Bearded Squirrel (Richardson Ground Squirrel)

September 30, 2024  •  Leave a Comment
Walking on the Wild Side October is here and many of our ground squirrels are snuggling deep in their burrows for a winter nap. Time to slow down their heart rates and breathing to enter a state that best conserves energy. We have several species of ground squirrels here in Montana. Some of which do not enter true hibernation and others that take...
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Why Do I Have Spots?

August 30, 2024  •  Leave a Comment
Walking on the Wild Side Limited Edition Print -- Edition of 25 -- "Fawn-tastic" (White-tailed Deer) - Click on the photo for sizes and prices. Why do baby deer and elk have spots? This last spring we once again got to enjoy the annual ritual of deer having their babies behind our house. Something about the irrigated agricultural fields combin...
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Chipmunk Chatter: Exploring the World of Chipmunks

July 28, 2024  •  Leave a Comment
Walking on the Wild Side As we step into another exciting month, we have some incredible events coming up you may not want to miss. Here is a quick highlight before digging in to another wildlife feature. UPCOMING EVENTS The Artist's Shop - Month Long Exhibit (8/1-8/30) August 2nd: Artist's Reception 5-8 pm @ The Artist's Shop 127 N Higgin...
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Ruddy Ducks

June 27, 2024  •  Leave a Comment
Walking on the Wild Side Ruddy Duck (Oxyura jamaicensis) Ruddy Ballet (Ruddy Duck) Published in 2024 Montana Outdoors Photo Edition (click on picture to order a fine art print) This months blog will cover the courtship behavior of the Ruddy Duck. The ruddy is a small, stout diving duck known for their distinctive blue bills and chestnu...
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Harlequin Ducks

May 22, 2024  •  Leave a Comment
Walking on the Wild Side Harlequin Ducks (Histrionicus histrionicus) Well lets dive right in...the name, Harlequin duck, comes from the English name depicting characters in an Italian comedy that wear masks and have oddly painted costumes. The adult male's color pattern (as seen below) is why the name came about. One of their endearing nickname...
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