Blog: Naturalist Notes

What do helicopters, gps collars and bighorn sheep have in common? They are all an integral part of research being conducted by Wyoming Game and Fish (WYG&F) and the University of Wyoming (UW) just outside of Grand Teton National Park! Ecotour Adventures Naturalists Laura Krusheski and Josh Metten recently joined scientists for a hands on capture operation just outside Grand Teton National Park. Read on to learn more about this important research.

March 20th marks the vernal, or spring equinox, Happy spring! Though snow is still piling up in the Tetons, we are seeing sure signs of spring in the valley. Read our early March Jackson Hole Wildlife Log for the latest.

As Jackson Hole Ecotour Adventures celebrates its 10th year anniversary as a Carbon Neutral company, we are reminded of the eminent challenge of Climate Change on the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Learn more about the changes which may be coming to Jackson Hole, Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks.

Despite persistent storms and snowfall, late February was characterized by signs of spring. As days grow longer, changes are happening in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Some animals are preparing for the coming summer, returning to nest sites, courting partners, or even mating. Other animals are simply enduring, attempting to wait out winter’s grasp before spring’s rush of life returns. We’ve had some exciting sightings in the past two weeks, including wolves, new bird species, nesting bald eagles, and more as the battle for life throughout Jackson Hole’s winter continues.

Jackson Hole endured one of its toughest snow storms in years in early February, with heavy winds and snow knocking down power poles to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, closing the ski area for 5 days. Heavy snow turned to rain in the valley, melting some of the snowpack, a boon for wildlife. By the 11th of February, the clouds began to lift, revealing a stunning winter landscape.