Buzzard Day

June 14, 2025, is Buzzard Day in Glendive, Montana, and neighboring Makoshika State Park, Montana’s largest park, which spans 11,538 acres at an elevation of 2,415 feet above sea level. It falls on the second Saturday of June and celebrates the return of turkey vultures to eastern Montana.

The name Makoshika (Ma-ko’-shi-ka) is derived from a Lakota phrase meaning bad land or bad earth. The park contains rock formations, the fossil remains of Tyrannosaurus Rex and Triceratops, and miles of hiking trails and scenic drives.

Today’s main event is Montana’s toughest 10k run. There will also be a 5k run, mini-train rides, and a cornhole tournament. Kids can participate in a fun run, play miniature golf, and jump in a bouncy house. Gomez, a turkey vulture, will visit from ZooMontana, a 70-acre wildlife park in Billings that is the state’s only zoo.

Gomez at ZooMontana

A “Native American Heritage Display” will be on view. Since a 2023 census showed that only 1.22% of Glendive’s 4,831 residents were Native American (90.2% Caucasian, 5.2% Hispanic, 0.1% African American, and 3.3% of other races), we’re guessing there may not be many Lakota on hand to staff the booth.

Makoshika State Park’s visitor center houses a Triceratops skull, other kid-friendly exhibits, and, of course, a gift shop. Pick up souvenirs of your visit and learn about other park events, including a concert series, Montana Shakespeare in the Park, and a summer youth program.

Happy Buzzard Day!

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