With more than 300 species, the Grand Cities and the Greenway are an ideal base for a birding trip through the Red River Valley. Birding can be enjoyed year-round. Nearby prairies offer chances to see native grassland species, including the greater prairie chicken, the gray partridge and the short-eared owl. Winter birding offers its own charm with species that include the snowy owl, snow buntings and the common redpoll. Birding sites include Turtle River State Park, Kellys Slough National Wildlife Refuge, Prairie Chicken Management Area and OakVille Prairie. For more information, call the Convention and Visitors Bureau at 800-866-4566 or stop in to pick up a field checklist.