One frosty morning in Missoula brought an unexpected visitor right to our window, turning our usual quiet reflection into a thrilling episode of nature’s surprise. There it was, a lone bird perched majestically on the stark limbs of a tree stripped by winter’s hand. While we huddled indoors, wrapped in our curiosity, this regal creature sat unbothered, owning its stage.
Let’s talk about this feathered mystery guest. At first glance, you might wonder if it’s a Cooper’s Hawk, a familiar sight in Montana’s expansive blue. But this bird was a patchwork of wilderness colors – its back a canvas of slate gray, its chest painted in warm, reddish-brown hues, crisscrossed with darker lines.
Size-wise, this bird was an interesting puzzle. Bigger than a magpie, yet not quite reaching the imposing stature of a crow, it made us think of the Sharp-shinned Hawk – North America’s little big hunter. About nine inches tall, this bird was bulkier than our local magpies but didn’t have the crow’s commanding presence.
We became storytellers, painting this raptor with words. We spoke of its sharp, hooked beak, a tool of the trade for its carnivorous diet. Its fierce, yellow eyes, always on the lookout, scanning for the next meal. As snowflakes began to grace the scene, adding a touch of magic, we continued our narrative, capturing the essence of this magnificent bird in our memory.
In the end, as the bird spread its wings and disappeared into the winter sky, we concluded our story. We had been graced by a Sharp-shinned Hawk, a silent guardian of the winter landscape. This brief encounter, where human curiosity met the elegance of the wild, left us with a sense of wonder and a story to cherish – a tale of Missoula’s silent emissary from the skies.
Resources to Enhance Your Day:
- Montana Bird Guide: Dive into the world of Montana’s feathered residents.
- Raptor Identification: Learn how to identify various birds of prey.
- Nature Sketching Tips: Capture your own wildlife encounters with art.
- Missoula Outdoor Adventures: Discover the best spots to experience local wildlife.
- Birdwatching Basics: Get started with birdwatching, a relaxing and educational hobby.
On This Day in History
Ah, let’s take a delightful stroll down memory lane with these captivating blog posts from January 12th across the years!
- 2023: J12 – A snowy day in 2023, filled with preparations for a coastal journey. Bill shares a moment of joy as the sun makes an appearance, highlighting the busy, bee-like activities of the day.
- 2021: Bootleg 2020 – Alas, no description for this mysterious post titled “Bootleg 2020.” The intrigue deepens!
- 2017: Paria Canyon Photo Gallery – A gallery that remains a silent witness to the wonders of Paria Canyon, with no words to describe its beauty.
- 2012: Lunchtime Mishap – Bill recounts a wintry mix of adventure and kindness set in the scenic trails of Bozeman Creek. A perfect day for skiing turns into an unforgettable story.
- 2011: Journey into 2010 – Reflecting on the unexpected twists of 2010, Bill looks back from the warmth of his apartment, reminiscing about a year full of surprises.
- 2008: Starting The Weekend – A tranquil scene of introspection amidst a winter landscape. Here, Bill paints a picture of solitude and the silent beauty of snow.
- 2006: From The Ridge – An evocative post describing a night on University Ridge, contrasting city lights with the serene openness of nature.
- 2006: Computerless But Hiking – Bill embarks on the ‘Double Dipper’ trek, a journey of endurance and scenic beauty across Pengally Ridge and Sentinel summits.
- 2005: Going Full Time – A significant day for Bill, as he transitions to full-time work, marking a new chapter in his professional life.
- 2005: It’s Snowing Again 🙂 – A cheerful update from Bill, sharing new photos and links, while enjoying a snowy morning in Missoula.
- 2004: You Are Inadequate – A challenging start to a work week, filled with unexpected events and a humorous take on life’s little trials.
- 2004: Chore Day! – Balancing responsibilities with passions, Bill delves into the world of photography, capturing the magical essence of the ordinary.
And that’s our delightful journey through January 12th in the past years. Each post a snapshot of life’s rich tapestry!
Boneshakerbike 
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