Volunteers Assist Spring Raptor Migration Count

May 14th, 2013

By: Joshua LisbonEducation Director

Two groups of community volunteers visited MPG Ranch on 4/19 and 4/24 to assist with observation and tracking of the spring raptor migration

Two groups of community volunteers visited MPG Ranch on 4/19 and 4/24 to assist with observation and tracking of the spring raptor migration. Participants joined scientists with MPG and Raptor View Research Institute. MPG and RVRI monitor the spring and fall migrations. Researchers track numbers and types of raptors, as well as swans, geese, and the occasional owl.

An immature red-tailed hawk buzzed past the observation point.

The distinctive white wing and tail patches identify this golden eagle as a juvenile.

On April 24th, several flocks of snow geese flew up the Bitterroot Valley.

ute to summer breeding grounds on the arctic tundra. Snow geese use the Bitterroot Valley as a migration route.

Snow geese use the Bitterroot Valley as a migration route to summer breeding grounds on the arctic tundra.

A kestrel hovers in front of the Sapphire Mountains as it searches for prey.

About the Author

Joshua Lisbon

Joshua graduated from the University of Montana, Missoula, in 2009 with an M.A. in Intercultural Youth and Family Development. Joshua has designed and implemented wilderness and experiential-based education programs for various agencies since 2001. He has worked in Missoula since 2005 predominately with disadvantaged populations providing challenging and empowering programming for youth and adults alike.At MPG, Joshua works to coordinate with local agencies and school districts as well as the university to connect students and members of the community to MPG’s work. He also recruits and mobilizes volunteers to accomplish various projects for the ranch. In his free time, Joshua enjoys exploring Montana’s wild places. As an avid outdoorsman, he enjoys any pursuit that keeps him connected to the natural world.