Bettles, Alaska

Snow is still prevalent in the far north. Upon arrival in Bettles, Alaska earlier this week, nearly two feet of snow blanketed unplowed areas. However, areas that have been plowed are open.

Main Street of Bettles in early May

A fresh dusting of snow occurred last night and snow flurries continued through the day--no significant accumulation though.

The Koyukuk River on the edge of town is still solid with ice along with some channels of overflow. Break-up should happen any day with the warmer temperatures. However, temperatures are still dropping below freezing at night.

Koyukuk River with overflow

Migrating birds are taking advantage of the overflow. Canada geese stopped in the river and sandhill cranes have been visiting the gravel bar and the airport runway. The sandhill cranes have been wandering around the runway and leaving their large tracks. What are they eating or looking for?

Other bird sightings include juncos, robins and ravens. More will come as the snow melts and the temperature increases. The temperatures are warm enough for the first mosquito though, but it might have froze today--since the high was 33 degrees. 

Koyukuk River and Jack White Mountains