The Montana Bird Distribution database, publications, and website are currently a collaborative effort between the Montana Natural Heritage Program,  Montana Audubon,  and the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks.  This latest version of the Montana Bird Distribution website is based on the book series begun in 1975 by Dr. Palmer David Skaar (1923-1983), a microbial geneticist at Montana State University.  Dr. Skaar pioneered the concept of using a grid of latitude and longitude cells to document animal distribution in Montana and probably did more than any other individual to further the study of Montana birds.  In order to keep track of bird records for P.D. Skaars series a database was begun in 1991 which currently resides at the Montana Natural Heritage Program.  The Montana Bird Distribution database contains information about each species recorded in the state and whether individual observations are associated with breeding, migration, or wintering.  Publication of the sixth edition of P.D. Skaars hard copy book series (Lenard et al. 2003) also spurred the development of the Montana Bird Distribution website, which allowed people from all over the state to submit their bird sightings on the internet.  This latest version of the website provides a dynamic up-to-date view of records that have been accepted for inclusion in the Montana Bird Distribution database, unprecedented access to a variety of statewide map information, and enhances the ability of individuals to report precise locality information for bird observations.  Thank you for your interest in Montana’s birds and for submitting your bird observations!