Scavengers in the Bitterroot

Kate Stone

What’s your favorite scavenging species? In the Bitterroot, we have a wide array of scavengers, ranging from teeny insects to golden eagles up to mountain lions. How prevalent are they, what ecological roles do they play, and what do we know about their life history? Hunters- what comes to the gut piles you leave in the field?

Would you believe thousands of Turkey Vultures migrate through the valley each spring and fall? That the Golden Eagles overwintering here largely breed in the far north? That foxes often take the risk of feeding at a carcass with a skunk? Kate Stone will share stories and information from several local scavenger projects, including the Bitterroot Valley Winter Eagle Project and a new project working with hunters to see what scavenges their gut piles. You’ll find out how you might get involved with learning more about scavengers.  You’ll also get to see the new scavenger art exhibit going up in the North Valley Public Library.  Be ready for a small dose of gore, fur, and feathers.

Join Kate Stone from Bitterroot Audubon and the MPG Ranch at the North Valley Public Library on Wednesday, November 28 at 5:30 pm. Social time at a local watering hole to follow!