Journal R.E. Johnson 1968 Aug. 18 North Bitterroot Mtns, Montana, (Illinois Pk) and this is unusual. Probably however, there were adults around somewhere. I did not descend fully to the bottom of either cirque & this could have been a mistake. More than likely the birds do breed here & if so there were surely 2 or 3 successful nests judging from the number of juveniles. On the other hand perhaps these juveniles are Fall wanderers. They are well along in development, being already in molt to adult plumage & not being fed by adults. The nearest "good" habitat for ruddy finches is Lolo Peak, 50 air miles to the southeast. Other bird species seen near the top of Illinois Peak were: Robin (one), Golden Eagle (one), Audubon Warbler (3), Mtn. Chickadee (2), Mtn. Bluebird (one dead), Pine Siskin (30), Oregon Junco (30), Clark Nutcracker (15), Wilson Warbler (2), Ruby-Crowned Kinglet (2), & one Accipiter [sp?]. Chipmunks & Columbian Ground Squirrels were common. On the hike down I saw 2 Elk, a Spruce Grouse, a Blue Grouse, a Townsend Solitaire, & a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker. I drove back to Missoula & Pattee canyon in the rain for the night.