Big Birds of Clark County

Sandhill Cranes will be our “target” species, along with Great Egrets and herons, geese and other waterfowl. These “big birds” should be plentiful at Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge, Woodland bottoms, and Vancouver lowlands. Other interesting but long-shot specialties include Red-Shouldered Hawk, American White Pelican, White-Breasted Nuthatch, and Lesser Goldfinch. Late-migrating shorebirds, warblers and other passerines are also possible, along with new arrivals for the winter, particularly sparrows. We’ll be joined by some local experts, among the most knowledgeable birders in the state – a real treat!

Dress for the day’s weather and bring food and drink as needed. A scope is highly recommended.

We’ll meet up in Tumwater at the Southgate parking lot on Capital Boulevard (where Ace Hardware used to be) at 6:15 a.m. and return around 6 p.m. (Early return is okay by prior arrangement.)

To sign up, contact Paul Hicks at 360-870-3819 and provide your e-mail address. Limit: 12 participants and 4 cars. Please indicate whether you can drive. A contribution from participants given directly to drivers for gas and to local guides for their expertise will be appreciated ($5 for drivers; $2 for guides).