Chapter III: Introduction (2)

This large alkaline lake is a mecca for waterbirds in spring, summer, and fall. All of the regular grebes of North Dakota occur at one time or another. The Western Grebe nests in abundance. American White Pelicans and Double-crested Cormorants can usually be found, because they range far from their nesting area on Chase Lake. Large numbers of all of the regular ducks, gulls (watch for California), and terns can be expected from April to October. This lake is especially good for shorebirds, among them American Avocet, Semipalmated and Piping (uncommon—nests) Plovers, both yellowlegs, Willet, Stilt Sandpiper, both dowitchers, Ruddy Turnstone (rare), Pectoral Sandpiper, Dunlin (rare), Sanderling, all of the peeps, and Wilson’s and Northern Phalaropes.

The Slade National Wildlife Refuge can be productive for waterbirds, but it is not outstanding. Skip it if time is limited. To reach the refuge take Exit #45 (Dawson) from I-94, and turn south on State Highway 3. After 3.0 miles turn left (east) at the sign. On the way you will pass a nice marsh where large numbers of grebes (especially Eared and Western), ducks, gulls, and terns congregate. Just 0.3 mile after turning there is a fork. Here you may go either straight (east) to the headquarters, or right (south) through a segment of the refuge.

h) Logan County

Probably the best birding in this county lies in and around Beaver Lake State Park. From Napoleon, travel south on State Highway 3 for about eight miles, turn left (east) at the sign, and drive 6.5 miles to Burnstad. At this point there are two routes. The left (north) goes 2.0 miles to the park itself. (There are plenty of signs marking the way.) The other goes south on a dirt road for 1.7 miles to several extensive ponds and marshy areas.

The lake may be good in migration for loons, grebes, waterfowl, pelicans, and cormorants. It has a lot of open water that is deep enough to attract some of the rarer northern ducks such as Oldsquaw, Black Scoter, or White-winged Scoter. The few trees and brushy tangles should be checked in spring and fall for passerines, especially sparrows (The Harris’ can be common at times.).

The ponds south of Burnstad can be particularly productive for all marsh species from spring through fall. Close views may be obtained of American White Pelicans, Double-crested Cormorants, Great Blue Herons, Black-crowned Night Herons, American Bitterns, Soras, Virginia Rails, Black and Forster’s Terns, Marsh Wrens, Common Yellowthroats, Yellow-headed Blackbirds, and almost any grebe, duck, or shorebird common to the state.

SOUTHWESTERN NORTH DAKOTA

The southwest sector will be of the most interest to visitors from the east. While marshlands are generally fewer here, there are still a few areas that attract large numbers of waterbirds. For the most part, all of the North Dakota prairie specialties can be found. The uniqueness of this area lies in its penchant for attracting western species which are marginal in the state.

The infrequent water areas (including wooded river bottoms), the extensive sage prairies, the evergreen forests, and the arid badlands serve to attract species such as Cinnamon Teal, Prairie Falcon, Golden Eagle, Sage Grouse, Mountain Plover (accidental), Long-billed Curlew, California Gull, Burrowing Owl, Poor-will, Lewis’ Woodpecker, Say’s Phoebe, Western Pewee, Black-billed Magpie, Clark’s Nutcracker, Rock Wren, Sage Thrasher, Mountain Bluebird, Townsend’s Solitaire, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher (accidental), Black-headed and Blue Grosbeaks, Lazuli Bunting, Gray-crowned Rosy Finch, Brewer’s Sparrow, and McCown’s Longspur.

Although some of these species should not be expected by the visitor, the true degree of regularity of their occurrence is not really known because of the lack of observers in this area. If you have the spare time for exploring, do it here. Not only may you turn up an exciting western lifer for yourself, you may add to our knowledge of the status of certain marginal species as well.

a) Burleigh County

Water areas (especially large marshes) are relatively few in the southwestern sector. Probably the best of these is Long Lake National Wildlife Refuge. To reach it go south on Highway 83 (Exit 40) from I-94 for 12.0 miles before turning left (east) at the sign. Refuge roads lead around Long Lake and through some good marshes.

During migration, this is one of the best spots in the state. Some of the more interesting migrants are: Whistling Swan; Canada and Greater White-fronted Geese; Cinnamon Teal (rare); Common Goldeneye; Bufflehead; White-winged Scoter (rare); Hooded (rare), Red-breasted (rare), and Common Mergansers; Golden and Bald Eagles (uncommon); Peregrine Falcon (rare); Whooping (rare) and Sandhill Cranes; Semipalmated, Lesser Golden (rare), and Black-bellied (rare) Plovers; Ruddy Turnstone (rare); both yellowlegs; Hudsonian Godwit (rare); Sanderling (rare); Northern Phalarope; Solitary, Pectoral, Baird’s, White-rumped, Least, Stilt, and Semipalmated Sandpipers; Herring, California, and Bonaparte’s Gulls; Sprague’s Pipit; Le Conte’s (rare), Sharp-tailed (rare—may nest), and Harris’ Sparrows; and Lapland Longspur.

Although migration is the most exciting time, the refuge should not be by-passed in summer. Species to be seen then include Horned (uncommon), Eared, Western, and Pied-billed Grebes; American White Pelican; Double-crested Cormorant; Black-crowned Night Heron; American Bittern; Mallard; Gadwall; Common Pintail; Green-winged and Blue-winged Teals; American Wigeon; Northern Shoveler; Redhead; Canvasback; Lesser Scaup; Ruddy Duck; Swainson’s, Red-tailed, and Ferruginous Hawks; Northern Harrier; Sharp-tailed Grouse; Gray Partridge; Virginia Rail; Sora; American Coot; Piping Plover; Killdeer; Willet; Spotted and Upland Sandpipers; American Avocet; Wilson’s Phalarope; Ring-billed and Franklin’s Gulls; Common, Forster’s, and Black Terns; Short-eared Owl; Eastern and Western Kingbirds; all of the regular swallows; Marsh and Sedge Wrens; Loggerhead Shrike; Bobolink; Western Meadowlark; Yellow-headed, Red-winged, and Brewer’s Blackbirds; Dickcissel; Lark Bunting; Grasshopper and Baird’s Sparrows; and Chestnut-collared Longspur.

Another area which is often good is McKenzie Slough. To reach it take Exit #39 off I-94, and go south through McKenzie. The slough begins just south of the town. When water levels are high enough, the following nesting species can be expected: American Bittern, Mallard, Common Pintail, Blue-winged Teal, Gadwall, Ruddy Duck, American Coot, Pied-billed and Eared Grebes, Sora, Marsh Wren, Common Yellowthroat, and Red-winged and Yellow-headed Blackbirds. During migration, this spot attracts many of the same species found at Long Lake. Chestnut-collared Longspurs nest in the pastures along this road (south of the slough).

The city of Bismarck (population 34,703) lies on the east side of the Missouri River in western Burleigh County. Not only is it the state capital, but also it contains a habitat unique in the region—Missouri River bottomland forest. At one time almost four hundred miles of this habitat could be found. It stretched from the South Dakota border in the south-central part of the state to the Montana border in the northwestern part. The construction of dams brought about the subsequent flooding of the bottomlands until the forests had been reduced to a 75-mile stretch between Bismarck and the Garrison Dam and a few miles from Lake Sakakawea to the Montana border. Much of what little remains is being cleared for housing and agriculture.

Nesting species found in this habitat include Red-tailed Hawk; American Kestrel; Wild Turkey; Mourning Dove; Black-billed Cuckoo; Great Horned Owl; Common Flicker; Red-headed, Hairy, and Downy Woodpeckers; Least Flycatcher; Black-capped Chickadee; White-breasted Nuthatch; Blue Jay; Black-billed Magpie; American Crow; House Wren; Brown Thrasher; Gray Catbird; American Robin; Veery; Eastern Bluebird (usually restricted to semi-open areas and adjacent fields); Cedar Waxwing; Red-eyed, Warbling, and Bell’s (rare) Vireos; Black-and-white (uncommon) and Yellow Warblers; Ovenbird; Yellow-breasted Chat; American Redstart; Orchard and Northern Orioles; Common Grackle; Brown-headed Cowbird; Scarlet Tanager (rare); Black-headed Grosbeak; Indigo (uncommon) and Lazuli Buntings; American Goldfinch (open areas); Rufous-sided Towhee; and Chipping, Clay-colored, Field (open areas), and Song Sparrows.

The woodlands bordering the Missouri River are the best places in the Bismarck vicinity to look for migrant passerines, such as Red-breasted Nuthatch; Brown Creeper; Hermit, Swainson’s, and Gray-cheeked Thrushes; Golden-crowned and Ruby-crowned Kinglets; Black-and-white, Tennessee, Orange-crowned, Magnolia, Yellow-rumped, Blackpoll, Palm, and Wilson’s Warblers; Northern Waterthrush; Purple Finch; Northern Junco; and Harris’, White-crowned, White-throated, Fox, and Lincoln’s Sparrows. Birds to watch for in winter include Great Horned Owl, Common Flicker, Hairy and Downy Woodpeckers, Blue Jay, Black-billed Magpie (semi-open areas and margins), Black-capped Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, American Robin, Purple Finch, American Goldfinch, Northern Junco, and American Tree Sparrow (open areas). Both species of waxwings can be found in most years as well.

Typical bottomland habitat can be found near Sibley Island. To reach it start at the Bismarck Airport on the road to the terminal and drive south on Highway 1804 for 2.1 miles. Turn right (west) on a surfaced road. After 0.5 mile you have a choice of continuing straight (west) or turning left (south). To reach the best habitat, turn left and follow the road as it swings to the left. Go 2.2 miles (.5 mile past the bend) and turn right at the sign to the Girl Scout camp.

The road passes through excellent bottomland habitat. This consists mostly of cottonwood, green ash, box elder, and to a lesser extent American elm and bur oak. The understory, which is thick in some areas, includes Wood’s rose, red-osier dogwood, snowberry, bittersweet, and wild grape.

After birding around the camp, drive all the way to the river. From the high banks you will have a good vantage point from which to look over the sandbars for the area’s three specialties—Piping Plovers, Little Terns, and skinny-dippers. The latter species, although cosmopolitan in range, is quite rare in North Dakota. (When present they are “hard to miss”.)

The Piping Plover can sometimes be found in good numbers. This is one of the best areas in the state for them. Likewise, this stretch of the river is the only known nesting site for the Little Tern in North Dakota. When looking for them, remember that their locations vary from year to year, depending on the sandbars. The best way to find them is to check as many points along the river as possible. A spotting scope would be very useful in looking for all three aforementioned species.

If you do not get the plover or tern here, backtrack 2.2 miles to the fork before the Girl Scout camp and turn left (west). Drive 0.5 mile to 12th Street or 1.5 miles to Washington Street. By taking either south you will eventually reach the river. The view at the end of Washington Street is better, but access may be difficult if the river is high. During migration you may want to check General Sibley Park along Washington Street for passerines.

b) Morton County

The city of Mandan lies in Morton County just across the Missouri River from Bismarck. Most of the birds here are about the same as on the other side of the river, but there are some important exceptions.

To reach the best spots, take I-94 west to Mandan and turn off onto Main Street (I-94/Highway 10 Business Loop). Turn left (south) on 6th Avenue Southeast at the sign to Fort Lincoln State Park. This street becomes Highway 1806 and leads to most of the better birding spots.

Fort Lincoln State Park (about four miles south of Mandan) is worth a visit. It is not a particularly good spot for birds, although you will probably find typical upland species present. The most interesting feature of the park is its historical significance. There are three important sites: 1) the Slant Indian Village, which was once occupied by the Mandan Indians, 2) Fort McKeen Infantry Post, which was occupied by the 6th Infantry, and 3) Fort Abraham Lincoln, home of the colorful George Armstrong Custer and his famous 7th Cavalry. The two military posts were active in the late 1800’s. The park also offers an interpretive museum, picnic sites, and several modern camping sites (complete with electrical hook-ups).

Continue south on Highway 1806 for 6.0 miles to the Little Heart River. Turn left on an unmarked side road just north of the bridge. This passes under an old railway trestle and through a field of alfalfa and tall wheat grass. A colony of Sedge Wrens has nested here in recent years. This area is also dependable for Gray Partridge, Bobolink, American Goldfinch, Dickcissel, and Grasshopper Sparrow. At the field’s edge and in the woods look for Cedar Waxwing, Veery, Yellow-breasted Chat, Northern and Orchard Orioles, Lazuli Bunting, Black-headed Grosbeak, and other typical bottomland birds.

Several roads lead from Highway 1806 down to the river, some of which you may want to take in order to look for bottomlands species and migrants. Some 4.0 miles past the Little Heart River Bridge, a small road leads left to a good point for Piping Plover and Little Terns.

Another interesting spot is 6.8 miles past the bridge. Here, you will enter a small badlands with several severely eroded buttes, much like those in the extreme western part of the state. Watch for Turkey Vulture, Swainson’s and Ferruginous Hawks, Western Kingbirds, and Say’s Phoebes (rare; look near old buildings). Rock Wrens can be surprisingly common. The best way to find them is to park and walk past eroded buttes. It is just a matter of watching and listening for their distinctive series of trills.

A great place for winter birding is the Northern Great Plains Research Station in Mandan. To reach it, continue west on Main Street past Highway 1806 and turn left after one mile on Highway 6 (8th Street Northwest). Cross the railroad trestle and continue on 10th Avenue Southwest for 0.8 mile to a bridge. Just beyond, turn right at the sign.

These grounds are good for winter birding because of the conifers. Look for all of the regular winter species and for invaders such as Cedar and Bohemian Waxwings, Pine Siskins, Purple Finches, Pine (rare) and Evening Grosbeaks, Red Crossbills, and Golden-crowned Kinglets. The Townsend’s Solitaire, although rare, has been a fairly frequent visitor in recent years. The trees are good also for roosting owls. With luck, you may even turn up a Long-eared Owl.

c) Dunn County

Yet another location for migrant and nesting waterbirds is Lake Ilo National Wildlife Refuge. To reach it, start just south of the town of Killdeer at Highway 22, go east for 3.0 miles on Highway 200, and turn right at the sign.

Drive south through the mixed-grass prairie, which is good for Northern Harrier, Swainson’s Hawk, Ring-necked Pheasant, Sharp-tailed Grouse, Eastern and Western Kingbirds, Horned Lark, Lark Bunting, Lark and Grasshopper Sparrows, and Chestnut-collared Longspur. Turn left (2.0 miles) and bird until the road dead-ends at a farmhouse.

To bird the rest of the refuge, return to Highway 200 and head east again. Turn right (1.5 miles) toward the recreation area (just before the cemetery). After 0.3 mile the road forks. Go straight (keeping right) and follow the road as it heads to the lake and then makes a little square back to the road on which you entered. By taking this little loop you will get a good view of Lake Ilo. From this vantage point look for Common Loon (rare migrant), Western Grebe, American White Pelican, Double-crested Cormorant, Great Blue Heron (lake edges), Black-crowned Night Heron (lake edges), ducks and geese, and Sandhill and Whooping (rare) Cranes (migration—lake edges).

After taking the loop, turn right and drive 0.4 mile. Turn left and almost immediately swing to the right (at the fishing sign) and head toward the lake. Turn right at the sign pointing to the headquarters (0.5 mile). After 0.8 mile you may do three things: 1) turn right to the headquarters for information, 2) go straight for a different view of the lake, or 3) swing left to the slough.

The slough is the best area for birding. After swinging left, proceed for 0.8 mile, turn left, and drive for 1.1 miles past the entire marsh.

Species to be seen from spring to fall include Red-necked (rare), Horned (uncommon), Eared, Western (uncommon), and Pied-billed Grebes; Great Blue Heron; Black-crowned Night Heron; American Bittern; Mallard, Common Pintail; Blue-winged Teal; Northern Shoveler; Gadwall; American Wigeon; Ruddy Duck; American Coot; Sora; Virginia Rail; Killdeer; Spotted Sandpiper; Willet; Marbled Godwit; American Avocet; Wilson’s Phalarope; Black Tern; Belted Kingfisher; Eastern and Western Kingbirds; Barn, Cliff, and Tree Swallows; Marsh Wren; Common Yellow-throat; Red-winged, Brewer’s, and Yellow-headed Blackbirds; and Song and Savannah Sparrows. Many other ducks, shorebirds, and swallows may be seen as migrants or as occasional summer visitors.

After driving by the marsh, turn right, south for 1.0 mile, and turn right on a road through a mixed-grass prairie, which is good for Chestnut-collared Longspurs and possibly for Baird’s Sparrows.

d) Bowman County

Because of its position in the very southwestern corner of the state, Bowman County is one of the most exciting to bird. If you are going to find any truly western vagrants, your chances are better in either this county or the next two.

The best spot for both waterbirds and grasslands species is Bowman-Haley Dam National Wildlife Refuge. To reach it go north on U.S. Highway 85 from the South Dakota border for 5.3 miles, and turn right on an improved gravel road at a sign saying “Bowman-Haley Dam Recreation Area”. (This turn-off is about 11 miles south of Highway 12 near Bowman.) Go 5.0 miles east and turn right (south) at the sign saying “Point Rec Area 3 Miles”. After 2.0 miles turn left (east).

In the first mile check the roughly-plowed fields for McCown’s Longspurs in both spring and summer. After 1.3 miles the road becomes narrower and grassier and begins to loop around the lake. It should still be passable in all but wet weather. From 1.3 miles until 4.8 miles (where the road ends at a fence), you will be traversing some excellent grasslands. Most are mixed-grass prairie, but close to the lake there are tall-grass fields choked with weeds.

The mixed-grass prairie is good for nesting Sharp-tailed Grouse, Gray Partridge, Upland Sandpiper, Marbled Godwit, Burrowing Owl, Sprague’s Pipit (uncommon), Baird’s Sparrow, and Chestnut-collared Longspur. In the weedy fields where vegetation is taller and thicker, look for Bobolink, Dickcissel, and Clay-colored, Vesper, Grasshopper, and Savannah Sparrows.

For a different view of the lake, back-track to Highway 85, turn right (east), drive 3.0 miles, turn right (south), go 1.9 miles until the road forks, and swing right toward the marina. After 0.2 mile bear right. This road is good for birding, and there are picnic sites as well as room to spread your sleeping bag.

The lake is mostly open water with few marshy areas. It is not particularly good for nesting waterfowl. Nevertheless, in summer you should be able to find American White Pelicans; Double-crested Cormorants; Great Blue Herons; Ring-billed, California, and Franklin’s Gulls; and Black Terns although only the latter nests. A sprinkling of ducks use the lake in summer—both those that nest here and those from neighboring marshes. During migration, check for transient ducks, geese, and shorebirds. Short-eared Owls nest in the grassy areas.

The wooded ravines, tree lines, and shelterbelts provide habitat for migrant and nesting passerines. Look for Black-billed Cuckoo, Eastern and Western Kingbirds, Gray Catbird, Brown Thrasher, Yellow Warbler, Orchard Oriole, American Goldfinch, and Rufous-sided Towhee (spotted race).

There are two roads in the western part of Bowman County along which most of the specialties of the area can be found. The first starts from the town of Rhame (northwest of Bowman on U.S. Highway 12). From Rhame go south on a paved road for 6.0 miles. Watch for a power relay station (Slope Electric Cooperative) on the left, and turn right (west) on the next road (paved). Start watching the fields and roadsides for Northern Harrier, Swainson’s and Ferruginous Hawks, Merlin (rare), Sharp-tailed Grouse, Gray Partridge, Western Kingbird, Loggerhead Shrike, Lark Bunting, Vesper Sparrow, and McCown’s and Chestnut-collared Longspurs.

After 5.0 miles the road swings south. Stay with it for 7.0 miles, and turn right (west) on a dirt road, which starts to zigzag south just beyond a cattleguard some 2.2 miles ahead. Go 2.8 miles and watch on the right for a large field peppered with black sage. Check here in summer for Sage Grouse, Long-billed Curlew, Sage Thrasher (very rare), and Brewer’s and Lark Sparrows.

Rock Wrens and Belted Kingfishers nest in the eroded buttes by the stream, and Say’s Phoebes and Cliff Swallows nest under the bridge. Lark Buntings and Lark Sparrows are rather common.

A better road for most of these species starts at Marmarth (Slope County) and runs south to the state line. From the middle of Marmarth (The St. Charles Hotel should be on your left.), proceed west for 0.4 mile. Turn left on a gravel road which angles off just before Highway 12 swings to the right and crosses a bridge over the railroad tracks.

Heading south, you will pass a prairie-dog town on your right after 13.1 miles. This town is not very conspicuous from the road, but it is rather extensive. Watch for Black-tailed Prairie Dog, Black-footed Ferret (one was observed here in 1976), Burrowing Owl, and McCown’s Longspur.

The predominant habitat is short-grass prairie with extensive flats of black and silver sages. Some of the hillsides have lots of junipers. This is good raptor country. Look for Turkey Vulture, Northern Harrier, Swainson’s and Ferruginous Hawks, Prairie Falcon, and Golden Eagle. Harding County (directly south in South Dakota) is known as one of the best areas in that state for Golden Eagles, so it is possible that many of the eagles seen in Bowman spill over from Harding.

This road passes through some of the best habitat in the state for Sage Grouse. Sharp-tailed Grouse are also numerous. The Long-billed Curlew, although uncommon, is present each year in these sage-covered grasslands. Other species to look for are Mountain Plover (accidental); Common Nighthawk; Horned Lark; Loggerhead Shrike; Western Meadowlark; Lark Bunting; Vesper, Lark, and Brewer’s (common) Sparrows; and Chestnut-collared and McCown’s Longspurs.

Some 4.8 miles beyond the prairie-dog town, turn left on a dirt road to the Little Missouri River, where the trees and brush act as a migrant trap. During migration, it is the natural spot to turn up a western vagrant. Return to the main road and continue south for 2.2 miles to a small bridge near an eroded butte. Check for Say’s Phoebes and Cliff Swallows. Some 6.0 miles farther there is a larger bridge, where Cliff Swallows nest in good numbers, and you may find a Belted Kingfisher or a Say’s Phoebe. The state line is at the end of the bridge.

e) Slope County

If you did not find a Sage Grouse in Bowman County, try the road from Marmarth to Amidon. It is 42 miles long, and takes off from the east edge of Marmarth, where it is marked by a sign. The best area is the first six miles, where the sage is thickest. However, it may be worthwhile to drive the entire road.

While in Marmarth, check the trees in the residential area for nesting Western Pewees. One place where they have nested in the past is in the cottonwoods at the Marmarth Picnic Area. Turn left (south) off Highway 12 on the first street west of the St. Charles Hotel, drive 0.2 mile, and swing right to the small picnic area.

Stewart Lake National Wildlife Refuge is excellent for marshland and grassland birds. To get there go north from Bowman on U.S. Highway 85. After 12.0 miles turn left (west) by the flying-goose sign. After 3.0 miles turn right and cross the cattleguard toward the lake.

This refuge is rather small, but in migration the lake attracts all of the regular ducks, shorebirds, gulls (watch for California), terns, and swallows. Species which nest in the reedy borders include American Bittern, Blue-winged Teal, American Coot, Sora, Spotted Sandpiper, Wilson’s Phalarope, Black Tern, Marsh Wren, Common Yellowthroat, and Red-winged and Yellow-headed Blackbirds. In the mixed-grass prairie watch in summer for Northern Harrier; Sharp-tailed Grouse; Upland Sandpiper; Burrowing Owl; Horned Lark; Sprague’s Pipit; Loggerhead Shrike; Lark Bunting; Baird’s, Lark, and Grasshopper Sparrows; and Chestnut-collared Longspur.

Evergreen forests are limited in North Dakota, being found primarily in the badlands of the Little Missouri. Most tracts are dominated by juniper. However, in north-central Slope County a large tract of several hundred acres dominated by ponderosa pine borders the Burning Coal Vein Campground and Columnar Juniper Area.

To reach the area, continue north on Highway 85 from the turn-off to Stewart Lake for 10 miles and turn left on a gravel road at a sign for the campground. Go 0.2 mile and turn left. After 1.0 mile turn right. Stay on this road (follow the signs) for the next 10.2 miles and turn right to the campgrounds. The turn-off to the picnic area is 1.2 miles up the road.

For the past few miles you will have passed excellent stands of ponderosa pine. This hilly, forested country is more reminiscent of the Black Hills of South Dakota than of anything which one might expect to find in North Dakota. This is the only place in the state where the Yellow-rumped Warbler (Audubon’s race) nests. It can be found on practically any pine-covered slope. Its call note, a distinctive “chip”, may be of great use in locating the bird.

Other species of the pine forests include Sharp-shinned Hawk, Merlin (rare), Wild Turkey, Mourning Dove, Common Flicker (red-shafted race), Black-billed Magpie, American Crow, Red-breasted Nuthatch (rare), Brown-headed Cowbird, Rufous-sided Towhee, and Chipping Sparrow.

Another specialty of the area is the Poor-will, an uncommon breeder, which is more easily found on the periphery of the forested slopes than in the middle of them. A good place to watch and listen for it in the evenings is the area directly surrounding the Columnar Juniper Area (just up the road from the picnic site). Overlooking the spot is a pull-off which makes a good vantage point.

Check the brushy tangles at the picnic area for House Wren, Brown Thrasher, Lazuli Bunting, Rufous-sided Towhee, and Chipping and Lark Sparrows. Open flats and arid slopes surrounding the pine forest should be checked for Prairie Falcon and Say’s Phoebe.

f) Billings County

Besides being one of the most scenic, Billings County is one of the most rewarding to bird. As is the case with Bowman and Slope Counties, this county is good for western specialties and vagrants.

The two best areas can be reached from the town of Medora. The first is Sully’s Creek State Park. At the eastern edge of town by a sign for the park, turn south on East River Road. Keep left at the first fork and right at the next two. After 2.5 miles you will reach the campground.

This 80-acre park is nestled along the Little Missouri River and contains a good stand of cottonwoods and willows surrounded by sagebrush flats and grasslands. There is a high dirt cliff along the eastern edge, where Prairie Falcons sometimes nest and (if you are lucky) Big-horned Sheep play around.

Birds are abundant. One can expect to find most of the typical “badlands” species. Along the river look for Belted Kingfisher, any of the regular swallows, and migrant waterfowl and shorebirds. The sagebrush flats are good for Sharp-tailed Grouse, Gray Partridge, and Field Sparrows. In the cottonwoods and among the tangles of wild rose, snowberry, and currants, you may find Common Flicker (both red-shafted and yellow-shafted races, as well as many hybrids), Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers, Eastern Kingbird, Least and Willow Flycatchers, Western Pewee (rare), Blue Jay, American Crow, White-breasted Nuthatch, Black-capped Chickadee, House Wren, Gray Catbird, Brown Thrasher, Cedar Waxwing, Red-eyed and Warbling Vireos, Yellow and Black-and-white Warblers, Ovenbird, Yellow-breasted Chat, American Redstart, Northern (Bullock’s) Oriole (rare), Black-headed Grosbeak, Lazuli Bunting, Rufous-sided Towhee (spotted form), and Chipping Sparrow. The chat is heard more often than seen, but “pishing” noises are often effective in bringing this species out into the open.

The other top spot in Billings County is the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Memorial, for which the exit is well marked along I-94. The entrance is at the western edge of Medora (which you may want to explore). Just inside the park there is a visitors’ center with interpretive displays and a good selection of books dealing with the natural history of the area. The 38-mile scenic loop is an excellent drive for seeing the park and its birds.

There are several prairie-dog towns scattered throughout the park. The first is 3.1 miles up the scenic loop. Check this and other towns for Black-tailed Prairie Dog, Burrowing Owl, and Black-billed Magpie. To the left of the town there is a Sharp-tailed Grouse dancing ground. Look for performing males.

Watch on the left for the turnoff to the Cottonwoods Campground, which is about 5.4 miles from the visitors’ center. This spot lives up to its name in that there are many cottonwoods. It is a good place for Common Flicker, Blue Jay, American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, Red-eyed and Warbling Vireos, Northern (Bullock’s) Oriole (rare), Black-headed Grosbeak, and Lazuli Bunting. In the summer, there are lots of people in addition to the birds.

A better area can be reached by continuing for 1.0 mile, turning left, and then immediately right to the picnic area. This spot is not only well-wooded, but also it has good patches of secondary growth. Look here for Common Flicker, Willow Flycatcher, Western Pewee, Blue Jay, Black-capped Chickadee, Gray Catbird, Brown Thrasher, Red-eyed and Warbling Vireos, Black-and-white and Yellow Warblers, Ovenbird, Yellow-breasted Chat, American Redstart, Black-headed Grosbeak, Lazuli Bunting, Rufous-sided Towhee, and Chipping Sparrow.

The Jones Creek Trail (1.3 miles past the picnic area) passes through vegetation typical of the park. There is also an excellent stand of sage. Although not many birds are seen along the trail, it is good for Sharp-tailed Grouse, Rufous-sided Towhee, and Field Sparrow.

Most of the park is occupied by short-grass prairie spotted with occasional large sagebrush flats. Many of the rolling hills and ravines are covered with junipers.

In open areas, watch for Swainson’s and Ferruginous Hawks; Prairie Falcon; Golden Eagle; Sharp-tailed Grouse; Black-billed Magpie; Mountain Bluebird; Rufous-sided Towhee (brushier areas); Field, Grasshopper, and Lark Sparrows; McCown’s and Chestnut-collared Longspurs; Bison; White-tailed Jackrabbit; Mule Deer; Gopher Snake; and Prairie Rattlesnake. Check in the vicinity of eroded buttes for Poor-will (rare), Say’s Phoebe, and Rock Wren.

These badlands are fairly good in winter, mainly for raptors and western vagrants. Look for Northern Goshawk (rare), Rough-legged Hawk, Prairie Falcon (rare), and Bald (rare) and Golden Eagles. Townsend’s Solitaires usually winter, and Clark’s Nutcrackers and Gray-crowned Rosy Finches sometimes wander over. In fact, 200 of the latter species were found on a recent Medora Christmas Count. Other species found here are Sharp-tailed Grouse, Ring-necked Pheasant, Great Horned Owl, Hairy and Downy Woodpeckers, Horned Lark, Black-billed Magpie, Black-capped Chickadee, White-breasted and Red-breasted (uncommon) Nuthatches, American Robin, Bohemian and Cedar Waxwings, Northern Shrike, Evening Grosbeak, Purple Finch, Common Redpoll, and American Tree Sparrow.

After visiting the park, it is easy to see how Theodore Roosevelt developed such a keen interest in conservation from having lived here.

NORTHWESTERN NORTH DAKOTA

This sector is known chiefly for its large concentrations of breeding waterfowl and for its prairie specialties, such as the Baird’s Sparrow. The density of nesting waterbirds (not just ducks, but also grebes, cormorants, herons, etc.) is truly spectacular, and the number and abundance of prairie specialties would warm the heart of any lister. Another dimension to this sector (in addition to the lakes, potholes, prairie grasslands, and wooded coulees) is the badlands habitat with many western species at the edge of their ranges.

Because of the unique blend of habitats, the northwestern sector is strongly recommended to the visiting birder for top priority. If you are limited in time, a tour of the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park and of the refuges around Kenmare should enable you to see most of the state’s specialties. While a visit between the months of September and April could be more profitably spent in some other part of the state, you could hardly go wrong in visiting here between May and August.

a) Dunn County

As mentioned, badlands habitat does exist in the northwest sector. Its easternmost extension is found around the Little Missouri State Park. To reach it, go north from the town of Killdeer on State Highway 22 for about 17 miles, turn right (east) at the sign for the park, and proceed to the camping area.

This is still a primitive area, and the campground is not developed. All trails are for hiking and horseback riding only. If your time is limited, forget this spot and go on to the North unit of Roosevelt Park. However, if you enjoy the peace and solitude of primitive areas, this is the place for you.

The park has not been birded much, so it is hard to say what you may find. Judging from the habitat, almost any badlands-type bird could be found. Some of the likely ones include Say’s Phoebe, Black-billed Magpie, Mountain Bluebird, and Lazuli Bunting.

b) McKenzie County

One of the most interesting and unique places to bird in the state has to be the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Memorial. Most of the western species which inhabit the south unit can be found here also, and most birders who have visited both units agree that the north unit is better. This may be true partly because people-pressure is greater in the south unit, which lies right along the interstate.

To reach the park, go south from Watford City on U.S. Highway 85 for about 15 miles and turn right (west) at the sign. The headquarters are at the entrance.

The most productive birding spot is Squaw Creek Campgrounds, which is 5.1 miles from the headquarters. There are large trees (mostly cottonwoods) as well as an ample understory in many places. Breeding species include Common Flicker (both Red-shafted and Yellow-shafted, as well as many hybrids), Downy Woodpecker, Willow Flycatcher, Western Pewee (rare), Black-capped Chickadee, Brown Thrasher, Gray Catbird, Red-eyed and Warbling Vireos, Black-and-white Warbler, Ovenbird, Yellow-breasted Chat, American Redstart, Lazuli Bunting, Black-headed Grosbeak, Rufous-sided Towhee (spotted race), and Field Sparrow (open areas adjacent to the campgrounds). This is one of the most consistent locations in the state for finding the chat, bunting, and grosbeak. By making a careful check of the cottonwoods, you should be able to turn up several Common Nighthawks, which rest on the more horizontal limbs during the day.

Besides providing good nesting habitat, the wooded areas and thickets along the river serve to attract numbers of migrants and wintering species. In winter watch for Northern Goshawk (rare), Ring-necked Pheasant (willow thickets), Great Horned Owl, Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers, American Crow, Black-billed Magpie (more-open areas), Black-capped Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, American Robin, Bohemian and Cedar Waxwings, Northern Shrike (willow thickets), Evening Grosbeak, Common Redpoll (willow thickets), and American Tree Sparrow (willow thickets).

The rest of the park is mostly short-grass prairie mixed with large patches of sage, rolling hills spotted with junipers, and sharply eroded buttes streaked with colorful veins of clay and mineral deposits. The birds to be found in the open areas are Swainson’s and Ferruginous Hawks; Prairie Falcon; American Kestrel; Golden Eagle; Sharp-tailed Grouse; Black-billed Magpie; Mountain Bluebird; Western Meadowlark; Field, Grasshopper, and Lark Sparrows; and Chestnut-collared Longspur. The Say’s Phoebe and Rock Wren should be watched for (and listened for) around eroded buttes, sharp cuts, and under bridges.

You will probably see few birds in the open areas of the park in winter, but look for Rough-legged Hawk, Golden Eagle, Sharp-tailed Grouse, Gray Partridge (prefers cultivated fields), Snowy and Short-eared Owls, Horned Lark, Black-billed Magpie, Northern Shrike, Western Meadowlark, American Goldfinch, Common Redpoll, and American Tree Sparrow. In early and mid-November Sandhill Cranes pass over the badlands by the hundreds.

The park personnel can provide a detailed list of nature trails. One that merits mention is the Caprock Coulee Nature Trail, which winds through an area of junipers. Even though you will not be overwhelmed with birds, the trail is an interesting one. Look for Golden Eagle, Mountain Bluebird, Rufous-sided Towhee, Field Sparrow, Coyote, and Mule Deer. This trail is a consistent spot for seeing Mountain Bluebirds. Each year there are usually a couple of nesting pairs.

Another trail takes off from the Caprock Coulee Trail and leads over the ridge to a prairie-dog town, where the dogs are much wilder than those of the roadside colonies. Since the colony is somewhat remote, your chances are better for finding a Burrowing Owl. At any rate, you should find Black-billed Magpie, Western Meadowlark, and Field Sparrow.

For a pleasant place to camp, go south on Highway 85 from the park for 4.8 miles and turn right (west) to the Custer National Forest Summit Campgrounds (not deluxe but more than adequate). There is a nice scenic overlook, and you may even find some good birds. Wild Turkeys may be seen in nearby ravines.

A fine marsh can be found just south of Williston (the second largest town in the northwestern sector) in northern McKenzie County. From U.S. Highway 2 just west of town, go south on Highway 85 for 2.3 miles and cross the Missouri River. For the next couple of miles the road transects fine marshlands, which should be checked for all of the usual waterbirds.

c) McLean County

One of the better locations for transient and breeding waterbirds and grasslands species is the Audubon National Wildlife Refuge. To reach it, go north on U.S. Highway 83 from County Road #48 north of Coleharbor for 2.8 miles and turn right (east). After 0.5 mile, turn left to the headquarters for a map, birdlist, and current information.

This refuge (formerly Snake Creek Refuge) was renamed in honor of John James Audubon, who made one of his last painting and collecting expeditions to this area in 1843. About the only thing that has not changed since he was here is the extremely rich birdlife.

Most of the transient ducks and shorebirds common to the state can be found in migration. Probably the most exciting migrant is the Whooping Crane (rare), which occasionally stops on its way to or from the breeding grounds in Canada. Hundreds of Sandhill Cranes put in an appearance each spring and fall. Some of the other interesting migrants include Greater White-fronted Goose, Common Goldeneye, Golden and Bald Eagles (also in winter), Osprey (rare), Peregrine Falcon (rare), California Gull (actually a summer visitor), Short-eared Owl (occasionally nests), and Harris’ Sparrow (tree lines).

Although it is migration that brings the rarities, summer is just as exciting. Audubon Refuge has a great variety of habitats, including mixed-grass prairie, open water, marshy bays of the reservoir, prairie potholes, and salt-grass marshes. This makes for a tremendous diversity of breeding birds. Some of the more interesting ones are: Horned, Eared, and Western Grebes; American White Pelican (summers in good numbers but does not nest); Double-crested Cormorant; Black-crowned Night Heron; American Bittern; Canada Goose (reintroduced nester); Mallard; Gadwall; Common Pintail; Blue-winged and Green-winged Teals; American Wigeon; Northern Shoveler; Redhead; Canvasback; Lesser Scaup; Ruddy Duck; Northern Harrier; Swainson’s and Ferruginous Hawks; Sharp-tailed Grouse; Ring-necked Pheasant; Gray Partridge; Sora; Virginia Rail; Upland Sandpiper; Willet; Marbled Godwit; American Avocet; Wilson’s Phalarope; Ring-billed and Franklin’s (visitor) Gulls; Common and Black Terns; Black-billed Cuckoo; Burrowing Owl; Eastern and Western Kingbirds; Marsh Wren; Brown Thrasher; Sprague’s Pipit; Bobolink; Western Meadowlark; Yellow-headed Blackbird; Dickcissel; Lark Bunting; Savannah, Grasshopper, Baird’s, Le Conte’s, Sharp-tailed (rare), Vesper, and Clay-colored Sparrows; and Chestnut-collared Longspur.

The nearest lodging accommodations are at Garrison and Riverdale. Coleharbor has service stations and a cafe.

d) Burke and Mountrail Counties

Lostwood National Wildlife Refuge is one of the better ones in the state. To reach it, start at the northern edge of Stanley, go north from Highway 2 on Highway 8 for 21.6 miles and turn left (west) at the sign. From here it is just a short way to the headquarters, where you can pick up a refuge map and checklist, and obtain up-to-date information about road conditions and desired species. (The resident dog is dangerous, so exercise appropriate caution.)

Lostwood consists basically of rolling hills dotted with potholes. Mixed-grass prairie is the dominant habitat, but there are several shelter-belts and small woodlots as well as numerous wetlands. The major difference between Lostwood and other refuges in the northwest sector is the presence of several alkaline lakes providing attractive habitat for Piping Plover, American Avocet, and California Gull.

Waterfowl concentrations in spring, summer, and fall border on the spectacular. The purely transient species are the Greater White-fronted and Snow Geese, Whistling Swan, Common Goldeneye, Bufflehead, and Common and Red-breasted Mergansers. The ducks which nest are the Mallard, Gadwall, Common Pintail, Blue-winged and Green-winged Teals, American Wigeon, Northern Shoveler, Redhead, Ring-necked Duck, Canvasback, Lesser Scaup, and Ruddy Duck.

Other waterbirds which summer on the refuge are Horned (uncommon), Eared, Western, and Pied-billed Grebes; American White Pelican; Double-crested Cormorant; Great Blue Heron; Black-crowned Night Heron; American Bittern; Virginia Rail; Sora; American Coot; Piping Plover (alkaline lakes); Spotted Sandpiper; Willet; Marbled Godwit; American Avocet; Wilson’s Phalarope; California (uncommon visitor), Ring-billed, and Franklin’s Gulls; and Forster’s, Common, and Black Terns. Other species to look for around water areas include Short-eared Owl, Belted Kingfisher, Willow Flycatcher (boggy areas), all of the swallow species found in the state, Marsh Wren, Sedge Wren (wet meadows), Red-winged and Yellow-headed Blackbirds, and Le Conte’s and Sharp-tailed Sparrows (wet grassy areas).

In the prairie areas look for Red-tailed and Swainson’s Hawks; Northern Harrier; Sharp-tailed Grouse; Gray Partridge; Upland Sandpiper; Eastern and Western Kingbirds; Horned Lark; Sprague’s Pipit; Loggerhead Shrike; Bobolink; Western Meadowlark; Lark Bunting; Savannah, Grasshopper, Baird’s, Vesper, and Clay-colored Sparrows; and Chestnut-collared Longspur.

e) Ward County

There are few avid listers who have not heard about the area surrounding Kenmare. The town has become famous in birding circles largely because of the field work done there by Ann and Bob Gammell, and because of their hospitality in showing off the area’s specialties to visiting birders. Perhaps the single factor which generated the most publicity about Kenmare and its birds was the American Birding Association’s first convention, which was held here in June of 1973. Birders who attended were astounded by the density and diversity of birds to be found breeding throughout the prairie-pothole country.

What makes Kenmare so special? For one thing, it is surrounded by national wildlife refuges. The town itself lies right in the middle of Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge. Lostwood Refuge is only a short distance to the southwest while Upper Souris Refuge is just to the southeast. These three areas contain almost every major habitat type to be found in the region, and Kenmare makes a great base for exploring all three. The town is not large (1,515 people as of 1970), but there are several gas stations, stores, cafes, and motels.

The best birding spot is Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge. This large refuge (about 19,000 acres), following the Des Lacs River Valley, extends from the Canadian border to a point about eight miles south of Kenmare. The river valley contains both open-water lakes and marshlands. Bordering the valley is mixed-grass prairie punctuated by numerous wooded coolees (trenchlike wooded ravines).

Because this refuge is so large, it is here divided into three routes which cover most of the better areas. Caution: After heavy rain all of these routes can be almost impassable.

Route #1) Tasker’s Coulee and Refuge Headquarters. This trip begins in Kenmare. From U.S. Highway 52 go west on Highway 2 (6th Street Northeast). When it swings right after 1.1 miles, continue straight on County Road #1 (south). At this point you have been transecting part of the lake. Watch for Western and Eared Grebes. After 0.4 mile turn left to the headquarters for a checklist, map, and current information on road conditions. The wooded area surrounding the buildings may provide good birding, especially during migration. In summer look for Black-billed Cuckoo, Great Horned Owl, Common Flicker, Eastern and Western Kingbirds (margins), Eastern Pewee, Least Flycatcher, House Wren, Brown Thrasher, Gray Catbird, Cedar Waxwing, Warbling Vireo, Yellow Warbler, Orchard Oriole, and American Goldfinch (margins).

To reach Tasker’s Coulee return to County Road #1 and continue south. Bear left on County Road #1A as it heads up the hill. About 1.7 miles past the turn-off to the headquarters, turn left at the sign saying “Recreation Area”. After 0.5 mile you will descend into Tasker’s Coulee Recreation Area.

This coulee is well wooded with American elm, green ash, box elder, aspen, and several kinds of shrubs—including wild plum.

Many species of birds nest here with a great many more stopping during migration. Among the nesting species are Cooper’s Hawk, Black-billed Cuckoo, Great Horned and Long-eared Owls, Common Flicker, Downy Woodpecker, Eastern Kingbird, Eastern Phoebe, Willow (borders) and Least Flycatchers, House Wren, Brown Thrasher, Gray Catbird, Veery, Red-eyed and Warbling Vireos, American Redstart, Ovenbird, Black-and-white and Yellow Warblers, Northern Oriole, American Goldfinch, Rufous-sided Towhee (spotted race), and Clay-colored Sparrow.

Route #2) The Old Lake Road. The starting point for this tour is along County Road #1A at the turn-off to Tasker’s Coulee. Continue from the turn-off for 2.0 miles and turn left on Ward County Road #4. After 2.8 miles swing to the left. After 6.1 miles on County Road #4 turn left on Highway 52. Turn left again (0.5 mile) on a dirt road marked by a refuge sign. This will take you along the lake back to Kenmare. It makes for excellent birding because the lake with its reedy border will be on your left, while to your right are grassy hillsides peppered with several shrubby thickets. In the latter habitat watch for Swainson’s Hawk, Eastern Kingbird, Willow Flycatcher, Brown Thrasher, Gray Catbird, and Clay-colored Sparrow.

The lake itself is especially good for grebes (Western Grebe should be easy.); American White Pelican; Double-crested Cormorant; ducks and geese; Black, Forster’s, and Common Terns; and Ring-billed, Franklin’s, Herring, California, and Bonaparte’s Gulls (the latter three occur only as uncommon migrants or summer visitors). Large numbers of shorebirds feed along the open shore or on mudflats during spring migration and from July to October. Some of the shorebirds to be seen are Semipalmated Plover; Killdeer; Ruddy Turnstone (rare); Lesser Golden Plover (uncommon to rare); Willet; Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs; Spotted, Solitary, Pectoral, White-rumped (uncommon), Baird’s, Least, Stilt, and Semipalmated Sandpipers; Long-billed Dowitcher; Marbled Godwit; American Avocet; and Wilson’s and Northern Phalaropes. The reedy borders of the lake should be watched for Great Blue Heron, Black-crowned Night Heron, American Bittern, Virginia Rail, and Sora. Check the reeds for Marsh Wren and the taller grass closer to the road for Sedge Wren.

Go 2.0 miles to a small bridge under which dozens of Cliff Swallows nest. All of the other swallow species found in the state can be seen along this road. After 7.2 miles you will come out on Central Avenue.

Route #3) Boating Area Road and Sharp-tailed Grouse Photo Blind. This tour begins at Highways 52 and 2 (6th Street Northeast) in Kenmare. Turn west on Highway 2. Drive 1.0 mile and turn right (west) on Ward County Road #2. The grassy marsh on your left can be excellent for bitterns, rails, swallows, and Black Terns. After 0.7 mile turn right on a gravel road going north. Cross the railroad tracks, pull over to the side, and walk the meadow to your right. This area has been good in the past for Le Conte’s and Sharp-tailed Sparrows. Watch also for Willow Flycatcher, Common Yellowthroat, Bobolink, and Savannah Sparrow.

Continuing along Upper Des Lacs Lake, you should see all of the grebes, pelicans, cormorants, ducks, gulls, terns, swallows, and blackbirds seen on the preceding tour, but this route is not as good for shorebirds or marsh species. The road is bordered for some way by a wooded area (primarily second-growth) with all of the normal nesting and migrant passerines.

After 4.0 miles you will see a boating and picnic area to the right. Just beyond this, turn left. Turn right at the yield sign (0.8 mile), and then turn right again on Highway 52 (5.0 miles). After 0.9 mile turn left on a gravel road and immediately pull off to the right at a dirt road by a gate. (There should be a small refuge sign on it.) By walking past the gate and following the trail, you will come to a photo blind overlooking a Sharp-tailed Grouse dancing ground. During spring as many as 40-60 birds may be seen displaying. The blind may be used for photography or simple observation. However, you are required to check with refuge personnel before entering.

To return to Kenmare, continue past the turn-off to the blind for 11.0 miles to Highways 52 and 2.

The bird which brings more birders to Kenmare (and to North Dakota for that matter) than any other has to be the Baird’s Sparrow. While it can be found in appropriate habitat over most of the state, there is one place where it is probably easier to find than in any other—Longspur Pasture, a privately owned area of mixed-grass prairie encompassing several acres. To reach it, start at Highway 52 in Kenmare. Turn west on Highway 2, go 1.0 mile, and turn right (northwest) on Ward County Road #2. After about 6.0 miles go straight west on Ward County Road #2A for 3.0 miles to an old country school-house on your right. Go another 1.5 miles and pull over just beyond two small tree rows. Longspur Pasture is the fenced, grassy field on the left (south) (west of the tree rows). Cross the fence to bird, but remember that this is private land and should be respected as such. Cattle are sometimes encountered in the pasture.

This quarter-section of relatively unspoiled prairie may not look like much, but it is one of the most productive spots around for finding the prairie specialties. Sprague’s Pipit, Baird’s Sparrow, and Chestnut-collared Longspur are almost a sure thing between mid-May and mid-August (the longspurs may leave by early August). Other species which may be encountered are Gray Partridge, Marbled Godwit, Burrowing Owl, Horned Lark, Western Meadowlark, and Savannah and Grasshopper Sparrows. Pronghorn Antelope sometimes come to the small waterhole to drink.

You may have to walk south into the field where the grass gets a little taller to find the Baird’s Sparrow. It likes to sing from the patches of wolfberry and silverberry. During the early stages of the nesting season, it is quite conspicuous. Later in summer singing diminishes, and the bird becomes a little harder to find. At this time it also seems to stick closer to the ground. However, you can still get good views by herding it toward a patch of wolfberry or silverberry. After being flushed a couple of times, the sparrow will often fly to the shrub and perch in plain view nervously repeating its call note, which is quite like that of the Savannah Sparrow (a sharp “chik”).

The Sprague’s Pipit may be slightly harder to see well. It prefers to stay on the ground where it is difficult to spot because of the grass. When flushed, it usually flies a short way and drops back into the grass. Unlike the Baird’s Sparrow, the pipit may be hardest to see when singing because it sings while on the wing (like a Horned Lark) and sometimes at amazingly high altitudes. At Longspur Pasture you will often hear its “swishing” song from overhead without being able to see the bird. Do not be discouraged by all of this. You may still get a good look at the Sprague’s Pipit. In spring and early summer it often perches on fence posts or sits around the muddy edges of the stock pond, where the grass does not obscure the view.

Still one more large refuge in the northwest sector is Upper Souris National Wildlife Refuge. Although generally not as productive as Lostwood or Des Lacs, it is a good spring-through-fall birding location. The starting point is Foxholm (northwest of Minot on Highway 52). From the center of town (Miller’s Bar) go 0.7 mile north on U.S. Highway 52 and turn right on Ward County Road #11 at the flying goose sign. Go 5.6 miles, turn right, and after 0.8 mile turn left to the headquarters.

The best habitat is marshland behind locked gates. By asking at the headquarters, you may be able to obtain a key. Besides passing through marshland, these roads thread brushy pastures and wooded areas.

Some of the species on the marshes include Pied-billed, Eared, Horned, Western, and Red-necked (uncommon) Grebes; American White Pelican; Double-crested Cormorant; Great Blue Heron; Black-crowned Night Heron; American Bittern; all of the ducks, geese, shorebirds, gulls, and terns normal to the sector; American Coot; Virginia Rail; Sora; all of the state’s swallows; Marsh Wren; Common Yellowthroat; Yellow-headed, Red-winged, and Brewer’s Blackbirds; and Song, Sharp-tailed (uncommon), and Le Conte’s (common) Sparrows.

In the brushy pastures and wooded areas, you may see Eastern Kingbird, Willow Flycatcher, Least Flycatcher, Eastern Pewee, Sedge Wren (tall-grass areas), Brown Thrasher, Gray Catbird, Cedar Waxwing, Yellow Warbler, Bobolink, Northern Oriole, and Song and Clay-colored Sparrows. These wooded areas are especially productive during migration for transient passerines.

f) Divide County

One of the better places is a large alkaline lake near Westby on the Montana-North Dakota line. To find it, start in the center of town (by the large grain elevator), and drive east on State Highway 5 for 2.3 miles before turning left (north) on a gravel road. Watch for Chestnut-collared Longspurs. After 2.0 miles you should be able to see the south end of the lake on the left. The main portion will be visible for the next few miles, and the whole distance should be driven.