Dear Montana,

As we embrace the crisp fall season, I’m excited to share a variety of programs and opportunities that highlight the depth and breadth of Montana Audubon’s work.

In mid-November, we are co-sponsoring two Ranching for Profit workshops, as part of the Conservation Ranching program. These workshops offer practical tools and insights for ranchers and land managers to help them manage their property in ways that benefit not only their own operations but also help protect and enhance grassland habitat for birds.

We are also thrilled to share the 2024 Citizen Science Report, which has information and highlights from our three citizen science projects. These efforts are instrumental in deepening our understanding of Montana’s native birds, and we are grateful to everyone who participated.

Looking ahead, our fall programs continue in full swing at the Montana Audubon Center. From wreath-making workshops to moonlit hikes, we’ve planned activities that bring people closer to nature—and to each other. Whether you join us for a daytime stroll or an evening under the stars, we hope to see you soon!

Yours in Conservation,

Larry Berrin

Executive Director

Montana Audubon is co-sponsoring two upcoming Ranching for Profit Workshops, on November 14 in Lewistown, and on November 15 in Winnett. 

These workshops aim to help ranchers improve the profitability of their operations, sharing information on topics that include soil health, grazing principles, economics, finances, taxes, succession planning, and more. 

Thank you to the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for providing funding to support Montana Audubon’s Conservation Ranching program.

For more information or to register, visit the Winnett ACES website:

Thank you to everyone who volunteered to help with Montana Audubon’s Citizen Science survey projects this year- you make this work possible!

This year, 53 volunteers took part in surveys for three different projects: the pilot year of Western & Eastern Screech-owl surveys; Long-billed Curlew surveys; and Chimney Swift surveys. 

Learn more about each project in Montana Audubon’s 2024 Citizen Science overview report: 

October in Montana often brings gusty winds, chilly temperatures, and the occasional snow flurry. But this year in Billings has surprised us with warmer days—sometimes too warm—and crisp, starry evenings. We've been making the most of this extended fall, rediscovering a special, often-overlooked connection with nature: the night.

Already, the owls have started calling from the shadows, and bats can be spotted gliding through the dusk, feasting on unsuspecting insects. These twilight moments have become a perfect reminder of the subtle magic nature offers when we pause to look and listen.

During the day, our staff has been bustling with activity. We’ve been out on full-day site visits for the Audubon Naturalists in the Schools (ANTS) program, where students explored native plants, learned traditional Native games, and wandered along the Yellowstone River’s edge. Meanwhile, our Fledglings Preschoolers have been setting fish traps and eagerly checking for aquatic surprises inside!

We've also wrapped up the first 8-week session of our Homeschool Science Program and are excitedly preparing for upcoming events, including our Bat-Stravaganza in partnership with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks. At this year’s Center Member Party, we added an extra dash of fun thanks to a generous donation from the Roberts L7 Ranch—we raffled off a quarter beef, much to the excitement of our participating members!

As the nights grow longer, we’re looking forward to a festive lineup of seasonal events:

• Holiday Wreath-Making Workshop (Nov 2 & 16)- A beloved tradition that always sells out fast!
• Monthly Bird Stroll (Nov 9)- A peaceful way to connect with wintering birds
• Weekend Wonders Family Program (Nov 9)- Fun for all ages to explore nature together
• Beaver Full Moon Night Hike (Nov 15)- A new addition perfect for moonlit adventures
• 4th Annual Holiday Market (Dec 14)- A local favorite for gifts, crafts, and community

We invite you to join us in celebrating this cozy season with activities that connect us to both nature and each other. From daytime exploration to starlit wonder, there’s something for everyone at the Montana Audubon Center this fall. We look forward to sharing these special moments with you!

The final installment of a series exploring Lake Helena, field biologist and naturalist Shane Sater's latest podcast captures the beauty of migration and the rhythms of nature at one of Montana’s Important Bird Areas. Encounter diverse shorebird species and reflect on the importance of wetlands for birds.

Listen on Montana eBird:

Oct 12: New report: A staggering 73% drop in wildlife populations (The bipartisan Recovering America's Wildlife Act is a way to help fund the states to save species) | Steve Blackledge, Environment America

Oct 16: Montana unveils its plan for managing grizzly bears | Amanda Eggert, Montana Free Press

Oct 23: 2025 Montana Migratory Bird Stamp Contest Opens | Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks

Oct 21- 27: Birdability Week- there is still time to join Birdability Week events, like Birding Your Way on Oct. 26 & 27. Visit Birdabilty Week 2024 for more information or to request recordings of previous workshops and panels.

Help protect Montana's birds, wildlife, and the landscapes they depend on.

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