DAY 1

WELCOME & ORIENTATION

The program begins with an evening orientation. We will get to know one another as we discuss the program itinerary, logistics, and what to pack each day. We will also introduce the Yellowstone ecosystem and the many birds and blooms that call this place home.

DAY 2

A Living Landscape: After an introduction to flower anatomy and the common plant families found throughout Yellowstone, participants will head into the park to practice identifying species using a dichotomous key and documenting our findings through nature journalling. Participants will also discuss the ecological connections between these species and the broader ecosystem.

DAY 3

Taking Flight: For the bird day, we will meet with Katy Duffy, a licensed bird bander specializing in diurnal raptors, owls, and songbirds for more than 40 years, to practice finding and identifying birds through sight and sound. Participants will also dive into the unique adaptations and life strategies that allow these species to thrive in their respective ecosystems.

DAY 4

Putting it all Together: For the last day, class will head away from the road for some longer hikes (up to 5 miles total) and lengthier sit spots to be immersed in the landscape and observe as many birds and blooms as possible.

Dates & Times: The program begins at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, June 3, 2025 and goes through 5:00 PM on Friday, June 6, 2025.

Meals: This course is not catered. Participants will need to bring their own food; lunch should be able to travel in the field.

ACTIVITY LEVEL 3

• Be prepared to hike up to 5 miles per day, comfortably, with occasional elevation gains up to 1000 feet in undulating terrain.
• Most activities will take place at elevations between 7,200 to 8,000 feet. Participants residing at lower elevations may want to arrive a day early to adjust to the altitude.
• To learn more about how specific medical conditions can be affected by Yellowstone’s environment and our activities, please visit our site page on health information.
• All field activities will be conducted as a group. If members of the group cannot participate in the day’s activities, they need to let the educator know in advance.
• To participate in this program, each participant must fill out and sign a health questionnaire and assumption of risk waiver. These forms must be completed and returned at least 30 days prior to the program start date.

EQUIPMENT SPECIFIC TO THIS COURSE:

Suggested Packing List located in General Information document under the ‘Whom to Contact’ tab.

• Field guides and hand lenses will be provided, but you are encouraged to bring your own

RECOMMENDED READINGS

• Sibley, D. A. (2014). The Sibley guide to birds (2nd ed.). Knopf Publishing Group. Smith, D. W., Walker, L. E., & Duffy, K. E. (Eds.). (2023).
• Yellowstone’s birds: Diversity and abundance in the world’s first National Park. Princeton University Press. Tilt, W. (2015).
• Flora of the Yellowstone: A guide to the wildflowers, shrubs, trees, ferns, and grass-like plants of the greater Yellowstone region of Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming. Gallatin Valley Land Trust.

Whom to Contact: For any questions, concerns, or additional information please contact the following:

Program itinerary, health forms, payment, and general program questions please contact Yellowstone Forever at [email protected] or 406-848-2400 extension 3

Road updates, park conditions, and general park information please contact Yellowstone National Park Service at https://www.nps.gov/yell/contacts.htm

If running late for a program, please contact 406-641-2185.

General Information: For general information about the facilities, preparation for classes, what to expect, cancellation policies, and more, please see the Gardiner-Based Field Seminars – General Information document.

Cancellation Policy: Review our Cancellation & Refund Policies here.