HCBC Meeting: Birding in Idaho’s Snake River Plain by Sue and Wes Earp

The volcanism that reshaped the Rocky Mountains into Idaho’s Snake River Plain created an expansive diverse sagebrush steppe. Cut by deep gorges and underlain by deposits of basalt lava the result was a habitat ideal for both rodents and breeding raptors. In addition, aquatic features including expansive manmade lakes, three of the worlds five largest fresh water springs and the Snake River create open water, cottonwood/willow corridors and oases that provide a migratory pathway for passerines,  shorebirds, and waterfowl. After covering the volcanic transformation, we will visit some of the central and eastern birding destinations ending with the Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area and the home of the World Center for Birds of Prey, also known as the Peregrine Fund.

Wes and Sue have been Club members since the 1980s. They incorporate photography into their birding endeavors, and bird wherever they wander enjoying nature’s wonders. Wes is a past Club president and recipient of the MOS Valued Service Award. Sue has contributed pictures to the Club’s annual potluck, website, and Waterford Flats ID book. Frequenting hawk watches is a favorite birding pastime, and when home, they enjoy managing their flora to attract and feed birds naturally year round.

• For Zoom, on the Monday before the meeting, members will get an email with the link and non-members should email HCBC meetings