Winter Solstice birding on Dec. 21

Celebrate the Solstice with a morning of birding along Flathead Lake’s North Shore. Encompassing over 1,800 acres, the Flathead WPA is a wonderful mix of habitats with many opportunities to see a variety of birds. 

The group will likely see eagles as well as both Rough-legged and Red-tailed Hawks. Song Sparrows and American Tree Sparrows are probable in the thickets. Closer to the lake, there is a great mix of Ponderosa pine, aspen stands, birch and larch trees where it is possible to find three types of nuthatches, a variety of woodpecker species and chickadees. The dense thickets along the sloughs provide great cover for birds such as Long-eared Owls.

Join Shannon and Bridger Donaldson on Thursday, Dec. 21, from 10:30 a.m. to around 1:30 p.m. Expect to walk 2.5-3 miles. It is mostly level, however, there are some slopes and boardwalks that may be slick. Bring ice cleats or hiking poles, tall waterproof boots, extra layers, water and a sack lunch or snacks. There are no restrooms available. Contact Shannon at shannon@flatheadaudubon.org or 406- 261-3466 to sign up.

Additional information can be found at https://flatheadaudubon.org.

The program is free and open to the public.