Autumn ecology, fall birding class set

Interested in autumn’s ecology or fall birding? Want to know more about what animal tracks?

On Saturday, Oct. 29, Libby Hostel Base Camp is sponsoring an outdoor educational program entitled, “Autumn Ecology, Fall Birding & Animal Tracks.”

This class will be taught by qualified instructors and will focus on the changes occurring in autumn, resident and migrating birds, and the basics of animal tracking. This will be a medium-paced educational program, with participants meeting in the Viking Room at the Venture Inn, 1015 W. U.S. 2, in Libby at 9 a.m. Mountain Time.

Instructors said that although the program is not just a casual walk in the park, but an instructional class, it also “is not a contest to see who can yell out the species of bird first or how many species can be identified and tallied.”

“More so, the outdoor educational program is intended to teach participants how to use their own powers of observation to increase their knowledge and enjoyment in the outdoor world without relying on computers,” instructor Brian Baxter said.

After a short classroom session covering the basics and handout materials, the group will head to the field to visit several types of habitats. Folks will convoy with their own vehicles on a road tour to selected observation points and do a couple of short hikes (less than 1/4 mile) on private property. Together with instructors, participants will build a foundation of understanding of the natural world as it relates to autumn changes, fall birding techniques, and animal tracking.

Participants should come with full gas tanks, proper clothing layers, good footwear, water, lunch, binoculars, bird field guide books, cameras, and a good sense of humor. The program will wrap up at about 3 p.m.

No pets will be allowed. This is an adult class for 18 years and older. Participants must register to attend. The class will be limited to a maximum of 10 people. Participants are asked to bring along orange safety vests.

For more information and to register call 406-291-2154, or email b_baxter53@yahoo.com.