Bitterroot Outdoor Journal – Between the Raindrops

Bob Danley on KLYQ's Bitterroot Outdoor Journal says rain can be good for birdwatchers. The weather makes the bird flock together and easier to find, as long as the rain isn't too bad. This week, the rain has added to high water, but has also brought moisture to the wildflowers, which have responded to the sun between the storms. Bob described it as a "crescendo" of color, with a total of 55 species so far this year (11 more than last week). Check out (photos below) the Macloskey Violet with white flowers and the Smooth Yellow Woodland Violet (in yellow) and Starry False Solomon's Seal, which can be 24 inches tall. The Large flower Triteleia is even taller (up to 36 inches) and has blue funnel-shaped flowers.

Bob was surprised to see a dragonfly up at the Bass Creek campground. It was a Four-spotted Skimmer (photo below). The rain also brings out the fungi, including the aptly named Pig's Ear, found on burned stumps. Also in burned areas you might find Umbrella Liverwort (photos below).

Birds - 208 species detected so far this, including the Lark Sparrow and the Lazuli Bunting (photos below). You can even see these feathered fliers in town. Shorebirds are also at the Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge. Don't birdwatch during a thunderstorm. Stay safe and dry, but take advantage of the living spring in the Bitterroot Valley. The Bitterroot Outdoor Journal is heard Wednesdays during the KLYQ-AM Bitterroot Morning newscast and online at klyq.com.