This week s Bitterroot Outdoor Journal suggests looking at power poles. That s a favorite perch for hawks in the valley, as they survey the nearby fields for scurrying rodents. Bob Danley reported three main species of hawks - American Kestrel, Merlin and Prairie Falcon (photos below). In early afternoon, you can see them along roads in the open country. Some possible locations are the East Highway between Stevensville and Corvallis, Tammany Lane east of Hamilton, and of course, the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge. When you look at the photos, notice the general shape of the bird for easier identification.
By the way, results from the Christmas Bird Count in Missoula resulted in 15 species of waterfowl, 4 species of owls, 10 species of finches and 9 species of hawks. Some top counts were 658 Red Crossbill birds and 61 Bald Eagles. The eagles are often seen soaring in the mid-day in the valley. And always, you can see many, many Canada Geese in the fields and ponds of the Bitter
Specific (details on where, when and what species are likely to be seen)
Measurable (what results are expected from your exploration)
Attainable (are you realistic on what you re going to see)
Relevant (the goal can be short-term or long-term)
Time-bound (does the amount of time spent bring results)
Bob also said to let people know what you re doing and write it down. He said that surveys have found a 45 percent increase in successes if you write it down and even a 95 percent increase in success if you simply tell friends or family.
With all that, still remember to enjoy yourself. It s truly an adventure to get out into our great Montana outdoors. Don t miss the magic!