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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Trip Report: Samish Flats
January 23, 2024
59 Species
Once again, the weather defied a rainy forecast, and we got off to a good start at Little Indian Slough with our first…
Photo: Short-eared Owl by Philip Dickinson
January 23, 2024
Once again, the weather defied a rainy forecast, and we got off to a good start at Little Indian Slough with our first Short-eared Owl, Bald Eagle, Northern Harrier and Hooded Merganser. At Bay View State Park, a Merlin kept the woods quiet, but a huge raft of Snow Geese floated in Padilla Bay along with Greater Scaup, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye and Red-breasted Merganser. Highlights along Sullivan Rd. were hundreds of Mallard, American Wigeon and Dunlin, three Eurasian Wigeon and 21 Black-bellied Plover. At the West 90, a Rough-legged Hawk accompanied several Red-tailed Hawk and Western Meadowlark. The waterfowl off Samish Island were far away but included Long-tailed Duck, Brant, Pacific and Red-throated Loon, Common Murre and White-winged Scoter. The raptor show at East 90 met the hype with another Rough-legged Hawk, several Bald Eagle and seven Short-eared Owl. We ended the day with a Great Egret, thousands of Snow Geese and dozens of Tundra Swan along Calhoun Rd.
59 species (approx. qty.)
Attendees: Phil, Dianne, Graham, Wilma, Frank, Ken, Pam T., Rick, Reg, Melinda, Bruce, Jon, Karen, Robin, Tari, Doug C., Judy Lo., Denny, Val, Pat, Marcia, Gary, Lloyd, Lorraine, Hans
CHECKLIST:
WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (14,000), Brant (20), Trumpeter Swan (500), Tundra Swan (60), Northern Shoveler (3), Eurasian Wigeon (3), American Wigeon (1500), Mallard (3125), Northern Pintail (155), Green-winged Teal (16), Greater Scaup (100), Surf Scoter (2), White-winged Scoter (3), Long-tailed Duck (4), Bufflehead (26), Common Goldeneye (32), Hooded Merganser (9), Red-breasted Merganser (4)
LOON, GREBES: Red-throated Loon (1), Pacific Loon (1), Common Loon (2), Red-necked Grebe (1)
PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (8), Great Blue Heron (7)
RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (39), Northern Harrier (5), Rough-legged Hawk (2), Red-tailed Hawk (11), American Kestrel (2), Merlin (2)
RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (1)
SHOREBIRDS: Black-bellied Plover (21), Dunlin (1200)
GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (300), Ring-billed Gull (1), Glaucous-winged Gull (6)
ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Common Murre (1), Pigeon Guillemot (1)
DOVES, PIGEONS: Eurasian Collared-Dove (6), Mourning Dove (1)
OWLS: Short-eared Owl (7)
HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1)
WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (1)
CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (2), American Crow (2), Common Raven (2)
CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (1)
WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (1)
THRUSHES: American Robin (1)
MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (2000)
LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (4), Song Sparrow (6), Fox Sparrow (4), Golden-crowned Sparrow (27), Dark-eyed Junco (3)
BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (860), Western Meadowlark (14), Brewer’s Blackbird (25)
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.
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.
Trip Report: Camano Island
January 16, 2024
52 Species
In sub-freezing temperatures, Graham Hutchison led hearty birders around several sites on northern Camano…
Photo: Barred Owl by Graham Hutchison
January 16, 2024
In sub-freezing temperatures, Graham Hutchison led hearty birders around several sites on northern Camano Island. At Smith Lake, sightings included Gadwall, Ring-necked Duck, Red-breasted Sapsucker and Golden-crowned Kinglet. A highlight at popular Barnum Point Preserve was a Barred Owl, but the group also saw both Common and Barrow’s Goldeneye, Surf Scoter, Red-breasted Merganser and Horned Grebe on the water and Brown Creeper, Varied Thrush and Fox Sparrow in the woods. A Northern Harrier and five dozen Trumpeter Swan also showed nearby along Sunrise Boulevard. Fox Trot Way was productive with waterfowl including American and Eurasian Wigeon, Greater Yellowlegs, hundreds of Northern Pintail and thousands of Dunlin. Finally, Iverson Point featured 10 Long-tailed Duck, Red-throated Loon, Virginia Rail and Wilson’s Snipe.
52 species (approx. qty.)
Attendees: Graham, Phil, Dianne, John H., Pam T., Rick, Teri, Reg, Tari, Doug C. Ray, Carlos, Judy Lo., Denny
CHECKLIST:
WATERFOWL: Trumpeter Swan (62), Northern Shoveler (1), Gadwall (2), Eurasian Wigeon (1), American Wigeon (500), Mallard (15), Northern Pintail (1000), Green-winged Teal (3), Ring-necked Duck (25), Greater Scaup (50), Surf Scoter (115), Long-tailed Duck (10), Bufflehead (15), Common Goldeneye (5), Barrow’s Goldeneye (3), Hooded Merganser (1), Red-breasted Merganser (8)
LOON, GREBES: Red-throated Loon (3), Horned Grebe (9)
PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (8), Great Blue Heron (2)
RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (4), Northern Harrier (2)
RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (1), American Coot (5)
SHOREBIRDS: Greater Yellowlegs (2), Dunlin (3000), Wilson’s Snipe (1)
GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (20), Ring-billed Gull (77), Glaucous-winged Gull (17)
OWLS: Barred Owl (1)
KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)
WOODPECKERS: Red-breasted Sapsucker (2), Downy Woodpecker (1), Northern Flicker (4)
CORVIDS: American Crow (1)
CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (1), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (1)
NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Brown Creeper (1)
WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (1), Pacific Wren (1)
KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (4), Ruby-crowned Kinglet (2)
THRUSHES: American Robin (45), Varied Thrush (8)
MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (2)
LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (12), Song Sparrow (11), Fox Sparrow (8), Dark-eyed Junco (6)
BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (3)
Trip Report: Monroe to Carnation
January 9, 2024
48 Species
The forecast was for a very wet, very windy day, but we had only a ten-minute shower and…
Photo: Northern Shoveler by Philip Dickinson
January 9, 2024
The forecast was for a very wet, very windy day, but we had only a ten-minute shower and moderate breeze with only a couple of brief gusts. Virginia Clark must still be talking with Mother Nature. At Lake Tye and Lord’s Lake in Monroe, our sightings included Trumpeter Swan, Northern Harrier, Bald Eagle, Greater and Lesser Scaup, Pied-billed Grebe, Common Goldeneye, Snow Goose and American Wigeon. The breeze did minimize songbird activity in the Crescent Lake area, but we found large flocks of Dark-eyed Junco, Brewer’s Blackbird and Cackling Goose, along with Cooper’s Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, Belted Kingfisher, Great Blue Heron and Hooded Merganser. The Snoqualmie River Trail at Stillwater produced Mourning Dove, Downy Woodpecker, Ring-necked Duck, Gadwall and Northern Shoveler, among others. We finished the day at Sikes Lake padding our count of several species and adding Common Merganser.
48 Species (Approx. Qty)
Attendees: Phil, Rex, Dianne, Denny, Graham, Wilma, Rick, Pam T., Maureen Z., Ken, Teri, Jane, Gary, Karen, Judy B., Robin
CHECKLIST:
WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (27), Cackling Goose (1150), Canada Goose (195), Trumpeter Swan (320), Northern Shoveler (10), Gadwall (3), American Wigeon (1000), Mallard (315), Northern Pintail (135), Green-winged Teal (22), Ring-necked Duck (4), Greater Scaup (2), Lesser Scaup (6), Bufflehead (2), Common Goldeneye (1), Hooded Merganser (7), Common Merganser (3)
LOONS, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (6)
PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (8), Great Blue Heron (5)
RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (11), Northern Harrier (2), Cooper’s Hawk (2), Red-tailed Hawk (7)
RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (240)
GULLS: Short-billed Gull (150), Ring-billed Gull (3), Glaucous-winged Gull (230)
DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (6), Eurasian Collared-Dove (6), Mourning Dove (4)
KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (3)
WOODPECKERS: Downy Woodpecker (1), Northern Flicker (5)
CORVIDS: Steller's Jay (3), American Crow (210), Common Raven (5)
CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (1)
THRUSHES: American Robin (3)
MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (570)
LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (3), Fox Sparrow (1), Song Sparrow (6), White-crowned Sparrow (3), Dark-eyed Junco (24)
BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (56), Brewer's Blackbird (500)
FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Sparrow (24)