JACKSON, Wyo. — June 6 marks the start of the new National Elk Refuge (NER) program offering free Tuesday “Curlew Cruises” to look for long-billed curlews this month.

According to the NER, long-billed curlews migrate from areas of Mexico and California to breed on the Refuge.

The tours will take place every Tuesday in June on the NER from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. A Refuge naturalist will drive participants to an area typically closed to the public to observe the birds.

Reservations for the Curlew Cruises are required and can be made in person at the NER and Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center.

River is a contract news reporter with a passion for wildlife, the environment, and history. She’s also a gemini, dog mom, outdoor enthusiast, and published poet.