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USA - Montana & Wyoming: Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem

© Mountain Goats by Forrest Rowland

There is nowhere in North America as iconic as Yellowstone National Park. Towering mountains, spewing geysers, vast forests and valleys harbouring the highest megafauna density on the continent make this a must-visit destination for anyone wanting to experience the classic American West. But the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, as it is known by locals and researchers, is much more than what is found within the National Park’s borders, despite its enormous size. The ecosystem includes huge, pristine prairies, alpine crags and meadows, near-arid desert, and the most diverse and lovely scenery one could hope for.

For birders, a visit to the Yellowstone region means Longspurs parachuting over Mountain Plover chicks, Western Tanagers at the same feeders as Red Crossbills, Black Rosy Finches foraging at the feet of Mountain Goats, Brown-headed Cowbirds on the back of the original bovine of the continent – the Bison. Yellowstone means time spent observing wolves and bears foraging, hunting, in their natural habitats, otters and Barrow’s Goldeneye frolicking in the Lamar River, and some of the most spectacular geothermal sites on Earth. Any visit to Yellowstone is memorable and unique, but there is so much more to be seen and enjoyed than most visitors could conceive.

Top Birds

Black Rosy Finch; Sprague’s Pipit; Thick-billed & Chestnut-collared Longspurs;, Mountain Plover; Dusky Grouse; Three-toed Woodpecker; Williamson’s Sapsucker; Sagebrush Sparrow;, Baird’s Sparrow.

Top Mammals

Gray Wolf; Grizzly & American Black Bears; Bighorn; Mountain Goat; American Bison

Habitats Covered

shortgrass and mixed-grass Prairie, Riparian Deciduous Forest, Sagebrush Steppe, Lake and Marsh wetlands, Montane Coniferous Forest, Alpine grassland

Expected Climate

daytime temperatures typically range 65 -80F, with cool evenings in the 50s – 60s. Though the odd afternoon thunderstorm is likely, weather is typically very enjoyable with little precipitation.

Max Group Size

6 with 1 Rockjumper Leader and local leaders where necessary

Tour Pace & Walking

tour pace is relaxed, with a few short hikes that are best for species like Black Rosy-Finch and Grouse. Overall, easy and pleasant walking conditions on road and trails.

Accommodation

3-4 star accommodations throughout the tour.

Ease of Birding

generally easy, though sometimes species like Northern Pygmy Owl or Gray Partridge can be a little tricky to pin down.

Number of Species Expected

220+

Other Attractions

wildlife and photography, of course, are amazing. Mammoth Hot Springs in Yellowstone National Park, driving the Beartooth Highway over the second-highest drivable pass in the country, art galleries and shops in Livingston, visit the Yellowstone Film Ranch.

Photographic Opportunities

incredible photo ops of dozens of bird species and some 14 species of mammal, minimum

What our clients say about us

Stephan Lorenz
EL, Texas 2021

This was a short trip, but we saw a great number of really good birds, rarely seen in the US or, in some case, elsewhere. Stephan is one of the best guides I’ve traveled with and he is also very patient and very accommodating. We had a fairly large group – 10 – but I believe everyone had a chance for good views of every bird. I am looking forward to traveling with Stephan again in the near future to Barrow

Stephan Lorenz
SJ - USA 2019

Stephan Lorenz was a fantastic guide! He found all the birds; and also importantly, he made sure everyone was able to see them. He and Claudia were delightful to travel with. Stephan was also very knowledgeable about the general natural history of Texas and the state in general. It made the trip especially interesting. Stephan was stellar, the trip was great!

Stephan Lorenz
NM, Texas 2021

The group saw 24 warblers (me 21) & I was elated!! Not to mention all the other quality birds. Stephen was superb. There were 13 of us & tho a high count of clients by RBT standards, it worked very well-we were lucky too-a fallout. Thanks Stephan thanks RBT.

Adam Walleyn
SB, California 2021

Adam Walleyn was an excellent guide. Very knowledgeable, helpful and he worked very hard to find the birds and take care of the many logistical matters. I would gladly tour with him again.

Stephan Lorenz
KH, Texas 2021

Stephan is outstanding. His ability to find difficult birds is amazing. Both Stephan and Claudia's personalities make the trip very enjoyable.

USA - Montana & Wyoming: Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem 2024

23 Jun 2024 - 30 Jun 2024 (8 days)

USD4,595 - No Spaces Available

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Tour Leader: Forrest Rowland

Tour price (Per person): USD4,595 * GBP3,672 * EUR4,282 * AUD7,049

Single Supplement: USD670 * GBP535 * EUR624 * AUD1,028

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