Natural History of the Laramie Area - Wednesday, November 20th, 7 pm

Red-flanked Bluetail (an Asian species seen on the mainland
of North America on only a handful of occasions) sighted by Cody
Porter in his backyard in Laramie. (photo by Laurel Armstrong)

Careful observation of the natural world is key to unraveling the mysteries of life.  In this presentation, Cody Porter will detail a few of the unexpected patterns he and others have observed in the avifauna of the Laramie area. 

Cody is a PhD candidate in the Program in Ecology at the University of Wyoming, where his research focuses on adaptive radiation and speciation, primarily in red crossbills.  Prior to moving to Laramie in 2014, Cody received a degree in Zoology from Michigan State University. 

Although his research is primarily on crossbills, Cody has a wide range of taxonomic interests, including everything from moths and butterflies to snakes and trees.

LAS will host bird chat and refreshments in the street-level lobby of the Berry Biodiversity Conservation Center (UW campus at the corner of 10th and Lewis Streets) beginning at 6:30 pm and Cody's talk will begin at 7 pm in the adjacent auditorium.  Please remember to allow yourself plenty of time to find a parking space - the 10th Street parking lot and adjacent on-street parking are no longer available due to construction. 

Please note, members wishing to cast paper ballots for Board, those will be available at this meeting.

Laramie Range Hike - Winter Montane Birds.

Many conifers in the Laramie Range are producing large cone crops this year, which means lots of winter birds! 

Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch at a feeder on the northeast
side of Laramie (photo courtesy of Buzz Hettick)

Join us on Saturday, November 9th to look for winter montane birds on a leisurely hike in the Laramie Range.  We will meet at 8 a.m. at Night Heron Books (107 E. Ivinson Avenue) to organize carpools and procure coffee, etc. for the drive to Vedauwoo.  We will walk for a couple of miles along Vedauwoo Road in search of Red Crossbills, Clark's Nutcrackers, nuthatches, woodpeckers, and other winter birds feasting on pine seeds. 

Be sure to dress for snowy conditions and winter weather; although at this time the weather looks promising there is significant snow on the ground.  Also, please bring water, snacks, sun protection, and binoculars (if you have them).  We anticipate being back to Laramie around noon, but those with their own transportation are free to leave sooner or stay longer.