Barrow's Goldeneye in St. Louis County
2010-01-03

'Rare Regular' in Minnesota

Though not reported since 19 December 2009, this drake Barrow's Goldeneye at Leif Erickson Park, Duluth, is undoubtedly the same individual found here on the Duluth CBC. It may also be the same individual first found by me at Park Point Recreation Area 17 November 2009, which was subsequently photographed by Erik Bruhnke and reported at 21st Ave East, Duluth, through the 27th. For comparison, please see Erik's photo taken 22 November 2009 at 21st Ave East at http://www.pbase.com/birdfedr/image/119670548

This is probably the same individual that overwintered last year in Duluth. Records of this species in Duluth within the last decade include an adult male 3 February – 19 March 2001 (Loon 73:157, 73:208), an adult male in transitional plumage 6-7 October 2007 (Loon 80:6), and an overwintering adult male 1 November 2008 – 8 March 2009 (Loon 81:8). Prior to 2001, this species had not been recorded here since the 1970s. Digiscoped at 275 yards by Peder H. Svingen, Nikon Coolpix P80, Leica Televid 77mm APO. Hand held in below zero wind chills with air temperature 8 ºF, f2.8, ISO 64. Shiver me timbers!