Welcome to Yellowstone’s Northern Range! This iconic stretch of mountains, meadows, rivers, and glacial valleys lies at the heart of the greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and is home to 14 carnivores, 8 ungulates, over 200 birds, as well as rodents, reptiles, and many other species. During this program, we will spend three days looking for and discussing the amazing diversity of wildlife that makes its home in this rangeland, from mammals to birds to reptiles to insects. Discussions will focus on who lives here and how these animals fit into the greater Yellowstone ecosystem. We will spend most of our time in the field watching as many different species as possible.

Although much of our viewing may be possible from the road, short hikes each day (up to 3 miles) will help increase our chances of seeing certain species and give us a deeper appreciation and understanding of the plants and animals that make up this dynamic wildlife habitat. Signs and tracks of various species will also be examined on these hikes.

Be prepared to be outside in Yellowstone’s late summer and autumn weather. We will have a few extra pairs of binoculars for those who do not have any and will provide spotting scopes for those harder-to-see animals. We will use a variety of materials designed to assist in identifying the animals, plants we encounter.

Included is a tentative itinerary below, but the bulk of the program can be adapted to people’s interests. We will seek a better understanding of what niche each species plays in Yellowstone, and the management concerns that surround many of our more controversial and/or threatened species. Open discussion is always encouraged, so bring your questions, concerns, and even personal experiences with you as we explore one of the most intact and diverse ecosystems on the planet