Mountain Misfits

Harlequin Duck: A Symphony in Feathers and A Call to Conservation

Harlequin Duck - Histrionicus histrionicus

Explore the unique life of the Harlequin Duck, focusing on their habitats, behaviors, and the challenges they face from climate change and habitat loss. Delve into their striking appearance, social structures, mating rituals, and the critical need for conservation efforts to ensure their survival.

Rethinking Bird Names in Ornithology

Sam birding for the Eastern Meadowlark

The American Ornithological Society is changing the common bird names. Explore the reasons, controversies, and impacts of this pivotal change in ornithology, fostering inclusivity and diversity in birding.

The Oʻahu ʻAmakihi: A Glimpse into its Biology, Endemism, Evolutionary History, and Phylogeny

Chlorodrepanis flava - Oʻahu ʻAmakihi

Two shots…I got just two shots of an Oʻahu ʻAmakihi (Chlorodrepanis flava), and two photos were enough to scratch my Hawaiian endemic itch. Endemic to the island of Oahu (particularly, the wetter southern area of Oʻahu, this small, vibrantly colored bird has captured the attention of scientists and birders alike, offering a fascinating glimpse into its biology, endemism, evolutionary history, and phylogeny.

Hiking and Birding along the Makiki Valley Trail on Oahu

The Makiki Valley Loop Trail near Waikiki on Oahu, Hawaii, offers a picturesque escape into lush forests just a short distance from the bustling tourist hub. The trail, approximately 4 miles in length, provides a serene experience with green surroundings, natural tree arches, and the soothing sound of running water. The trail starts at the Hawaii Nature Center in Makiki, accessible within a short drive or bus ride from Waikiki. 

A Wayward Black-throated Blue Warbler -Navigational Anomalies in Migration

Black-throated Blue Warbler from Lolo, Montana

A Wayward Black-throated Blue Warbler -Navigational Anomalies in Migration admin November 29, 2023 In the blink of an eye, I was jumping in Sam Koenen’s “Birdvan” and we were off to chase a Black-throated Blue Warbler that lost its way during migration, and it ended up in an apple tree in small, old Lolo, Montana. […]

Spring Arrives in the Rockies

Turkeys marching in the Morning

Spring Arrives in the Rockies admin March 6, 2017 Birding This past weekend was definitely the start of the Montana spring with sun, rain, and snow…you know, spring in the Bitterroot. The Lee Metcalf NWR was alive with Great Horned Owls hooting and Red-winged Blackbirds carrying on.https://youtu.be/wf5vWRJJbbY Turkeys marching in the Morning