Do you ever wonder what is happening outside your home state?  Finding out what is going on nationwide has never been more convenient.  There is now a plethora of technology and an even greater network of information available for birders.  During my Big Year in 1998 I did not use either a cell phone or a laptop.  My, how times have changed!

It’s early April and migration is in full swing across the continent.  Many of the normally expected birds are showing up at the normally expected calendar dates.  The better a birder knows what is “normal”, the more prepared he/she will be to make a rare find.

So what kind of rare birds are showing up across the continent?  How about a Common Crane in Nebraska?  Or Illinois’ 3rd record Ross’s Gull?  Did you know the Brown Shrike is still being reported in Northern California? Continue reading →