When the name
Bannack is mentioned, most folks envision the old territorial capitol of Montana, located about 30 miles southwest of Dillon. And , indeed, this ghost town brings back great memories for me since it is a real treasure of a State Park for Montanans and others plus one of the most photogenic places I've visited.
But when many birders hear mention of Bannack, a different picture often come to mind - because the sagebrush communities surrounding and to the the south of this beautifully restored ghost town are home to a number of bird species that are not easily found in any other part of the state. The first of these species is the gray flycatcher. While it is occasionally reported in other areas, it is an established breeder here and may actually be expanding its range.
And then there is the sage sparrow. Rather easily found, particularly during breeding season, they breed in the shorter sage communities to the south of Bannack.
Besides these specialties, sage thrashers are found in abundance in the same sagebrush areas - although they are also breeders in other sage stands well to the north and east if Bannack.
Another species that frequents these extensive stands of sage is the Brewer's sparrow.
So if you are a birder and looking to add to your yearly or state or life bird lists, a late spring/early summer trip to this beautiful area of southwest Montana will serve a dual purpose. Not only can you enjoy wandering through the old buildings and early history of Montana in Bannack, but great birding opportunities present themselves in the town itself and the surrounding countryside.
But when many birders hear mention of Bannack, a different picture often come to mind - because the sagebrush communities surrounding and to the the south of this beautifully restored ghost town are home to a number of bird species that are not easily found in any other part of the state. The first of these species is the gray flycatcher. While it is occasionally reported in other areas, it is an established breeder here and may actually be expanding its range.
And then there is the sage sparrow. Rather easily found, particularly during breeding season, they breed in the shorter sage communities to the south of Bannack. 
Besides these specialties, sage thrashers are found in abundance in the same sagebrush areas - although they are also breeders in other sage stands well to the north and east if Bannack.
Another species that frequents these extensive stands of sage is the Brewer's sparrow.
So if you are a birder and looking to add to your yearly or state or life bird lists, a late spring/early summer trip to this beautiful area of southwest Montana will serve a dual purpose. Not only can you enjoy wandering through the old buildings and early history of Montana in Bannack, but great birding opportunities present themselves in the town itself and the surrounding countryside.
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