Bird Study
From the smallest glimpse of the movement of a hummingbird to the unmistakably demanding stellar jay, the Puget Sound area is rich with avian life. We have the unique opportunity to see bald eagles feasting on prey, Anna’s hummingbirds amidst the snow, and Great Blue Herons giving quizzical looks in our direction — all this sometimes on the same day. This badge is a wonderful exposure to what may very well become a lifelong passion.
Good Birding Sites in Our Area
Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge is just off of Exit 114 on the I-5, near Lacey, WA. The trail is handicapped-accessible, with wooden planks for the 1.5+ mile loop, and packed gravel over earthen berms for the longer 5.5+ mile loop. Nisqually has several different birding zones and you are likely to be able to see several different species. Bring your sketchbook. As is typical for Washington, you may experience weather from beautiful sunshine to pea-sized hail, sleet, and heavy freezing rain — within the same half-hour. Dress in layers, and bring your rain gear. If you arrange it in advance, parking fees will be waived and they will arrange an expert birder to go with you.
Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge in Sequim is a fantastic place to see a wide variety of sea and shore birds. You might also want to plan one of your 10-mile hikes to the lighthouse and back during the same outing.
Requirement 7b
Christmas Bird Count in Kitsap County
Other Birding Resources
Checklist of Birds in Kitsap County
Kitsap Audubon Society
Washington Birder, Kitsap County
If you don’t mind driving, the Skagit Bald Eagle Festival takes place every January.
There are also Bald Eagle Float Trips on the upper Skagit river.
January 13th, 2010 at 9:36 am
[...] badge is now Tracking. It used to be Stalking. Understandable why it was changed. Imagine combining Bird Study and Mammal Study and you’ll get a good idea for what it entails. The three together would [...]