PREFACE 



The Fourth Edition of P. D. Skaar's Montana Bird Distribution is the latest in a series 

 of contributions to Montana ornithology. It was Dr. Skaar who pioneered the use of 

 latilongs as a mapping unit for bird distribution and biogeographical studies. Since the 

 publication of Skaar's first edition (1975), several other states and vertebrate groups 

 have been mapped using the latilong system. In this edition we have begun recording 

 bird distribution in quarter latilong units in an attempt to more accurately display each 

 species' spatial distribution. 



This edition begins an effort to provide a visual display of current bird distribution in 

 Montana. It is a transition from previous editions, where all distribution data from the 

 earliest recorded sightings to the most current were represented, to subsequent 

 editions, where only data since the last edition will be represented. We believe this will 

 document changes in bird distribution, drawing attention to contractions or expansions 

 which, we hope, will result in efforts to determine the cause for these changes. 



Although historical data will not be displayed in future editions, these data will not be 

 lost. Presently, all data represented in previous editions as well as this edition have 

 been entered into a computer database. These records contain more data than is 

 represented by the symbol on the distribution maps and often include multiple 

 sightings per latilong. The bird distribution database contains over 25,000 individual 

 records. It is housed and maintained at the Natural Heritage Program in Helena and 

 will be updated continuously as additional data are received. The database will be 

 available for use by anyone interested in the distribution of Montana birds. 



We plan to publish the Fifth Edition in 1995 with subsequent editions every 5 years 

 thereafter. The success of this effort, however, will depend on the dedication of the 

 birding public, amateur and professional, in submitting observations. We are no longer 

 interested only in new latilong records and rare sightings. It is critical that contributors 

 record and report sightings on all species for the appropriate quarter latilongs during 

 each revision period. 



These changes are not cast in concrete. We want to know what you think of them, 

 and so we have included a Response Form at the back of the book. Please tear it out, 

 fill it in and return it to us. 



A few people, with some time and a little money, compiled this publication. In a 

 greater sense, this is a product of hundreds, perhaps thousands, of individuals who 

 made an effort and took the time to write down their observations and report them. 

 These are people who see the beauty, grace, and diversity of birds, but understand 

 that the conservation of bird populations and the environment upon which they depend 

 requires awareness and knowledge. This publication is a tribute to those contributors 

 and our thanks are extended to them. 



Helena, Mont. 

 January, 1992 



IV 



