Western Montana’s Birds & Seasons
From snow-draped mountain peaks to blooming meadows and rippling streams, Montana offers breathtaking landscapes and a chance to witness some of the most spectacular bird species in North America. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or new to the world of birdwatching, our tours offer an authentic experience, grounded in the unique ecology of this beautiful area.
Birding Across Western Montana’s Four Seasons
Each season in Western Montana brings its own vibrant landscapes and unique birding opportunities. From spring migrations to winter’s hardy residents, this region is a year-round haven for bird enthusiasts.
SPRING
A Symphony of Migration
As winter retreats, birds like the Mountain Bluebird (Montana’s state bird) and Western Tanager return to the valleys and forests. Wetlands hum with activity as waterfowl like the Trumpeter Swan and American Avocet make their way to breeding grounds.
SUMMER
Love Birds in Full Swing
Lush greenery and long days provide the perfect backdrop for nesting songbirds such as the Yellow Warbler, Calliope Hummingbird, and Peregrine Falcon, one of Montana’s recovering raptors.
FALL
Southbound Journey & Wintering Raptors
Crisp mornings and golden aspens accompany the fall migration. Look for flocks of Sandhill Cranes gathering before their southbound journey or catch a glimpse of the elusive Northern Goshawk.
WINTER
Resident Wonders and Seasonal Visitors
Snow-capped landscapes reveal hardy species like the Bald Eagle, Bohemian Waxwing, and Snowy Owl. Winter birding offers an intimate look at these cold-weather warriors.
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For photos and information about Montana’s beautiful birds, bird-watching spots around Missoula, migration insights, trips and events, and Larry’s bird outings.
Birding in Montana is a Must-Experience Adventure
Western Montana is a haven for birding enthusiasts and wildlife conservation, offering remarkable biodiversity and a plethora of ecosystems to explore.
Year-Round Birding Opportunities
Montana’s four distinct seasons provide unique birdwatching experiences year-round. Spring brings migratory flocks, summer showcases nesting species like Sandhill Cranes, fall highlights hawk migrations, and winter offers sightings of Snowy Owls and Bohemian Waxwings
Protected Natural Spaces
With over 75 wildlife refuges, state parks, and national forests, including hotspots like the Lee Metcalf and Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuges, birders can enjoy well-preserved habitats teeming with avian life. These protected areas offer trails, boardwalks, and viewing stations ideal for birdwatchers of all levels
By the Numbers – Western Montana’s Ecology
Montana is home to several bird species classified as endangered or under threat due to habitat loss, climate change, and other pressures. Notable examples include the Greater Sage-Grouse, listed as a species of concern, and the Trumpeter Swan, which faces localized conservation challenges despite not being federally endangered. Other species like the Piping Plover and Least Tern are federally listed as endangered or threatened and are found in specific areas of Montana, particularly around wetlands and river systems.
200+
bird species at Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge
171
bird species observed at Swan River National Wildlife Refuge
22K+
square miles of diverse habitats in Montana’s Glacier Country
13
species listed as endangered or threatened
Montana’s State Bird:
As Montana’s official state bird, the Mountain Bluebird symbolizes the vast beauty of our open skies and rolling plains. Easily recognizable by its vibrant blue plumage, it graces us with its presence in spring and summer. Spot this delightful species on our spring and early summer tours.
TRUSTED Montana BIRDing EXPERTISE
Why Choose Montana Bird Tours?
Decades of Birding Expertise
Larry Weeks has been a passionate birder with decades of experience in Western Montana’s unique ecosystems.
Tailored Experience
Whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, we create our tours to provide you with the best birdwatching experience.
Learn about Western Montana
From Flathead Lake to the valleys surrounding Missoula, Larry Weeks’s lifetime of citizen science, volunteering, and advocacy brings a wealth of information and insight.
Endangered and Vulnerable Species
Montana’s wilderness provides a vital sanctuary for endangered and vulnerable species, highlighting the importance of ongoing conservation efforts to preserve these remarkable creatures for future generations.
Greater Sage-Grouse
This iconic bird, known for its elaborate mating dance, relies on sagebrush habitats that are rapidly disappearing due to agriculture and development. Once abundant across the western plains, its population has seen a dramatic decline. Conservation groups are working to protect the sagebrush ecosystems that are critical for their survival.
Did You Know? Male sage-grouse inflate air sacs on their chest to produce a booming sound during courtship displays.
Black Swift
A master of the skies, the Black Swift is a rare sight in Montana. Known for nesting behind waterfalls, this elusive bird is highly sensitive to environmental changes. Reduced water flow and rising temperatures threaten their already limited nesting sites.
Tour Insight: During summer tours, we’ll visit known nesting sites and discuss how climate change affects these and other aerial insectivores.
Long-billed Curlew
The largest shorebird in North America, the Long-billed Curlew, breeds in the grasslands of Montana. Agricultural expansion and pesticide use have diminished their breeding grounds, making their future uncertain. These graceful birds can still be spotted in protected areas during spring and summer.
What to Look For: Their unmistakable curved bill and distinctive call, which echoes across open prairies.
CUSTOM Western Montana Bird TOURS
Design Your Perfect Montana Birding Tour
Ready to experience the beauty of Western Montana’s birdlife your way? Explore our seasonal tours or contact us to design a personalized itinerary tailored to your interests and schedule. Let’s craft an unforgettable birding journey just for you!
“The reason birds can fly and we can’t is simply that they have perfect faith,
for to have faith is to have wings.”
J.M. Barrie
Learn About Bird Spots Around Missoula & Western Montana
Western Montana is home to ample outdoor recreation and opportunities to explore Montana’s beauty and wild life. Learn about some of accessible bird watching locations around Missoula and in Western Montana.
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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