Goat hunting in Bird/Penguin

Northwest approach to ridge north of penguin

      So I drew a permit to hunt goats in the Bird/Penguin area this fall.  Between the nasty weather and work, I was only able to make it out 4 times.  The first day out I went out to the northwest approach to the ridge north of penguin.  It had snowed which made the climb less than pleasant and we ended up alderbashing a fair amount.  The views from the top were worth it and it got me thinking about the winter/ski season to come.  No goats in sight, or at least none that I could see with the snow.

     The second day out I went up bird ridge and hiked it a ways back.  Some snow remained, but mostly on the ridge itself.  It was a beautiful day with perfect weather.  We saw no goats but did see a young black bear wandering about.



Bird valley viewed from the ridge.

     The third day I went up to penguin ridge.  Bird valley was socked in but the clouds cleared around 2500' to bluebird skies which made the climb worth it.  I saw a much larger black bear on the highway side of the just above the gut of the gully.  No goats nearby but I saw some further back on the ridge of my first day out.  I scoped a decent approach and would head out there soon.

     The fourth day out I headed up penguin creek trail and shot up a climb-able gully.  Once out of the trees I could see the goats were still there.  After cresting the ridge, eating, resting, spotting, and enjoying the view I earned, I figured out at least one billy.  I finally saw a bunch of goats, but unfortunately they were all nannies with kids.  Eventually they decided not to hang around and left for terrain I could handle, but not before crossing terrain that was too dicey.  I noticed two other goats on much steeper terrain further away.  The one billy I was after joined the nannies and kids.  They were beautiful to watch while I could, but I couldn't follow them. 

     After being unsuccessful and giving it an honest try I don't think hunting goats is for me.  I hated alder-bashing with a gun, not to mention the extra weight.  I loved the views, wildlife, and hiking though.  If there's a next time I will try to get off work for an extended period that will allow for greater travel    in the backcountry.