Migration in Full Swing in Minneapolis

Deja Vu in Minneapolis

Once again Minneapolis is the hotspot for early Spring waterfowl viewing and photography. Each year since I began my nature photography quest I’ve witnessed numerous species of waterfowl in the lakes of Minneapolis and St Paul. It may sound crazy but these lakes harbor many different waterfowl each April including; Northern Shovelers, Redhead, Canvasbacks, Blue Wing Teal, Bufflehead, Goldeneye, Common Loon, Red-Necked  Grebes, Horned Grebes the occasional Eared Grebe, Pintail Ducks and the stars of the show Red-Breasted Megansers.

Why are Red-Breasted mergansers the star of the show? Well most years there are 100’s of them in the Minneapolis City Lakes and Lake Phalen in St Paul is also known to harbor them in April. Red-breasted Mergansers are here to court, feed and rest before heading North to their breeding grounds mostly in Canada. Drakes are constently performing an elaborate display of calling, bobbing and weaving for the hens hoping to provide what’s needed for a successful nesting season. This  activity often happens close to shore giving the birder a great view at these seldom observed birds right here in Minneapolis St Paul.

If you’re interested in seeing red-breasted mergansers, buffleheads, goldeneye, horned grebes and red-necked grebes now is the time to head to the Minneapolis City Lakes. You may even encounter numerous othe waterfowl species.

The images below were shot in April of 2025.

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