Skywatch Friday: Winter Cheer

It's always clear and sunny here in southwest Montana except when it isn't. And that's mainly when you REALLY want it to be clear, as when the aurora borealis (aka "northern lights") was flaring up Tuesday. Oh, so it goes. We have had our share of bright winter weather with great views to the Highland Mountain range just south of Butte:

And some nice lensatic clouds that are especially striking in the clear morning sky (Snoopy?):

The Moulton moose has settled into its winter regime of browsing willows each morning:

I've settled into my winter regime of skiing the world-class classic trails just north of the city (ungroomed Buzzy has been especially nice with a little fresh snow every few days):

And MollyTheDog has settled into her winter regime of visiting her elk bone collection apres ski (check out those teeth):

Some so-called hunter dumped several elk and deer carcasses (along with assorted rubbish) in a vacant area along the Moulton Road.  Though an offensive act, it has attracted well over 100 ravens along with this bald eagle (all hastily depart as you drive past):

Bald eagles are a common sight in the river bottoms (we saw 4 on a drive down to Missoula this week), but one seldom sees them in the forests high up along the Continental Divide. But, to have spotted these carcasses, they must regularly cruise around the upper valley of the Clark Fork River watershed. Or perhaps they follow the ravens?

Some years ago, Mrs Rover and I picked up a pair of vintage "Smirnoff Mule" (i.e. Moscow mule) cups at a yard sale. Though typically a hot weather drink, we've been starting our winter evenings with a mug of this classic '50s cocktail (don't forget the lime!):

Cheers!