Guided Montana Birding Trips with Larry Weeks
Discover
Montana’s Birds
Based in Missoula, MT, Larry Weeks helps people connect with Western Montana’s birds and outdoors with decades of expert bird tours, classes, and international credibility.
With a lifetime of bird watching, Larry Weeks has helped countless people fall more in love with Montana birds.
Larry Weeks has spent his life watching birds and is a renowned Audobon member. His extensive birding career and contagious love of birds bring every tour alive. Get to know your next Montana birding guide.
Book Your Western Montana Birding Adventure
Explore the stunning birding hotspots of Western Montana with expert guide Larry Weeks. From private tours in the tranquil Mission Valley to group excursions at the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge, your perfect birding experience awaits.
Discover the beauty and diversity of Missoula and beyond, with tours tailored to every birding style. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a curious beginner, Larry’s expertise ensures an unforgettable adventure.
Reserve your tour today and connect with the incredible birdlife of Western Montana!
DISCOVER MONTANA’S ICONIC BIRDS
Birding Tours & Packages
Learn about upcoming bird tours and birding packages with Larry Weeks and Montana Bird Tours, from Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge to Mission Valley trips.
Custom Montana Bird Tours
Request a personalized birding trip with Larry Weeks. Let’s create a custom birding tour in Western Montana that’s perfect for your group.
Learn About Montana Birds
Explore Montana’s birds, locations, and ecology, as well as organizations, resources, and conservation opportunities. Discover birding for yourself.
“In order to see birds, it is necessary to become a part of the silence.”
Robert Lynd
Special thanks to Alex Kearney for his photos – [email protected].
Western Montana Birding Tours
Discover Montana’s best birding spots with a local expert guide.
Bitterroot Walk-Up Bird Tour
Nestled in Montana’s breathtaking Bitterroot Valley, the Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge offers birdwatchers an unforgettable experience with a rich array of species in a picturesque wetland environment. Larry will guide you through the refuge’s scenic trails and observation areas, where you can spot Sandhill Cranes, Bald Eagles, Great Blue Herons, and a variety of migratory waterfowl. With a mix of habitats—wetlands, grasslands, and riparian forests—Lee Metcalf is a year-round destination for birders, offering unique sights in every season.
Montana’s Wintering Raptors
The Mission Valley, spanning from Ronan to St. Ignatius, boasts sweeping vistas and an abundance of birdlife against the backdrop of the stunning Mission Mountains. This tour takes you through prime birding territory where raptors, shorebirds, and waterfowl thrive. You’ll have the opportunity to observe Short-eared Owls, Northern Harriers, Red-tailed Hawks, and even occasional Trumpeter Swans. This scenic route not only offers excellent birdwatching but also immerses you in Montana’s rural beauty, with rolling farmlands and mountain views around every bend.
Short-Eared Owl Mating Display
From late March to mid-April, male Short-eared Owls perform a breathtaking twilight mating display! The field trip begins at 4:00 PM at the restaurant on the corner of Dublin Gulch Rd./Red Horn Rd. and Highway 93, located 3 miles north of Saint Ignatius. With space for 2–5 participants, this small-group experience costs $400 per group, ensuring a personalized and memorable adventure. While the return trip will be in the dark, the journey is filled with unforgettable moments.
Waterfowl Spring Migration Tour
This 6-8 hour guided tour takes you to your choice of Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge or Ninepipes Reservoir Area, two of Montana’s most renowned birding locations. Here, you’ll observe an incredible diversity of species, from Tundra Swans and Northern Pintails to American Avocets and Sandhill Cranes, all set against the stunning backdrop of Montana’s wetlands.
Request A Custom Tour With Larry Weeks
Let Larry take your group on a custom birding tour of Western Montana’s bird wildlife. With decades of experience, Larry’s experience and love of birds will bring out the most of Montana’s big skies.
It takes time to put a trip together and sort out the details. Dates can also fill up quickly. Learn more about private Montana bird tours and request yours today!
Follow Larry Weeks & Montana Bird Tours on Social Media
For photos and information about Montana’s beautiful birds, bird-watching spots around Missoula, migration insights, trips and events, and Larry’s bird outings.
Montana Bird Tours FAQs
Answers to some of your bird questions about Larry Weeks’ scheduled and custom birding tours in and around the Missoula area. For any other Montana birding tour questions, please contact us below:
What areas do your birding tours cover in Montana?
Our birding tours explore some of the most scenic and bird-rich areas around Missoula, Montana, including Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge, Mission Valley, McClay Flat, and Pattee Canyon. Each location offers unique habitats and bird species, making for a rich birdwatching experience throughout western Montana.
Do you partner with any local birding organizations?
Yes, Larry has been a proud member and supporter of the Five Valleys Audubon Society. By working together, we promote bird conservation and foster a love for Montana’s natural habitats. Our tours often highlight conservation efforts and provide insights into how we can help protect bird populations.
How do I join the tour group on the day of the tour?
Participants drive themselves and either caravan with us or meet at a designated location, such as the Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge. This setup allows flexibility and makes it easy for you to bring any personal gear or equipment needed for the tour.
What types of birds might I see on one of your tours?
Our tours offer a diverse array of bird species depending on the location and season. You might spot sandhill cranes, bald eagles, owls, falcons, great blue herons, and various species of waterfowl and songbirds. Each area has its own unique avian residents and seasonal visitors.
Can I learn about Montana’s ecology and history on these tours?
Absolutely! In addition to birdwatching, our guides share information about the local flora, fauna, and history of the Missoula area. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of western Montana’s ecosystems and the significance of its natural habitats.
Do you offer both group packages and private birding tours?
Yes! We provide both package tours for groups as well as customizable private birding tours upon request. Whether you’re planning a group outing or a private birdwatching experience, we’ll tailor the tour to ensure you get the most out of your visit.
Can I request a specific location or customize my riding experience?
Absolutely! We offer custom tours in popular areas around Missoula like Lee Metcalf, Mission Valley, McClay Flat, and Pattee Canyon. We’re happy to customize your experience based on specific interests or bird species you’d like to see.
Do you provide catering for birding tours?
Catering is available on certain trips upon request. We can arrange for local, fresh catering options, so you can enjoy a delicious meal while immersing yourself in nature. This is especially popular for longer tours where participants appreciate a convenient and tasty dining option in the great outdoors.
Can I bring my pet on the birding tour?
We do not allow pets on our tours, including service animals, to minimize disturbances to wildlife. Many bird species are sensitive to noises and sudden movements, so this policy helps us ensure a more successful and serene birdwatching experience for everyone.
What’s special about birding in Missoula, Montana?
Missoula is known for its rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes, making it a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts. With access to unique habitats—from wetlands to mountain forests—birders can see a wide range of species throughout the year. Missoula also has a vibrant community of birders and conservationists, adding a welcoming social element to our tours.
More Birding Questions?
For Custom Montana Bird Tours information, to work with Larry Weeks, or other Montana birding inquiries, use our Contact Form or email us:
Contacting
Montana Bird Tours
Whether you’re curious about birding tours, Montana wildlife, a Missoula vacation renting, or connecting with Larry Weeks, we look forward to hearing from you.
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