North Dakota, is located in the middle of the central fly zone used by birds during the spring and fall migrations, which means it is a top destination for millions of birds. This, in turn, means it is also a destination for birders, too.
Each migration brings millions of birds north and they stop to feed and rest, filling the numerous ponds and fields with a spectacular variety of species. As you may know, some species stay year around. For many species, North Dakota is their destination, and they will breed and nest here.
Some species attract birders from all over the world, and Morton and Stark Counties, are home to some of these. a place where some of these birds nest. Baird’s Sparrow, Chestnut-collared Longspur, Least Tern, Piping Plover, and Sprague’s Pipit are examples of rare birds that nest in the area that includes the Old Red Old Ten Scenic Byway.
April marks the action-packed spring migration season, providing astounding opportunities to see birds in their natural fly way. With 63 wildlife refuges – more than in any other state – North Dakota offers unparalleled opportunities for viewing an incredible array of birds and other wildlife. The North Dakota birdwatcher’s checklist contains an amazing 370 species. To learn more about birding or to find out about events and attractions across North Dakota, go to www.ndtourism.com.
Birding Resources
eBird.org/home – The go-to site for birders, eBird is a project of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and is supported entirely by grants, sponsors, and donations. Explore birding areas, identify hotspots, study bird identification, and report your sightings to add to the data base of citizen scientists.
audubon.org/news/birding-north-dakota – National Audobon Society’s website.
10000birds.com/birds-on-posts-or-birding-north-dakota.htm – A birding blog.
bismanbirding.wordpress.com – Bismarck-Mandan Bird Club website.
gf.nd.gov – North Dakota Department of Game & Fish website.
ndtourism.com – North Dakota Division of Tourism website.
New to birding? An experienced birder offers these tips.
Buy or borrow a bird field guide. These vary from simple Birds of North Dakota, which features the 100 most common species, to much more complicated resources.
You will need a pair of field glasses. Maybe borrow some at first, before you make a bigger financial investment.
Keep your eye out for birding clubs, classes, and free field trips. ND Fish and Game, various nature preserves offer annual bird walks. Parks often have a variety of birding events. The one in Medora is outstanding and happens every spring at the Hight of migration.
The best place to start might be your own back yard. Add a feeder and watch them come to you.
The state’s museum, the Heritage Center in Bismarck, includes a display of a significant number of species (with names). You can find the displayed birds in your book and then go find them in the wild.
Welcome to your adventure along the Old Red Trail
The Old Red Old Ten Scenic Byway will take you to birding hotspots within the two counties. Venture off the trail to find those birds on your life list, and get a photo or two. The communities along the trail welcome you and would love to hear of your adventures!
