May 8 - Mormon Trail (to dam)

 Sunny day with temps in the mid-60s at the Mormon Trailhead. First time hiking this year, but due to low snowfall, I'm sure I could've been here much earlier.

As I start the trail, it is definitely dry already - very odd - but nice not having to get my feet wet. Very surprised by the 1st crossing; a typical year would have lots water still; but today totally dry.

Surprised to see Glacier Lilies in bloom.

But back up and the actual start, butterflies are moving. I quickly see a Ringlet, Painted Lady and some small Orange flyers.

No real flowers yet just lots of dandelions and Groundsel. Oh, I see a Glacier Lily still hanging on.

Quite a few Western Tailed Blues today. Definitely the species with the most sightings. Also excited to see both a Spring Azure and WTB

and Silvery Blue.

Quite a few Painted Ladies as well. But one caught eye and it was a West Coast Lady! Don't see these often so it's big deal!!

I'm also surprised by a Brown Elfin. Saw one on the way to the dam and one on the way back (probably the same one?)

Other flyers include Mourning Cloak, Milbert Tortoiseshell, Rocky Mountain Duskywing, Field Crescent (1st of the year), and Mylitta Crescent.

I also see a small bright orange flyer - perhaps a Relict Frit??

Flyers are less the farther I go with the last new sighting at the pond: Common Checkered Skipper. The pond has water but no dragonflies yet.

The dam (usually good mud/water) was basically dry. The only thing I found were WTB and moose tracks.

On the return trip thru the meadow, the Chorus Frogs begin singing. I stop to listen.

I also see a big hawk. He flies just I'm about ready to take a photo. Flies in circles for a bit before heading west.

There's also a Kestrel (I believe) calling as I'm ending my hike.

The last new sighting was back along the river: Satyr Comma.

Fifteen flyers! Pretty awesome for May 8th!

Good day!

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