An immature Ross’s gull was found along the Mississippi River in Pierce County, furnishing Wisconsin’s 2nd record. On average, only one is seen in the entire lower 48 states each year. / Photo Credit: Nick Anich

Mega-Rare Gull Emerges On The Mississippi As Waterbirds Start South

Snowy owls have surged into Wisconsin, including dozens in eastern counties and sightings from every corner of the state. Read a detailed update on our snowy owl page.

Although seasonable to mild conditions allowed waterbirds to linger last week, cold temperatures over the past few days have iced up water bodies and begun forcing some farther south. The period’s biggest rarity was a Ross’s gull discovered along the Mississippi River near Prescott on Nov. 27. 

The 122^nd Christmas Bird Count (CBC) is set to take place Dec. 14 through Jan. 5. Wisconsin has dozens of count circles around the state. Find one near you and learn how to join the count at Audubon’s CBC webpage.