismarck-Mandan vicinity. Try first from the ends of 12th and
Washington Streets in Bismarck, or in the vicinity of the Girl Scout
camp southwest of that city.
Black-billed Cuckoo—Uncommon to fairly common summer resident of
woodland margins, shelterbelts, wood lots, prairie thickets, and wooded
coulees throughout. Look for it at Tasker’s Coulee; Sully’s Creek Park;
the south unit of the Roosevelt Memorial; the Missouri River floodplain
near Bismarck; Upper Souris, Des Lacs, and J. Clark Salyer Refuges; Lake
Metigoshe and Icelandic State Parks; the Gunlogson Arboretum; Wakopa and
Tongue River Game Management Areas; Sully’s Hill Game Preserve; Turtle
River Park; Stump Lake Park; and the bottomlands of the James and
Sheyenne Rivers (Stutsman, Barnes, Ransom, and Richland Counties).
Snowy Owl—Uncommon and irregular winter visitor to open country
throughout. A few of these large arctic wanderers are present every
winter. However, in some winters it may be hard to find while in others
it seems to be almost common. There are no specific spots. Just drive
the back-country roads any time from December through March. A few can
usually be found every winter in Cass County, often right along the
roads.
Burrowing Owl—Uncommon summer resident of heavily-grazed prairie
throughout the western three-fourths of the state. Look for it on
Arrowwood, Long Lake, Audubon, Des Lacs, Upper Souris, Lostwood, J.
Clark Salyer, Chase Lake, Lake Ilo, Bowman-Haley, and Stewart Lake
Refuges; Salt Alkaline Lake; prairie-dog towns in both units of the
Roosevelt Memorial; and south of Marmarth.
Barred Owl—Rare resident of Sheyenne River bottomlands in Ransom and
Richland Counties. Occasionally recorded in winter elsewhere in the
eastern half, particularly along the Red River.
Short-eared Owl—Uncommon and cyclic resident of grasslands, wet meadows,
and fallow fields throughout. In some years fairly common, in others
hard to find. An influx of migrants from the north sometimes appears in
November. Look at Bowman-Haley, Lake Ilo, Des Lacs, Upper Souris, J.
Clark Salyer, Arrowwood, Long Lake, and Tewaukon Refuges.
Saw-whet Owl—Rare winter visitor to conifer stands, alder thickets, and
residential areas throughout the eastern half. May be an occasional
summer resident in the Turtle Mountains, Pembina Hills, and on the south
side of Devils Lake (Sully’s Hill Game Preserve).
Poor-will—Uncommon summer resident of brushy slopes and ravines in the
badlands and pine forests of Slope County. Rare in the south unit of the
Roosevelt Memorial. Listen for it near the Columnar Juniper Area.
Chimney Swift—Uncommon to fairly common summer resident of towns and
cities throughout. More common in the eastern half. Look for it in
Fargo, Grand Forks, Devils Lake, Wahpeton, Valley City, Jamestown,
Bismarck-Mandan, Minot, Dickinson, and Williston. Should be fairly easy
to find in most towns and cities along the Red and Sheyenne Rivers.
Ruby-throated Hummingbird—Uncommon summer resident of deciduous-woods
margins in the Turtle Mountains, Pembina Hills, south side of Devils
Lake, and along the Souris (J. Clark Salyer), James (Jamestown), and
Sheyenne (Valley City to Baldhill Dam) Rivers. Occurs elsewhere
throughout the central and eastern portions as an uncommon to fairly
common migrant.
Common Flicker—Common summer resident (a few winter) of open woodlands
throughout. Both races are found, and many interesting and confusing
hybrids occur. The predominant race is the Yellow-shafted. The
Red-shafted race occurs throughout the western half, but is common only
in the Little Missouri badlands.
Pileated Woodpecker—Uncommon to rare resident of mature woodlands along
the Red River in Cass County (and possibly in Grand Forks) and along the
Sheyenne River in Ransom and Richland Counties. More common along the
Red River at Fargo in winter.
Red-headed Woodpecker—Fairly common to uncommon summer resident of open
woodlands and agricultural areas (shelter belts, orchards, farmyards,
etc.) throughout (range in the northwest is limited). Look for it in
Lindenwood Park (Fargo), the Sibley Island area in Bismarck, Sully’s
Creek Park, the Pembina Hills, Turtle River Park, and in the bottomlands
of the James, Red, and Sheyenne Rivers.
Eastern Kingbird—Common summer resident of open areas throughout. Nests
in hedgerows, shelterbelts, woodlots, farmyards, prairie thickets, and
along the edges of extensive woodlands. Commonly seen perched on
barbed-wire fences along the highways. Hard to miss.
Western Kingbird—Common summer resident throughout. Can be found in much
the same habitat as the Eastern. However, the Western is often found in
more wooded areas such as open bottomland forests and residential areas.
Even then it is still basically an edge-habitat species. Hard to miss.
Great Crested Flycatcher—Fairly common summer resident of mature
deciduous forests throughout the eastern half. Uncommon to rare in the
bottomland forests of the Missouri River near Bismarck-Mandan. Look for
it in places such as J. Clark Salyer Refuge (uncommon), throughout the
Turtle Mountain and Pembina Hills, Turtle River Park, Sully’s Hill Game
Preserve, Stump Lake Park, Little Yellowstone Park, and in the
bottomland forests of the James (Stutsman County), Sheyenne (Barnes,
Ransom, and Richland Counties), and Red (try especially at Lindenwood
and Oak Grove Parks in Fargo) Rivers.
Say’s Phoebe—Uncommon summer resident of badlands, sharply eroded
buttes, and agricultural areas throughout the western half. Rare east of
J. Clark Salyer Refuge. Prefers badlands-type habitat, but also nests
under the eaves of farm buildings and under small bridges. Look for it
in either unit of the Roosevelt Memorial, at Little Missouri and Sully’s
Creek Parks, along the roads going south from Marmarth and Rhame in
Bowman County, along Highway 1806 in the badlands area south of Mandan
(Morton County), and near Kenmare.
Yellow-bellied Flycatcher—Rare migrant in wooded areas throughout the
eastern half. Try the Turtle Mountains, Pembina Hills, Turtle River
State Park, Sully’s Hill Game Preserve, and Lindenwood and Oak Grove
Parks.
Willow Flycatcher—Fairly common to uncommon summer resident of
shelterbelts, prairie thickets and swales, and wood edges. You may hear
its distinctive “FITZ-bew” call often before actually seeing the bird.
In areas where the Least Flycatcher is found, song is probably the only
safe way to separate the two, although the Least is seldom found in
prairie areas. Look for the Willow Flycatcher throughout the Turtle
Mountains and Pembina Hills, in edge habitat along the James and
Sheyenne Rivers, at Sully’s Creek Park, and on Bowman-Haley, Lake Ilo,
Lostwood, Des Lacs, Upper Souris, J. Clark Salyer, Arrowwood, and Slade
Refuges.
Alder Flycatcher—Uncommon to rare migrant through wooded areas in the
eastern third. May nest in the Pembina Hills. This species was formerly
considered conspecific with the Willow Flycatcher as the Traill’s
Flycatcher. Safely separable from other members of the genus only by
song, which sounds like “fee-BEE-o”.
Least Flycatcher—Common summer resident of deciduous forests and wooded
farm habitats (like orchards and shelterbelts) throughout. Less common
in the western half (with the exception of the Kenmare area). Look for
it at such places as Sully’s Creek Park; the campgrounds in both units
of the Roosevelt Memorial; wooded portions of Lake Ilo, Des Lacs,
Lostwood, Upper Souris, J. Clark Salyer, Arrowwood, and Tewaukon
Refuges; Tasker’s Coulee; throughout the Turtle Mountains and Pembina
Hills; Turtle River Park; Stump Lake Park; Sully’s Hill Game Preserve;
Clausen Springs; and along the bottomland forests of the Missouri,
James, Red, and Sheyenne Rivers.
Eastern Pewee—Common to fairly common summer resident of wooded areas
throughout the eastern two-thirds. Uncommon in the western edge of this
area along the Missouri River at Bismarck, and on wooded portions of Des
Lacs and Upper Souris Refuges. Look for it throughout the Turtle
Mountains and Pembina Hills; on J. Clark Salyer and Tewaukon Refuges; at
Turtle River Park; Stump Lake Park; Sully’s Hill Game Preserve; and
along wooded bottomlands of the James, Sheyenne, and Red (try Lindenwood
and Oak Grove Parks) Rivers.
Western Pewee—Uncommon to rare summer resident of wooded bottomlands
along the Little Missouri River. Look for it in both units of the
Roosevelt Memorial, at Sully’s Creek Park, and in wooded residential
areas of Medora and Marmarth. This species has a harsh call which is
quite different from the “pee-a-wee” of the Eastern Pewee. It can often
be separated by sight as well. The Western has a dusky breast and flanks
with a light “zipper” extending upward to the upper breast something
like an Olive-sided Flycatcher.
Blue Jay—Fairly common permanent resident of deciduous woodlands west to
Bismarck. Uncommon in the southwest quarter and uncommon to rare in the
northwest quarter. Not hard to find in the Turtle Mountains and Pembina
Hills, at Turtle River Park, Stump Lake Park, Sully’s Hill Game
Preserve, Linden wood and Oak Grove Parks in Fargo, Little Yellowstone
Park, Sully’s Creek Park, Little Missouri Park, the campgrounds of both
units of the Roosevelt Memorial, the Sibley Island area at Bismarck, and
in bottomland forests along the James, Red, and Sheyenne Rivers.
Black-billed Magpie—Fairly common permanent resident of wood margins,
prairie thickets, and agricultural areas throughout much of the western
half. Uncommon breeder in the Turtle Mountains and Devils Lake regions.
Uncommon winter visitor over the rest of the state. Easy to find in both
units of the Roosevelt Memorial, Sully’s Creek and Little Missouri
Parks; western Bowman, Slope, and Golden Valley Counties; the Williston
area; and along the Missouri River near Bismarck. Look for it also on
Lostwood, Des Lacs, Upper Souris, and J. Clark Salyer (especially the
sandhills) Refuges. In the east look for it in winter in the Turtle
Mountains, Pembina Hills, on the south side of Devils Lake, Arrowwood
Refuge, and in the Valley City area.
Black-capped Chickadee—Fairly common permanent resident of deciduous
forests throughout. In winter it is commonly seen in residential areas.
Should be easy to find at such places as Sully’s Creek Park, along the
river and in wooded draws in both units of the Roosevelt Memorial, Upper
Souris and J. Clark Salyer Refuges, throughout the Turtle Mountains and
Pembina Hills, Turtle River Park, Stump Lake Park, Sully’s Hill Game
Preserve, and along portions of the Missouri (near Bismarck), James
(Stutsman County), Sheyenne (Barnes, Ransom, and Richland Counties), and
Red (around Fargo) Rivers.
Sedge Wren—Fairly common summer resident of sedge fields, wet meadows,
grassy edges of seasonal ponds, retired croplands, and alfalfa hayfields
in the northwest, northeast, and southeast sectors. Found in the
southwest only in alfalfa fields bordering the Missouri and its
tributaries in Morton County. Look for it at Kelly’s Slough; Rush Lake;
Lake Ardoch; the Little Heart River crossing; Des Lacs, Lostwood, Upper
Souris, J. Clark Salyer, Rose Lake, Lake Alice, Arrowwood, Long Lake,
and Tewaukon Refuges; and in suitable habitat in the Turtle Mountains.
Of these, J. Clark Salyer Refuge may be best.
Rock Wren—Locally fairly common to uncommon summer resident of eroded
buttes and desert-like arroyos in the western half. Look for it in both
units of the Roosevelt Memorial, Sully’s Creek and Little Missouri
Parks, the badlands area south of Mandan on Highway 1806, and in
appropriate habitat along the roads going south from Marmarth and Rhame.
Gray Catbird—Common summer resident of brushy forest edges, prairie
thickets, and shelterbelts throughout. Easy to find at Sully’s Creek
Park, both units of Roosevelt Memorial, Lake Ilo, Des Lacs, Lostwood,
Upper Souris, J. Clark Salyer, Arrowwood, and Tewaukon Refuges;
throughout the Turtle Mountains and Pembina Hills; at Turtle River Park;
Stump Lake Park; Sully’s Hill Game Preserve; and along the wooded
bottomlands of the James, Missouri, Red, and Sheyenne Rivers.
Brown Thrasher—Common to fairly common summer resident throughout.
Occupies much the same habitat and areas as the Catbird. Occurs more
often in residential areas.
Gray-cheeked Thrush—Fairly common migrant in wooded parks, bottomlands,
hills, coulees, and residential areas throughout most of the state.
Fairly easy to find during May (harder to find in fall) at such places
as Lindenwood Park; Turtle River, Little Yellowstone, and Stump Lake
Parks; Sully’s Hill Game Preserve; Upper Souris, Des Lacs, and J. Clark
Salyer Refuges; throughout the Turtle Mountains and Pembina Hills; and
in wooded bottomlands of the Missouri (at Bismarck), James, Sheyenne,
and Red Rivers.
Eastern Bluebird—Uncommon summer resident of forest edges, sandhills,
orchards, shelterbelts, and agricultural areas throughout (rare in the
southwest quarter). Most common in the southeast corner and in the
Turtle Mountains. Some of the better areas are around Lake Ashtabula and
Clausen Springs in Barnes County, and in the Sheyenne River bottomlands,
sandhills, and grasslands in Ransom and Richland Counties. Try also
appropriate habitat along the James River near Jamestown, and along the
Missouri River near Bismarck and Mandan.
Mountain Bluebird—Fairly common summer resident of scrub prairie, dry
slopes, and wooded coulees in the badlands of the western third.
Uncommon to rare summer resident of forest-edge (usually near aspen
stands) habitats in the Turtle Mountains and on J. Clark Salyer Refuge
(sandhills area). Fairly common to uncommon migrant on prairies and
agricultural areas throughout the remainder of the western half. Rare
early-spring migrant over the rest of the state. Should be fairly easy
to find in both units of the Roosevelt Memorial (especially along the
Caprock Coulee Trail in the north unit), Little Missouri Park, the
sandhills area of J. Clark Salyer Refuge, and throughout the Kenmare
area during the second half of March.
Townsend’s Solitaire—Rare winter visitor/resident of wooded areas
throughout the western half. Prefers deciduous river bottoms (Little
Missouri River), coniferous slopes (badlands), and conifer stands in and
around towns and cities. Look for it anywhere in the badlands or at the
Northern Great Plains Research Station in Mandan.
Sprague’s Pipit—Fairly common but local summer resident of mixed-grass
prairies and grassy lake borders throughout most of the western and
central portions, but uncommon to rare in the eastern third. Uncommon
migrant throughout. Should be easy to find at such places as Des Lacs,
Lostwood, J. Clark Salyer (grasslands tour), Audubon, and Arrowwood
Refuges; Longspur Pasture; and in appropriate habitat over much of
Mountrail, Kidder, and Stutsman Counties.
Bohemian Waxwing—Fairly common but sporadic winter visitor to wooded
habitats and residential areas throughout. In winters when present,
often found in large flocks in bottomland forest, wood lots, city parks,
crab-apple orchards, and residential areas. In fact it can be found
anywhere where there are fruit-bearing trees or shrubs. During
non-invasion years; can be impossible to find.
Northern Shrike—Uncommon winter visitor to prairies, agricultural areas,
and open woodlands throughout. Often hangs out around feeding stations
and picks off smaller birds. One of its favorite habitats is a dry
slough with lots of willow growth. Here it can find an abundance of
shrews, voles, and mice. Likes to perch in conspicuous places.
Bell’s Vireo—Rare and local summer resident of wooded bottomlands along
the Missouri River at Bismarck. Try the Sibley Island area. Has a very
distinctive “hurried-up” song, which is useful in locating this rather
drab bird.
Yellow-throated Vireo—Fairly common to uncommon summer resident of
mature deciduous forests throughout the eastern half. Look for it
throughout the Turtle Mountains and Pembina Hills, on J. Clark Salyer
Refuge, at Stump Lake and Turtle River Parks, Sully’s Hill Game
Preserve, Lindenwood Park, and along bottomland forests of the James (in
Stutsman County) and Sheyenne (in Barnes, Ransom, and Richland Counties)
Rivers.
Red-eyed Vireo—Common summer resident of deciduous forests throughout.
Should be easy to find at such places as Sully’s Creek and Turtle River
Parks; along the river in both units of the Roosevelt Memorial; Des
Lacs, Upper Souris, J. Clark Salyer, and Tewaukon Refuges; throughout
the Turtle Mountains and Pembina Hills; Stump Lake Park; Sully’s Hill
Game Preserve; the Sibley Island area at Bismarck; Lindenwood Park; and
along stretches of the James (Stutsman County), Sheyenne (Barnes,
Ransom, and Richland Counties), and Red Rivers.
Philadelphia Vireo—Uncommon summer resident of aspen forests of the
Turtle Mountains. Look for it at Lake Metigoshe State Park and the
Wakopa Game Management Area. Uncommon migrant through deciduous
woodlands throughout the rest of the eastern half. In migration look for
it at Turtle River and Stump Lake Parks, Sully’s Hill Game Preserve, J.
Clark Salyer Refuge, Lindenwood Park, Icelandic Park, Gunlogson
Arboretum, Tongue River Game Management Area, in all appropriate habitat
in the Pembina Hills, and along the bottomland forests of the James,
Sheyenne, and Red Rivers.
Migrant warblers—Occur in wooded habitats, shelterbelts, and residential
areas throughout. More species and individuals can be found in the
eastern half. The greatest diversity of migrant warblers usually occurs
along the Red River at Fargo, where one may see as many as twenty
species in one day. The species which regularly occur as migrants (some
may nest) over the eastern half of the state include Black-and-white,
Tennessee, Orange-crowned, Nashville, Yellow, Magnolia, Cape May,
Yellow-rumped (Myrtle), Black-throated Green, Blackburnian,
Chestnut-sided, Bay-breasted, Blackpoll, Palm, Connecticut, Mourning,
Wilson’s, and Canada Warblers; Ovenbird; Northern Waterthrush; and
American Redstart. Other species which can be seen in the east but with
less regularity are Prothonotary, Golden-winged, Northern Parula,
Black-throated Blue, and Cerulean Warblers. In addition, the
Yellow-rumped (Audubon’s) Warbler, MacGillivray’s Warbler, and
Yellow-breasted Chat can be found in the western half. The peak
movements of warblers usually occur in mid-May and September.
Chestnut-sided Warbler—Uncommon to rare summer resident of deciduous
forest edges and secondary growth in the Turtle Mountains and Pembina
Hills. Fairly common to uncommon migrant throughout the eastern third;
rare farther west.
Ovenbird—Common migrant and fairly common to uncommon summer resident of
mature deciduous forests (especially bottomland forest) in scattered
areas throughout. Look for it in summer along the Little Missouri River
in both units of the Roosevelt Memorial (check the campgrounds and
picnic areas), at Sully’s Creek and Little Missouri Parks, Tasker’s
Coulee, J. Clark Salyer Refuge, throughout the Turtle Mountains and
Pembina Hills, Sully’s Hill Game Preserve, Stump Lake Park, along the
Missouri River at Bismarck (Sibley Island area), and in the bottomland
forests of the Sheyenne River in Ransom and Richland Counties.
Northern Waterthrush—Fairly common to uncommon summer resident of
wood-bordered bogs, swamps, streams, and lakes in the Turtle Mountains,
Pembina Hills, and on the south side of Devils Lake. Fairly common
migrant through similar habitat over most of the state.
Mourning Warbler—Uncommon summer resident of forests containing an
abundance of secondary growth in the Turtle Mountains and Pembina Hills.
Fairly common to uncommon migrant over the remainder of the eastern
half; rare in the western half.
Bobolink—Fairly common summer resident of tall and mid-grass prairies,
alfalfa and other hayfields, and retired croplands throughout. Easy to
find at almost any prairie area. Slightly harder to find in the
southwest quarter but try Bowman-Haley and Lake Ilo Refuges, and meadows
and alfalfa fields along the Missouri River in Morton County.
Western Meadowlark—Common to abundant summer resident (a few winter) of
open country throughout. This is the state bird of North Dakota and is
the only meadowlark present. If you miss this one, you are birding with
your eyes and ears closed!
Yellow-headed Blackbird—Common summer resident of cattail and bulrush
marshes and lake edges throughout. Less common in the southwest quarter.
Hard to miss at such places as Kelly’s Slough, the marshes around
Burnstad, Rush Lake, and Des Lacs, Lostwood, Upper Souris, J. Clark
Salyer, Audubon, Lake Ilo, Bowman-Haley, Long Lake, Slade, Arrowwood,
and Tewaukon Refuges.
Orchard Oriole—Fairly common to uncommon summer resident of forest
edges, farmyards, shelterbelts, orchards, and residential areas
throughout the southern half. Uncommon and local in similar habitat
throughout the northern half. Some specific spots include wooded ravines
and bottomland forest edges in the south unit of the Roosevelt Memorial,
Sully’s Creek Park, the residential areas of Kenmare, the wooded area
near the Des Lacs Refuge headquarters, the Sibley Island area at
Bismarck, wooded draws surrounding Lake Ashtabula in Barnes County, and
at Clausen Springs.
Northern Oriole—The predominant race, the Baltimore Oriole, is a fairly
common summer resident of deciduous woodlands, shelterbelts, farmyards,
and residential areas throughout the eastern two-thirds (uncommon to
rare west of Bismarck). Not hard to find. The other race, the Bullock’s
Oriole, is very restricted. It is uncommon and local in riparian stands
of cottonwoods in Billings, Slope, and Bowman Counties. Look for it at
Sully’s Creek Park, in the residential areas of Marmarth and Medora,
along the river and at the campgrounds and picnic grounds in the south
unit of the Roosevelt Memorial, and along wooded portions of the Little
Missouri River south of Marmarth.
Rusty Blackbird—Uncommon migrant and uncommon to rare winter visitor to
bottomland forests, wood lots, and farmyards throughout.
Brewer’s Blackbird—Fairly common summer resident and uncommon to rare
winter visitor of open country throughout. Least common in the
south-central portion. Not hard to find.
Common Grackle—Common to fairly common summer resident and rare winter
visitor of forest edges, farmlands, and residential areas throughout.
Easy to find almost anywhere.
Scarlet Tanager—Uncommon summer resident of mature deciduous forests
throughout the eastern quarter. Rare breeder in the bottomland forests
along the Missouri River at Bismarck. Uncommon migrant throughout the
eastern third. Look for it in the Pembina Hills, at Gunlogson Arboretum,
Stump Lake Park, Turtle River Park, and along the bottomland forests of
the Red, Pembina, Tongue, and Sheyenne (especially in Ransom and
Richland Counties) Rivers.
Northern Cardinal—Uncommon permanent resident of brushy tangles in
wooded areas along the Red River at Fargo. In summer it is easiest to
see at Oak Grove Park. In winter it may be observed at feeding stations
along the river.
Rose-breasted Grosbeak—Fairly common summer resident of mature deciduous
forests throughout the eastern half. Commonly seen in migration west to
Bismarck. Look for it at Oak Grove and Lindenwood Parks in Fargo, Turtle
River and Stump Lake Parks, Sully’s Hill Game Preserve, in the Turtle
Mountains and Pembina Hills, the Gunlogson Arboretum, J. Clark Salyer
and Tewaukon Refuges, Clausen Springs, and in the bottomland forests of
the James, Red, and Sheyenne Rivers.
Black-headed Grosbeak—Fairly common to uncommon summer resident of
mature deciduous forests bordering the Missouri and Little Missouri
Rivers in the western half. Fairly easy to find in the Sibley Island
area at Bismarck, at Sully’s Creek and Little Missouri Parks, in the
residential areas of Medora and Marmarth, and along the river in both
units of the Roosevelt Memorial (especially Squaw Creek
campgrounds/picnic grounds in the north unit).
Blue Grosbeak—Rare spring and summer visitor (and possible breeder) to
forest edges, prairie thickets, shelterbelts, and agricultural areas
throughout. Most likely in the Little Missouri badlands.
Indigo Bunting—Fairly common summer resident of deciduous forests
throughout the eastern third. Uncommon breeder along the Missouri River
at Bismarck. Look for this striking bird throughout the Pembina Hills,
at Turtle River and Stump Lake Parks, Sully’s Hill Game Preserve, Oak
Grove and Linden wood Parks in Fargo, along the Red River from Pembina
County to Richland County, along the James River in Stutsman County, and
in the Sibley Island area at Bismarck. The latter area overlaps the
range of the Lazuli Bunting, and you may see mated pairs and hybrids.
Lazuli Bunting—Fairly common summer resident of deciduous forests
throughout most of the western half. Like the Indigo Bunting, this
species prefers forest edges and semi-open forests to the thickly wooded
areas. Should be easy to find at Sully’s Creek and Little Missouri
Parks, along the river and at the campgrounds and picnic grounds in both
units of Roosevelt Memorial (especially at Squaw Creek
campgrounds/picnic grounds in the north unit), along the river on Upper
Souris Refuge, and along the Missouri River at Bismarck (try the Sibley
Island area).
Dickcissel—Fairly common summer resident of prairie grasslands, alfalfa
hayfields, and retired croplands over most of the state. Somewhat
cyclic; common one year and hard to find the next. Much less common in
the northern third. Look for it at Bowman-Haley, Lake Ilo, Long Lake,
Des Lacs (uncommon to rare), J. Clark Salyer, Audubon, Arrowwood, Slade,
Tewaukon, and Rose Lake Refuges; in alfalfa and weedy fields along the
Missouri River at Bismarck-Mandan; around Lake Ashtabula; along the road
to the North Fargo Sewage Lagoons; and along any back roads through open
country in the southeast quarter.
Evening Grosbeak—Fairly common but erratic winter visitor to forests,
wood lots, farmyards, and residential areas throughout. Easiest to see
at feeding stations along river bottoms at such places as Fargo, Grand
Forks, Valley City, Jamestown, Devils Lake, Bismarck, and Mandan. This
species is more regular than some of the other winter visitors from the
north, being present in good numbers during most winters.
Pine Grosbeak—Uncommon and erratic winter visitor to forests, wood lots,
orchards, farmyards, and residential areas over most of the state. Less
common in the southwestern quarter. Look for it at Des Lacs Refuge,
throughout the Turtle Mountains and Pembina Hills, at Turtle River Park,
Lindenwood Park and Riverside Cemetery in Fargo, Sully’s Hill Game
Preserve, and along wooded river bottoms (such as the Missouri, James,
Red, and Sheyenne) across the eastern two-thirds.
Gray-crowned Rosy Finch—Occasional winter visitor to open country in the
extreme western part of the state. Most likely in the Little Missouri
badlands. Often found in large flocks. Over the rest of the state single
birds may show up at feeding stations with flocks of juncos.
Hoary Redpoll—Rare and erratic winter visitor to open country and
feeding stations throughout. More common in the eastern half. Usually
found with flocks of Common Redpolls. During invasion years it may be
uncommon from Bismarck east.
Common Redpoll—Common but erratic winter visitor to open country
throughout. Frequents feeding stations in residential areas. Preferred
spots include forest edges, weed-filled ditches, dry sloughs, and
sunflower fields. Some winters totally absent; when present can usually
be found in good numbers almost anywhere.
Red Crossbill—Fairly common but erratic winter visitor to forests,
parks, cemeteries, tree lines, and residential areas throughout. Partial
to plantings of conifers, but may frequent feeding stations in large
numbers. After invasion winters, scattered pairs often nest over much of
the state. During good winters often easier to find in the vicinity of
Lindenwood Park and Riverside Cemetery in Fargo than elsewhere.
White-winged Crossbill—Rare and erratic winter visitor to woodlands and
residential feeding stations throughout. Apparently, more common in the
eastern half. Found in the same habitat as the Red Crossbill.
Lark Bunting—Common to abundant summer resident of sage prairies,
grasslands, weedy fields, and retired croplands throughout the western
two-thirds. Uncommon to rare east of Jamestown. Most abundant in the
southwest sector.
Baird’s Sparrow—Fairly common to uncommon summer resident of mixed-grass
prairies, alfalfa hayfields, and retired croplands throughout much of
the western three-fourths of the state. For the most part rare or absent
east of Stutsman County. The preferred habitat seems to be mixed-grass
prairie dotted with wolfberry and silverberry shrubs. Tall-grass areas
bordering prairie potholes and lakes are also frequented. Some of the
better areas include Bowman-Haley, Lake Ilo, Lostwood, Des Lacs, Upper
Souris, J. Clark Salyer (grasslands tour), Audubon, Arrowwood, and Long
Lake Refuges; Longspur Pasture; and the edges of Salt Alkaline Lake. Of
these, Longspur Pasture is probably the easiest place to find it.
The Baird’s Sparrow has a song consisting of three short “tic”’s
followed by a musical trill, somewhat like the song of the Savannah
Sparrow. The song usually given by the Grasshopper Sparrow is similar in
pattern, but has more of an insect-like quality to the trill. The
Grasshopper Sparrow also has a second song, which is also very similar
to that of the Baird’s. With practice you will learn to distinguish
between the two, but at first you will have to see the bird to make
sure.
Le Conte’s Sparrow—Fairly common summer resident of sedge fields, wet
meadows and lake borders, alfalfa hayfields, and retired croplands
throughout much of the eastern half. Fairly common in the Kenmare area
as well. This rather shy sparrow often undergoes yearly population
fluctuations, which are dependent upon water levels. During dry years it
is often absent from many of its regular breeding locations. (This is
especially true in the Kenmare area.) Some of the more dependable spots
include Lostwood, Des Lacs, J. Clark Salyer, Arrowwood, Audubon, Lake
Alice, Rose Lake, and Tewaukon Refuges; Kelly’s Slough; Lake Ardoch; and
the area surrounding the Sanborne Waterfowl Production Area in Barnes
County. Of these spots J. Clark Salyer, Kelly’s Slough, and the Rose
Lake area are probably your best bets.
Sharp-tailed Sparrow—Locally fairly common to uncommon summer resident
of sedge fields, wet meadows, and marshes with much emergent vegetation
over much of the eastern half and northwest quarter. Undergoes frequent
fluctuations of breeding populations. Unlike the Le Conte’s, the
Sharp-tailed is more common during dry years. When the water levels of
marshes are lowered, there is more emergent vegetation to utilize as a
nesting habitat. Look for it at such places as Lostwood, Des Lacs, J.
Clark Salyer, Arrowwood, Long Lake, Slade, Lake Alice, Rose Lake, and
Tewaukon Refuges; Rush Lake; the Sanborne Waterfowl Production Area in
Barnes County; and in proper habitat throughout Sargent, Stutsman,
Benson, and Nelson Counties.
American Tree Sparrow—Common migrant and uncommon winter visitor to
weedy fields and ditches, retired croplands, sunflower fields, and
feeding stations throughout. Not hard to find.
Clay-colored Sparrow—Common summer resident of prairie thickets,
shelterbelts, brushy wood margins, and retired croplands throughout. If
you miss this species, you are probably not birding.
Brewer’s Sparrow—Fairly common summer resident of sage prairies in the
southwest corner. Largely restricted to the western portions of Slope
and Bowman Counties. Local populations occur in Billings and Golden
Valley Counties. Easy to find along the road going south from Marmarth.
If you are not familiar with this species, you may have trouble in
differentiating between it and the Clay-colored Sparrow. The songs of
the two species are very different and are the easiest way to tell them
apart. The Clay-colored has a very low buzzy song of short duration. The
Brewer’s has a series of trills.
Field Sparrow—Fairly common summer resident of sage flats, prairie
thickets, brushy ravines, and wood margins in the western half. Uncommon
summer resident of sandhills and brushy margins of the Sheyenne River in
Barnes, Ransom, and Richland Counties. Uncommon migrant elsewhere. Easy
to find along the Missouri River at Bismarck, at Sully’s Creek State
Park, and in both units of the Roosevelt Memorial.
Harris’ Sparrow—Common migrant and rare winter visitor to brushy wood
margins, shelterbelts, wood lots, parks, residential areas, and feeding
stations throughout. Not hard to find.
Swamp Sparrow—Uncommon and local summer resident of brushy bogs
scattered throughout the eastern half. Isolated colonies have been
located in Bottineau, Benson, LaMoure, Kidder, Dickey, and Sargent
Counties in recent years (Stewart, _Breeding Birds of North Dakota_,
1975). Uncommon migrant through wood-bordered streams, ponds, lakes, and
marshy areas west to about Bismarck.
McCown’s Longspur—Locally fairly common to uncommon summer resident of
short-grass prairies, stubble fields, and summer fallow fields in the
northwest and southwest corners of the state. Look along the roads going
south from Rhame and Marmarth, in the stubble fields around Bowman-Haley
Refuge, in the Kenmare area, in the south unit of the Roosevelt
Memorial, the stubble fields of central McKenzie County, and in the
vicinity of Crosby (Divide County).
Lapland Longspur—Common migrant and uncommon winter visitor to open
country throughout. Can be seen in large flocks around marshy areas
during migration. Some flocks may contain thousands of birds. In winter
look for it along roadsides with Horned Larks and Snow Buntings.
Smith’s Longspur—Rare migrant in open country throughout much of the
eastern two-thirds (more common in the eastern one-fourth). Usually
found in flocks of Lapland Longspurs, but occasionally occurs in large,
pure flocks in the fall, particularly around marshes in the southeast
sector. Try the North Fargo Sewage Lagoons and the waterfowl production
areas near Alice (Cass County).
Chestnut-collared Longspur—Common summer resident of mixed-grass
prairies, short-grass prairies, pastures, stubble fields, fallow fields,
and retired croplands throughout (rare in Steele, Traill, Cass, Ransom,
and Richland Counties). Hard to miss at such places as Bowman-Haley,
Lake Ilo, Stewart Lake, Lostwood, Des Lacs, Upper Souris, J. Clark
Salyer (grasslands tour), Audubon, Long Lake, Arrowwood, and Salde
Refuges; along the roads going south from Marmarth and Rhame; at
Longspur Pasture; and in prairie grasslands.
Snow Bunting—Common winter visitor to open country throughout. Less
common in the southwest corner. Easy to find just by driving any roads
(with the possible exception of interstates) leading through prairies or
agricultural areas. Often seen right along the road feeding with Horned
Larks.