Greater Sage Grouse Viewing Trips
Date: Saturday, April 3, 2010
Time: 4:30 am - noon
Where: Craig, Colorado
Join CEC and our Coalition partners in Northwest Colorado this spring to watch one of the West’s most captivating sights: the greater sage-grouse mating ritual.
CEC and our coalition partners have partnered with the Colorado Division of Wildlife to provide the opportunity to view male sage grouse strutting their stuff to attract mates. This unique courtship entails male sage-grouse inflating air sacs on their chests while dancing on on their breeding grounds (called the “lek”). Don't miss out on this rare and amazing chance to not only see beautiful Northwest Colorado, but to also view one of the West’s most iconic animals!
» Register for Saturday, April 3 trip
» Register for Tuesday, April 6 trip
» Register for Wednesday, April 7 trip
Cost: $15, includes transporation from Craig and a light breakfast
Additional dates may be available for special groups (media, VIP). Contact Sasha for more information.
On March 5th, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced that it was placing the greater-sage grouse on the candidate endangered species list. This western icon -- which once numbered in the millions -- now only has a population of roughly a few hundred thousand across ten western states. The Colorado population has also declined dramatically, with roughly 9,000 male birds remaining.
However, Northwest Colorado still retains two-thirds of the state’s population and still provides great opportunities to view sage-grouse in their native habitat.
CEC and our coalition partners have partnered with the Colorado Division of Wildlife to provide the opportunity to view male sage grouse strutting their stuff to attract mates. This unique courtship entails male sage-grouse inflating air sacs on their chests while dancing on their breeding grounds (called “leks”). Don't miss out on this rare and amazing chance to not only see beautiful Northwest Colorado, but to also view one of the West’s most iconic animals!
Trips will leave from Craig at 4:30am, driving roughly 1 hour north of town and then returning mid to late morning after the birds have finished.
The viewings will take place within the confines of a trailer, however there will be a short hike will be required to get to the viewing site. Warm clothing -- inlcuding gloves, hats, and multiple layers -- are highly recommended. Most importantly, don’t forget to bring your camera!
Event Contact:
Sasha
sasha@cecenviro.org
970-824-5241