Join Flathead Audubon field trip leader Darcy Thomas for a day of bird and wildlife watching at the Bison Range in the Mission Valley. The Bison Range is home to many birds, such as Bald and Golden Eagle, Lewis’s Woodpecker, Red-naped Sapsucker, Willow Flycatcher, Lazuli Bunting, and Grasshopper Sparrow. There is also wonderful native vegetation and many animals, including Bison, White-tail and Mule Deer, Elk, Pronghorn Antelope, Coyote and bear.

We will drive over Red Sleep Mountain, stopping to hike along the Bitterroot Trail, then follow Prairie Drive back to the Visitor Center, where we will learn about the Bison Range Restoration and the CSKT. We will likely take West Loop Drive, as well, and finish the day either walking the nature trail at the Visitor Center or at the ponds, depending on what the group wants to do.

We will meet in Polson to begin the trip, which is limited to four cars and a maximum of 15 participants. Passengers are asked to pay drivers $15 for mileage and the required day pass, which is $20 for the day ($60 for the season). Bring binoculars, bear spray, a spotting scope if you have one, lunch, snacks, and drinks. There are a couple of restroom stops along the way. To register, contact Darcy at 406-407-8263 or darcy@flatheadaudubon.org.