Nature Journal: Malheur Wildlife Refuge in Oregon

May, 2020
The COVID-19 crisis has been keeping us at home a for the last couple months, social distancing to slow the spread of the virus.
If you're like me, you've been spending more time watching birds in the backyard. I've really enjoyed getting even more acquainted with my local bird buddies.
But I wanted to take advantage of being home (as opposed to being off in some far-away country, leading a tour) at this lovely time of year, to explore a corner of my home state of Oregon. Southeastern Oregon is largely empty of people and also possessed some excellent natural features.
I took a long weekend to go camping by myself in this quiet region. Over four days, I didn't interact with a single human out there. Social distancing, indeed.
My primary goal was to explore Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. This is the crown jewel of birding locations in the state of Oregon.

[@notsohandytim5090]

I've been curious about Malheur for quite some time now. This helps. Stopped by Fern Ridge yesterday for the first time. Pretty quiet there right now except for a handful of Western Grebes. (Sept). ☺

[@AndrewJulianPhotography]

Wow you saw so many birds! Incredible

[@NatureScapes]

Fantastic footage !!! Captured really well my friend 👌 Keep the good work going on 👍

[@craigmarkham1983]

Nice job on the Videos, Ivan! Good way to "keep your oars in the water" during the plague!

[@bfred3784]

Thanks for posting the video Ivan. Makes me want to get out there

[@ChitoWorld]

Any predators to watch out for ? They have camping sites ?

[@seanbrown2146]

What is that campsite on the East side of Steens Mountain?

[@seanbrown2146]

With the Buntings

[@avesofficial]

Quality production! The content is great. If you ever need an extra cameraman or want to get out birding somewhere on the west coast, hit me up.