Hawk Ridge Begins Annual Spring Count for Returning Birds

DULUTH, Minn. — At the beginning of the month, Hawk Ridge began their annual spring count for bird species returning home.

The Hawk Ridge observers and volunteers are flocking to the cliffsides of Enger Park to begin the spring count. Some of the early birds making their way back are trumpeter swans and bald eagles.

Duluth specifically is one of the most populated bald eagle migration destinations. Last year they had a record 1,200 eagles documented in one day.

Getting involved in the counting process is something anyone can do, and the Hawk Ridge employees encourage it.

“It’s kind of the reverse of the fall migration. In the fall we get the ones that have got the long distance to go first. In the spring we get them last, because they have to make the return journey from Central and South America.” said Margie Menzies, an education director at Hawk Ridge.

The spring migration count will continue into the month of May. If you’re interested in following the number of bird sightings, you can check out Hawk Ridge’s website to see live updates.