Last week we took a day off and observed the Tundra Swan migration near Brownsville, MN. Brownsville, MN is located 10 miles south of LaCrescent, MN on MN state hwy 26. The US Fish and Wildlife Services has created an overlook just south of Brownsville on the Mississippi River where the swans and migrating ducks can be seen by the thousands.
A Swan Family Feud
The swans are graceful birds with over a 7 foot wing span! The swans migrate from their summer habitat near the Arctic Circle to their winter habitat in Chesapeake Bay, Maryland.
The interpreters at the overlook told us that the swans fly non-stop from the Arctic Circle to the Mississippi River where they refuel for the next leg of the migration. They remain in Brownsville until the colder temperatures and reduced feeding habitat pushes them on. They may stop in Lake Erie for another refueling stop making their way to Chesapeake Bay.
Migrating Swans
The photos really don’t do the experience justice. There are places where the sand bars are white with birds. It looks more like snow in the distance!
We have had a warm November so the swans may be around for a few more weeks. The viewing area is about an hour drive from Lanesboro.
Lanesboro is dressed for Christmas with new downtown decorations. Take in The 1940′s Radio Hour at the Commonweal Theatre and stay with us at the Hillcrest Hide-Away. We’re ready for Christmas too including Carol’s extensive Santa collection.
