Brian Zinke 10/6/26 Brian Zinke 10/6/26

Bird Walk at the Everett Sewage Lagoons, October 3, 2026

By Douglas Resnick

The area we visited offers numerous opportunities for observing birds. Along its western side runs the Snohomish River. To the east is Union Slough, which, to the south, meets the river at Langus Point. To the north is 12th St. NE and the Interpretive Sign Spur.

We met at Langus Riverfront Park, which is situated about half-way between the northern and southern ends of the area we were visiting, and which has restrooms and conveniently large parking areas. We birded there for about half an hour, allowing latecomers to join us before we headed for a site closer to the southern lagoon. Our view of the river gave us opportunities to watch Mallards, a Great Blue Heron, and two Double-crested Cormorants, as well as to observe the occasional flights of Ring-billed and Glaucous-winged Gulls over the river.

From there, we carpooled to a small parking lot between the northern and southern lagoons. We quickly found Red-winged Blackbirds in the vegetation alongside the lagoons and various ducks in the water. Most numerous among the former were Mallards, Northern Shovelers, and Wood Ducks. A surprising find, high above us, was a flight of Snow Geese. As we walked to the east, we found ourselves walking between a wetland to the south and mudflats to the north. From the south, we heard the call of a Virginia Rail. Staying on the paved trail, we then turned south, walking between the slough and the wetland. Several raptors presented themselves, mostly perched at a distance and leading to much discussion concerning their identification. We came up with these results: Cooper's hawk, Bald Eagle, Red-tailed Hawk, and Merlin. Other birds visited nearby trees: Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, European Starling, American Robin, and Cedar Waxwing. Among birds that announced their presence vocally were Belted Kingfisher and Golden-crowned Sparrow. We walked as far as Langus Point before turning back, and we were rewarded with the sight of a Western Grebe.

After returning to our vehicles, we carpooled to the parking lot on 12th St. NE. Our view to the northeast revealed 3 Great Egrets, listed by eBird as rare for this location at this time of year, and 3 Great Blue Herons. After getting our fill of these birds, we walked south to the northern lagoon. Here, we added two more ducks to our day's list: Bufflehead and Scaup; at the given distance, we could not tell which kind of Scaup we were seeing. We then continued eastward, beside the Smith Island Restoration Project. The end of the trail is nearly encircled by the Restoration Interpretive Signs. Our attention was mostly drawn, however, to the Northern Harrier flying nearby, just above the tops of the reeds. On our way back, we spotted an Osprey in the air and a Red-necked Grebe in the water.

We carpooled back to our starting point just past 12:30 PM, having record the observations of 45 species or other taxa.

Brian Zinke 10/6/26 Brian Zinke 10/6/26

Bird Walks in Edmonds and Esperance, September 5, 2026

By Douglas Resnick

Our first stop was in Edmonds: Pine Ridge Park. We were surprised to be greeted by signs about no parking, but on closer inspection it turned out that the restriction would be in place the following Tuesday through Thursday, “For public safety during stormwater basin dredging.” So, we continued.

The main trails in Pine Ridge Park, taken together, form an “H,” oriented roughly north to south. We explored the main trails fully, and we added the side trail that winds upward to the cul-de-sac of 84th Ave. W, as well as the extension that goes through a tunnel under Main St., headed toward Yost Park. For the most part, we saw or heard what an Edmonds resident would consider neighborhood birds, such as Dark-eyed Junco, Song Sparrow, and Spotted Towhee. Less usual were the Common Raven we heard at the outset and the Townsend’s Warbler that flitted through the trees near Goodhope Pond. The pond itself, after a long, dry August, was a field of cattails. Two other birds of interest were the Osprey that flew over our heads, after we emerged from the tunnel, and a Cooper’s Hawk, which we initially spotted on a well-shaded limb near the trailhead at 83rd Ave. W.

Our second stop was in Esperance. Those who follow local news will know that Edmonds may request that it be allowed to annex Esperance in the near future, but the annexation has not happened yet, and Esperance Park is a county park. We walked northwest from its parking lot, following a diagonal path through the undeveloped portion of the park, with Chase Lake as our ultimate destination. While amongst the trees we spotted three Northern Flickers and a Brown Creeper. We continued westward along 222nd St. SW, walked through its cul-de-sac, then entered the undeveloped area south of Edmonds Church of God. The bushes and trees, some with fruit, attracted a number of House Finches. On the detention pond east of 84th Ave. W, we found a couple of Mallards and a couple of Wood Ducks. In the nearby trees, we found Black-capped and Chestnut-backed Chickadees and a couple of Red-breasted Nuthatches. When we finally obtained a view of Chase Lake itself, we found three more Wood Ducks swimming below us; we were looking down on the lake from the pedestrian walkway that runs alongside the bridge. A Pileated Woodpecker flew into a tree on the far side of the lake, and we spotted two Band-tailed Pigeons high in a tree on the near side.

We followed a similar route back to our cars, pausing to enjoy the view of an Osprey flying above us with a fish in its claws and to take note of a White-crowned Sparrow that had joined some of the House Finches to forage on the ground. Several of us capped the morning with lunch at Portofino Restaurant & Bar in Edmonds.

Brian Zinke 10/6/26 Brian Zinke 10/6/26

Swifts Night Out Draws a Crowd, and the Swifts Delivered

By Brian Zinke

Roughly 600 people gathered for this year's Swifts Night Out, and the swifts did not disappoint. As evening settled in, about 1,500 Vaux's Swifts streamed into the roost, swirling overhead before dropping into the chimney for the night.

The weather had other plans at first. A stretch of rain rolled through as the crowd was arriving, and for a while it looked like the show might be a soggy one. Then the rain cleared and the swifts picked up right where the evening was meant to start. Nobody seemed to mind the wait. Umbrellas came down, cameras came up, and the mood turned from damp to delighted.

Then came a moment of real drama. A Merlin swooped in and attacked the flock, sending the swifts scattering as they dodged the falcon. The Merlin was successful in its hunt, and an additional swift fell from the sky and landed in the grass. Fortunately, it recovered after a few minutes and flew off under its own power. For many in the crowd, it was a firsthand look at the predator and prey dynamics that shape a swift's life during migration. Gasps rippled through the crowd, followed by cheers as the flock regrouped and continued its descent.

Events like this show what community science and conservation are all about. Hundreds of neighbors, families, and curious first-timers stood side by side to watch one of the most remarkable bird spectacles in the Pacific Northwest, and many of them left with a new appreciation for these tiny aerial acrobats and the aging chimneys they depend on.

A huge thank you to everyone who came out, to our volunteers who made the evening run smoothly, and to the Monroe Arts Council and City of Monroe for welcoming us. We hope to see you next year!

Courtesy Elaine Chuang

Video with slow motion. Courtesy Elaine Chuang

Brian Zinke 10/6/26 Brian Zinke 10/6/26

Penny Creek Natural Area Update - October 2026

By Allen Gibbs

A Mill Creek City Council majority voted on Tuesday, September 22nd, to take more steps toward acquisition of the Penny Creek Natural Area.

According to a HeraldNet story written by Jenna Peterson, and published September 24th on the newspaper’s website, the new timeline is for the city to acquire ownership in early 2027.

The following excerpt is from the HeraldNet story.

“The Penny Creek Natural Area is a 60-acre wetland off of 35th Avenue Southeast. For the past year, a community group has been advocating for the city of Mill Creek to acquire the area, which is currently owned by a neighborhood apartment complex. The development agreement stated that five years after all parts of the project were approved, the city take ownership of the property at no cost. The agreement also stated The Farm by Vintage could disallow public access if the city doesn’t take ownership after five years.”

Pilchuck Audubon Society supports acquisition of the Penny Creek Natural Area by the city of Mill Creek. Penny Creek is a tributary to Lake Washington and is a salmon-bearing stream. It is a popular visiting spot for many birds. Especially those attracted to its wetland habitats.

If you are a subscriber to the HeraldNet, there is a link to the full story by Ms. Peterson who has done fine work reporting on this proposal.

https://www.heraldnet.com/2026/09/24/mill-creek-takes-another-step-in-assumption-of-penny-creek-natural-area/

Brian Zinke 10/6/26 Brian Zinke 10/6/26

President’s Report - October 2026

Bill Derry, president of the Pilchuck Audubon Society, speaks to the Edmonds City Council about National Lights Out Sept. 22, 2026. Derry joined Marjie Fields from the Sierra Club in encouraging people to reduce unnecessary nighttime lighting during peak bird migration periods. *Photo courtesy of My Edmonds News/September 23, 2026.*

By Bill Derry

On Tuesday, September 22nd, the Mayor of Edmonds read a proclamation regarding Lights Out at the City Council meeting. I was allowed to make a few comments. Many thanks to all of you that contacted the Mayor to support this. Before the meeting the Mayor told me that about 120 people contacted him to support the Lights Out proclamation.

Next up we hope to work with Bothell, Snohomish, Mountlake Terrace, and Everett to adopt a Lights Out proclamation. Then, we will work to support Senator LIass’s Lights Out bill in the legislature next session.

We are currently working on a video about Lights Out for the “Edmonds Naturally” YouTube channel. We have flown a drone over Edmonds at night to get a birdseye view of lights followed up by ground level photos. So far, it’s obvious that the car dealers have the brightest lights left on after 10pm.

In the last week there have been between 1-3.7 million birds migrating south over Snohomish County each night according to Cornell University Bird Cast https://dashboard.birdcast.org/region/US-WA-061.

Brian Zinke 10/6/26 Brian Zinke 10/6/26

Give Migrating Birds a Break - Lights Out Washington!

*Townsend's Warbler in Edmonds. Photo courtesy of Todd Skinner*

By the Conservation Committee

We live among important stopovers along the Pacific Flyway, where millions of birds migrating south from Alaska and western Canada pause to rest and refuel. Our local environment is amazing – and our PAS Conservation Committee enjoys supporting local tidal mudflats, wetlands, marshes, farmland, forests, and river corridors that provide food and shelter for waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds, and raptors.

The majority of North American migratory birds travel at night, navigating by stars and natural light cues. Unfortunately, artificial light from cities and buildings can disorient migrating birds, pulling them off course and into urban areas where they are vulnerable to exhaustion, predation, and deadly collisions.

You can help! During this fall migration season, turn off unnecessary lights, direct outdoor lighting downward, use only the brightness needed, and choose warmer-colored bulbs. Encourage your neighbors, businesses, schools, and community organizations to do the same. When an entire community turns out the lights, we create a safer nighttime passage for birds—and a brighter future for the natural places that make Snohomish special. Join the Lights Out effort and help spread the word!

Learn more here! https://www.audubon.org/washington/projects/lights-out-washington

Are you a business? Check out this flyer you can post: https://nationalaudubon.app.box.com/s/eh39t1qj4ona62h80py99ajrddg63kma

And join us if you are interested in conservation for Bird Friendly Communities!

Brian Zinke 9/1/26 Brian Zinke 9/1/26

September 2026 Newsletter - Full Reports

Conservation Committee Report

by Ralph Tolle, Committee Chair

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Washington’s Roadless Forests Need Your Voice‍

Two million acres of Washington’s national forest roadless lands could be opened to logging, mining, oil and gas development, and new road construction if federal protections under the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule are eliminated.

That includes treasured areas in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie, Okanogan-Wenatchee, Olympic, Gifford Pinchot, Colville, and Umatilla national forests—places many of us know and love for hiking, camping, skiing, fishing, hunting, boating, wildlife watching, and simply experiencing wild forests without roads and clearcuts.

These lands also protect clean drinking water, fish and wildlife habitat, and Tribal treaty rights and cultural resources.

The Roadless Rule has survived more than 25 years of challenges, backed by strong public support. Now it is again at risk. The Forest Service is accepting public comments on its proposal to repeal the rule, with comments due September 21.

What can you do?‍

Speak up for Washington’s roadless forests. Submit your own comment and tell the Forest Service you support the “No Action Alternative,” which would retain the Roadless Rule.

Have you hiked, camped, skied, fished, or simply enjoyed one of Washington’s roadless areas? Tell them why these places matter to you.

The easiest way to submit a comment is through the National Audubon Society’s action page: https://act.audubon.org/a/save-roadless-areas-2026

Take Action

Learn more here: https://www.audubon.org/news/protecting-roadless-rule-safeguards-more-just-forests‍ ‍

For background and additional ways to take action, visit: https://roadless.org/

September 21 is the deadline. Please make your voice count for Washington’s wild forests.‍ ‍

As a wise teacher once told me, “if it is to be, it is up to me,” which in this case means you, me, everyone who truly cares about our National Forests.‍ ‍

President’s Report

by Bill Derry

Edmonds Marsh

The State has finally finished its 2024 financial audit and the grant contract and authorization to hire a consultant should be approved by the City Council this month. This grant will provide a 30% design for restoration of the estuary for the Edmonds Marsh. More information here: https://www.edmondsmarshestuary.org/

Conservation Committee

I am excited for our revitalized Conservation committee led by Ralph Tolle. We have eight members and three subcommittees: Forest Practices, Bird Friendly Communities and Puget Sound Lowlands and Shorelines. You’ll be hearing more about this in the coming months.

Lights Out

Every year, up to a billion birds in North America are killed by colliding with windows; most at night and most during Spring and Fall migration. Audubon Washington is making a big push this year and next to address the issue by urging people and organizations to turn off lights after 10pm especially in September-October and April-May during peak migration. More here: https://www.audubon.org/washington/projects/lights-out-washington

Edmonds Residents:‍ ‍I have submitted a request to the City of Edmonds to pass a proclamation supporting the Lights Out Program. Please email the mayor and ask him to forward the Lights Out Proclamation to the City Council for approval.

Mike Rosen, Mayor of Edmonds

mike.rosen@edmondswa.gov

Bird Walks in and near Snohomish, August 1, 2026

By Douglas Resnick

We met this morning near the eastern trailhead of Riverview Wildlife Refuge in Snohomish. The weather was cool and cloudy. As we began walking, we espied a Turkey Vulture soaring toward the Snohomish River. Continuing, we were surprised to find a sign across our path: "Trail Closed." After some discussion, we resumed walking, this time along city streets, toward the western trailhead. As this was open, we resumed our birding.

The trail passes at first southwestward through a marsh, conveniently at some height above the water. From our vantage point, we found a Green Heron and a Great Blue Heron. Further along the trail, the marsh is replaced on one side by one of the lagoons of the Wastewater Treatment Plant. There, we found numerous Mallards and a sprinkling of Wood Ducks. In the air above the lagoon flew a crowd of Tree Swallows and a few Vaux's Swifts. The main attraction on the other, marshy side of the trail turned out to be the birds flying between or perching on the area's trees. Prominent among them were Cedar Waxwings and American Goldfinches.

Where the trail turns to the west, it skirts a large field. Above the field flew many Barn Swallows. Although encroached on by knotweed, a narrow aperture remains, where a short staircase at the field's northwestern corner leads to the Snohomish River. No birds were in the river, when we arrived, although we spotted a couple of American Crows in a tree on the opposite shore. Picking up the trail again, we headed southeast, between the field and the woodsy area beside the river. Here, bird activity increased: we found Western Wood-Pewee, Willow Flycatcher, House Finch, Spotted Towhee, Common Raven, and Mourning Dove. Also present, though viewable only with difficulty, due to its insistence on staying almost hidden among the leaves of a tree, was a Black-headed Grosbeak.

We continued in this way past a second lagoon, where we found many more Wood Ducks, until we reached the second "Trail Closed" sign; then, we walked back to our cars. In order to make up for the lack of toilet facilities at either of the morning's birding sites, we next drove to the conveniently close Snohomish branch of the Sno-Isle Libraries. Afterwards, we set out for the Fobes-Ebey Slough Dike Trail.

When we met at the end of Fobes Road, it was raining. Nonetheless, we set out, walking southeast along the edge of the road. Before we reached the trailhead, we caught the first of our several views at this site of an Eastern Kingbird. Following the trail, we headed almost due west, then turned to the southwest, paralleling the slough. As we proceeded along this course, the rain lessened, then stopped altogether.

In the marshy area east of the trail, we found a few Mallards and a lone Canada Goose. Flying back and forth over the trail were several Tree Swallows and Barn Swallows. Two Belted Kingfishers called out, as they flew beside the slough. Flying from tree to tree, or from bush to bush, were the flycatchers: Eastern Kingbird and Willow Flycatcher. It was well past noon, when we were startled by the view of group of dark birds that arose briefly from the marsh. After passing by the partially occluding vegetation beside the trail, we had a clear view of a large flock of Red-winged Blackbirds foraging among the cattails. At this point, we turned back. Just before we arrived at our cars, two Mourning Doves landed on the wires overhanging the road.

At the cul-de-sac, we parted company, several of us heading for a lunchtime reunion at Snohomish Bakery.

*Susie Schaefer. Courtesy Marthlyn Jones.*

Susie Schaefer Obituary

Susie Schaefer, longtime Edmonds resident and environmental/social activist, died on July 25, 2026 as she wished--with peace, dignity, and with friends and dogs at her side as chickadees chirped in the trees. Susie grew up in Palo Alto, California and spent every summer at the beloved cabin built by her father in the Sierras at Lake Kirkwood.

She loved theater, but realized that she would never be a dancer, so she followed her desire to be of service and earned her Masters of Social Work at UW in 1971. Social work became her lifelong profession and led to her becoming Regional Administrator of the Division of Developmental Disabilities in Everett.

In addition to her career advocating for others, she was very active in environmental and social issues. She was Vice President of Pilchuck Audubon Society and led numerous birding trips and Christmas Bird Counts. She was one of the founding leaders of Puget Sound Bird Fest and the Edmonds Wildlife and Native Plant Demonstration Garden that is now named in her honor. Susie was one of the first people to recognize the importance of protecting and restoring the Edmonds Marsh and was a well-known presence at Edmonds City Council meetings speaking on behalf of numerous ecological causes. Even her vacations were Earthjustice work excursions overseas for which she gladly paid. On an Earthjustice trip to Vietnam, Susie was the first to spot a rare species of crane after its long absence.

After her retirement from social work, she co-founded the non-profit Open Doors for Multicultural Families to help them access and navigate services for their disabled children. She continued her dedication to social justice as a member of Women in Black, standing for Peace at the ferry dock every Sunday for many years.

And we must acknowledge her Boxer dogs! Susie adored every one of her seven rescue Boxers, who always accompanied her on trips to the cabin.

Susie made friends with people from all over the world, hosting many of them in her home while they attended college and remained close friends with them over the years.

Susie was a force for nature and social justice—it is impossible to quantify the powerful impact she had on this world and all the inhabitants of it. Anyone who knew Susie was inspired to follow her leadership and integrity to make the world a better place.

All are invited to attend a dedication ceremony for the installation of the sign for the Susie Schaefer Wildlife and Native Plant Demonstration garden to honor her memory, date to be announced later.

If you would like to donate or volunteer in her honor, please consider:

Pilchuck Audubon Society—https://www.pilchuckaudubon.org/
Northwest Boxer Rescue—https://www.nwboxerrescue.org
Open Doors for Multicultural Families—https://opendoorswa.org/

Backyard Birding Highlights: July 26-August 25

By Mara Price

‍ ‍

Sara and Paul Bueren had to take their feeders down because they saw 2 House Finches and a Purple Finch with Mycoplasmosis and they kept them down for 21 weeks and they cleaned and disinfected them. Then all the birds returned to the feeders. They reported 10 Dark-eyed Junco in the yard/feeders, 6 Chestnut-backed Chickadee in the yard/feeders, 3 Black-capped Chickadee in the yard/feeders, 5 Purple Finch in the yard/feeders, 6 House Finch in the yard/feeders, 3 Black-headed Grosbeak in the yard/feeders, a Bewick’s Wren in the yard/feeders, a Hairy Woodpecker in the yard/suet, a Downy Woodpecker in the yard/suet, a Pileated Woodpecker in the yard/suet, 2 Mourning Doves in the yard/feeders, 3 Red-breasted Nuthatch in the yard/feeders, 3 Spotted Towhee in the yard/feeders, 2 Band-tailed Pigeon in the yard/feeders, 5 Pine Siskin in the yard/feeders, 2 Anna’s Hummingbirds in the yard/syrup, a Rufous Hummingbird in the yard/syrup, a Cooper’s Hawk in the yard, 5 American Crows in the yard/feeders, 2 Violet-green Swallows in the trees, 2 Song Sparrows in the yard/feeders, 6 American Goldfinch in the yard/feeders, a Barn Swallow by itself, a Northern Flicker in the yard/suet, a Golden-crowned Kinglet in the yard, a Brown Creeper in the yard/feeders, 2 Song Sparrows in the yard/feeders, 2 Purple Martin in the yard/feeders and a Western Tanager in the yard/feeders for a total species count of 30.

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Kriss Erickson’s report from Everett included18 Black-capped Chickadee in the yard/feeders, 9 Chestnut-backed Chickadee in the yard/feeders, 3 Bewick’s Wren in the yard/feeders, 7 Steller’s Jays in the yard/feeders, 23 Bushtit in the yard/feeders, 16 American Crows in the yard/feeders, 8 Western Gulls flying overhead, 14 American Robins in the yard/feeders, 6f/4m House Finches in the yard/feeders, 3m/3f Spotted Towhee in the yard/feeders, 1m/1f Downy Woodpecker in the yard/suet, 8 Northern Flickers in the yard/suet, an Osprey flying really close overhead, 10 Dark-eyed Junco in the yard/feeders, 6 Song Sparrows in the yard/feeders, 1m/1f Hairy Woodpecker in the yard/suet, a Merlin flying close by overhead, 5 Anna’s Hummingbirds in the yard/syrup, 3f/1m American Goldfinch in the yard/feeders, a Barred Owl in the yard,1m/1f Black-headed Grosbeak in the yard/feeders, 1m/1f Common Redpoll in the yard/feeders, 1m/1f Red-breasted Nuthatch in the yard/feeders, a White-crowned Sparrow in the yard/feeders and 3 Golden-crowned Sparrow’s in the yard/feeders for a total species count of 25.

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Sue Huskey’s report from Marysville included 12 Bushtits in the yard/feeders, 2f Anna’s Hummingbirds in the yard/syrup, 4 Chestnut-backed Chickadee in the yard/suet, 1m/2f House Finch in the yard/feeders, 2 Black-capped Chickadee in the yard/suet, a Red-breasted Nuthatch in the yard/feeders, 2 Cedar Waxwing in the yard/feeders, a Northern Flicker in the yard/suet, 4 Dark-eyed Junco in the yard/feeders, 2 Steller’s Jays in the yard/feeders and 3 American Goldfinch in the yard/feeders for a total species count of11.

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Maureen Schmitz’s report from Everett listed 3 Red-breasted Nuthatch in the yard/feeders, 12 Bushtit in the yard/feeders, a Northern Flicker in the yard/suet, 3 Black-capped Chickadee in the yard/feeders, 4 Chestnut-backed Chickadee in the yard/feeders, a Bald Eagle flying over, 4 American Crows in the yard, 3 Song Sparrows in the yard/feeders, a Band-tailed Pigeon in the yard and 8 flying over, a Steller’s Jay in the yard, a Hairy Woodpecker in the yard/suet, a Great Blue Heron flying over, 10 Gull species flying over, an American Robin in the yard, 2 Anna’s Hummingbirds in the yard/syrup, 4 House Finch in the yard/feeders, a Bewick’s Wren in the yard/feeders, a Golden-crowned Kinglet in the yard, a Swainson’s Thrush heard in the yard, a Black-headed Grosbeak in the yard, 3 Dark-eyed Junco in the yard and 2 Spotted Towhee in the yard/feeders for a total species count of 22.

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Mary Sinker’s report from her property in Stanwood listed 3 American Crows in the yard, 15 American Goldfinch in the yard/feeders, 20 American Robins in the yard, 10 Anna’s Hummingbirds in the yard/syrup, 2 Bald Eagles in the trees, 2 Band-tailed Pigeons in the yard, 6 Barn Swallows in the trees, a Barred Owl in the trees, 3 Bewick’s Wrens in the yard/feeders, 11 Black-capped Chickadee in the yard/feeders, 14 Black-headed Grosbeak in the yard/feeders, 2 Brown Creepers in the yard/trees, 15 Brown-headed Cowbird in the yard/feeders, 7 Bushtit in the yard/feeders, 3 Cedar Waxwing in the yard/feeders, 10 Chestnut-backed Chickadee in the yard/feeders, a Chipping Sparrow in the yard/feeders, 3 Common Yellowthroat in the yard/feeders, a Cooper’s Hawk in the yard, 4 Dark-eyed Junco in the yard/feeders, 4 Downy Woodpeckers in the yard/suet, 2 Eurasian-Collared Doves in the yard, 3 European Starling in the yard/feeders, a Great Blue Heron at the creek, a Great Horned Owl in the woods, 5 Hairy Woodpeckers in the yard/suet, 12 House Finch in the yard/feeders, 2 House Sparrow in the yard/feeders, a Hutton’s Vireo in the yard, 4 Kinglet species in the yard, 2 Mallard Ducks at the creek, 17 Mourning Doves in the yard/pasture, 5 Northern Flickers in the yard/suet, an Olive-sided Flycatcher in the yard/feeders, 2 Orange-crowned Warbler in the yard/feeders, 3 Pacific Wrens in the yard/feeders, 2 Pileated Woodpecker in the yard/suet, 2 Pine Siskin in the yard/feeders, 4 Red-breasted Nuthatch in the yard/feeders, a Red-breasted Sapsucker in the yard/trees, 3 Red-tailed Hawk in the yard/tree, 8 Red-winged Blackbirds in the yard/trees, 10 Rufous Hummingbirds in the yard/syrup, a Sharp-shinned Hawk in the yard, 7 Song Sparrows in the yard, 7 Spotted Towhee in the yard/feeders, 2 Steller’s Jays in the yard/feeders, 6 Swainson’s Thrush in the yard/feeders, 2 Tree Swallows in the yard/trees, 2 Turkey Vultures in the pasture, a Western Flycatcher in the yard/feeders, 2 Western Wood Pewee in the yard/feeders, 3 Western Tanager in the yard/feeders,3 White-crowned Sparrow in the yard/feeders, a Willow Flycatcher in the yard/feeders, 3 Wilson’s Warbler in the yard/feeders, a Yellow Warbler in the yard/feeders, and 2 Yellow-Rumped Warbler in the yard/feeders or a total species count of 57.

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My report from Marysville included 3 American Crows in the yard, 1f American Goldfinch in the yard/feeders, 2 Black-capped Chickadee in the yard/feeders, 2m/2f Black-headed Grosbeak in the yard/feeders, 4 American Robins in the yard,2 Dark-eyed Junco in the yard/feeders, 1f Hairy Woodpecker on the Hummingbird syrup, 1m Hairy Woodpecker at the suet, 8 House Finch in the yard/feeders, 3 Mourning Doves in the yard/feeder, 4 Northern Flickers in the yard/suet, 7 Steller’s Jays in the yard/feeders, a Song Sparrow in the yard, 1f/1m Western Tanager in the yard/feeders, a Red-breasted Nuthatch in the yard/feeders, a Pileated Woodpecker in the yard/suet, 5 Kinglet species in the bushes, 1m/1f Downy Woodpecker in the yard/suet and a Chestnut-backed Chickadee in the yard/feeders for a total species count of 18.

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If you are interested in joining our Backyard Bird Count, please contact me at pricemara1@gmail.com or leave a message on my cell phone at (425)750-8125.

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Brian Zinke 7/31/26 Brian Zinke 7/31/26

August 2026 Newsletter - Full Reports

Passionate about protecting birds and habitat? Our Conservation Committee monitors local, state, and federal conservation issues and works through subcommittees on forest practices and bird-friendly communities — from Lights Out initiatives to the Edmonds Wildlife Habitat Garden.

Conservation Committee Report

by Ralph Tolle, Committee Chair

Get Involved with the Pilchuck Audubon Society Conservation Committee

Are you interested in protecting birds, wildlife, and the natural places that make our region so special? The Pilchuck Audubon Society Conservation Committee welcomes volunteers who want to make a difference.

Our mission is to conserve and restore natural ecosystems, with a focus on birds and other wildlife, for the benefit of Earth's biological diversity. We pursue this mission through education, advocacy, community action, and community science, working to protect and enhance the natural environment throughout Snohomish County, Camano Island, and Washington State.

Pilchuck Audubon Society (PAS) is a grassroots environmental organization serving members across Snohomish County and Camano Island. As a local chapter of the National Audubon Society, PAS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization incorporated in Washington State.

The Conservation Committee plays a vital role in advancing the Society's mission. We monitor local, state, tribal, and federal conservation issues, keeping our chapter informed and engaged on the topics that matter most to birds and wildlife. Committee members also participate in specialized efforts through our Forest Practices and Bird-friendly Communities subcommittees.

There are many ways to get involved. Whether you're passionate about forest conservation, native plants for birds, Lights Out initiatives, bird-safe buildings, or helping care for the Edmonds Wildlife Habitat and Native Plant Demonstration Garden, there's an opportunity to match your interests.

From individual projects to group activities, every action helps create healthier habitats for birds and wildlife. We'd love to have you join us. Please contact the Conservation Committee (conservation@pilchuckaudubon.org) to learn more about volunteer opportunities and how you can get involved.

*Susie seeing her garden’s new sign. July 10, 2026*

In Memory of Susie Schaefer

by Laura D. Walls, co-coordinator of the Susie Schaefer Wildlife and Native Plant Community Garden / July 29, 2026

We are saddened to learn of the passing of Susie Schaefer, on Saturday, July 25. Susie was the founder of Edmonds’ unique native plant garden, which the City of Edmonds recently renamed the Susie Schaefer Wildlife and Native Plant Community Garden in her honor. Susie founded the garden in 2009, when she shared her vision for turning a small corner of abandoned land into certified National Wildlife Federation habitat with a group of local volunteers, who helped her bring it into being. Vision became reality when the Edmonds Wildlife Habitat and Native Plant Demonstration Garden opened in April 2010.

In 2025, when the new name for Susie’s Garden became official, the Pilchuck Audubon Society—now the garden’s official sponsor—commissioned a new sign featuring artwork by local bird artist Laurel Mundy. On Friday, July 10, Edmonds City Park staff members brought the new sign to the garden for Susie to see. The instant she saw the sign, her huge smile lit up the entire garden! Susie kept smiling for the next 90 minutes, while she toured the garden and visited with friends. It would be the last time Susie saw the beautiful place she brought into being and cared for with such passion for so many years.

Susie joined the Pilchuck Audubon Society in the late 1970s, after moving from California to Edmonds. She was a social worker who worked with the elderly and disabled, and thanks to her love for birds, animals, and the Edmonds community, she became a forceful advocate for local environmental causes as well. Her garden, which began with just a few native plants, soon grew into an educational center, as Susie organized programs on pollinators, frogs, native flora and related subjects. It continues to be the site of various programs and events. Visitors are welcome to come anytime and wander its trails, which lead to the grounds of the Willow Creek Fish Hatchery and the forested edges of the Edmonds Marsh-Estuary. Identification signs help visitors see how our native plants thrive despite our wet winters and warm, dry summers, while sheltering and nourishing generations of native birds and wildlife.

The new sign is now installed in a temporary location overlooking the garden’s parking turnout. It will be installed permanently sometime after August 15. Once installation is complete, there will be a dedication ceremony and celebration of Susie’s life. Details will be announced, including in this newsletter, as soon as they become available.

The Susie Schaefer Wildlife and Native Plant Community Garden, located at 95 Pine Street just off Highway 104 in Edmonds, Washington, is open 365 days a year. Visitors are always welcome. Parking is available on a small turnout by the upper garden, and along both sides of Pine Street.

It was Susie’s wish to not have a funeral, but instead a moment of silence will be held for her Saturday, 8 August at 11:00 AM PST at Lake Kirkwood in California.

We encourage you to join us at that time wherever you are for a moment of silence to recognize a truly wonderful and amazing woman who personally helped countless individuals with disabilities, animals all over the world, and stood as a steadfast person of action for the environment, human rights, dignity, and peace. Please feel free to help us celebrate Susie.

Bird Walks in Redmond and Kirkland, July 4, 2026

By Douglas Resnick

We began the morning at Sixty Acres Park in Redmond. The air was slightly cool, and the sky was cloudy, but there was no rain. The planned birding would start on a nearby trail, but we listed our observations at the meeting place, while waiting for the last of our crew to arrive. We found several American Robins on the adjacent athletic field, and a couple of Cedar Waxwings. More numerous were the American Crows, perhaps trailing members of the morning's dispersal from the new Eastside crow roost.

Together, we walked out of the parking lot, up the ramp towards NE 116th St., westward over the river, then down the ramp to the West Sammamish River Trail. From the trail, we could see and hear birds in the river, along its banks, in the air above it, in or on the trees and shrubs on either side of the trail, and occasionally on the trail itself. Most of the birds in the river were Mallards. They were joined by a couple of Great Blue Herons. One Wood Duck flew over the river, as did one Belted Kingfisher and two Violet-green Swallows. We heard several birds that we could not see, including Western Warbling Vireo and Swainson's Thrush, but there were more that we heard first, then found by sight. The most welcome of the latter were two Purple Finches, which usually sing from hidden perches, but which came out into the open on this occasion. We were also able, by prolonged searching, to gain views of two Willow Flycatchers, a Common Yellowthroat, and several American Goldfinches. We walked as far as the trail's intersection with the PSE Trail, where we paused briefly to enjoy the view from the bridge that spans the river, and then we returned to our cars.

Next, we drove to Juanita Bay Park in Kirkland. Setting out on the park's eastern trail, we gained the day's first view of an Osprey, which stood atop a snag while eating a fish. On another snag, we spotted a Northern Flicker. Once we got past the vegetation along the trail's west side, we could observe the birds nearby in the bay, a mixture of Canada Geese, Wood Ducks, Gadwalls, and Mallards. After retracing our steps, we visited the three viewpoints south of the bay. From these, we were able to see yet more of those ducks. Some aggressive behavior caught our attention: one Wood Duck displaced a Gadwall from a log floating in the water, and two Mallards fought one another, to no obvious end. We also saw an Osprey being harassed by a Bald Eagle: the Osprey dropped its fish, but immediately dove after and recovered it. Was this the same Osprey that we had seen earlier? In the end, we saw two Ospreys, side by side, on a platform mounted on a post sticking far out of the water. Our most exciting find, however, was a pair of Virginia Rails, one adult and one juvenile, which made repeated calls while the pair foraged in the shallows beside the walkway leading to the final viewpoint. We ended our outing, somewhat late, having reported observations of 41 species. Several of us celebrated with lunch at Pizzaiolo Wood Fired Pizza.

Brian Zinke 4/28/25 Brian Zinke 4/28/25

Why Birds Collide with Windows and How Can We Prevent It?

Written by Feather Friendly®

Over a billion birds die every year in the US alone after colliding with glass windows. Inevitably, the question that must be answered here is why birds collide with windows and how we can prevent this.

Before we answer that question, it is important to ask the following questions:

Can birds see glass or glass windows?
Can birds see through glass?

Birds don’t ‘see’ glass the way humans do. Even while we cannot see glass on its own, we are aided by visual cues that surround it and can detect its presence as a solid material. Because glass either reflects habitat or is transparent (or both), birds are unable to recognize it as a solid object and fly directly into it, often with fatal results.

They either die on the spot or suffer serious internal injuries that result in death later. Even birds with less serious injuries will be susceptible to predation and other dangers that lurk nearby.

Very rarely will a bird that has collided with glass escape healthy and unscathed.

Dr Daniel Klem. Jr., has pioneered research on bird-glass collisions since the 1970s and says, “Glass is an indiscriminate killer that takes the fit as well as the unfit of a species’ population.”

Let us explore in detail why birds collide with windows or glass and then consider the best ways to prevent collisions.

Main reasons for birds colliding with windows

Reflection: Birds see reflections of the sky, trees, or surrounding landscape in glass. This reflection appears to birds as an extension of their environment, and they try to fly to it, not realizing there is a barrier. In this case, an illusion of habitat is being created.

Transparency: Some structures, like railings or bus shelters, have transparent or clear glass. When such glass aligns with greenery or open spaces, birds try to fly through it, assuming that there is a clear path. In this case, there is actual habitat on the other side of the transparent glass.
Artificial Lights at Night: Most bird species migrate at night. Artificial light at night (ALAN) attracts birds and disorients them, sometimes ‘trapping’ them. Tired and confused, they fly about and often collide with glass. Learn more about ALAN at the BirdCast project and the Fatal Light Awareness Program.

Factors that increase the chances of bird-glass collisions

Closeness to Habitat: Glass surfaces that reflect nearby dense vegetation, especially up to treetop height, will experience more bird collisions. Aquatic habitats also draw birds, adding to collision risks during migration. Birds often fly between habitats, encountering glass structures like bus shelters on the way.
Migratory Behavior: Migrating birds, especially in fall, face higher collision risks due to larger flocks and inexperienced juveniles. Many collisions occur at dawn as birds search for landing spots, often unaware of nearby glass structures.
Type of Structure: Residential homes, even while causing lower individual collisions, contribute most to overall bird strikes due to their abundance.

Amount of Glass: More glass on a building correlates with more collisions. A 10% increase in glass area can result in up to a 19% rise in bird strikes, especially during migration.

Why should we prevent bird-window collisions?

Birds are a key element of all ecosystems, offering services such as controlling pests, pollinating plants, and spreading seeds. Safeguarding them from window collisions is critical to preserving their populations, which directly impacts the overall health of ecosystems. Healthy ecosystems benefit all species, including humans.

What makes a bird collision deterrent effective?

Any solution that can help birds ‘see’ glass as a solid barrier will prevent collisions. Visual markers on glass make windows more noticeable to birds. Cords, tape, paint, or any other pattern that disrupts the reflectivity or transparency of glass can also be used if the following key spacing, contrast and coverage guidelines are followed:

Ensure the pattern covers the entire glass surface.
Gaps between each marker or decal should be no larger than 2 inches (horizontally and vertically).
The pattern should be applied to the outer surface of the window or glass.
Each individual dot or marker should be at least 5 mm wide.
The pattern should contrast well with the surrounding habitat to be easily visible.

Can decals help prevent bird collisions?

One or two decals stuck on windows will signal the presence of glass to humans, but not to birds. Birds are attuned to flying through gaps and will simply try to fly around the visible obstacle, eventually colliding with the invisible obstacle, i.e., glass. To avoid this, decals or any other collision mitigation solution must be placed densely and follow the abovementioned guidelines.

Best ways to prevent bird collisions with windows

There are several effective ways to prevent bird collisions with windows. You can use one or a combination of the following effective methods to reduce bird-glass collisions on your property:

Using external screens or netting: Covering your windows with mosquito screens is very effective, as long as the screen is on the outside and covers the entire surface. A drawback of using screens is reduced visibility from the inside.
Installing bird collision deterrent markers: One of the most effective solutions is applying bird collision deterrent markers to windows. Products like Feather Friendly Small-scale DIY, Feather Friendly Medium-scale Pro DIY, Feather Friendly Large-scale Pro markers, and Bird Divert UV markers are scientifically proven to prevent collisions by making glass visible to birds. These markers break up the reflection and transparency issues, significantly reducing the risk of collisions. Moreover, these markers do not obstruct the view from the inside. Only 6-8% of the glass is covered and there is no solar load.

Turning off or dimming lights at night: During peak migration, dimming or turning off lights can reduce bird collisions. It is advisable to use motion-sensor lighting, or dim unnecessary lights, especially during fall and spring migration. While turning lights off at night is important, this should be combined with a bird collision deterrent on windows since the glass eventually kills birds.

Using bird-safe glass: Bird-safe glass is specially designed with frit/etch patterns or UV coatings that birds can see, significantly reducing bird strikes. While retrofitting every window may not be practical, new construction projects should consider bird-safe glass from the outset. It is critical that the fret/etch pattern should be on the outside (first) surface exterior.
Moving bird feeders away from windows: While bird feeders attract beautiful bird visitors to your yard, placing them too close to windows can increase the risk of collisions. Feeders must be placed either very close (within 3 feet) or far away (at least 30 feet) from windows to reduce impact risk

What should you do if you find a bird that has hit a window?

If you find a bird near a building that stays still when you approach it might be injured.

While ensuring that the bird is safe from predators and pedestrian traffic, find a cardboard box or unwaxed paper bag to contain the bird. Poke a few holes in the cardboard box.
Gently place the bird in the box or the paper bag.
Ensure that the bag or box is closed and that the bird does not escape.
Even if it seems OK, it is vital that it be assessed by a wildlife rehabilitator because the effects of internal injuries can show up later. Do not feed the bird or give it water.

Ready to protect birds?

Feather Friendly is the trusted choice for preventing bird collisions. Our markers are scientifically tested and approved by the American Bird Conservancy, Dr. Daniel Klem Jr. (the leading authority on bird collisions), numerous independent studies, and several other individuals and organizations.

With over 18 years’ experience in the industry, we have the knowledge and expertise to provide you with the solutions that work for your unique project.

We understand that no two projects are the same, so we always take the time to understand your distinctive needs before recommending an appropriate solution. We have worked with small residential projects to some of the largest commercial projects ever executed.

We’d love to help you decide which of our solutions best suits your next project. Contact us today to get started.

Join the growing movement to make buildings bird-safe!

Feather Friendly® is a proud sponsor of the 2025 Puget Sound Bird Fest in Edmonds

Brian Zinke 3/26/25 Brian Zinke 3/26/25

The Silent Bird Crisis: Why Keeping Cats Contained is Essential for Conservation

Written by Matthew Hildebrandt from Cat Topia

It is no secret that birds are facing increasing threats due to habitat loss as human development expands, taking away their natural homes and food sources. However, one of the most significant dangers to bird populations is outdoor cats. An estimated 2.4 billion birds are killed by cats each year, making feline predation the leading cause of bird mortality in the United States.

While habitat loss remains a critical issue, the rising number of bird deaths due to cats coincides with a surge in cat adoptions, a trend that was further accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Although cats bring immense joy to their owners, allowing them to roam freely outdoors poses risks—not only to birds and other wildlife but also to the cats themselves.

Fortunately, there are solutions to mitigate this issue, including education and the use of catios. These enclosed outdoor spaces provide a safe and enriching environment for cats while protecting birds and other vulnerable species.

The Rise of Cat Ownership Across America

COVID-19 was a transformative time, forcing people to stay indoors and seek companionship in new ways. One notable trend that emerged was a rise in pet ownership, particularly cat adoptions across America. Between 2022 and 2023, cat adoptions increased by 3.4%, reflecting the growing appreciation for feline companionship.

While higher adoption rates are not inherently concerning—in fact, they provide countless cats with loving homes—the issue lies in the lack of education among many new cat owners. Cats are natural-born predators, and even well-fed pets will hunt for sport. Many owners underestimate the impact their outdoor cats can have on local wildlife, particularly bird populations.

This increase in cat adoptions has also contributed to a rise in feral and stray cats across the country, which, in turn, has intensified the threat to bird populations. With outdoor cats being the leading cause of bird mortality, addressing this issue through education and responsible pet ownership is more critical than ever.

The Harm Cats Pose on Birds

While cats are the number one leading cause in bird mortality, beyond their direct predation, outdoor cats also cause stress and disruption within bird populations. The mere presence of a hunting cat can force birds to alter their feeding and nesting behaviors, leading to decreased reproduction rates and survival chances. Nestlings and fledglings are particularly vulnerable, as they lack the ability to escape quickly from predators. Additionally, feral and stray cat colonies near natural habitats create persistent threats, further exacerbating bird population declines.

Several bird species in Snohomish County and Camano Island are highly vulnerable to cat predation. Ground-nesting birds like Dark-eyed Junco, Spotted Towhee, Killdeer, and White-crowned Sparrow, along with small songbirds such as wrens, warblers, and finches, are easy targets for free-roaming cats. Without intervention, these species will continue to decline.

What is a Catio?

A catio (a combination of “cat” and “patio”) is a secure, enclosed outdoor space designed to allow cats to enjoy fresh air and the outdoors while keeping them and local wildlife safe. These structures come in various sizes and designs, ranging from small window catios to large, fully enclosed backyard enclosures.

Catios are typically made with sturdy frames and wire mesh, ensuring cats cannot escape while preventing predators or other animals from getting in. They often include perches, ramps, shelves, and tunnels, providing enrichment and exercise for indoor cats.

The primary benefits of a catio include:

Protecting birds and wildlife by preventing hunting
Keeping cats safe from traffic, predators, and disease
Providing mental and physical stimulation for cats

Catios offer the best of both worlds—allowing cats to experience the outdoors safely while ensuring they do not contribute to wildlife decline.

Benefits of Catios for Cats

Physical Health Benefits:

Protection from dangers: Shields cats from predators, traffic, and harmful diseases.
Reduced injury risk: Prevents fights with other animals and exposure to parasites.
Longer lifespan: Indoor cats with safe outdoor access tend to live healthier, longer lives.

Mental Health Benefits:

Enrichment and stimulation: Provides fresh air, natural sights, and sensory engagement.
Reduces stress and boredom: Helps prevent anxiety and destructive behaviors.
Encourages natural behaviors: Allows safe climbing, bird-watching, and sunbathing.

How Catios Can Help with Bird Conservation

How can catios help play a significant role in bird conservation? An estimated 2.4 billion birds are killed by cats each year, with 69% of these deaths caused by feral or unowned cats. However, the remaining 31%—equating to 744 million bird deaths annually—are due to domesticated cats whose owners allow them to roam outdoors.

While catios may not directly impact the feral cat population, they offer a crucial solution for reducing bird deaths caused by owned cats. By keeping pet cats safely enclosed, catios prevent them from hunting vulnerable wildlife. Additionally, catios create extra space in homes, making it easier for multi-cat households to thrive. This, in turn, encourages responsible rehoming of stray and feral cats, reducing the number of free-roaming felines over time.

If all 31% of domesticated cats that currently roam outdoors were transitioned to using catios, an astounding estimated 744 million birds could be saved every year—all by implementing this simple, pet-friendly solution.

A Responsible Solution for Cats and Conservation

Protecting both cats and birds does not have to be a choice—catios offer a practical and humane solution that benefits both. By preventing domesticated cats from roaming freely, catios help reduce bird mortality while providing cats with a safe and stimulating outdoor experience.

Responsible pet ownership plays a crucial role in conservation efforts. Cats are not to blame for their hunting instincts; rather, it is up to owners to ensure their pets do not contribute to wildlife decline. With education and the right resources, more cat owners can make informed decisions that support both their pets’ well-being and the protection of vulnerable bird species.

For those looking to make a difference, exploring catio options and learning more about bird conservation initiatives is a great place to start. Small changes in how we care for our cats can have a significant impact on preserving bird populations for future generations.

Cat Topia is a proud sponsor of the 2025 Puget Sound Bird Fest in Edmonds

Brian Zinke 9/20/24 Brian Zinke 9/20/24

Book recommendation: What It's Like To Be A Bird

What It’s Like To Be A Bird

By David Allen Sibley

A comprehensive guide on birds from the use of feathers to their survival.

What I liked about this book:

This book was written in a simple and concise way that dives into a variety of birds from around North America. The chapters were short, but I learned a variety of things, such as: the digestive tract system of Surf Scoters, what birds do when they make their nests, and the meaning of some bird cries. I felt that this book was written for a beginner like me! This book also inspired me to “match the name” with the birds I saw on the walks I took.

Who might enjoy this book:

I recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn more about the birds living beside them. Also, anyone who wants a stress-free read, full of interesting facts and diagrams. I was blown away by all of the things I didn’t know and look forward to learning more.

More about the book:

This book answers both common and complex questions about a variety of bird species that we see on a day-to-day basis in North America, and birds that you may not know about. This book also details a variety of scientific information about birds’ evolution and life we don’t see.

———

Recommended by Kiana G., a volunteer with Pilchuck Audubon Society. Her thoughts and opinions in this review are entirely her own and do not represent those of Pilchuck Audubon.

Support Pilchuck Audubon when you get your copy!

Pilchuck Audubon is an affiliate of Bookshop.org and receives a commission when you order books from our Bookshop.org storefront or click through our link and make a purchase.

Pilchuck Audubon Society is a grass-roots environmental organization representing Snohomish County and Camano Island, Washington, whose mission is to conserve and restore natural ecosystems focusing on birds and other wildlife.

Brian Zinke 6/10/24 Brian Zinke 6/10/24

Book recommendation: Hurricane Lizards and Plastic Squid

Hurricane Lizards and Plastic Squid

By Thor Hanson

An intensive study on how plants and animals are moving and adapting to the rising temperatures on Earth.

What I liked about this book:

The author gave many extensive examples of multiple land and sea plants and animals and how they have evolved to survive. Pelicans have moved nesting grounds, bears have shifted their diets, butterflies have larger muscles, specific breeds of birds changing the way they pick a partner, etc.

Who might enjoy this book:

Anyone who wants to read more about the ongoing research on various plants and animals and how they are adapting to changes in warming temperatures. Though not necessarily a book dedicated to how climate change is changing the world, but how we can make small changes to make a big difference in a variety of different areas of our life.

More about the book:

Thor Hanson delves into a look of nature’s adaptations to climate change, both in positive and negative ways. The author discusses that climate change isn’t “coming” but is already here, affecting the tiniest plants to the largest ecosystems. Rather than a doomsday novel, the author presents facts that inform us and shows us the bigger picture.

———

Recommended by Kiana G., a volunteer with Pilchuck Audubon Society. Her thoughts and opinions in this review are entirely her own and do not represent those of Pilchuck Audubon.

Support Pilchuck Audubon when you get your copy!

Pilchuck Audubon is an affiliate of Bookshop.org and receives a commission when you order books from our Bookshop.org storefront or click through our link and make a purchase.

Brian Zinke 4/15/24 Brian Zinke 4/15/24

Book recommendation: Nature's Best Hope

Nature’s Best Hope

By Douglas W. Tallamy

An informative novel that tells us the little things we can do to help save our Earth, one plant at a time.

What I liked about this book:

Many times, when people discuss saving the world, people want you to do so many exorbitant things, which cost a lot of money, and aren’t feasible for your average person. But the author of this book wrote a variety of things you can do, things that will not break the bank. For example, by you simply mowing your lawn in the afternoon or morning you can avoid killing nocturnal animals that often times come and sleep in your grass. Simply by raising your lawn mower (up to 4 inches), you can prevent the unnecessary deaths of animals.

Who might enjoy this book:

Anyone who wants to know a little more on how to make a difference in the world! Also, anyone who is interested in learning more about conservation laws, movements, read more about conservation case studies and other conservation efforts!

More about the book:

Nature’s Best Hope is a book for every homeowner, who can make a difference in the world just by changing how they treat their yard. This homeowner-based approach is informative, easy to do, and necessary to help the planet be preserved for future generations!

———

Recommended by Kiana G., a volunteer with Pilchuck Audubon Society. Her thoughts and opinions in this review are entirely her own and do not represent those of Pilchuck Audubon.

Support Pilchuck Audubon when you get your copy!

Pilchuck Audubon is an affiliate of Bookshop.org and receives a commission when you order books from our Bookshop.org storefront or click through our link and make a purchase.

Brian Zinke 4/2/24 Brian Zinke 4/2/24

Trip Report: Kiket Island

March 26, 2024

61 Species

The skies cleared as we approached Skagit County, and we enjoyed a beautiful day of birding along the shores of Skagit Bay and Padilla Bay…

Photo: Black Oystercatcher by Philip Dickinson

March 26, 2024

The skies cleared as we approached Skagit County, and we enjoyed a beautiful day of birding along the shores of Skagit Bay and Padilla Bay. Along the way, we saw several songbirds on Valentine Rd., including Varied Thrush, Red-breasted Nuthatch and Anna’s Hummingbird. Then, as neared La Conner, we were surprised by the large number of Trumpeter Swans still in the fields. A pair of Pileated Woodpeckers flew over Swinomish Channel at Pioneer Park, where we also saw Belted Kingfishers, Common Mergansers and a Common Goldeneye. Kiket Island did not disappoint. Highlights were Black Oystercatcher, Red-breasted Merganser, Common Loon, Hooded Merganser, Herring Gull, Rufous Hummingbird and Hutton’s Vireo. We failed to find expected Wilson’s Snipe at Similk Beach, but we did add Northern Pintail and Short-billed Gull to our species count. Closeup Black Oystercatchers, distant Brants, Greater Yellowlegs and numerous Great Blue Herons were the features along our March Point drive. Channel Drive and Hayton Reserve did not add significantly to our species, but we enjoyed a Northern Harrier and a photogenic Bald Eagle along with hundreds of American Wigeon and Green-winged Teal.

61 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Mary, Sally Jo, Dianne, Rex, Jeff, Ken, Teri, Rick, Pam T., Maureen Z., Judy Lo., Val, Marcia, Catha, Judy B., Lianne, Wilma, Sue B., Randy, Sarah

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (100), Brant (200), Canada Goose (2), Trumpeter Swan (250), Gadwall (6), American Wigeon (700), Mallard (1000), Northern Pintail (90), Green-winged Teal (2500), Surf Scoter (15), Bufflehead (125), Common Goldeneye (10), Hooded Merganser (7), Common Merganser (2), Red-breasted Merganser (26)

LOON, GREBES: Common Loon (1), Pied-billed Grebe (4), Horned Grebe (4)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Pelagic Cormorant (3), Double-crested Cormorant (4), Great Blue Heron (67)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (1)

RAPTORS: Northern Harrier (4), Bald Eagle (12), Red-tailed Hawk (3)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (2), Black Oystercatcher (7), Greater Yellowlegs (8)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (21), Herring Gull (1), Glaucous-winged Gull (250)

ALCIDS: Pigeon Guillemot (3)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (18), Eurasian Collared-Dove (3)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (3), Rufous Hummingbird (3)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (5)

WOODPECKERS: Hairy Woodpecker (2), Northern Flicker (1)

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Hutton’s Vireo (1)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (1), American Crow (12)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Violet-green Swallow (1)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (1)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (1), Brown Creeper (2)

WRENS: Pacific Wren (2)

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (2), Ruby-crowned Kinglet (1)

THRUSHES: American Robin (34), Varied Thrush (2)

MIMIDS, STARLING: European Starling (2)

WARBLERS: Yellow-rumped Warbler (2)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (1), Song Sparrow (5), White-crowned Sparrow (3), Dark-eyed Junco (8)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (38), Brewer’s Blackbird (22)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (2), House Sparrow (2)

Looking for more local places to go birding?

Check out our newly revised, 3rd edition of Birding in Snohomish County & Camano Island, a field guide to the best birding locations in Snohomish County and Camano Island, Washington.

Birding in Snohomish County and Camano Island, 3rd Edition

$20.00

A field guide to the best birding locations in Snohomish County and Camano Island, Washington

A full-color, updated and expanded 3rd edition of Philip Zalesky’s original book, Birding in Snohomish County and Camano Island, 3rd Edition is a celebration of the variety and bountiful birding locations in the area. With habitats ranging from marine to alpine, the diversity of species that can be found here are a birder’s dream.

This new edition covers more than 80 locations, noting general information about the sites and which birds are common at each. Philip Zalesky’s original site descriptions have been revised and updated, including new observations, recent sightings, and historical and natural history information. Our local birders have added their own interesting anecdotes, including the many ways things have changed since the 2nd edition was published in 2001. Local bird photographers have contributed over 100 full-color photographs showing the splendor of our local birds and the wondrous beauty of the birding habitats found in our area. A checklist includes all 355 species of birds ever sighted in Snohomish County and Camano Island.

We hope this book will guide you to new areas you haven’t explored yet, or give you an idea of where to start if you’re visiting Western Washington.

All proceeds will help fund local conservation efforts in Snohomish County and Camano Island.

154 pages

Shipping: $8 for the first book, plus $2 for each additional copy

Pilchuck Audubon chapter members can receive 10% off all items in our store. Ask about our member discount code by contacting director@pilchuckaudubon.org.

We hope this book will guide you to new areas you haven’t explored yet, or give you an idea of where to start if you’re visiting Western Washington.

All proceeds will help fund local conservation efforts in Snohomish County and Camano Island.

Get your copy

Brian Zinke 4/2/24 Brian Zinke 4/2/24

Trip Report: Surrey, Canada

March 19, 2024

58 Species

We traveled across the border to Surrey, B.C. on a beautiful first day of Spring. Along the Boundary Bay dike trail, we…

Photo: White-throated Sparrow by Philip Dickinson

March 19, 2024

We traveled across the border to Surrey, B.C. on a beautiful first day of Spring. Along the Boundary Bay dike trail, we could not find any owls but did see Bald Eagle, Northern Harrier, Northern Shrike, Tree Swallow, Marbled Godwit, Black-bellied Plover and thousands of Dunlin. At North 40 Lands Park, everyone had close looks at probably a White-throated Sparrow. This was a life bird for some in our group. The park also provided great views of Varied Thrush, Fox Sparrow, Golden-crowned Sparrow and Bewick’s Wren, plus several more eagles. Our walk around Elgin Heritage Park added American Goldfinch, Bushtit, Belted Kingfisher, Greater Yellowlegs, Common Loon and several duck species, including American Wigeon, Northern Shoveler, Green-winged Tea, Hooded Merganser, Common Goldeneye and Wood Duck. Blackie Spit was beautiful as usual with its mountain-framed view of downtown Vancouver. We also saw Surf Scoter, Common and Red-breasted Merganser, Greater Scaup and another Marbled Godwit. One more trip note: so nice to visit places where you must look hard to find trash.

58 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Dianne, Rex, Jeff, Ken, Bruce, Pam T., Karen, Teri, Rick, Reg, Jane, Maureen Z., Judy Lo., Denny, Pat, Marcia, Wilma, Sue B., Judy B.

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (2), Wood Duck (1), Northern Shoveler (4), Gadwall (6), American Wigeon (43), Mallard (88), Northern Pintail (1), Green-winged Teal (81), Greater Scaup (100), Harlequin Duck (1), Surf Scoter (12), Bufflehead (3), Common Goldeneye (5), Hooded Merganser (3), Common Merganser (3), Red-breasted Merganser (35)

LOON, GREBES: Common Loon (1), Red-necked Grebe (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (5), Great Blue Heron (11)

RAPTORS: Northern Harrier (2), Bald Eagle (26), Red-tailed Hawk (3)

SHOREBIRDS: Black-bellied Plover (10), Greater Yellowlegs (7), Marbled Godwit (2), Dunlin (25,000)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (12), Glaucous-winged Gull (125)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Eurasian Collared-Dove (3)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (2)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (5)

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Northern Shrike (1)

CORVIDS: American Crow (51)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Tree Swallow (5)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (9), Bushtit (7)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (1)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (2)

THRUSHES: American Robin (17), Varied Thrush (1)

MIMIDS, STARLING: European Starling (80)

WARBLERS: Yellow-rumped Warbler (1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (4), Fox Sparrow (4), Song Sparrow (18), White-crowned Sparrow (1), Golden-crowned Sparrow (14), White-throated Sparrow (1), Dark-eyed Junco (1)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (22)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (3), American Goldfinch (6), House Sparrow (1)

Looking for more local places to go birding?

Check out our newly revised, 3rd edition of Birding in Snohomish County & Camano Island, a field guide to the best birding locations in Snohomish County and Camano Island, Washington.

Birding in Snohomish County and Camano Island, 3rd Edition

$20.00

A field guide to the best birding locations in Snohomish County and Camano Island, Washington

We hope this book will guide you to new areas you haven’t explored yet, or give you an idea of where to start if you’re visiting Western Washington.

All proceeds will help fund local conservation efforts in Snohomish County and Camano Island.

154 pages

Shipping: $8 for the first book, plus $2 for each additional copy

Pilchuck Audubon chapter members can receive 10% off all items in our store. Ask about our member discount code by contacting director@pilchuckaudubon.org.

We hope this book will guide you to new areas you haven’t explored yet, or give you an idea of where to start if you’re visiting Western Washington.

All proceeds will help fund local conservation efforts in Snohomish County and Camano Island.

Get your copy

Brian Zinke 3/25/24 Brian Zinke 3/25/24

Trip Report: Mid-Whidbey

March 12, 2024

73 Species

Rain in the morning and wind in the afternoon, but it still was a productive day of birding…

Photo: Rock Sandpiper and Surfbird by Philip Dickinson

March 12, 2024

Rain in the morning and wind in the afternoon, but it still was a productive day of birding. We picked up our first Northern Harrier and Killdeer of the day at Bingo Hall Lagoon. Rain hit us at Rosario Beach but not before we saw Harlequin Ducks, Black Oystercatchers, Pigeon Guillemots, Brandt’s Cormorants and a Varied Thrush. With the Deception Pass West Beach closed, we moved to Ala Spit. There we added American Wigeon, Belted Kingfisher, Black Turnstone and our only Common Loon. At Dugualla Bay, we had Greater Yellowlegs, Dunlin, Canvasbacks, Tree Swallows, our first Turkey Vulture of 2024 and a pair of Redheads. California Quail and Sanderlings were the highlights at our Rocky Point lunch stop. Wilson’s Snipe, Northern Shrike and Hooded Mergansers were among finds at nearby Bos Lake. Moving to Penn Cove and out of the wind, we located two Rock Sandpipers among the Surfbirds and Black Turnstones at Mueller Beach, where Barrow’s and Common Goldeneyes also were numerous. The Rock Sandpipers were life birds for many of the group. One car went home via March Point, where they observed a Rough-legged Hawk and a small raft of Brant geese.

73 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Dianne, Rex, Jeff, Doug C., Ken, Frank, Bruce, Pam T., Karen, Jane, Judy Lo., Val, Denny, Pat, Marcia, Wilma, Sue B., Pam P.

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Brant (25), Canada Goose (119), Trumpeter Swan (100), Gadwall (6), American Wigeon (62), Mallard (12), Northern Pintail (138), Green-winged Teal (54), Canvasback (36), Redhead (2), Greater Scaup (4), Lesser Scaup (1), Harlequin Duck (4), Surf Scoter (118), White-winged Scoter (2), Bufflehead (62), Common Goldeneye (33), Barrow’s Goldeneye (135), Hooded Merganser (4), Red-breasted Merganser (2), Ruddy Duck (3)

GALLINACEOUS BIRDS: California Quail (9)

LOON, GREBES: Common Loon (1), Pied-billed Grebe (2), Horned Grebe (10), Red-necked Grebe (5)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Brand’s Cormorant (2) Pelagic Cormorant (29), Double-crested Cormorant (3), Great Blue Heron (5)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (1)

RAPTORS: Northern Harrier (2), Bald Eagle (10), Red-tailed Hawk (7), Rough-Legged Hawk (1), American Kestrel (3)

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (10)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (7), Black Oystercatcher (7), Greater Yellowlegs (21), Black Turnstone (118), Surfbird (20), Rock Sandpiper (2), Sanderling (32), Dunlin (26), Wilson’s Snipe (1)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (4), Ring-billed Gull (4), Glaucous-winged Gull (140)

ALCIDS: Pigeon Guillemot (8)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Eurasian Collared-Dove (1)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (2)

WOODPECKERS: Downy Woodpecker (1), Northern Flicker (3)

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Northern Shrike (1)

CORVIDS: American Crow (12)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Tree Swallow (10)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (2), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (2)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Brown Creeper (3)

THRUSHES: American Robin (18), Varied Thrush (2)

MIMIDS, STARLING: European Starling (10)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Fox Sparrow (1), Song Sparrow (3), Golden-crowned Sparrow (4), Dark-eyed Junco (6)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (15), Brewer’s Blackbird (40)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (2), House Sparrow (7)

Looking for more local places to go birding?

Check out our newly revised, 3rd edition of Birding in Snohomish County & Camano Island, a field guide to the best birding locations in Snohomish County and Camano Island, Washington.

Birding in Snohomish County and Camano Island, 3rd Edition

$20.00

A field guide to the best birding locations in Snohomish County and Camano Island, Washington

We hope this book will guide you to new areas you haven’t explored yet, or give you an idea of where to start if you’re visiting Western Washington.

All proceeds will help fund local conservation efforts in Snohomish County and Camano Island.

154 pages

Shipping: $8 for the first book, plus $2 for each additional copy

Pilchuck Audubon chapter members can receive 10% off all items in our store. Ask about our member discount code by contacting director@pilchuckaudubon.org.

We hope this book will guide you to new areas you haven’t explored yet, or give you an idea of where to start if you’re visiting Western Washington.

All proceeds will help fund local conservation efforts in Snohomish County and Camano Island.

Get your copy

Brian Zinke 3/25/24 Brian Zinke 3/25/24

Trip Report: Blaine and Semiahmoo

February 27, 2024

56 Species

Snow at home did not deter us, and the day’s weather proved surprisingly good…

Photo: White-winged Scoter by Philip Dickinson

February 27, 2024

Snow at home did not deter us, and the day’s weather proved surprisingly good – cool, but relatively calm and dry. First thing, a Varied Thrush greeted us at Bow Hill rest area. At Blaine Marine Park, we were treated to a murmuration of several hundred Dunlin close to shore, plus several hundred Surf Scoter and a line of Brant offshore. Proceeding to the pier, we enjoyed seeing nice numbers of Common Goldeneye, Bufflehead, Black Oystercatcher, Common Loon and clam-swallowing White-winged Scoter. Harlequin Duck, Pelagic Cormorant, Horned Grebe and a Belted Kingfisher also were present. We failed to find a reported Whimbrel at Milhollin Boat Launch but did see about two dozen Great Blue Heron. At stops on the Semiahmoo Spit, new species included Black Turnstone, Red-necked Grebe, Red-breasted Merganser, Black Scoter, Long-tailed Duck and Pine Siskin. We also added more Harlequin. An Eared Grebe, several Red-throated Loon and better views of Long-tailed Duck highlighted our afternoon stop at Birch Bay. Lake Terrell provided views of Common Merganser, American Coot and Ruddy Duck. Nearby we spied a Northern Harrier, two American Kestrel and a Red-tailed Hawk. Our final bird was the resident Ruddy Turnstone at Sandy Point.

56 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Dianne, Rex, Ken, Pam T., Rick, Teri, Reg, Jane, Judy B., Pat, Marcia

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Brant (355), Canada Goose (3), Trumpeter Swan (40), American Wigeon (81), Mallard (185), Northern Pintail (190), Green-winged Teal (57), Greater Scaup (320), Harlequin Duck (22), Surf Scoter (3050), White-winged Scoter (55), Black Scoter (6), Long-tailed Duck (8), Bufflehead (100), Common Goldeneye (70), Hooded Merganser (2), Common Merganser (15), Red-breasted Merganser (7), Ruddy Duck (4)

LOON, GREBES: Red-throated Loon (10), Common Loon (24), Horned Grebe (4), Red-necked Grebe (1), Eared Grebe (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Pelagic Cormorant (7), Double-crested Cormorant (120), Great Blue Heron (29)

RAPTORS: Northern Harrier (1), Bald Eagle (11), Red-tailed Hawk (5), American Kestrel (2)

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (150)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (8), Black Oystercatcher (19), Greater Yellowlegs (6), Ruddy Turnstone (1), Black Turnstone (47), Dunlin (1800)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (465), Glaucous-winged Gull (315)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (13), Eurasian Collared-Dove (2)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (2)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (1)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (1), American Crow (42)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (1)

THRUSHES: American Robin (5), Varied Thrush (1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Song Sparrow (3), White-crowned Sparrow (10), Golden-crowned Sparrow (23)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (2), Pine Siskin (8), House Sparrow (2)

Looking for more local places to go birding?

Check out our newly revised, 3rd edition of Birding in Snohomish County & Camano Island, a field guide to the best birding locations in Snohomish County and Camano Island, Washington.

Birding in Snohomish County and Camano Island, 3rd Edition

$20.00

A field guide to the best birding locations in Snohomish County and Camano Island, Washington

We hope this book will guide you to new areas you haven’t explored yet, or give you an idea of where to start if you’re visiting Western Washington.

All proceeds will help fund local conservation efforts in Snohomish County and Camano Island.

154 pages

Shipping: $8 for the first book, plus $2 for each additional copy

Pilchuck Audubon chapter members can receive 10% off all items in our store. Ask about our member discount code by contacting director@pilchuckaudubon.org.

We hope this book will guide you to new areas you haven’t explored yet, or give you an idea of where to start if you’re visiting Western Washington.

All proceeds will help fund local conservation efforts in Snohomish County and Camano Island.

Get your copy

Brian Zinke 3/25/24 Brian Zinke 3/25/24

Trip Report: Port Townsend

February 13, 2024

62 Species

We could not have asked for better weather for our winter trip to Port Townsend. Even before departing Edmonds, we saw…

Photo: Barrow’s Goldeneyes by Philip Dickinson

February 13, 2024

We could not have asked for better weather for our winter trip to Port Townsend. Even before departing Edmonds, we saw all three local cormorants on the pilings along with several Pigeon Guillemot, Horned Grebe and Red-necked Grebe. Highlight of the ferry trip itself were about 30 Brant. The Port Ludlow Marina was very active, including Barrow’s and Common Goldeneye, Hooded, Common and Red-breasted Merganser, Pacific Loon, Belted Kingfisher and an Anna’s Hummingbird on territory. Nice additions at Oak Bay Park were Gadwall, Greater Scaup, Short-billed Gull, Common Loon and Red-throated Loon. We did not see many songbirds on the trip, but we did find Ruby-crowned Kinglet and Fox Sparrow at Indian Island County Park and Bushtit and Golden-crowned Kinglet at Mystery Bay. At Indian Island we also spotted Harlequin Duck and Black Turnstone. We spent extra time at Fort Flagler because of all the shorebirds: Dunlin, Sanderling, Surfbird, Black-bellied Plover, Greater Yellowlegs and more Black Turnstone, but alas no Rock Sandpiper. Point Wilson was our last stop, where several alcid species streamed by: Common Murre, Ancient and Marbled Murrelet, and Rhinoceros Auklet. Killdeer and Western Meadowlark on the lighthouse grounds also attracted our attention.

62 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Mary, Dianne, Denny, Graham, Wilma, Sue B., Frank, Ken, Pam T., Rick, Reg, Melinda, Jane, Maureen Z., Karen, Judy B. Tari, Judy Lo., Val, Pat, Marcia, John H., Annie, Hans

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Brant (65), Canada Goose (6), Gadwall (5), Northern Shoveler (3), American Wigeon (3), Mallard (25), Green-winged Teal (4), Greater Scaup (14), Harlequin Duck (8), Surf Scoter (67), Bufflehead (30), Common Goldeneye (17), Barrow’s Goldeneye (7), Hooded Merganser (8), Common Merganser (4), Red-breasted Merganser (18)

LOON, GREBES: Red-throated Loon (2), Pacific Loon (3), Common Loon (5), Horned Grebe (31), Red-necked Grebe (6), Western Grebe (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Brandt’s Cormorant (1), Double-crested Cormorant (12), Great Blue Heron (2)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (3), Red-tailed Hawk (2), American Kestrel (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Black-bellied Plover (14), Killdeer (2), Greater Yellowlegs (3), Black Turnstone (20), Surfbird (3), Sanderling (6), Dunlin (150)

GULLS, TERNS: Bonaparte’s Gull (1), Short-billed Gull (100), Glaucous-winged Gull (100)

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Common Murre (20), Pigeon Guillemot (37), Marbled Murrelet (9), Ancient Murrelet (8), Rhinoceros Auklet (2)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (2)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (3)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (3)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (4)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (1), American Crow (33), Common Raven (2)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (1), Bushtit (6)

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (2), Ruby-crowned Kinglet (6)

THRUSHES: American Robin (3)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (1), Song Sparrow (7), Fox Sparrow (7), Dark-eyed Junco (4)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Western Meadowlark (2)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (14), House Sparrow (6)

Looking for more local places to go birding?

Check out our newly revised, 3rd edition of Birding in Snohomish County & Camano Island, a field guide to the best birding locations in Snohomish County and Camano Island, Washington.

Birding in Snohomish County and Camano Island, 3rd Edition

$20.00

A field guide to the best birding locations in Snohomish County and Camano Island, Washington

We hope this book will guide you to new areas you haven’t explored yet, or give you an idea of where to start if you’re visiting Western Washington.

All proceeds will help fund local conservation efforts in Snohomish County and Camano Island.

154 pages

Shipping: $8 for the first book, plus $2 for each additional copy

Pilchuck Audubon chapter members can receive 10% off all items in our store. Ask about our member discount code by contacting director@pilchuckaudubon.org.

We hope this book will guide you to new areas you haven’t explored yet, or give you an idea of where to start if you’re visiting Western Washington.

All proceeds will help fund local conservation efforts in Snohomish County and Camano Island.

Get your copy

Brian Zinke 3/25/24 Brian Zinke 3/25/24

Trip Report: Fir Island

February 6, 2024

63 Species

Early morning fog gave way to sun and an enjoyable day of birding. Starting in the Cedardale area east of I-5, we saw dozens of…

Photo: Snow Geese by Philip Dickinson

February 6, 2024

Early morning fog gave way to sun and an enjoyable day of birding. Starting in the Cedardale area east of I-5, we saw dozens of Trumpeter Swan and Brewer’s Blackbird, and two Northern Harrier. American Kestrel, Bald Eagle, and Red-tailed and Cooper’s Hawks perched along Dike Rd., while many more swans fed in the fields. Songbirds along Mann Rd. included Black-capped and Chestnut-backed Chickadee, Golden-crowned Kinglet and Varied Thrush. We also found Eurasian Wigeon among the many ducks on Wylie Rd. With Wiley Slough still closed, we headed to Hayton Reserve and Jensen Access, where we watched murmurations of thousands of Dunlin and a few early swallows. At North Fork Access, highlights were a Short-eared Owl, Virginia Rail and our first of three Snow Goose flocks. After lunch, interior island roads added a Pine Siskin flock and several Tundra Swan. The Skagit Flats Great Egret was a no-show, but Channel Drive produced several more species, including Northern Shrike, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Downy Woodpecker, Red-breasted Merganser, Hooded Merganser and Common Goldeneye.

63 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Tari, Annie, Marcia, Pat, Dianne, Denny, Ken, Reg, Gary, Rick, Maureen Z., Jeff, Val, Judy Lo. Pam P., John E., Wilma, Amy, John H., Annie, Mike C.

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (12,000), Trumpeter Swan (1100), Tundra Swan (23), Gadwall (10), Eurasian Wigeon (2), American Wigeon (600), Mallard (1750), Northern Pintail (25), Green-winged Teal (41), Ring-necked Duck (1), Greater Scaup (11), Bufflehead (17), Common Goldeneye (2), Hooded Merganser (6), Red-breasted Merganser (2)

LOON, GREBES: Pied-necked Grebe (2)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (3), Great Blue Heron (8)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (43), Northern Harrier (8), Cooper’s Hawk (2), Sharp-shinned Hawk (1), Red-tailed Hawk (3), American Kestrel (3)

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (3), American Coot (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Dunlin (13,000)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (5), Glaucous-winged Gull (400)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (15), Eurasian Collared-Dove (3), Mourning Dove (4)

OWLS: Short-eared Owl (1)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (3)

WOODPECKERS: Downy Woodpecker (1), Northern Flicker (4)

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Northern Shrike (1)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (1), American Crow (9), Common Raven (2)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Tree Swallow (3), Barn Swallow (7)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (2), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (1)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (2), Marsh Wren (1)

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (5)

THRUSHES: American Robin (55), Varied Thrush (2)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (430)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (1), Song Sparrow (7), White-crowned Sparrow (5), Golden-crowned Sparrow (6), Dark-eyed Junco (65)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (400), Western Meadowlark (14), Brewer’s Blackbird (150)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (8), Pine Siskin (10), House Sparrow (3)

Looking for more local places to go birding?

Check out our newly revised, 3rd edition of Birding in Snohomish County & Camano Island, a field guide to the best birding locations in Snohomish County and Camano Island, Washington.

Birding in Snohomish County and Camano Island, 3rd Edition

$20.00

A field guide to the best birding locations in Snohomish County and Camano Island, Washington

We hope this book will guide you to new areas you haven’t explored yet, or give you an idea of where to start if you’re visiting Western Washington.

All proceeds will help fund local conservation efforts in Snohomish County and Camano Island.

154 pages

Shipping: $8 for the first book, plus $2 for each additional copy

Pilchuck Audubon chapter members can receive 10% off all items in our store. Ask about our member discount code by contacting director@pilchuckaudubon.org.

We hope this book will guide you to new areas you haven’t explored yet, or give you an idea of where to start if you’re visiting Western Washington.

All proceeds will help fund local conservation efforts in Snohomish County and Camano Island.

Get your copy

Brian Zinke 3/25/24 Brian Zinke 3/25/24

Trip Report: South Whidbey

January 30, 2024

75 Species

A dry day an excellent species count for January. Led by Wilma Bayes, we began at Crockett Lake with Greater Scaup…

Photo: Bald Eagle by Philip Dickinson

January 30, 2024

A dry day and excellent species count for January. Led by Wilma Bayes, we began at Crockett Lake with Greater Scaup, Common Goldeneye, Gadwall, Marbled Murrelet, Pacific and Common Loon, and a very photogenic Bald Eagle. At the Keystone Ferry, we found numerous Pigeon Guillemot and Pelagic Cormorant, plus Common Murre, Black Oystercatcher and Harlequin Duck. The woods at Fort Casey were quiet, but we did see Golden-crowned Kinglet, Golden-crowned Sparrow, Black-capped Chickadee and Red-tailed Hawk. The Holmes Harbor waters had plenty of birds, including Western Grebe, Surf Scoter and Barrow’s Goldeneye. Robinson Beach also was productive with more than three dozen Pacific Loon, several Horned Grebe, Western Gull, Red-breasted Sapsucker and Pileated Woodpecker. Highlights at Deer Lagoon were thousands of Dunlin, hundreds of Bufflehead, a few Black-bellied plover, one Long-tailed Duck, Pine Siskin and Red-breasted Nuthatch. Ewing Marsh was our final stop, where we added Wilson’s Snipe, numerous Killdeer, Virginia Rail and an American Kestrel pair.

75 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Wilma, Graham, Phil, Dianne, Pat, Marcia, John H., Ken, Gary, Frank, Rex, Bruce, Reg, Karen, Robin, Denny, Doug C. Ray, Val, Carlos, Judy Lo., Denny, Hans, Mike C.

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (6), Northern Shoveler (4), Gadwall (27), Mallard (49), Northern Pintail (37), Green-winged Teal (9), Ring-necked Duck (2), Greater Scaup (9), Lesser Scaup (9), Harlequin Duck (4), Surf Scoter (20), Long-tailed Duck (1), Bufflehead (400), Common Goldeneye (9), Barrow’s Goldeneye (12), Hooded Merganser (7), Red-breasted Merganser (2), Ruddy Duck (7)

LOON, GREBES: Pacific Loon (45), Common Loon (4), Horned Grebe (15), Red-necked Grebe (2), Western Grebe (33)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Brandt’s Cormorant (2), Pelagic Cormorant (50), Double-crested Cormorant (3), Great Blue Heron (7)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (5), Northern Harrier (2), Red-tailed Hawk (4), American Kestrel (2)

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (2)

SHOREBIRDS: Black-bellied Plover (4), Killdeer (16), Black Oystercatcher (3), Greater Yellowlegs (1), Dunlin (3000), Wilson’s Snipe (4)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (6), Western Gull (1), Glaucous-winged Gull (72)

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Common Murre (8), Pigeon Guillemot (47), Marbled Murrelet (2), Rhinoceros Auklet (3)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (9)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (2)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

WOODPECKERS: Red-breasted Sapsucker (1), Northern Flicker (5), Pileated Woodpecker (1)

CORVIDS: American Crow (16)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (3), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (1)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (1)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (2), Pacific Wren (1), Marsh Wren (1)

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (6), Ruby-crowned Kinglet (4)

THRUSHES: American Robin (8)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (1), Fox Sparrow (2), Song Sparrow (3), White-crowned Sparrow (8), Golden-crowned Sparrow (3), Dark-eyed Junco (14)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (30)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (20), Pine Siskin (50), House Sparrow (19)

Looking for more local places to go birding?

Check out our newly revised, 3rd edition of Birding in Snohomish County & Camano Island, a field guide to the best birding locations in Snohomish County and Camano Island, Washington.

Birding in Snohomish County and Camano Island, 3rd Edition

$20.00

A field guide to the best birding locations in Snohomish County and Camano Island, Washington

We hope this book will guide you to new areas you haven’t explored yet, or give you an idea of where to start if you’re visiting Western Washington.

All proceeds will help fund local conservation efforts in Snohomish County and Camano Island.

154 pages

Shipping: $8 for the first book, plus $2 for each additional copy

Pilchuck Audubon chapter members can receive 10% off all items in our store. Ask about our member discount code by contacting director@pilchuckaudubon.org.

We hope this book will guide you to new areas you haven’t explored yet, or give you an idea of where to start if you’re visiting Western Washington.

All proceeds will help fund local conservation efforts in Snohomish County and Camano Island.

Get your copy