Bird Fest

Bird-themed activities for kids, as well as binoculars for practice viewing will be available during the month of May.

509-782-3314

cashmere@ncwlibraries.org

300 Woodring St. Cashmere

Bird-themed activities for kids, as well as binoculars for practice viewing will be available during the month of May.

509-548-7923

Leavenworth@ncwlibraries.org

700 US Highway 2, Leavenworth

Bird-themed activities for kids, as well as binoculars for practice viewing will be available during the month of May.

509-548-7821

peshastin@ncwlibraries.org

8396 Main St. Peshastin

During May, stop by the Wenatchee Library to view the display featuring books and resources for learning about local birds and connecting to all things nature.  

Visit the Leavenworth library to view a "migrations" themed community art show on display at the Leavenworth Public Library during the month of May, at 700 US Hwy 2.   

Join Wenatchee Children's Librarian, Mallory Gingrich, on Saturday May 13, at 11am for a bird-themed storytime. The storytime will be on the main floor of Wenatchee Public Library with a half-hour of bird-themed picture books, songs, and rhymes.  

Join Audubon Society members Merry Roy and Nolan Campbell for a first time introduction to common birds in the city of Wenatchee along the Columbia River. We expect to see waterbirds, raptors, and a variety of songbirds. We will meet at Walla Walla Point Park at the North parking lot near the bathrooms. This walk is especially designed for new birders and loaner binoculars will be provided. Suitable for all ages and families. We will walk on paved, level pathways up to 1 mile round trip at a leisurely pace, stopping often to view birds. It can be cool along the river, so wear layers and bring a small backpack to carry clothing and water.

No registration needed. Free.

Birding is fun – see what the excitement is about! Learn how to spot birds, identify them, and understand a little about their behavior. Meet at WRI, walk to Waterfront Park. Binoculars provided if needed; all ages welcome.

No pre-registration, just show up! Free.

Lower Sleepy Hollow Preserve is a first-time location for Bird Fest! Join NCWAS's Wendy Sharp and CDLT's Elisa Lopez on a short 1-mile evening walk on a floodplain near the Lower Wenatchee River. Oberserve and learn about the birds that prefer this habitat and about the native plant restoration projects. Part of our walk will be on uneven surface and the area could be muddy from frequent flooding, please bring suitable shoes to stay comfortable. This trip is especially designed for new birders of all ages, loaner binoculars will be provided, and it’s FREE! Limited to 15 people, register at www.cdlandtrust.org/outings-events/events.

Join Wenatchee Naturalist Susan Ballinger and an Ohme Garden docent as we explore the conifer forest garden paths, looking for birds. This 9-acre oasis perches on a rocky bluff above the Wenatchee and Columbia Confluence, with a sweeping view of the valley. We'll likely see swallows, swifts, songbirds, and raptors. This trip is especially designed for new birders of all ages, offers loaner binoculars, and is free. Wear good walking shoes. Limited to 16 people. Address: 3327 Ohme Road.

Register at: Info@ohmegardens.org

Join local Audubon members Susan Ballinger and Jane Zanol for a short walk along a quiet paved road to overlook a shrubby creek corridor where dozens of colorful neotropical migrant birds arrive to nest. We will meet at the intersection of Number 2 Canyon and Skyline Drive and car caravan one mile and then walk. This walk is especially designed for new birders and loaner binoculars will be provided. Suitable for all ages. We will walk on a paved level roadside with little traffic at a leisurely pace stopping often to view birds. It can be cool in the canyon, so wear layers and bring a small backpack to carry clothing and water.

No registration needed.

Get to know the birds of the Wenatchee River Institute campus with WRI Field Educator Tucker Jonas. This walk will be less than one mile at a slow pace: trails are gravel with two short inclines. We'll look for resident nuthatches and woodpeckers, as well as migrants such as flycatchers and warblers. Loaner binoculars available. Meet outside the WRI River Haus.

No registration required.

Dr. Dan Stephens invites you to join him in viewing the bird skin collection he has built and curated over the past 30 years. The collection currently contains 480 specimens, including 160 species of birds from the American coot to the Western screech owl. More than 200 community members, ornithologists, students, colleagues, and friends have contributed their time to collect, prepare, and maintain the bird skins. Through their cooperative effort, Dr. Dan has created a valuable collection that is available for scientific research and educational programs throughout the valley. We hope you can join us in celebrating this impressive accomplishment at our first ever open house for the collection. Wenatchi Hall, 3rd Floor. Free visitor parking in the lot accessed from 5th Street adjacent to Mish ee twie Hall. 

Join NCWAS' Vicky Cibicki and Natalie Kahler for a 3.6 mile round trip bird hike with a 700-ft. climb and scenic views of Cashmere and the Enchantments. This trip is for birders of all skills levels- beginners encouraged! Loaner binoculars available for all. We expect to see grassland birds, nuthatches, chickadees, raptors, and Lewis's woodpeckers. Wear study shoes and suitable clothing for a good hike. Bring plenty of water and snacks. Meet at the pullout, about 200 yards up canyon from Mile Marker 1 along Nahahum Canyon Road.

No registration needed.

Accompany Wenatchee Valley College instructors Derek Sheffield and Dan Stephens and their learning community students on a field trip to Leavenworth Ski Hill. Get inspired by the local flora and fauna, and express your thoughts on paper through creative writing. Meet at 2:00 PM in the Ski Hill parking lot, prepared for walking on trails. Don't forget your paper and pencil!

No registration required. Address: 10701 Ski Hill Drive.

Join NCWAS' Jaana Hatton, Holly Leach, and Polly Feehan for a first time introduction to common birds in the city of Wenatchee along the Columbia River. We expect to see waterbirds, raptors, and a variety of songbirds. This walk is especially designed for new birders and loaner binoculars will be provided. Suitable for all ages and families. We will walk on paved, level pathways up to 1 mile round trip at a leisurely pace, stopping often to view birds. It can be cool along the river, so wear layers and bring a small backpack to carry clothing and water. We will meet at Walla Walla Point Park at the North parking lot near the bathrooms.

No registration needed. Free.

Join Team Naturaleza's Monica Valle and CDLT's Elisa Lopez for a short walk through the Horan Natural Area. It is a flat gravel trail through riverside habitat along the Wenatchee and Columbia River Confluence. This 1.5 mile walk will be bilingual (Spanish and English), designed for new birders, and loaner binoculars will be provided. Suitable for all ages. Meet at Walla Walla Point Park (1351 Walla Walla Ave.) near the bathroons. Group limit: 16. 

Sign up: teamnaturaleza.wa@gmail.com 

Enjoy a relaxed-paced, mile-long loop hike above an organic pear orchard 2-miles south of Cashmere. Skirting the fringe of fruit trees, we will gradually wind our way up through sagebrush-steppe and Ponderosa pine forest. Expect to see plenty of wildflowers and beautiful vistas. Trip includes following deer trails and uneven areas; please wear sturdy footwear - low hikers or hiking boots. We will begin and end at the property owner’s farmhouse where a large, comfortable porch will offer a venue to share our morning discoveries when we wrap-up. Coffee, anyone?
Meet to carpool at WRI or meet in the Milepost 111 restaurant parking lot in Cashmere to follow a lead car to the site. Group limit:10.

Join Audubon members Jane Zanol and Stu Smith for a field trip up Swakane Canyon situated about 10 miles north of Wenatchee. Lewis Woodpecker, Lazali Bunting, and Rock Wren are just a few of the many interesting birds that have been observed in this uniquely beautiful habitat. Plus, hear about NCW Audubon’s efforts monitoring several Kestrel boxes on this WDFW owned land. Expect to walk a few miles at a leisurely pace. Wear sturdy shoes and layered clothing. Bring snacks, sun screen and water. Carpool from the Olds Station Park and Ride in Wenatchee. Group Limit: 10

Join WDFW Biologists, Emily Jeffreys and Johnna Eilers to explore Icicle River's streamside habitats looking for recently arrived neotropical migratory birds, including warblers, flycatchers, vireos, and hummingbirds. These species winter in Mexico, Central, and South America. The rushing river often gives views of resident water birds. Wear shoes for off-trail walking in wet vegetation, daypack, snacks, water, hat and rain gear if poor weather. Meet at the USFWS Leavenworth Hatchery Visitor's parking lot (with bathrooms) to carpool/caravan to the site. Group limit: 12. 

Join NCW Audubon members Mary and Tim Gallagher to bird and learn about Nason Ridge Community Forest. We’ll bird the area, then over lunch (provided) at a home on site, learn about how the Forest came to be, details of management discussions now underway, NCW Audubon’s bird survey there, and more. Expect to walk approximately 5 miles over uneven ground. Bring snacks, liquids, good footwear, and dress for the weather. Meet at the Nason Creek Rest Area on Highway 2. Group limit 8.

Would like to learn about the science behind birds? Ever wanted the opportunity to see live birds up close?
Join Suzanne Tomassi, Visiting Researcher at University of Sheffield, for a two half-day program. 

The first day of the class (May 18th 8:30am-12:30pm) will be all about the basics of bird biology: evolutionary history, anatomy and physiology, social value of birds, behavioral ecology (breeding, migration, molt), and field methods for studying birds. While Suzanne touches on all these subjects, she likes the audience to drive the specifics of the class! Interrupt at any time so that all of your wonderful questions get addressed!

On day two (May 19th) we’ll meet outside at 6am-10am to set up some mist nets! With a little luck, we’ll catch some birds and see for ourselves the things we discussed in class the previous day. Participants will be able to observe handling and measuring techniques and learn how to set up and take down nets.

Meet at Wenatchee River Institute. Class limit 15.

Travel by snowshoes (provided or bring your own) and accompany Upper Basin Birder Heather Moravec to adventure in snow-covered subalpine fir and Alaska yellow-cedar forests. Bird species you may see in these high mountains are: common raven, chestnut-backed chickadee, gray jay, Swainson's thrush, varied thrust, Townsend's warbler, and pine siskin. Carpool from Wenatchee River Institute. Group limit: 12.

It’s never too early to discover the wonderful world of birds! Join staff at Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery for a birding adventure as we spot different birds around the hatchery grounds. Lifelike bird models make good practice subjects and we will certainly spot some live birds too. Kids binoculars and monoculars provided. This is a family-friendly, stroller-accessible program designed for ages 4-6, but even baby birders will have a good time! No registration required.

Birds eat bugs, and bugs thrive in pollinator gardens! Join local Master Gardeners to stroll the path to see native plants, ranging from milkweed to mock orange, growing in this 2400 square foot garden. Learn how these natives bloom throughout the season and steps taken to attract pollinators. Meet at Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery.

Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery has over five miles of flat, easy trails that pass through a variety of pine forest, open meadow, and stream side habitats and are home to a variety of birds! Benches along the trail offer excellent bird viewing (especially in the morning hours) and make this a great activity for families or birders who appreciate resting spots along the way. Trail maps and bird lists are available at the information boards in the parking area and in front of the main hatchery building. Registration is not required for this self-led walk, and you are welcome to walk the trails any time (including dawn and dusk). An information station with loaner binoculars and bird books as well as activities for kids will be available in front of the hatchery building from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm on Friday and Saturday. 

12790 Fish Hatchery Rd.

Join CDLT's Joe Veverka and WDFW's Amy Pavelchek on a field trip through fields and forests of CDLT’s Chelan Coulees Preserve. This Preserve, near Lake Chelan, is not open to the public. We will be driving, making frequent stops to explore birdy areas on foot. Expect to see birds of grassland, shrub-steppe, and forest and spectacular fields of wildflowers. If time permits, we can make a couple stops along the Columbia River on our way back. Wear sturdy shoes and layered clothing. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and lunch. Meet and carpool from the Olds Station Park and Ride in Wenatchee. Group limit 12.

Join NCW Audubon's Mark Johnston and Richard Scranton exploring riparian, sagebrush steppe and dry ponderosa pine habitats on Badger Mountain. Expect to walk aproximately 2 miles over uneven terrain. Be prepared for weather and chilly mornings; Badger Mt. is 4,100 feet in elevation! Bring binoculars, a backpack, water, lunch, sturdy footwear, hat and appropriate layered clothing. Meet and carpool from Wenatchee at the Olds Station Park and Ride on E. Penny Road. Group Limit: 10

Intermediate to Advanced Birders. Join wildlife biologist Janet Millard as she teaches the skills learned when she first started monitoring birds with the USFS. The trip to National Forest land will focus on voice, behavior, appearance and habitat: the 4 principles of bird ID. The objective is to use a holistic approach to enhance your birding skills and enjoyment. Must wear shoes with ankle support and carry appropriate gear including, day pack with lunch & water, layers for changing temperatures, raingear, and binoculars. Expect off-trail hiking on occasionally steep & uneven terrain. Meet and depart from Wenatchee River Institute. Group limit: 12

Join WDFW Biologists, Emily Jeffreys and Johnna Eilers to explore Beebe Springs Natural Area. It is a former orchard, restored by WDFW to native riparian woodlands, along with some sagebrush steppe. We will bird an easy 2-mile gravel trail along the Columbia River and some inland channels, and cross Beebee Creek and a beaver pond. Expected sightings include Western Tanager, Lazali Bunting, Bullock’s Oriole, Warblers, Sandpipers, Swallows, Raptors, possible Wood Duck, Virginia Rail, and Canyon or Rock Wren. Meet in North Wenatchee at Olds Station Park-and-Ride at 7am to carpool/caravan. This includes the 45-min. driving time each way. Group limit: 16

Fish Lake, a spring-fed, 500-acre lake northwest of Leavenworth, is ringed by mixed coniferous forest and has a large marsh. Perhaps we will see Wilson’s phalaropes, Common yellowthroats, or a Sharp-shinned hawk diving into a flock of Violet-green swallows. Ospreys will be fishing. A pontoon boat is a wonderful way to watch birds! Join wildlife biologist Don Youkey, and Upper Basin Birders Tim and Mary Gallagher, and local fisherman, Keith Hendershot, on this water birding adventure. Birders 8 years and older are welcome. Thanks to the Cove Resort for providing the pontoons. Group limit 12.

Join local Audubon birders Karen Haire and Jill LaRue and discover the delights of our only aquatic songbird. We’ll journey to suitable habitats, look for dippers, and learn more about these amazing birds. Meet at WRI, carpool to sites. May involve walking up to 2 miles on level paths. Group limit 8.

Join Kitsap Audubon’s Heather Moravec and NCWAS’s Jane Zanol on this birding and wildflower hike through Horse Lake Reserve. The hike will be 5 miles round trip and with a 1000 feet elevation gain. Learn about shrub-steppe birds and landscape at this Chelan-Douglas Land Trust property. Learn about conservation efforts restoring the landscape with native species to make better habitat for birds and wildlife. Hiking on—and off—trails so sturdy footwear recommended. Bring water and a snack. Meet and carpool from the NW corner of Walmart parking lot in Wenatchee at 7 am. Group limit: 12.

*Please note, this is a strenuous hike traveling 5 miles round trip and with a 1000 feet elevation gain.

Enjoy a relaxed-paced, mile-long loop hike above an organic pear orchard 2-miles south of Cashmere. Skirting the fringe of fruit trees, we will gradually wind our way up through sagebrush-steppe and Ponderosa pine forest. Expect to see plenty of wildflowers and beautiful vistas. Trip includes following deer trails and uneven areas; please wear sturdy footwear - low hikers or hiking boots. We will begin and end at the property owner’s farmhouse where a large, comfortable porch will offer a venue to share our morning discoveries when we wrap-up. Coffee, anyone?

Meet at WRI to carpool or meet in the Milepost 111 restaurant parking lot in Cashmere to follow a lead car to the site. Group limit: 10.

Join Trout Unlimited’s Michael Dello Russo and Chelan-Douglas Land Trust’s Susan Ballinger to explore a variety of Entiat watershed bird habitats including recently restored riverside forests and shrubby creeks. We’ll walk off-trail for ½-mile along the Entiat River at CDLT’s Stormy Preserve where over 60 species of birds use the riverside forest habitat during May. We hope to see resident American dipper, belted kingfisher, common merganser, and dozens of just-arrived migrant songbirds, especially flycatchers, warblers, and vireos. We will then drive a few miles on a dirt USFS road to explore Potato Creek that experienced the 2018 the Cougar Creek Fire. The fire moved through the Entiat watershed in 33 days burning over 135,000 acres and 20% of the Potato Creek watershed. The mid to high severity fire left behind a charred landscape but also many snags for bird habitat. Now five years later, through a large investment from area restoration partners such as the USFS, Cascadia CD, Trout Unlimited and Cascade Fisheries, Potato Creek is vibrant and green—replete with birds, wildlife, and even more water! Come learn more about how beaver dams are accelerating the rate of post fire recovery and how they help form a containment line to future fires.

Time: Meet in Wenatchee at 7am, return no later than 1pm. Meet at the Olds Station Park-and-Ride on Penny Road to form carpools. It is a 1 hour drive each way. Wear sturdy shoes for walking on uneven ground, layers of clothing, sun protection, snacks, lunch, and water. Outhouse on site at Stormy Preserve. Group limit: 16

Birders 8+ years old. Float with professional guides from Osprey Rafting and birder/naturalist guides and experience approximately four miles of gentle waters of Icicle Creek and the Wenatchee River. Consider bringing an extra pair of shoes. All trips meet at Wenatchee River Institute. Group limit 5 participants per raft, 2 rafts per trip.

Spend the day with NCWAS' Sarah Smith and Seattle Audubon's Emily Larsen birding up the Little Wenatchee River. Look for warblers in an aspen forest, swallows and dippers along the river, and waterfowl in a meadow. Meet at WRI and carpool up the valley. Includes walking on roads and wet, uneven terrain. Bring tick/insect repellent. Group limit: 10

Castor canadensis- the American Beaver- how can this little rodent provide so many benefits to native ecosystems? Join Cascadia Conservation District to find out. Birds are one of the primary beneficiaries! We will be birding and exploring some of our Restoration sites on Eagle Creek that incorporate Beaver Dam Analogs (BDAs) as well as an abandoned Beaver Dam to compare some of the many benefits. NCW Audubon members Betsy Steele and Christi Neilsen will be on hand to identify recently arrived migrant flycatchers, vireos, warblers, and hummingbirds, along with resident birds. Bring: Dress for the weather and bring study shoes! Meet at Wenatchee River Institute. Group Limit: 12.

Fish Lake, a spring-fed, 500-acre lake northwest of Leavenworth, is ringed by mixed coniferous forest and has a large marsh. Perhaps we will see Wilson’s phalaropes, Common yellowthroats, or a Sharp-shinned hawk diving into a flock of Violet-green swallows. Ospreys will be fishing. A pontoon boat is a wonderful way to watch birds! Join wildlife biologist Don Youkey, and Upper Basin Birders Tim and Mary Gallagher, and local fisherman, Keith Hendershot, on this water birding adventure. Birders 8 years and older are welcome. Thanks to the Cove Resort for providing the pontoons. Group limit 12

Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery does more than raise fish! With over 170 acres of river-side property and 5 miles of trails, the hatchery grounds are a hotspot for a wide variety of birds. Swallows swoop above ponds, ducks paddle in the river, warblers hide in hawthorn thickets and raptors soar above. We may even spot the elusive calliope hummingbird or white-headed woodpecker. Join a hatchery staff and NCWAS's Don Schaechtel for an easy stroll along mostly paved and relatively flat trails that wander through a patchwork of Eastern Cascade ecosystems, from Ponderosa pine and brush steppe to lush riparian habitat along Icicle Creek. No registration required.

Join trip leaders Karen and Vicky for a 10-mile bike ride mostly on paved, level roads and paths, traveling on Icicle Creek and East Leavenworth Roads, plus a bit of adventurous detours. Bring your bike, water, and binoculars. (Loaner binoculars will be available if needed.) New birders are welcome! Since we will share the roads with cars, helmets are required, and reflective vests are provided. Age limit 16. Group limit: 10.

Please join Clifford and Janna Kellogg for their presentation: Falconry and Conservation in Today’s World. Their talk will include falconry history, notes on falconry and falconer conservationists, birds flown in falconry, natural history, training and hunting with raptors, raptor rehabilitation, and captive propagation.  After the presentation they will introduce their 3 raptors for a Q&A: Janna’s male Black Merlin (Black Bart), her male American Kestrel (Bomber), and Clifford’s female Harris’ hawk (Knahki). Janna has been involved in the Washington Falconers Association for as long as she has been a falconer. Clifford is currently the WFA’s historian and one of its founding officers and the Director at Large for the North American Falconers Association. Workshop held at Wenatchee River Institute in the Red Barn.

Join hatchery staff as we explore the diverse migratory species that visit our area. Delve into the important role of migration in the lives of fish, insects, and birds. We’re sure to see many of these migrators as we walk around the grounds of Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery. Say’s phoebe, rufous hummingbird, tree swallow, and belted kingfisher are some of the possible birds we may spot. This trip is great for beginner and casual birders who are interested in all kinds of migratory animals.

Ansel Adams said “A good photograph is knowing where to stand." So true. As bird photographers, the excitement of the scene often makes us shoot first, think later. But rules of composition apply for us just as they do for other artists. What rules? Join Gary Luhm for an enticing master class on composition in bird photography: Learn about light, subject placement, compositional elements and perspective to make the most of any situation. Workshop held at Wenatchee River Institute in the Red Barn.

Birders 8+ years old. Float with professional guides from Osprey Rafting and birder/naturalist guides and experience approximately four miles of gentle waters of Icicle Creek and the Wenatchee River. Consider bringing an extra pair of shoes. All trips meet at Wenatchee River Institute. Group limit 5 participants per raft, 2 rafts per trip.

Drop in to play Wingspan, bird trivia, bird ID games, or work on a bird puzzle with Audubon volunteers at WRI. Pit your skill against a friend or foe!  

Join Bruce McCammon's presentation on Hummingbirds. Beginning with an introduction to global hummingbird populations and distributions, Bruce teases you with photos of amazing hummingbirds ranging from the third smallest bird on earth to the Robin-sized Giant Hummingbird. The program then focuses on the hummingbirds of the USA before converging on the four species seen in Washington State. Bruce uses data collected in three community science efforts to dive into the status and wonder of the Anna’s Hummingbird in the western USA and Washington. A short video created in 2021 finishes the program by showing the only known documentation of successful nesting, rearing, and fledging of Anna’s in the Wenatchee valley and eastern Washington. Presentation in WRI's Red Barn.

Leavenworth National Fish hatchery has over five miles of flat, easy trails that pass through a variety of pine forest, open meadow, and stream side habitats and are home to a variety of birds! Benches along the trail offer excellent bird viewing (especially in the morning hours) and make this a great activity for families or birders who appreciate resting spots along the way. Trail maps and bird lists are available at the information boards in the parking area and in front of the main hatchery building. Registration is not required for this self-led walk, and you are welcome to walk the trails any time (including dawn and dusk). An information station with loaner binoculars and bird books as well as activities for kids will be available in front of the hatchery building from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm on Friday and Saturday. 

12790 Fish Hatchery Rd.

Join CDLT's Joe Veverka and NCWAS's John Zanol for a field trip to Spiva Butte Preserve in Douglas County. This CDLT property is not open to the public. You will walk through shrub-steppe habitat rebounding from a devastating wildfire in September 2020. Learn about restoration efforts and expect to see grassland birds, possibly returning shrub-steppe species, and a chance to see greater sage grouse. Expect to hike 3-4 miles cross country. Some areas are steep, and all the terrain is uneven (no trail). Please know your physical limits. Wear sturdy shoes and layered clothing. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and lunch. It will take 1hr30min to drive to Spiva with 1 bathroom stop on the drive out and 1 on the way back. If time permits, we will make a couple stops on the way back. Meet at Wenatchee River Institute and travel by van. Group limit 12.

Join CDLT's Neil Hedges and Vicky Cibicki on a field trip through fields and forests of a hidden private ranch near Cashmere. This part of the property is not open to the public. We will be driving making frequent stops to explore birdy areas on foot. Expect to see birds of grassland, shrub-steppe, and forest and spectacular fields of wildflowers. Wear sturdy shoes and layered clothing. Proof of vaccination required by the landowners. Meet at Hay Canyon Road in Cashmere. Group limit 12.

Leaders: Audubon members Larry and Penny Tobiska with Betsy Steele. Experience birding from a 29’ Langley canoe at the Confluence of the Wenatchee and Columbia River. The canoe will be managed by experienced people from the Wenatchee Row and Paddle Club. A brief lesson and orientation will be provided prior to departure. No experience as a paddler is necessary. Be prepared for possible weather to maintain your own comfort. The Paddle Club provides life vests and paddles, but you are welcome to bring your own. Bring binoculars, hat and appropriate layered clothing. Wear shoes or sandals that are water friendly. Meet at the Confluence State Park near the boat launch; you will need a Discover Pass or pay for day parking. Birders 8 + years old. Group limit: 8

Join Mark Johnston and Richard Scranton on a field trip through open forest and shrubby thickets along a ridge overlooking Leavenworth and the Icicle River. Expect a wonderful 3-mile moderate gain hike at a leisurely birding pace. Wear sturdy shoes and layered clothing. Carpool from Wenatchee River Institute. Group limit: 12

Experience the Central Cascades with local birder Sarah Smith and Seattle Audubon's Eric Crockett as you hike to old growth forest at Lanham Lake at 4100’. You may see several species of woodpeckers, including the American Three-Toed, as well as other forest species. This shady hike is 3.2 miles round trip and gains 1140’. Wear sturdy hiking footgear, bring water. Meet at the Nason Creek Rest Area at milepost 81 on US Highway 2. Group limit: 10

Join Matt Yawney for a full day trip east to the Potholes Region. We’ll make stops at several unique locations including Dry Falls, Northrup Canyon, a sewage treatment pond for shorebirds and waterfowl, and sites with excellent shrub-steppe habitat. Taken as a whole, the trip should produce a nice mix of species, including some that are far less likely to be encountered near Leavenworth. Some stops will require drivers to have a Discover Pass, and just a cautionary note, meeting with rattlesnakes on this trip is a possibility. Expect to walk up to 3 miles over uneven ground. Bring a lunch, liquids, and dress for the weather. Meet at the intersection of Hwy 2 and Moses Coulee Road. Group limit 8

Go on a birding adventure at one of the area’s best birding habitats - the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery right along the beautiful Icicle Creek! Join USFWS fish culturist Daniel Bressman on this beginner friendly walk. Plenty of diverse habitat with a special focus on spotting the White-headed Woodpeckers! Meet at the Leavenworth Winter Sports Club parking area, 7505 Cyo Rd, Leavenworth. Wear shoes for off-trail walking up to 1-mile cross-country. Group limit: 10.

Birders 8+ years old. Float with professional guides from Osprey Rafting and birder/naturalist guides and experience approximately four miles of gentle waters of Icicle Creek and the Wenatchee River. Consider bringing an extra pair of shoes. All trips meet at Wenatchee River Institute. Group limit 5 participants per raft, 2 rafts per trip.

Join NCWAS's Rachel Bishop and John Place for 1-mile easy bird walk out beyond Blackbird Island. Expect to see woodland and water species during this 2.5 hours of birding adjacent to downtown Leavenworth. Perfect for both beginning and experienced birders. Meet at Wenatchee River Institute at 7:30am. Group limit: 15.

Walk the Entiat Riverfront Park to enjoy waterfowl, swallows, sparrows, warblers, golden and bald eagles. Your guides Elisa Lopez of Chelan-Douglas Land Trust and Heather Moravec of Kitsap Audubon offer expert, bilingual bird guiding for both beginning and more advanced birders. Loaner binoculars available. Walk on a level gravel trail and a paved park trail. Meet at the Olds Station Park and Ride in Wenatchee to carpool or car caravan to the Entiat trailhead. Bathrooms are available. Group limit 12

Visit the beautiful campus of Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort. Guides Jeff and Eileen Hambleton will help you discover bird species that include warblers, dippers, nesting osprey, and white-headed woodpeckers. Sleeping Lady also has an exciting collection of artworks, indoors and outdoors, that you will experience. This 2.5-mile walk will be on mostly level paths and include a visit to the organic garden on site. Meet at the Sleeping Lady Organic Garden. Group limit: 20

Join trip leaders Lauren and Matt for an 11-mile bike ride on the paved Apple Capital Loop Trail. Trips in past years have spotted up to 46 species of birds, including Peregrine Falcon, Wilson’s Snipe, and Western Grebe—all from the trail!! The trail follows the Columbia River with expected stops along the Wenatchee River, Horan Nature area, and Porter’s Pond. We will make frequent stops to look at birds and will ride at a casual pace. The ride will begin at 8 a.m. at the parking lot directly behind the Pybus Public Market in Wenatchee. Bring your bike, water, and binoculars. Loaner binoculars will be available if needed. We welcome new birders on this relaxed bike ride and hope you’ll join us at Pybus for a beer or a coffee following the tour. Group limit:12

Join hatchery staff as we explore the diverse migratory species that visit our area. Delve into the important role of migration in the lives of fish, insects, and birds. We’re sure to see many of these migrators as we walk around the grounds of Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery. Say’s phoebe, rufous hummingbird, tree swallow, and belted kingfisher are some of the possible birds we may spot. This trip is great for beginner and casual birders who are interested in all kinds of migratory animals.

Join BLM’s Diane Priebe and Seattle Audubon’s Julia Hansborough and Steve Rutherford as they explore the riparian oasis of Douglas Creek on a ramble along the historic railroad trail. Roam through riparian and sagebrush steppe habitats, view geologic formations, local plants, birds and wildlife, and learn about the Great Northern Railroad that hauled wheat, mail and pioneers through this watery corridor of life. Capture the beauty of the public lands by creating art along the way. Art supplies provided. Expect to see birds-of-prey, warblers, swallows, oriole, chat, wren, sparrows, and bunting. Trip is a backcountry adventure that includes a 2-mile hike along an uneven trail and water crossings through Douglas Creek (may get shoes wet). Bring binoculars, lunch, sunscreen, water, sturdy footwear and appropriate clothing. Carpool from the Wenatchee BLM Office (915 Walla Walla Ave). Group limit: 12

Go on a birding adventure at one of the area’s best birding habitats - the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery right along the beautiful Icicle Creek! Join USFWS fish culturist Daniel Bressman on this beginner friendly walk. Plenty of diverse habitat with a special focus on spotting the White-headed Woodpeckers! Meet at the Leavenworth Winter Sports Club parking area, 7505 Cyo Rd, Leavenworth. Wear shoes for off-trail walking up to 1-mile cross-country. Group limit: 10.

Join Wenatchee River Institute and North Central Washington Audubon Society for Bird Fest Family Day on Saturday, May 20th from 10am-2pm on the WRI River Haus Lawn! It's a day for families, youth, and adults to gather and take part in educational and recreational activities focusing on birds, wildlife, and their environments.

As Bird Fest is in full swing, take a break from the hustle and bustle and come meander and learn at Family Day! It will be an opportunity for families, youth, and adults to take part in art and nature activities, learn about and see REAL birds, embark on a free guided nature walk, browse and purchase art from local artists, learn about local organizations, chow down on delicious local food, and enjoy LIVE music from local musician, Eric Link!

We are excited to host the following local organizations, artists, and businesses at Family Day: Team Naturaleza, Parque Padrinos, Mountain Sprouts Children's Community, Cascadia Conservation District, Waste Loop, Washington Native Plant Society, Greater Leavenworth Museum, Xerces Society, Wild Birds Unlimited, The Bubblery, Swarovski Optik, Wenatchi Wear, ZTEK Impressions, Nena Howell Fine Arts, La Javelina, and Frank's Franks! There will also be a storytime with NCW Libraries at 10:30am.

Drop by anytime and we hope to see you there!

Drop in for all ages with Holly Leach and Jaana Hatton for sketching the WRI Collection of taxidermied bird specimens. Species include Spruce Grouse, Ruffed Grouse, Ptarmigan, Anna's Hummingbird, White-headed Woodpecker, and more. Some artist supplies provided or bring your own.

Spend an afternoon walking the trails at the historic Leavenworth Ski Hill. You will discover an amazing diversity of wildflowers and flowering shrubs, with the possibility of a visit by a white-headed woodpecker. We will see camas, lupines, tiger lilies, false Solomon's seal, Mariposa lilies, and many others. If that is not enough, you will learn how to tell the difference between Arrowleaf balsamroot and mule's ears. Handouts will be provided. Your guides are members of the Wenatchee Valley Chapter of the Washington Native Plant Society. Meet at the Ski Hill parking lot at 11:45 pm for a three-hour walk. Bring water, binoculars, and dress for the weather. Group limit: 24

Every rock tells a story! Join CWU professor Audrey Huerta to see how geologists "read" rocks to discover the history of the earth, with a focus on the geologic history of the Leavenworth area. Learn about the three main rock types (sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic) all of which occur near here. Trip includes carpooling to nearby stops and walking one or two miles on level trails. Meet in Leavenworth at the Glacier Parking Lot (Old DOT lot west of Argonaut Coffee on Hwy 2). Group limit 12

Celebrate community and spring through the delightful and enchanting sound of the bells in this Bird Fest tradition! The Marlin Handbell Ringers is a non-profit community music group that has been captivating Leavenworth audiences for over forty years. Formed in 1979 to help promote the “Bavarian Village” our group consists of ten ringers and 108 English handbells. In the WRI Red Barn. Admission is free; donations are welcome.

Join hatchery staff as we explore the diverse migratory species that visit our area. Delve into the important role of migration in the lives of fish, insects, and birds. We’re sure to see many of these migrators as we walk around the grounds of Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery. Say’s phoebe, rufous hummingbird, tree swallow, and belted kingfisher are some of the possible birds we may spot. This trip is great for beginner and casual birders who are interested in all kinds of migratory animals.

Join Mel Asher, nursery owner, and Landscape Designer, Betsy Dudash, at Derby Canyon Natives, a native plant nursery in Peshastin, to learn about some of the native plants you can use to create bird-friendly habitats in your own yard. At this drop-in event, Betsy will give brief talks at 2:30 and 3:30, and be on hand to answer questions. Address: 9750 Derby Canyon Road, Peshastin. No Registration is required.

Birds eat bugs, and bugs thrive in pollinator gardens! Join local Master Gardeners to stroll the path to see native plants, ranging from milkweed to mock orange, growing in this 2400 square foot garden. Learn how these natives bloom throughout the season and steps taken to attract pollinators. Meet at Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery. No registration required.

The Bird Fest Planning Committee extends a warm welcome to everyone in our region’s conservation community to come and enjoy the campus at Wenatchee River Institute on Saturday, May 20 from 3:30-5:00pm. We will gather in person on the lovely grounds along the Wenatchee River, where white-headed woodpeckers also hang out. Stop in to say hello to friends, old and new, who support our festival’s vision to promote conservation through educational and recreational activities about birds, wildlife, and their environments. Bring your family and friends! All are welcome - drop by anytime!

Here are 10 good reasons to mark your calendar:

• Get up-close and personal with a magnificent bird-of-prey. Meet Ellensburg Falconer, Clifford Kellogg, and his Merlin, Kestrel, and Red-Shouldered Hawk (3:30-4:00pm).
• Greet the 2023 Keynote Speaker, Dr. John Marzluff, professor, biologist, and author. Meet the 2022 Keynote Speaker, Derek Sheffield, professor, poet, and author. A Book For All Seasons will sponsor a book display, sales table, and author signing.
• Check out the WingSpan board game table to watch or join this popular game.
• Enjoy free small bites as you mingle with other local conservation-minded folks. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will also be available for purchase.
• Reconnect with old friends and meet new ones! People who like birds are usually super nice.
• View the winning bird photographs from the 2022 Audubon Photography Awards. There are 11 photographs, all 30” X 40” prints on display inside the River Haus.
• Raise a glass to thank over 90 volunteers who helped with the festival. Our volunteers will enjoy a free drink and a round of applause for their essential work to make our festival fly.
• Come early for Family Day activities (10am–2pm), or stop by the open house at Derby Canyon Natives plant nursery (2-4pm).
• Stick around for the Birder's BBQ dinner at 5pm and Dr. John Marzluff’s Keynote Presentation at 7pm!

Come join us to celebrate Bird Fest and enjoy a dinner - Leavenworth style! Socialize with your fellow birders before the Keynote Address begins and enjoy some live music by Dave Judd! Registration is required.

Dinner will be provided by Rhein Haus of Leavenworth with a vegetarian option available. A menu will be determined and posted soon! Your $25 ticket will cover your meal and a complimentary sparkling water. Beer from Icicle Brewing Company and wine will be available for purchase.

Musician and songwriter, Dave Judd will be playing music for the duration of the event. Check out his work here: https://www.facebook.com/DaveJuddMusic/

The BBQ will take place outside on the lawn at Wenatchee River Institute.

Join us for the 2023 Bird Fest Keynote Address with John Marzluff. This is a HYBRID event. You may join us in the Wenatchee River Institute's Red Barn or livestream virtually via Zoom. Registration will be required for this event. Stay tuned for more details!

Think Like a Raven with Dr. John Marzluff, Saturday, May 20th at 7:00pm.

THINK LIKE A RAVEN is a culmination of Dr. Marzluff's collaborative work detailing the intertwined lives of ravens, wolves, pumas, and the people that visit and live around Yellowstone. This presentation follows the seasons of Yellowstone and the scientific journey he undertook to decode the mysteries of raven life. With colleagues, 60 birds were tagged with state-of-the-art transmitters. The birds shared their secrets as they flew a hundred miles directly to new kills, commandeered territory, found mates, and reared young. The picture that emerged from the study was that of a highly opportunistic bird with the knowledge that allowed them to exploit wolves but not depend on them. What emerges is a picture of the tenuous and evolving relationship between humans, wolves, and ravens, and the challenges animals face when they wander beyond the protection a national park provides.

John Marzluff is James W. Ridgeway Professor of Wildlife Science at the University of Washington. His graduate (Northern Arizona University) and initial post-doctoral (University of Vermont) research focused on the social behavior and ecology of jays and ravens. He continues this theme investigating the intriguing behavior of crows, ravens, and jays. His current research focuses on the interactions of ravens and wolves in Yellowstone. He teaches Ornithology, Governance and Conservation of Rare Species, Field Research in Yellowstone, and Natural and Cultural History of Costa Rica.

Professor Marzluff has written six books and edited several others. His Welcome to Subirdia (2014 Yale) discovers that moderately settled lands host a splendid array of biological diversity and suggests ways in which people can steward these riches to benefit birds and themselves. His most recent In Search of Meadowlarks (2020 Yale) connects our agriculture and diets to the conservation of birds and other wildlife.

Dr. Marzluff has mentored over 40 graduate students and authored over 170 scientific papers on various aspects of bird behavior and wildlife management. He is a member of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Recovery Team for the critically endangered Mariana Crow, a former member of the Washington Biodiversity Council, a Fellow of the American Ornithologist's Union, a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, and a National Geographic Explorer.

This event is supported by A Book For All Seasons. Marzluff's books will be available for purchase at the event.

Join CDLT's Joe Veverka and NCWAS's Annette Jouard and John Taylor on a field trip through fields and forests of a hidden private ranch near Cashmere. This part of the property is not open to the public. We will be driving making frequent stops to explore birdy areas on foot. Expect to see birds of grassland, shrub-steppe, and forest and spectacular fields of wildflowers. Wear sturdy shoes and layered clothing. Proof of vaccination required by the landowners. Meet at Hay Canyon Road in Cashmere. Group limit 12

This birder’s marathon highlights some of the best birding sites in Douglas County, including the Palisades, Sagebrush Flats, Jameson Lake, and Douglas Creek. Look for shrub-steppe species with local Audubon member and ornithologist Dr. Dan Stephens. This field trip finds the highest number of bird species! Bring the essentials and either a sack lunch or cash for a lunch stop. Meet at Wenatchee River Institute. Travel by Van. Group limit: 11

Join NCW Audubon members Richard Scranton and Mark Johnston for a morning of birds near Leavenworth. We’ll visit key habitats which we expect will produce a diverse mix of species. Bring snacks, liquids, and dress for the weather. Carpool from Wenatchee River Institute. Group limit: 10. 

Join NCWAS and UBB birders John and Jane Zanol for a trip up Number 2 Canyon in Wenatchee. There are a variety of habitats up the Canyon Road, including riparian, rock formations, and shrub-steppe. You may see neotropical migrants such as the Lazuli Bunting, Yellow Warbler, and Yellow-Breasted Chat. Last year’s trip saw Golden Eagles and nesting Bullock’s Orioles. Meet to carpool at the intersection of Skyline Drive and Number 2 Canyon Road at 6:30 AM. Minimal walking required as we will drive to several stops to bird. Group limit: 12.

Join Kitsap Audubon's Heather Moravec and Seattle Audubon's Emily Larsen on a field trip through open forest and shrubby thickets along a ridge overlooking Leavenworth and the Icicle River. Expect a wonderful 3 mile moderate gain hike at a leisurely birding pace. Wear sturdy shoes and layered clothing. Carpool/caravan from Wenatchee River Institute. Group limit: 12.

Sunitsch Canyon is a hidden gem, only 5 miles from Leavenworth. Join Andrew Holm and Willy Stockman of Tierra Learning Center in search of a variety of birds in the diverse habitats this special and beautiful location has to offer. Bring sturdy shoes, binoculars, jacket, rain gear, and water. Carpool from Wenatchee River Institute. Group Limit: 12.

Join NCWAS's Neal Hedges and CDLT's Elisa Lopez on this 5-mile round trip birding hike with spectacular vistas, offered in both English and Spanish. Learn about shrub-steppe birds and landscape at this Chelan-Douglas Land Trust property. Learn about conservation efforts restoring the landscape with native species to make better habitat for birds and wildlife. Hiking on—and off—trails so sturdy footwear recommended. Bring water and a lunch. Meet and carpool from the NW corner of Walmart parking lot in Wenatchee at 7 am. Group limit: 16.

*Please note, this is a strenuous hike traveling 5 miles round trip and with a 1000 feet elevation gain.

Birders 8+ years old. Float with professional guides from Osprey Rafting and birder/naturalist guides and experience approximately four miles of gentle waters of Icicle Creek and the Wenatchee River. Consider bringing an extra pair of shoes. All trips meet at Wenatchee River Institute. Group limit 5 participants per raft, 2 rafts per trip.

Join NCWAS' Susan Ballinger and Lauren Ballinger and Matt Megaard for a short walk along a quiet paved road to overlook a shrubby creek corridor where dozens of colorful neotropical migrant birds have recently arrived from Mexico, Central and South America to nest and raise young. We will meet at the intersection of Number 2 Canyon and Skyline Drive and car caravan one mile and then walk. This walk is especially designed for new birders and loaner binoculars will be provided. Suitable for all ages. We will walk on a paved level roadside with little traffic at a leisurely pace stopping often to view birds. Group limit: 16.

Join NCW Audubon’s Denise Bayuszik and Seattle Audubon's Eric Crockett to explore Blewett Pass habitats hosting a wide variety of birds. We will view as many species as possible in several habitats up the Pass.  Bring snacks, liquids, and dress for the weather. Meet at the Park & Ride at the intersection of Highways 2 and 97 (The Big Y). Group limit: 10.

If you’d like more birds to visit your property, you can increase the odds by making sure it includes the plants and other features that they need to thrive. We’ll visit 3 very different properties in Wenatchee, including a mature landscape full of native plants, a recently-renovated property with lots of habitat, and a small, turfless urban front yard. Our goal is to educate and inspire you to evaluate your own landscape as a bird-friendly habitat. Kids welcome! Meet at the intersection of Skyline Drive and Number 2 Canyon Road in Wenatchee. (We’ll car caravan to each location.) Group limit: 20.