As the weather across the Midwest rebounds to more spring-like conditions the return migration of light geese is gearing up for its final push into Canada.
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And now, on to the Snow Goose Migration Report.
After a slip back to winter weather, the forecast has turned again towards spring and light geese should be on the move again in short order.
Bird numbers around Sand Lake, South Dakota have been high for the past week but may see a drop off as the weather warms and the birds make a run for the Canadian border. Central and eastern North Dakota are also seeing a strong migration of light geese.
Further south, reports out of Nebraska tell of huntable numbers of birds still in that state, but those numbers have begun a steady decline and may thin out as warmer temperatures settle in for the upcoming week.
Southwestern Minnesota may have seen a flyover by the bulk of the light goose migration. Reports of the “here today, gone tomorrow” variety are common, but as always, scouting and timing can make all the difference between the reports from one party to the next.
The calendar turns another page this week and waterfowlers across the continent are hoping that April Showers will bring a high May pond counts and strong breeding conditions for waterfowl throughout the “duck factory.” Recent reports out of the Canadian breeding grounds are of improving conditions, but potential for drought still looms as we move into the warm days of spring. With crossed fingers and whispered prayers we head into the all-important breeding season, knowing that whatever the outcome, we will seek out the company of our winged quarry when fall returns and we are again at home in the marsh.
May the promise of Spring bring joy to all our hearts, safe passage through the season for our troops, and ease to their families here at home.
