Wings Over Grand Forks: 4 Places to Catch the Fall Migration

The season of pumpkin spice, ghouls and goblins, and sweaters is upon us, but as Grand Forkers, we know there’s more to fall than that! If you aren’t already partaking in the hunting or harvest season, you might have noticed that birds in all kinds of numbers, shapes, and sizes have been showing up recently, signifying that the fall migration is on! Grand Forks is arguably one of the best places in the country to encounter a diverse set of species, along with some less common ones, too! Here are four places to catch the local fall migration:

The Greenway is one of the most diverse recreational areas locally. When you’re done at the skate or dog park, hit the dirt trails that wind through the woods, or hop over to the East Grand Forks side and follow the trails south through some forest stands where you’re bound to find interesting migrating birds in the fall. Fun species you might encounter are common nighthawks, chimney swifts, and the white-winged crossbill. Some birders have even encountered upland birds like the American woodcock, and don’t forget to peer down to the river to see what waterfowl and waterbird species are milling about there.

If you’re looking for a simple, yet exciting day trip, a rich number of species are waiting just 20 minutes away. At Kelly Slough, you’re likely to see any number of waterfowl and shorebird species during the fall migration, along with raptors and shorebirds. There is also an observation tower for easier viewing into the wetlands.

Oakville Prairie Wildlife Management Area is home to unique, expansive prairie habitat where upland species thrive. If you’re looking for a little more bushwacking, or just a walk along the quiet surrounding gravel road, Oakville is a good place to get some steps in and see prairie birds. You may encounter species like the Lapland longspur, American pipit, and snow bunting. Oakville Prairie is both a state Wildlife Management Area and a University of North Dakota Research Station, so please be sure to follow regulations for this WMA and be respectful of both researchers and hunters.

A day trip to Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), just under a 1.5 hour drive from Grand Forks, is a fascinating habitat transition zone where you are bound to encounter many bird species. It is a refuge for both migrating and nesting birds, with 26 wetland impoundments and two natural lakes. You’re likely to encounter waterfowl species such as gadwall and tundra swans, along with shorebirds and gulls, and songbirds like pine siskin and savannah sparrow. Unique species have also been encountered there, including American black ducks, trumpeter swans, and surf scoters. Agassiz NWR is also home to gray wolves, moose, and other abundant wildlife. You can find more about visiting here, but there are multiple observation decks and hiking trails for your convenience, and please obey refuge regulations so others can enjoy Agassiz NWR for years to come.

One thing that makes Grand Forks cooler is the amount of outdoor recreation you can get into locally. If you haven’t tried birding before, these locations in and around Grand Forks are a great place to start. If you’re new to birding or need a little help with species identification, Cornell’s Merlin Bird ID app is a great place to start. So go pack a water bottle, snack, sunscreen, and binoculars, and you’ll be off finding birds in no time!