Distinctly Montana Magazine

W W W. D I S T I N C T LY M O N TA NA . C O M 87 by the entwined branches of the huge nest for their own nests. It is a synergistic arrangement. e little birds help keep the nest clean underneath and disease free while the ospreys, who eat only fish, provide the small birds with protection by warding off other birds of prey. Winter months, however, create a different situation. Four bird feeders with thistle, sunflower seeds, and suet hang from the ospreys' nest perch to provide a secure food source that at- tracts a variety of birds. e congregation of the avian seed eaters then brings in the birds of prey. All this action is within view of Dunrovin Ranch's webcam and can be heard through its ambient microphone. Webcam viewers know that a bird of prey has landed when the constant chirp of the gathered seed and suet eaters sud- denly stops. Hawks and falcons are a patient lot. Standing rigidly still for long periods of time, they scan the area with their keen and laser- focused eyes, waiting for an unsuspecting sparrow, finch, chickadee, or starling to make a wrong move. Often these vigils do not pro- duce the desired results on the part of the predators. Other times, these standoffs end in a sudden burst of feathers and the screech of a small bird as the raptor scores its own meal. e close and intimate observations afforded by the web camera can make the ordinary seem extraordinary and foster a greater ap- preciation of the birds' beauty, complexity, and struggles. Statuesque moments of raptors lying in wait for prey allow camera operators to caress the bird's body from head to talons and marvel at the intricate color variations among its feathers. A close-up image of a raptor's unflinching stare directly into the camera betters the dictionary definition of the phrase "hawk-eyed scrutiny." Iridescent purple and green feathers appear on the collars of common rock pigeons when captured in direct sunlight; and their large eyes seem afire as the yellow around their large black pupils turns to orange and red. e red-topped pileated woodpecker is always a welcome arrival at the suet feeders. ey often come in mating pairs. Red cheek feathers on the male make them easy to distinguish from the female partners; they often announce their coming with loud distinguishing calls as they fly in. Another handsome suet feeder, the American flicker flashes its bright orange under-feathers as it flits about. With a black bib and black spots on its chest, bright red cheek patches, and hints of orange on its wings and tail feathers, the flicker cuts a very striking figure. HARDY WINTER BIRDS BIRDWATCHING IS YET ANOTHER WAY FOR PEOPLE TO GET OUT AND ENJOY WINTER'S MAGIC. CONTINUED

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