Few of nature's early spring events are more thrilling to behold than a V-formation of Canada geese, heading north, flying at speeds of up to 45 miles per hour, with males and females honking as they communicate to each other. These geese are returning from states south of Minnesota, and it should be noted that some local flocks are made up of nonmigrators. To know that migrants have arrived, birders look for a buildup in the total population, which usually happens by the first week in March. Soon after that we see pairs standing on the ice of marshes and other wetlands, declaring nesting territories with much fanfare.

Nesting sites are usually chosen in March and eggs are laid in late March or sometimes into April. Egg laying is triggered by open water. The female chooses the nest's location, generally close to where she was hatched herself. The nest is most often by water, and preferably on a small island, a muskrat house or a beaver lodge.

JIM GILBERT