One of the largest butterflies in Montana, the Two-tailed Swallowtail, can be seen flittering around over your head in the Bitterroot Valley, according to Bob Danley, our Bitterroot Outdoor Journal host. He said the Swallowtail is the second largest butterfly in the U.S. and likes chokecherry and Green Ash, and nectars on thistle and knapweed, along with zinnia. The name refers to the two "tails" on each hindwing.

Bob also cautioned people to not handle baby birds they might see on the ground. Only licensed wildlife rehabilitators are allowed to care for baby wild birds. As far as wildflowers this week, Bob recommends looking in rocky, gravelly soil (like Forest Service road cuts) for the Silvery Scorpion-weed. It has a curled (scorpion-like) stem of flowers and is mainly blue in color. (see photo below) Bob's report is heard Thursday mornings on KLYQ 1240 AM. His next report will July 12.

scorpion weed
Silvery scorpion-weed. (Bob Danley, Townsquare Media)
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