hiking – Missoula Bird Nerds

Calling All Arthropods (And Everybody Else Too)

Writer and naturalist Dottie Herring explains why arthropods are crucial to the well-being of the planet and dives into three disliked arthropods. Illustrated with stunning photography and art, learn a tip or two on tolerating ad perhaps even loving these creatures.

Smith River Delta, California

Our Subaru turns onto Mouth of Smith River Rd. “What a creative name!” I joke, “Oh, hello – I live on Mouth of Smith River! It doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue.” I have been anticipating this moment ever since Papa emailed me a checklist for the area a few weeks ago. I click theContinue reading “Smith River Delta, California”

Haystack Rock, Oregon

The metal stairs make a dull clang as I jump down each step. Sand poofs out underneath my feet as I make the final jump and land on the beach. The waves surge onto the sandy beach and a group of pelicans drift over the watery expanse. They veer as one towards a huge rockContinue reading “Haystack Rock, Oregon”

Maclay Flat’s Owl Quartet

Missoula hosts a wide range of owl species, from the miniscule Northern Saw-whet to America’s largest, the three foot tall Great Gray. My favorite spot to go ‘owling ‘ is Maclay Flat, in which 4 species of these elusive raptors reside in the winter months. Amongst them is the Barred Owl. Their call, the popularContinue reading “Maclay Flat’s Owl Quartet”

Snails of a Talus Field

By Lucy Herring We arrived at Moose Bend Rock Creek at 11:00 am in the subaru. Dottie, Mama, Papa and I all stare at the mountain we are going to climb. I look at the river and groan. I know the mountain is going to be very steep and tough to climb because I haveContinue reading “Snails of a Talus Field”

Hutsinpilar, Upland Killer

By Dottie Herring Our Subaru Outback glides into a pullover spot on Rock Creek Road and my family and I clamber out with enthusiasm. The sunscreen, water, and snacks are dropped in the spacious backpack and soon we are ready to go. The last thing to enter the backpack is the 22, for it isContinue reading “Hutsinpilar, Upland Killer”