VAN TRUMP PARK

The trails into Van Trump Park have recently been opened and are in good shape for either horse or foot travel. Some wonderful flower fields may be found in this little-frequented region and mountain goat are often seen on the high slopes. The regulation concerning the picking of flowers applies just the same in these parks as around the hotels. The Van Trump trip may be made as a one day round trip from Longmire or as a half day trip from Christine Falls.

DEER IN PARADISE VALLEY

The tracks of a large buck were seen this week above Sluiskin Falls near the Paradise Glacier. The following day a buck and doe were reported feeding on Mazama ridge opposite the hotel. This is the first report of deer so far up the Valley.

BLUEBIRDS NEST LATE IN PARADISE

A family of Mountain bluebirds with four half grown young in the nest may be seen energetically picking up insects, flycatcher fashion around the traffic station at Paradise Valley. This is avery pale blue species. The nest is in a dead tree a few feet from the station.

ROBINS AND CHICKADEES NESTING

The Western robin was nesting several weeks ago at Longmire but is still on the job in the high valleys. Two nests may be found, one on either side of the naturalist's office in small firs.

The mountain chickadee is also busy rearing its young. A nest with six young was found in the auto camp. Both parents assist in feeding the young. Eighteen trips with insects were made during the hour they were observed.

BLACK BEAR

The bear that frequent the lower camp grounds are apparently becoming notamer. If the visitors who go to see them each evening would keep back at a respectful distance and remain quiet, we are sure that the results would be more satisfactory for all concerned, including the bears themselves.

The mother bear with her cub was found yesterday directly in the camp. She is less timid than the others as she was fed at the power plant all spring.

NEW FLOWERS

Several new species of flowers have been added to the collection on the porch of the Naturalist's office. These include a beautiful Spraguea sometimes called Pussyfoot, a brilliant yellow Stonecrop, a new aster, some mountain violets and several ferns.

NATURE GUIDES TRIPS

Nature field trips are being arranged by the Naturalist for ten A.M. of Wednesdays and Fridays for those who are interested in any phase of natural history. These short walks are apparently enjoyed by all. This as well as all other Nature Guide service is free.

The Park Naturalist's office is just opposite the traffic station at Paradise. You are always welcome. The Naturalist may be found afternoons and evenings except Sundays.