Birding trip explores Montana wetlands

Area residents are invited to join an exploration of the wetlands of northwestern Montana.

Organizers said the event promises to be a day away from the heat and smoke of this past summer as participants explore the wetlands of Pleasant Valley and Chain of Lakes. The event begins at 9 a.m., Mountain Standard Time, on Saturday, Sept. 18, at the sponsor-owned Lodge at McGregor Lake, for coffee and brief introductions.

Following will be a short discussion on birdlife of the area, and cover a few behaviors related to resident, irruptive, and migrating birds of prey, waterfowl, woodpeckers, shorebirds, and songbirds. During the day, the group also discuss selected mammal behavior as all wildlife prepares for winter. There will also be a few handouts for participants covering bird and mammal behavior as we enter the colorful autumn season.

After introductions, participants will head to the field maintaining social distancing, with a road tour, and a few short hikes of 1/4 mile to 1-mile round trip to observe birds, wildlife, and adjoining forests. For short range viewing, participants will utilize binoculars, and for longer range views spotting scopes will be set up.

Please come prepared for the day with full gas tanks, water, lunch, snacks, appropriate layers and footwear, bird field guide books, binoculars, cameras, and a good sense of humor. The guide for the day has education in both forestry and wildlife, as well as over 43 years in the field.

All participants must register for this class and intend on attending, as class will proceed rain or shine. For more information and to register, please email [email protected] or call 406-291-2154. All levels of birders and outdoor enthusiasts welcome.

For information on the lodge, go online to thelodgeatmcgegorlake.com