Window Watch is a self-guided, passive observation station inside the library. Patrons watch insects, birds, and other wildlife from a window and may optionally upload sightings to an iNaturalist project dedicated to the library property.

Build awareness of local wildlife visible from indoor spaces

Practice observing birds, insects, and seasonal behaviors

Learn to use iNaturalist or Seek for simple wildlife identification

Engage in community science and upload what you find to the library project page. 

All ages. Ideal for children, families, seniors, and anyone who enjoys a calm indoor wildlife-viewing experience.

Set up a project for the library property in iNaturalist and place a QR code linking to the project at the window station for easy participation.

Provide a sign inviting patrons to scan the QR code to upload sightings directly into iNaturalist.

Highlight one interesting observation from the project page by printing it and labeling it “Spotted from our window.”

Include QR codes linking to the Montana Field Guide or Seek, offering optional identification support without staff assistance.

Use the project’s auto-generated stats to create a simple display showing species counts, most common birds, and unusual sightings.