Birding 101: Getting Started Birding With Seattle-Area Kids

River deltas the world over are prime birding locations, and the world-famous Skagit Valley delivers every winter: Swans and snow geese, which look like patches of snow amid miles of open farmland, come from Alaska and northern Canada to feed on waste grain, roots and seed. Eagles gather to feed on spawning salmon along the Skagit River. The Skagit Eagle Festival welcomes visitors to its interpretive center in Rockport, and offers guided nature walks weekends through mid-February! There are several winter eagle watching activities take place in Concrete, Rockport, and Marblemount, see the website for more details.

A good place to see the Skagit’s treasures is to park at the end of Rawlins Road on Fir Island (between Conway and La Conner in the Skagit Wildlife Area, no Discover Pass required) and hike along the dike, keeping an eye out for low-flying raptors hunting voles. This is one of my favorite spots for seeing bald eagles, short-eared owls and ravens — and sometimes a flock of snow geese in the pasture along the road. Be sure to dress for mud and cold.

Audubon Washington’s Cascade Bird Loop includes other locations for birding around the Skagit. Bring a Discover Pass for parking, as some viewing spots are on public land. Also, be aware of the dates for hunting season.

Bonus: Hit the town of Edison for a pastry at Breadfarm bakery, where you can also pick up a loaf or two for the drive home. If you need more nature adventures, try one of these kid-friendly walks in the area.

Up next: the South Sound