Locally the Bristlecone Audubon Chapter is offering a field trip to celebrate the joy of birding. This field trip has been done multiple times over the past decade with great success. We will meet at the intersection of Lamoille Highway and Lower Lamoille Road at 8 a.m. on Saturday, May 14. At this point people can decide if they wish to use their own vehicle or carpool with others.
Mark and Lois Ports will be in the lead vehicle. They will stop at multiple locations to bird. Our route will take us through sagebrush steppe, pinyon-juniper woodlands, riparian areas and agricultural fields. The morning portion of the trip will end at the Lamoille Grove. Here people can relax and eat lunch and of course do some bird watching.
For those still wanting more birding we will drive to South Fork State Recreation Area where will be able to pick up waterfowl species and hopefully some raptors. SFSRA does require a $5 per vehicle fee. Wear sturdy walking shoes or boots, dress for the weather. Bring water, lunch, binoculars and spotting scopes and cameras are optional. Be aware that there are no restrooms facilities except at Lamoille Grove and South Fork.
This is a great opportunity for all levels of birders. Everyone helps identify the birds. Discussions will be held as we look for field markings, listen for songs and watch behaviors to help us identify the birds. Families with children are welcome but all children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. It will require times of silence as we stealthily approach areas where we expect to find birds.
If you are interested in participating, please contact Lois Ports at [email protected] for further information.