Outdoor fun at Lake of the Woods includes exploring for the Stunning Birds found around Lake of the Woods. This area is recognized statewide as bird watcher’s paradise. Almost 300 species of birds next here and can be seen and heard in any season of the year. Pine to Prairie Birding Trail  is a unique partnership between the NW Minnesota communities of Detroit Lakes, Fergus Falls, Pelican Rapids, Roseau, Thief River Falls, & Warroad. Bird-watching has become a national obsession and is one of the country’s fastest growing hobbies

A very unique way to observe the stunning birds around Lake of the Woods is by boat. Along shorelines you will find Canadian Geese, Tundra Swans, Great Blue Herons, Mallards and Common Loons. Double-crested Cormorants, and four species of gulls and terns can be found on the many islands that dot the lake.

The Lake of the Woods area is one of only three places in Minnesota that the American White Pelican will nest. Clementson Rapids, 6 miles east of Baudette, is one of the finest displays of beauty and lures great numbers of these fine birds in its waters. Many visitors stop and watch as the stunning birds swim up current to catch those fish that have just come down the rapids.

Pine and Curry Islands host the endangered Piping Plover and have been designated a state Scientific and Natural Area. Visitors are still invited to stop on the island to walk the beautiful sandy beach and watch these tiny birds scurry across the land.

Migrating Waterfowl migrate in the spring and fall months. This list includes Lesser and Greater Scaup, Ring-necked Ducks, Teal, American Widgeon, Pintails, and mergansers. Some will stay and nest in the surrounding wetlands and WMA’s (Wildlife Management Area’s) near the lake. Included in the birds of prey list are the Bald Eagle, Osprey, Northern Harrier, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Red Tailed Hawk, American Kestrel, Merlin, Peregrine Falcon, and Turkey Vulture. The sight of a Great Gray or Snowy Owl, Sandhill Crane, or crow-sized Pileated Woodpecker is a thrill for any bird lover.

The most beautiful and stunning bird is the American Bald Eagle. They have claimed Lake of the Woods as their home where they stay all year round.  You are often able to see their gigantic nests high in the treetops while driving down the road. It is a special treat to view this stunning bird sitting alongside the roadways feasting on an unfortunate animal that has been killed by a car. It’s another amazing experience to come along side of that bird as he takes flight and spreads his wings right in front of you.

Spring’s ambassador is the Red Wing Blackbird, followed by sparrows, warblers, robins, vireos, orioles, finches, grosbeaks and humming birds. Their activities and songs continue into late fall. Dropping temperatures bring northern birds such as Junco and Snow Bunting as short term guests.  Check out www.birding-minnesota.com or check out the MNDNR birding lists!

For more information about the Lake of the Woods area and lodging opportunities, check out our website at www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com/lodging.