Falls Region North Loop
The Minnesota River, from Granite Falls to Redwood Falls, provides a corridor of green through this heavily farmed region, concentrating migratory and resident birds into the rather narrow strip of brush, woodlands, marshes and grasslands remaining along the river. Vicksburg Park is a prime example of riparian habitat, a superb area for both spring and fall migrants as well as winter residents like Golden Eagle. Bald Eagle can be seen any time there is open water on the Minnesota River. Turkey Vulture are also commonly seen. The area contains dense stands of Red Cedar and mixed deciduous trees, excellent habitat for migrating thrushes, warblers, vireos and flycatchers. Long-eared Owl use the cedars as winter and spring migration roost sites; these same cedars also provide winter food for Cedar Waxwing, winter finches and wintering American Robin, as well as offering shelter to Townsend’s Solitaire, a species rarely sighted in Minnesota. Similar in habitat to Vicksburg Park, but on a much larger scale, is Upper Sioux Agency State Park. Over 210 species of birds have been recorded here during the breeding season. Bald Eagle concentrate in the park in fall and spring; Red-shouldered Hawk are often sighted; Whip-poor-will can be heard during the spring migration; and Wild Turkey abound, both in the park and the surrounding area.

Falls Region South Loop
Alexander Ramsey Park lies within the City of Redwood Falls along the Redwood River as it winds its way to the Minnesota River. For birders, this is one of the best municipal parks in Minnesota. Woods, streams, cliffs and thickets provide a variety of habitats for birds, especially during migration. Over 24 species of warbler and vireo have been recorded in the park along with many varieties of flycatcher, grosbeak, wren, woodpecker and sparrow. Just south of this park lies Redwood Lake, one of the few lakes in this region. Common Loon and a variety of waterfowl have been recorded here during migration. Down river from Redwood Falls is Fort Ridgely State Park, a historically significant site dating from the early settlement of the state. The park lies on the wooded north bluff of the Minnesota River, an excellent spot for watching migrating hawks and eagles. Nearly 160 species have been recorded in the park including 24 species of warbler. Grasslands in the park support populations of Grasshopper Sparrow and Bobolink. Red-shouldered Hawk and Blue-gray Gnatcatcher are found in the woodland areas of the park during summer. Near Fort Ridgely, Mack County Park provides a variety of habitats attractive to birds: riparian, woodland thickets and a small river-bottom lake. Also on the north side of the Minnesota River are two prime areas of river bottom woodlands: Birch Coulee Historic Site and County Park and Beaver Falls County Park. Both are oases for birds, especially during migration periods.