ALL ABOUT VASHON BIRDS

Vashon Island is a haven for birds and birders. Its diverse habitats, including surrounding saltwater, shorelines, forests, freshwater ponds and streams, fields and farmlands, attract a variety of birds. More than 250 species have been identified on Vashon over the years. Regularly seen species include about 60 on the island year round and about 100 more that spend breeding season or winter on the island. A few rarities show up every year.

This rural island is a short ferry ride from the cities of Seattle and Tacoma as well as the Kitsap Peninsula. The island has a number of parks and nature preserves. Beginning in the 1980s, the Vashon Land Trust, Vashon Park District, and King County Parks have worked together to preserve critical wildlife habitat.

Vashon Bird Alliance holds birding field trips led by expert birders the third Saturday of each month. The trips are free and all are welcome.