On Tuesday when I drove in the Refuge entrance road shortly before 8:00 AM, there were 10 sandhill cranes feeding in the Visitors’ Center Pool. On Wednesday when I drove in at approximately the same time, the VC Pool was covered with ice!! Not a bird to be seen!! I get it, it is November, so snow, wind and cold temperatures should not be a surprise but should be expected. All of the units on Wednesday’s survey had 80 – 100 % ice. That greatly changes our birdscape. Two units had no birds detected and three units had six or less species detected. I suppose our season is beginning to wind down. However, temperatures are supposed to moderate and I am hoping for an increase in waterfowl in response to less or no ice in the units next week. Despite the low numbers of ducks and geese, there was a strong raptor presence this week. In addition to bald eagles, northern harriers and peregrine falcons, we saw rough-legged hawks. The highlight of the day on Wednesday, was to find 82 sandhill cranes at the Sandhill Crane Unit. They were hanging out at the east end of Van Dyne Spoor Road and could easily be seen from the road.

Due to the time of year, there are some important dates that should be noted.

• The South Spring Pool and Esker Brook Trails will be closed for hunting on Saturday, November 21 – December 22.
• There will be bow hunting around the headquarters area and the Seneca Trail from December 14 – 22.

Therefore, the Seneca Trail, including the tower, will be closed during that time for hiking and birdwatching. All walking trails will reopen on December 23.

The Wildlife Drive will close on December 1 and will reopen on April 1, 2021. The sun room at the Visitors’ Center is open but, there is still no access to restrooms.

I hope you can get out and enjoy the Wetlands Complex.