This week's Midwest birding activity showcases robust coastal and waterbird vagrants across nine states, with Lesser Black-backed Gulls dominating reports and several southern species pushing north into the region. Notable highlights include a Brown Pelican in Indiana and concentrated wader activity in Illinois and Iow
Lesser Black-backed Gulls remain prolific across the Midwest with 117 total reports from nine states and counts reaching 140 birds at single locations. The latest sighting of birds at Brighton Beach, Minnesota on October 4 confirms sustained late-season presence throughout the region.
A Brown Pelican appeared at Eagle Creek Park, Indiana on October 4, extending this species well beyond its typical two-state range in the Midwest. This represents one of only two states reporting Brown Pelicans this week.
White-faced Ibis numbers peaked at 38 birds at Lewis Bottoms marsh in Iowa on October 4, where viewable from adjacent public property. The species spans five Midwest states with 111 reports, indicating significant movement into the region.
Lewis Bottoms marsh (private property--view from road or public property) · October 4, 2026 · 1 bird
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds continue appearing across eight Midwest states with 107 reports, including a sighting on October 4 at East Fowler Road, Michigan. Counts typically reach only five birds, suggesting scattered late migrants across the region.
A Sabine's Gull appeared at Edgerton on October 4 along the Wisconsin-Illinois border, part of six-state reporting across the Midwest. This tern-like gull represents a scarce inland vagrant with only 55 total reports this week.
Red Crossbills were documented across six Midwest states with 68 reports, reaching 33 birds at Bridge on 27 in Minnesota's Schueler WMA on October 4. This represents notable inland movement for an irruptive northern species.
Bridge on 27 in Schueler WMA · October 4, 2026 · 7 birds
