September was all about getting back into the swing of things. On September 5, I presented at the Bigfork Library on the history, science, and impact of Hawk Watch. It was a huge success! Attendees left with a deeper appreciation for our migrating raptors, and some signed up for a field trip to the survey site. One participant was so inspired she immediately joined Flathead Audubon (FAS) as a new member. That new member, Carol, and her husband had first joined me on a Migratory Bird Day field trip in the Swan Valley back in May. While they already loved birds, they weren’t sure how to take the next step in learning more. They asked about binoculars and marveled at how I could identify the chorus of songs around us. After I introduced them to the powers of the Merlin app, they were hooked. Now, just a few months later, they spend their days watching and listening to the birds in their own backyard. Stories like theirs remind me why I love sharing the magic of birds with the public, especially when that spark of inspiration grows into lasting engagement with our community. I’m so honored to represent Flathead Audubon in this way.
As a reminder, pick up your bird bingo card at any Flathead County Library NOW. You have until the end of November to get a line of bingo and win a fun bird-themed prize! We are also co-hosting a Wingspan Board Game Day at the Kalispell Library on Saturday, October 25.
September also brought me back into classrooms, where I shared the wonders of Sandhill Cranes with 80 seventh-graders in Bigfork. After learning about these incredible birds in class, the students boarded a bus to West Valley to see them in person. It’s always a highlight to watch students look through a spotting scope for the very first time and see birds up close.
And the excitement doesn’t stop there! Students from Columbia Falls High School and Glacier High School are set to experience their first scientific survey at the Jewel Basin Hawk Watch. I can’t wait to see them discover the thrill of seeing Sharp-shinned Hawks dive at the decoy owl!
Finally, I wanted to thank everyone for supporting FAS in the Great Fish Community Challenge. We are so honored to have your support. Your donations allow FAS to continue expanding our education and conservation efforts.