Completed the three day trip to Bowman, ND, with substantial time in Teddy Roosevelt.

116 birds, 27 year birds, 8 lifers.  Observations:

* Long-billed Curlews were certainly highlight of the trip - appearance, behavior, and serendipity - chased for day before finding, then had one turn up in Bowman.

* Number of MN birds are replaced by "relatives" there, knowing songs here was tremendously helpful.

* Separating Clark's from Western isn't easy, even at 20 feet or less at Long Lake.

* Amazing to see how common uplands, godwits and willets were.

* Chestnut-collared Longspurs are stunning in breeding plumage on fence lines.

* If one has lark in one's name, one is common in that area, Lark Sparrows, Lark Buntings & Western Meadowlarks absolutely everywhere.

* Nate may have gift of prophecy, he brought up ibises at Long Lake, one popped up shortly thereafter.

Good birding to all!

Al Schirmacher
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