On a recent float trip through the Alberton Gorge, my husband and I were accompanied by a couple from Los Angeles and their 20-something kid who lives in Spokane.  A duck with a few ducklings swam by, and–wow.  You would’ve thought they just saw a bigfoot.  That’s okay, though, at least they appreciate wildlife….and hopefully understand how important wildlife management is…but, anyway, none of them knew what kind of duck that was.  My husband is certain is was a female wood duck, and I’m convinced it was a female mallard.  However, neither one of us took a picture–because we see ducks everyday.

In short, this class could be a benefit for anybody who is curious about the types of wildlife we have around us in Montana–and if you want to prove somebody wrong or right:

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks will host a class for those interested in learning how to identify ducks at Montana WILD on Sept. 12.

The 90-minute class geared for beginner duck hunters and bird watchers will feature mounted birds, study skins, pictures, wings and a duck jeopardy game. Each participant will also receive their own duck identification guide.

The program begins at 6 p.m. at the Montana WILD Education Center, located at 2668 Broadwater Ave, next to Spring Meadow Lake State Park off Highway 12 West.

For more information, call Montana WILD at 444-9944.