Flathead Audubon hosts talk on migrating birds of West Valley

Flathead Audubon Society hosts Dick Walker for an engaging slideshow about migrating birds, wildlife, and the farm crops that attract them to the West Valley. 

The talk is Sept. 14 at the Gateway Community Center in Kalispell. 

Walker will also share a glimpse of the farmers who tend the land, and of us, their neighbors, who are drawn to the area by the wildlife it attracts and its quiet, subtle beauty. Walker moved to the Flathead Valley from eastern Montana in 1978. 

He has worn many hats in his life, including farm kid, veteran, husband, father, ranch hand, heavy construction worker, hiker, paddler, hunter, and outdoor photographer. His attachment to the West Valley began after retirement, when he spent five years volunteering to count migrating waterfowl for Gael Bissell, then with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. He still covers the same route every day and is still dazzled by the wildlife and beauty of the area.

He always has his camera, binoculars, and dog with him. Together, they sit and watch, but sometimes they visit with farmers or birders, tourists, and a few lost souls. When the people move on, Walker and his dog return to watching. This slideshow will present what they see.

Doors open at 5 p.m. for set-up, laying out potluck dishes, and prepping/viewing items for silent auction. The potluck dinner starts at 6 p.m. Bring plates, utensils, and cups. There is no way to wash dishes, so bring a sack to take them home. The meeting and presentation will begin at 7 p.m.

The meeting is in Room 26, on the east side of the building along Glenwood Drive. 

For information on how to join virtually, email [email protected].

The program is free and open to the public.

The mission of the Flathead Audubon Society is to conserve birds, wildlife habitat, and ecosystem diversity in Northwest Montana, through education and conservation programs.