While conducting the Rochester CBC, Jerry Pruett and Rod Bolterman found a
Black Scoter in a small area of open water at the Silver Creek Reservoir
east of Rochester.  It was found late this afternoon.  It can be viewed from
the north side of the reservoir by driving down a short dead end road (23rd
St NE) that heads east of County 11 (one mile south of County 2 and one mile
north of Silver Creek Road - and a little over 2 miles north of County 9). 

 

The opening in the ice is being kept open by Canada Geese.  The opening is
far enough out from the road that a scope is needed.  Some of the open water
is viewable from the point where parking is available but you will probably
need to walk a short distance down the road into the WMA to be able to see
all of the open water.  The bird was originally hanging out in the more open
area toward the west side of the opening.  The area became less and less
open over the time we were viewing the bird as more and more geese came in
to stay for the night.  I suspect the guess will go out to feed in the
morning thus making it easier to locate the scoter.  There is also a scaup
in the opening as well.

 

I don't believe this species has been reported in Olmsted County before.
Congratulations to Jerry and Rod for a great find.

 

Bob Ekblad
Olmsted County in SE Minnesota
http://www.Birding-Minnesota.com

 


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