Winter ecology, birding class set for Dec. 16 in Libby

Brian Baxter will host a holiday season Outdoor Education Program on Winter Ecology on Saturday, Dec.16.

It runs from 9 a.m. to about 3 p.m. Mountain Standard Time. 

It begins at 9 a.m. in the Viking Room of the Venture Inn (1015 U.S. Highway 2) in Libby). A short introduction includes the basics of tracking, tree and plant identification and winter birding for about 40 minutes.

"After that, we’ll head to several field sites of diverse habitats to study the science and art of animal and bird tracking and sign interpretation; evergreen tree and plant identification and winter birding," Baxter said.

All participants MUST REGISTER To attend. Please come prepared for a day in the field with full gas tanks, proper layered clothing - preferably camouflage or natural colors, good footwear, lunch, water or hot beverages, tracking, plant, and or bird guide booklets, binoculars, spotting scopes, snowshoes - optional, and a good sense of humor. 

This is an adults only class and pets are not allowed. 

"The idea here is to spend a day with experienced outdoor educators enjoying and learning about our natural surroundings and local wildlife in a fun, Holiday Spirit!," he said. 

Baxter has 45 years in the field and was featured in a recent article for Winter 2024 in Sandpoint Magazine entitled, “Winter Raptor Ramblings.” 

Small groups, individual attention, road tour and very short hikes on private lands into field sites. The class is sponsored by Libby Hostel Base Camp, which can provide accommodations if needed. See their Facebook and AirBnb pages. 

To register, call 406-291-2154, or email b_baxter53@yahoo.com.