Nighthawk, Common**
Description: This cryptic bird is most often seen in large flocks during fall migration, flying erratically while catching insects. A member of the goat-sucker family, it is less likely to be seen when perched.
Mockingbird, Northern
Description: A southern visitor here, the mockingbird is usually heard before it is seen.
Merlin
Description: Merlins may be spotted flying overhead on migration in fall or perched in a tree.
Merganser, Red-breasted
Description: Look for the shaggy-black head and narrow-toothed bill of this medium-sized duck as it dives on the lakes.
Merganser, Hooded
Description: This is a fish-eating duck that can be found diving in Garden lakes.
Merganser, Common
Description: This rare, large, fish-eating duck with a narrow toothed bill may be seen diving on the lakes.
Meadowlark, Western*
Description: Look for these rare visitors in the Dixon Prairie. Although identical in appearance to the eastern meadowlark, they are less common and their songs are different.
Meadowlark, Eastern***
Description: Look for this classic grassland species in the Dixon Prairie. Like many grassland birds, the meadowlark has declined with its habitat availability.
Martin, Purple***
Description: The Garden's largest member of the swallow family is the purple martin. Look for them flying around or perched on the large, aluminum birdhouses on poles at various locations around the Garden.
Mallard***
Description: Mallards are commonly seen on the lakes and throughout the Garden.