Finally...

I have been commenting a lot lately about the lack of fledgling Ospreys on the beach by the house this summer/fall and finally one showed up for an hour or two. She had a nice long stretch, and a few talk-hearted swoops at fish. And also finally blue skies after two months of claustrophobic smoke.

We're Back!

My ancient iMac computer died and after a week and a half of trips to Missoula, several options that didn't work, we are back with brand new computer and finally new photos and news. At least there is still some action on the beach and here is a Pileated passing by. Whew. More on the way.

Montanan Magazine - 2017 and 2012

100,000 copies - to every University of Montana graduate! My Osprey shot, "An Osprey successfully snags a mountain whitefish, August on the Bitterroot River and colorful light courtesy of smoke from the Lolo Peak Fire across the valley." Kate Davis '82. I had the cover shot and story in 2012, called "Bird's-Eye View."  

Hurray!

The weather cooperated - top is last Saturday and lower is just now. Bye-bye Mr. Lolo Peak Fire!

Cooper's Hawks Everywhere

Osprey!

Sunday's Fire

Right across the valley and we were told these were "back burns." They went all the way to the top of the Bitterroots, so doubtful.

Perfect Program

What fun yesterday, Lolo Pass Visitors Center and actually saw the sun. iPod and Sibley were on their best behaviors, but the True Star was Simon! He's a perfect program bird, stepped out of the kennel, had a long staring contest with Sibley (perched on the right) then dazzled our audience for 20 minutes. He was showing off in his first ever public appearance and turns out I shouldn't have been worried about the new transportation, different glove, and new people. Thanks Colleen Mathisen for the invite and we'll be back.

Join Us at Lolo Pass

We have a program tomorrow at Lolo Pass Visitors Center, at the warming hut and perhaps not so smokey up there... We'll see. Come meet the new owl Simon in his debut public program, plus a few other friendly birds. Free and open to everyone, 2:00-3:30 pm MST.
Simon's favorite pastime  is paper shredding, easy to clean up on the Big Perch.

Wednesday Night, Mookie and Peanut

Our Yard

Mookie takes it all in, and burning chunks from the sky, landing on my car.

Fire Camp Sunday

This Lolo Peak fire has burned over 42,000 acres now and heading south. Fire camp is at the end of our little dead-end lane, 1200 firefighters at one point and half that now. Another red flag day with extreme fire weather today, man...

Fire Kicks Up

For the finale of August. From the slough and one in our driveway, living room lights on inside.