The prolonged rainy weather in the Northern Rockies has finally given way to a spectacular green up and wildflower season. On this hill the incessant wind creates conditions equivalent to that of alpine tundra. As a result, many alpine tundra plant species can be found here at a surprisingly low 3,000 ft.
This is also the time of year when the screeching of baby great horned owlets fills the riparian galleries. This pair was hatched in this glorious ponderosa snag.
Male calliope hummingbirds patrol their territories from atop high perches in all the woody draws that fill with serviceberry, willow, choke cherry, and hawthorn. These birds time their migratory arrival with the spring flow of sap rather than the blossoming of nectar-providing flowers. Sapsuckers hammer into these sap-rich trees and hummingbirds, such as this calliope get a jump on the breeding season by stealing from the sapsucker wells.
And lastly, male butterflies, such as this silvery blue, are frantically gathering minerals at evaporating puddles to give to prospective mates.
Until next week…
