The community is invited to take part in unique outdoor adventures combining the experiences of animal and bird tracking, sign and scat interpretation, winter adaptations and ecology, winter birding, and evergreen tree and plant identification.

Participants will embark on a series of observational jaunts of short, moderate hikes on private lands of less than one-mile round trip, 4WD vehicle birding and track safaris, and some roadside stop and hops, moving along timberlines, wetlands, lake side areas, and riverbanks.

The small groups will explore together as a wildlife research team, taking time to immerse themselves in the knowledge that nature shares and visit several habitats with diverse flora and fauna. It also will include some Native American history and stories of explorer David Thompson. These outings will take place near the Cabinet Mountains, the Kootenai River, and the Thompson Chain of Lakes, all close to Libby, Mont. The class visit different areas on each day, and folks can sign up for one day or both.

On Saturday, Feb. 29, and Sunday, March 1, the class will meet at 9 a.m. MST * at the Venture Inn, 1015 W. Ninth St./Highway 2; 406-293-7711. After a brief discussion on topics, participants will head to the field, wrapping up around 3 p.m. MST.

Participants are asked to come prepared for the outings with winter boots, snowshoes if you have them, ski or trekking poles, proper layers, lunch, water, and full gas tanks. Also bring measuring tapes, binoculars, cameras, and a good sense of humor. The programs are sponsored by Libby Hostel Base Camp, located along the river at 427 Thomas St. (See the Facebook and airbnb pages.) The Hostel has a block of rooms for participants. (To book rooms, call Marina at 406-291-7529.) Accommodations may also be found at the Venture Inn, and the Country Inn, 1020 W. Ninth St. (Phone is 406-293-2092. Mention that you are participating in this class for a discount.) Waiver must be signed for sponsoring group. Registration fee for Lincoln County residents is $30 per day, and outside Lincoln County is $50 per day.

The class guide is a wildlife researcher and forester with over 40 years experience.

To register, email b_baxter53@yahoo.com or call 406-291-2154. Slots are limited to provide personal instruction.