Friday looked like a good day to take off- so I did. A couple of us circumnavigated the valley and found 38 species of birds plus Prairie Dogs, a Coyote, a Fox, Deer, and Antelope. We found 8 “year birds” bringing out running 2021 total to 47 species. With a little good fortune and some hiking, I think we can hit 50 species before the end of January.
We set off on Friday morning to find a Northern Saw Whet Owl, Snow Buntings, Grey-crowned Rosy Finches, and a Black-Backed Woodpecker. None were found, but we walked about 7 miles (multiple short hikes) and added Northern Harrier, American Tree Sparrow, Mourning Doves, Lapland Longspurs, Horned Larks, a Hairy Woodpecker, and an American Kestrel.
That’s only seven.
The 8th one was odd and bears expanding upon a bit. We saw a small flock go Western Meadowlarks. It is not unheard of to see them in mid to late January, but they are considered uncommon winter residents. To see so many, and see them I such beautiful plumage on January 22, was a little surprising. They flew in front of us as we were driving in the valley. Both of us sat up a little and said “What?!” I pulled the van off the road and we put binoculars on them- clear as day. Western Meadowlarks- the real harbinger of spring in Montana- but here in the depths of winter (mild though it may be).
Anyway- a little more time spent in nature. No successful images of animals to share, but great memories.
Nature, every day. 
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