| About the Idaho Bird Observatory | |
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The Idaho Bird Observatory is a cooperative, non-profit research and education
organization that conducts long-term monitoring of western migratory landbird
populations and promotes public education, involvement, and wildlife viewing.
We work closely with local cooperators to accomplish yearly research and
education activities, including: Boise State University Idaho Department of Fish and Game U.S. Forest Service Golden Eagle Audubon Society U.S. Geological Survey, Biological Resources Division, Snake River Field Station U.S. Bureau of Land Management
C/O Boise State University Foundation, Inc. 1910 University Drive Boise, Idaho 83706-9987 |
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Background Information In 1993, local scientists discovered that Boise sits almost directly beneath a major bird migration flyway. Diurnal raptors, songbirds, and forest owls follow the Boise Ridge southward during fall migration, and become concentrated at Lucky Peak, the southernmost peak on the ridge. The ridge terminates at the northern edge of the Snake River Plain, an inland basin which may act as an inland barrier to the birds' migration. This concentration of migrating raptors and songbirds is one of the largest-known in the Intermountain West. An ideal place to view and study the birds was found at Lucky Peak, only a few miles from the capital city. A yearly project has been developed to monitor the migration of these birds. Migration studies, like those conducted by the Idaho Bird Observatory, can provide indices to the birds' population trends, and may help warn us of alarming declines. Many common species of migratory birds, especially those that migrate to neotropical areas during winter, may be declining due to loss of habitats both in the U.S. and on their wintering grounds. The Idaho Bird Observatory conducts standardized yearly counts, censuses, and banding of migrants at Lucky Peak during fall to document the timing, species composition, and abundance of migrants, to identify wintering and breeding areas, and to provide a yearly index to population change. Education Programs One of the main goals of the Idaho Bird Observatory is to promote conservation of migratory birds and their habitats through public education and involvement. Currently, education programs consist of presentations to local groups and school classes, group visits to research sites, and community volunteer programs. Education programs are designed to introduce the public to the concepts of bird migration and conservation. Community volunteer programs offer the public the opportunity to become involved in project activities. Contact Information To volunteer, contact the IBO's Volunteer Coordinator at: (208) 327-7099 For more information about education programs, or to schedule group visits, contact the Project Director: Greg Kaltenecker, (208) 426-3262, gkalten@internetoutlet.net |
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Where and When to Go Idaho Bird Observatory research and education programs are conducted during fall migration at Lucky Peak, located on the Boise Ridge. From Boise, take Highway 21 east toward Idaho City; go 2.5 miles past Lucky Peak Dam, then turn left onto Highland Valley Road; Follow Highland Valley Road to the ridge (6.5 miles). Four-wheel drive or high-clearance vehicles recommended. Fall migration occurs from early August through late October, but September is best! |
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