Ptarmigan again again
When I see White-tailed Ptarmigan reports on eBird I get excited about the possibilities. I can’t help it. I’m a sucker. Someone, somewhere saw this bird. Reporters even provide tips: “Listen as you look. Increase your odds.” Noted. My ears are open. I’ve done the math. Five attempts in two years equals zero ptarmigan. Simple…
Springtime Birds
Back home from Texas and it’s spring in Portland? I’m okay with that. My 5 mi radius has blown up lately. The evening before I left for Texas, a Rufous Hummingbird paid our feeder a visit. First time for the yard! And on a more recent morning, I found an unlucky Anna’s Hummingbird knocked out…
Alaska By Land – Denali Part II
We saw five grizzly bears from the shuttle bus on the way towards our unit. Intimidating, much? We prepared for such encounters as best we could before setting off into the backcountry. Hiking in Denali has a few requirements. Contrary to Pacific Northwest training to walk single file along trails, Denali hikers are to spread out, preventing new trails…