REGIONS: NORTHWEST PINE TO PRAIRIE BIRDING TRAIL By Chris Lawton Spanning more than 200 miles between Fergus Falls and Warroad, the Pine to Prairie Birding Trail is Minnesota’s foremost birding destination. Its route includes pine forests, native tallgrass prairie, sand dunes (remnants of Glacial Lake Agassiz), deciduous woodlands and more, shaping a habitat well-suited to support over 275 species of birds. There are 45 designated viewing sites along the trail, identifi able by green birding trail signs. Two stops along the way are designated Important Bird Areas by the National Audubon Society: Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge near Thief River Falls, and Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge north of Detroit Lakes. Agassiz is a large, expansive refuge that is an excellent place for birding during migration periods. Tamarac is known for its woodland and boreal species, including the great gray owl. BIRDING ALONG THE Roseau Warroad Thief River Falls Detroit Lakes Pelican Rapids Fergus Falls Despite their name, pine grosbeaks are actually very large fi nches. Large numbers can be found along the trail when fruit crops are minimal in the north. PINE GROSBEAKS AMERICAN THREE TOED WOODPECKER The American three-toed woodpecker is a highly sought-after bird on the trail. Look closely for its yellow crown patch and messy white bars and spots on its body. Listen for its soft “pweek” call. Photo by Bob Dunlap To sign up for the Minnesota Birding Update, scan this symbol with a smart phone or go to ExploreMinnesota.com/newsletters. Maplewood State Park in the fall, photo by Minnesota DNR
Explore Minnesota Travel Guide 2022 Explore Minnesota Travel Guide: Page 80
