Respect For Vultures

Birdwatching

Vultures remind us of death, deserts and bad breath.

But Montana tries to paint a more useful face on these good guys of the badlands with the annual Buzzard Day celebration May 10 at Makoshika State Park near Glendive.

While returning robins may be the harbingers of spring in many regions, the season isn’t at hand at Makoshika until about 100 buzzards, also known as turkey vultures, return at the end of April. Parks officials liken the vultures to custodians that sweep the land of winterkilled wildlife.

During winter, the leave to do their duty in Oklahoma and Texas.

The festivities include nature walks and fun runs. Info: (406) 365-6255.

, DataTimes