I first learned about the Raptor festival here by a conspicuous advertisement above the urinal in Montana Ale Works. The weather has been utterly phenomenal here, despite all the hoopla about cold weather. The warmth could be the result of man's greenhouse gas emissions, so it is bitter-sweet. If first frost stays away for another three more days, it will be the latest frost in recorded history for the part of Montana. So, it is indeed a warm year by historical standards. They say that last year there was a foot of snow by the second week in October, and it's been in the 60s and sunny for most of the month!
So, it was with beautiful and colorful weather that I took a break from my studies to check out the Raptorfest up at the Bridger Bowl lodge. I took a guided nature hike and learned some new edibles to look for in this area.
1) Wild sage. Easy to spot, thanks to Laura for growing some on the porch in San Francisco, I am now quite familiar with sage. Native American hunters would throw copious amounts onto the fire to hide their smell so they could get close to their targets. Good seasoning on wild meats.
2) Yarrow. Very fragrant and easy to spot. When dried, it makes a tasty and very laxative tea. In case you need a little help in that department on your next camping trip. It's nice to know you have options.
3) Pineapple-smelling plant. Smells like a ripe ol' pineapple. The roots are edible too.
I also saw some Live Birds:
1) Red-tailed Hawk.
2) Turkey Vulture. (just add wild sage and toss into the oven?)
3) Great Horned Owl. (my favorite bird of the day)
And infiltrated the local clandestine network of bird enthusiasts. Check.
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