Migration Update June 12, 2008
An unusually cool and wet spring continues. We have had nearly 4 inches of rain since the first of the month and the temperature dropped to 38 degrees last night. The cool season plants, such as sedges, Canada bluejoint, and western wheatgrass have flourished with the moisture and cooler temperatures. Warm season plants, such as arrowhead, smartweed, and big bluestem need some warmth to start growing vigorously. The landscape is green and most of the wetland units have partially refilled with the rainfall.
Many of the nesting bird species have either delayed nest initiation or are renesting due to the wet and cold weather. Some species, such as Canada geese and the bald eagle pair, do not seem to be affected and their young continue to grow. Many deer fawns have been born in the last week, and can be spotted with their mothers if you watch from a distance. Four different pairs of trumpeter swans have remained on the refuge. We do not believe that any are actively nesting. One pair can usually be spotted from the tour route near headquarters. A survey of the pelican nesting islands revealed that the cold weather and high water has affected this years production. The number of young pelicans is about 1/2 of last year.
Burrowing owls can be spotted most evenings foraging above the prairie dog towns or near the roads. Young burrowing owls will likely start venturing out of the holes in the next few weeks and you might be able to spot a group perched around the nesting burrow. A flock of 35 white faced ibis have remained and can be spotted flying from or to foraging sites near headquarters. An unusual sighting of a male common moorhen was made on Hazel Pond last Friday. This is the first time this species has been documented on the refuge.
Area roads are currently dry. If you are planning a visit after recent rains, check with refuge headquarters about current road conditions. Enjoy your visit!
Thinking of making a trip to Lacreek NWR? Check out the latest weather forecast for the Lacreek area at http://www.weather.com/weather/local/57551
Migration Updates:
May 13, 2008
April 21, 2008
March 27, 2008
March 3, 2008
February 10, 2008
January 10, 2008
January 7, 2008
December 14, 2007
November 28, 2007
November 16, 2007
October 23, 2007
September 28, 2007
August 1, 2007
June 8, 2007
May 7, 2007
April 9, 2007
March 5, 2007
January 5, 2007
December 4, 2006
November 15, 2006
October 10, 2006
September 20, 2006
July 27, 2006
May 17, 2006
April 5, 2006
March 24,
2006
