Field Trip Report: Laramie River Greenbelt - 3 Oct 2026

A gorgeous autumn morning awaited the eleven birders who joined two guides for a peaceful walk along the southern portion of the Laramie Greenbelt. Sunshine highlighted golden leaves, cottontail rabbits hopped along the trail, and the Wyoming wind held off for a few hours to allow for good viewing conditions and the hearing of bird calls. During the walk, the mix of Wyoming locals and new arrivals shared knowledge of migration habits, bird identification, and birdwatching locales. Birding experience ranged from expert to first-timers, and the atmosphere of friendly curiosity was as delightful as the weather.

Participants marveled at the colors of a male American Kestrel obligingly perched on a fence and appreciated good looks at a Pied-billed Grebe and its reflection in the surprisingly still river water. Sightings of an immature Cooper's Hawk and a young Sharp-shinned Hawk allowed for discussion of those tricky identification challenges, and the numerous White-crowned Sparrows provided good examples of both adult and immature plumages.

The group nearly missed an unexpected flock of Pinyon Jays that quickly flew across the river, but the distinctive laughing call alerted those who recognized it before the birds got too far away. Four warbler species briefly popped into view at various points along the river, including Wilson's, Orange-crowned, Yellow-rumped, and Common Yellowthroat. Some of the last Turkey Vultures of the year circled overhead and drifted away towards the south.

It was a lovely day to be out appreciating Wyoming nature and 28 species of birds! Photo by Al Zerbe