A prairie chicken viewing blind is available to the public on Hamden Slough National Wildlife Refuge. From the blind, observers can see the spectacular annual mating ritual of the Greater Prairie Chicken, in an activity known as "booming". This primitive ceremony pits bird against bird as male chickens stake out territory to attract hens for mating. The most dominate aggressive males will hold the center of the "booming ground", which is called a lek. Younger males on the edge of the lek will challenge the older males. Males confront each other aggressively, jumping high in the air and striking each other with, feet, wings, and bill in ritualistic fighting. Prairie chickens have a distinctive pinnae or long feathers on each side of their neck. While on the booming ground, the males raise their feathers exposing bright yellow air sacs along the neck. The air sacs expand while making their distinctive low booming sounds.
The blind is located 10 miles northwest of Detroit Lakes and can seat four adults. The public may make a reservation for use of the blind by calling Wetland Management District office at 218-844-4421, or e-mailing: mary_hendrickson@fws.gov . Reservations are required, but are no cost to the public. A confirmation letter, information package and map will be sent by WMD personnel. The best time for viewing the booming ground activity is during the month of April.
Wetland Manager Scott Kahan believes the public will have a very high quality wildlife experience, and noted that the 2007 blind has been moved closer to the dancing ground. A do's and don'ts list will be sent in the information package. The list includes entering the blind 55 minutes before sunrise. Observers may leave the blind only after the prairie chickens have left for the morning, which is at approximately 8:30 a.m.
