Join us for an early spring bird walk at Orchard Park in Hillsboro at 5pm, led by Lauren and Mel. Orchard Park features a mix of open green space, mature trees, and nearby wetland areas that attract a variety of bird species in the spring.

In April, this area can host a range of waterfowl in the creek as well as a plethora of songbirds. Keep an eye out for Mallards and Wood Ducks in wetter areas, along with Canada Geese passing through. In the trees and shrubs, we may encounter Song Sparrows, Dark-eyed Juncos, and Black-capped Chickadees. Spotted Towhees and American Robins are also common this time of year. Overhead, watch for Red-tailed Hawks soaring above and swallows such as Tree Swallows and Violet-green Swallows darting through the evening sky.

This walk is open to birders of all experience levels and is especially welcoming for beginners. We’ll move at a relaxed pace with frequent stops for observation and identification. Bring binoculars if you have them, dress for the weather, and be prepared for possibly damp or soft ground conditions.

Paths in the park are a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces. Parking is available on-site, and the park is accessible for most visitors.

We will meet at the entrance near the on site restrooms!

Join us for an early spring bird walk at Whitaker Ponds Nature Park led by Susan. Whitaker Ponds is a small but bird-rich wetland tucked into northeast Portland. This site offers excellent opportunities to observe waterfowl, wetland birds, and songbirds in a compact and accessible setting.

In April, the ponds often host a variety of ducks, including Mallard, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, and American Wigeon. We’ll also be on the lookout for Wood Ducks, which are frequently seen here year-round. Along the pond edges and in nearby shrubs, expect Song Sparrows, Spotted Towhees, and flocks of Bushtits. Overhead, we may see Belted Kingfishers darting between perches, along with Red-tailed Hawks or other raptors passing through the area. Spring is an amazing time to spot various swallows at Whitaker Ponds, including Tree Swallows, Violet-Green Swallows, and even Purple Martins should they feel like moving in!

This walk is open to birders of all experience levels and is especially well-suited for beginners. We’ll move at an easy pace with frequent stops for viewing and identification. Bring binoculars if you have them, dress warmly, and expect muddy paths depending on recent weather.

Sidewalks are paved near the parking lot, porta-potty and gazebo, then unpaved for the majority of the loop. Bike racks and parking are available on-site, please see the Whitaker Ponds website for full transit and access information.

Join us for a relaxed early spring walk at Mount Tabor Park led by Nicole. Set on an extinct volcanic cinder cone in the heart of southeast Portland, Mount Tabor offers a unique mix of wooded slopes, open lawns, and reservoirs, along with some of the best elevated views in the city. We’ll follow a gently winding route at a relaxed pace, pausing often to scan treetops and listen for birdsong, so dress in layers for changing conditions.

Spring is an active and rewarding time to visit the park. The tall firs and deciduous trees can host a variety of species, including Chestnut-backed Chickadees, Red-breasted Nuthatches, and Pacific Wrens. We’ll keep an eye out for woodpeckers like Northern Flickers and Downy Woodpeckers, while Dark-eyed Juncos and Song Sparrows forage along the trails. Migrating warblers may pass through the canopy, and raptors such as Cooper’s Hawks or Red-tailed Hawks are sometimes seen soaring above the reservoirs.

This walk is open to birders of all experience levels and is especially welcoming to beginners. We’ll make frequent stops for viewing and identification, sharing tips on spotting birds in mixed woodland habitats and learning common songs and calls. Bring binoculars if you have them, wear comfortable walking shoes, and be prepared for paved and gravel paths with some moderate hills.

Trails at Mount Tabor Park are a mix of paved roads and well-maintained paths, with some steeper sections as we circle the butte. Restrooms and parking are available within the park near the visitors center. Please check the Portland Parks website for general and access information before attending.

Join us for a relaxed early spring walk at Powell Butte lead by Nicole. Rising above southeast Portland, Powell Butte offers sweeping views of the Cascades, open meadow habitat, and pockets of oak and mixed forest. This is one of Portland’s best spots for open-country and woodland birds. We’ll follow a gently rolling route at a relaxed pace, pausing often to scan the fields and listen for birdsong, so dress in layers for changing conditions.

Spring is a lively season on the butte. Western Meadowlarks may sing from fence posts, while Savannah Sparrows and Violet-green Swallows work the open grasslands. In the forested sections, we’ll watch and listen for Black-capped Chickadees, Bewick’s Wrens, Spotted Towhees, and migrating warblers moving through. Raptors are often active here as well so keep an eye out for Red-tailed Hawks soaring overhead or American Kestrels hovering above the meadows. On clear days, the backdrop of Mount Hood makes for a beautiful setting while we bird.

This walk is open to birders of all experience levels and is especially welcoming to beginners. We’ll make frequent stops for viewing and identification, sharing tips on spotting birds in open habitat and picking up songs and calls. Bring binoculars if you have them, wear sturdy walking shoes, and be prepared for gravel paths and some moderate hills.

Trails at Powell Butte are primarily wide gravel and dirt, with steady inclines in places and benches scattered along the route. Restrooms and parking are available near the main entrance. Please check the Portland Parks website for current trail conditions and access information before attending.

Join us for a spring bird walk at Koll Business Center Wetlands, led by Lauren and Mel. Tucked between office buildings in Beaverton, this surprising little wetland complex offers a peaceful pocket of habitat amid the bustle of the business park. We’ll park in the lot behind Advantage Media Partners near the old tennis court. (https://maps.app.goo.gl/dFi8jammZJ7dUaxi9) and explore the network of paved and flat grass paths at a relaxed pace, scanning the main pond, reed beds, and bordering trees for a plethora of species!

Despite its urban setting, the wetlands can be lively in spring. Dabbling ducks such as Mallard, Green-winged Teal and Wood Ducks are often present, and migrating species may drop in briefly to rest and refuel. Red-winged Blackbirds often perch atop cattails, calling loudly over the marsh, while Song Sparrows and Spotted Towhees rustle in the brushy edges. Overhead, we’ll keep an eye out for swallows coursing above the water and the possibility of Osprey or even a Bald Eagle passing through. Woodpeckers, chickadees, and kinglets may be active in the surrounding trees, and early warblers sometimes begin to appear as migration picks up.

This walk is open to birders of all experience levels and especially welcoming to beginners. We’ll pause often for viewing and identification, sharing tips on how to spot birds, recognize field marks, and tune in to songs and calls. Urban wetlands like this are a great reminder that meaningful birding opportunities can exist in unexpected places.

Paths here are mostly flat and a mix of pavement and flat grass, making for an easy stroll. There are no dedicated restrooms on site, so plan accordingly. Bring binoculars if you have them, wear comfortable walking shoes, and be prepared for damp conditions if there has been recent rain. We look forward to exploring this hidden Beaverton gem together!

Join us for a spring bird walk at Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge, led by Emma. Just a short drive from Portland, this refuge protects a vital stretch of the Tualatin River floodplain and offers a rich mix of seasonal wetlands, oak savanna, and riparian forest. We’ll follow the River Trail at a relaxed pace, taking our time to scan the oak savanna, fields, tree lines and river banks searching for furry and feathered friends!

Spring is an exciting time at the refuge, as wintering waterfowl mingle with early migrants. We may encounter Northern Pintail, Cinnamon Teal, and Wood Ducks on the water, while flocks of Greater White-fronted Geese or Cackling Geese graze in the fields. Tree swallows often sweep low over the wetlands, and Red-winged Blackbirds call from the cattails. Along the wooded stretches, we’ll watch and listen for Pacific Wren, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, various woodpeckers, and many songbirds moving through on migration. Hopefully, a Northern Harrier graces us with a glide over the marsh, or a Bald Eagle announces our presence overhead.

This walk is open to birders of all experience levels and is especially welcoming to beginners. We’ll make frequent stops for viewing and identification, sharing tips on how to spot birds and recognize key field marks and calls. Bring binoculars if you have them, wear comfortable walking shoes, and be prepared for damp or muddy sections depending on recent weather.

Trails are primarily wide, compacted gravel and generally flat, with benches along the route. Restrooms and parking are available at the visitor center. Please check the US Fish and Wildlife Service page for current hours, access details, and any seasonal trail closures and information.

Join us for an early spring bird walk at Kelley Point Park in north Portland, led by Kim. We’ll meet at the furthest back parking lot loop located here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/wbhirV1vdGGNC14t7.

Situated at the dramatic confluence of the Willamette River and the Columbia River, Kelley Point offers expansive river views, sandy beaches, and a mix of cottonwood forest and riparian habitat. Though we’ll cover only a modest distance, we’ll move at a relaxed pace with plenty of time to scan the water and treetops so dress for the weather and feel free to bring a warm drink along.

In early spring, the river channels can host lingering winter waterfowl alongside early migrants. We may spot Bufflehead, Common Merganser, and Canada Geese riding the current, while gulls and Double-crested Cormorants gather along the shoreline. In the wooded areas and along the path edges, we’ll listen and look for Black-capped Chickadees, Song Sparrows, Downy Woodpeckers, and plenty of other resident songbirds becoming more active as the season shifts. With luck, we might glimpse an Osprey scouting the river or hear Bald Eagles calling from high in the cottonwoods.

This walk is open to birders of all experience levels and is especially welcoming to beginners. We’ll take frequent stops for viewing and identification, sharing tips on how to spot and recognize birds by both sight and sound. Bring binoculars if you have them, wear sturdy shoes, and be prepared for muddy or sandy stretches if you are feeling more adventurous, but the walk will stick to the paved path.

Most trails at Kelley Point Park are paved or wide gravel, with generally flat terrain. Restrooms and parking are available on-site, and there are picnic tables and open spaces near the river. Please check the Portland Parks website for current access information and any trail advisories before attending.

Unfortunately due to the weather, the Bird Walk at Leach Botanical Garden has been canceled.

Stay tuned for more walks and hope to see you on the 16th at Kelley Point Park

Join us for an early spring bird walk at Leach Botanical Garden and help support one of East Portland’s most cherished green spaces. Leach Botanical Garden is a beloved community resource currently navigating financial challenges, and your visit makes a real difference. Tickets are $8 per adult and mandatory for entry, and purchasing a ticket directly supports the Garden’s continued care and programming. Additional donations and yearly memberships are warmly encouraged for those who are able.

We’ll look out for various species such as; Song Sparrow, Golden-crowned Sparrow, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, and other songbirds moving through the shrubs. Black-capped Chickadee, Varied Thrush, Anna’s Hummingbird, and Downy Woodpecker are often found here as well!

This walk will be led by Seymore Gulls (Eric), with a garden introduction by Horticulture staff member Sam Mularz. We’ll explore mature trees, early-blooming native plants, and the peaceful Johnson Creek corridor at a relaxed pace for approximately 1–1.5 miles on paved and compacted gravel paths, with frequent stops for observation, questions, and beginner-friendly bird identification.

This walk is open to birders of all experience levels and is especially welcoming to beginners. We’ll move at a relaxed pace with plenty of time for observation, discussion, and questions. Trails are mostly flat, as packed gravel or paved with some boardwalk sections. There are some uneven areas and stairs in parts of the garden. Bring binoculars if you have them, dress for the conditions, and be prepared for a leisurely winter birding stroll close to home.

Join us for an early spring bird walk at Smith and Bybee Wetlands led by Susan in celebration of Slough Fest! From February 28-March 8, 2026, Bird Alliance of Oregon and various partners are coming together for a week of fun programs at different locations along the Slough to raise awareness about its ecological importance. Help them build a community coalition to engage around the city’s upcoming Environmental Zone (e-zone) Remapping Process along the Columbia Slough corridor.

Though the trail is relatively short, we’ll move at a relaxed pace - so dress warmly and bring a hot beverage if you so choose. One of the largest urban wetlands in the United States, Smith and Bybee is a mosaic of tall cottonwoods, open water, and low wetlands, and remains one of Metro’s best-kept birding secrets.

In winter, the wetlands often host a variety of waterfowl, with chances to see Mallards, Gadwall, and American Wigeon on the water. In the trees and along the edges, we’ll keep an eye out for Ruby-crowned Kinglets, Wrens, Downy Woodpeckers, and other winter songbirds tucked into the habitat. On a good day, you might hear Bald Eagles or Kingfishers fly overhead!

This walk is open to birders of all experience levels and is especially well-suited for beginners. We’ll move at an easy pace with frequent stops for viewing and identification. Bring binoculars if you have them, dress warmly, and expect muddy paths depending on recent weather.

Trails are paved throughout the area, including in the parking lot, near the restroom and shelter. The trail includes two covered viewpoints and occasional benches. Bike racks and parking are available on-site, please see the Smith and Bybee website for full transit and access information.

Join us for a winter bird walk at Whitaker Ponds Nature Park led by Nicole. Whitaker Ponds is a small but bird-rich wetland tucked into northeast Portland. This site offers excellent opportunities to observe waterfowl, wetland birds, and songbirds in a compact and accessible setting.

In February, the ponds often host a variety of ducks, including Mallard, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, and American Wigeon. We’ll also be on the lookout for Wood Ducks, which are frequently seen here year-round. Along the pond edges and in nearby shrubs, expect Song Sparrows, Spotted Towhees, and flocks of Bushtits. Overhead, we may see Belted Kingfishers darting between perches, along with Red-tailed Hawks or other raptors passing through the area.

This walk is open to birders of all experience levels and is especially well-suited for beginners. We’ll move at an easy pace with frequent stops for viewing and identification. Bring binoculars if you have them, dress warmly, and expect muddy paths depending on recent weather.

Sidewalks are paved near the parking lot, porta-potty and gazebo, then unpaved for the majority of the loop. Bike racks and parking are available on-site, please see the Whitaker Ponds website for full transit and access information.

Unfortunately due to the combination of temperature, wind, and rain, the Bird Walk at Columbia Children's Arboretum will be canceled today. The stewardship event has not yet been canceled but you can check for updates here:

https://www.columbiaslough.org/events-list/columbia-childrens-arboretum-planting-event

Stay tuned for more walks and hope to see you on the 28th at Whitaker Ponds!

Parking will best be had in the residential neighborhood located on NE Meadow Dr. (https://maps.app.goo.gl/otc9uKFbTPVHBFGD7) we will meet in the middle of the park at the ADA accessible restrooms.

Join us for a morning bird walk at the Columbia Children’s Arboretum, exploring this unique and evolving green-space along the Columbia Slough. This site combines young forest plantings, open areas, and slough-side habitat, making it a rewarding stop for winter birding while also highlighting ongoing restoration efforts in the watershed.

Late winter can be a great time to observe both resident and overwintering species here. We’ll watch for common waterfowl along the slough, such as Mallard, Gadwall, and American Wigeon, while nearby trees and shrubs may hold Song Sparrows, Golden-crowned Sparrows, Anna’s Hummingbirds, and other winter songbirds. Woodpeckers like Downy and Northern Flicker are often active, and raptors, including Bald Eagles and Red-tailed Hawks are regularly seen overhead or perched nearby.

This walk is open to birders of all experience levels and is especially welcoming to beginners. We’ll keep a relaxed pace with time for observation, discussion, and questions. Bring binoculars if you have them, dress for the weather, and expect potentially muddy conditions depending on recent rain.

The walk will conclude in time to seamlessly join the Columbia Slough Watershed Council’s native planting event, which begins at 10:00 am at the arboretum. Participants are encouraged to stay and take part in planting native species, helping support habitat restoration while putting what we’ve observed into action.

If you intend to stay for the natives planting event, please use this link to register in order to be notified for any updates or cancellations!

https://www.columbiaslough.org/events-list/columbia-childrens-arboretum-planting-event

Join us for a late winter bird walk at Camassia Nature Preserve in West Linn. This quiet, protected area along the Tualatin River floodplain features a beautiful mix of oak woodland, wet meadow, seasonal wetlands, and riparian forest, offering excellent birding opportunities in a peaceful setting during the winter months.

In February, Camassia often supports a variety of resident and wintering birds. In the open meadows and shrub edges, we’ll watch and listen for Song Sparrows, White-crowned Sparrows, and other wintering passerines. The oak and mixed woodlands can host Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers, Red-breasted Nuthatch, and Brown Creeper, while Pacific Wrens may be heard singing from dense cover. Overhead and along the river corridor, we’ll keep an eye out for raptors such as Red-tailed Hawk, Cooper’s Hawk, and the occasional Bald Eagle, which are often seen in the area.

This walk is open to birders of all experience levels and is especially welcoming to beginners. We’ll move at a relaxed pace with plenty of time for observation, discussion, and questions. Trails are generally flat and considered easy, but winter conditions may mean muddy or uneven surfaces in places. Bring binoculars if you have them, dress for the weather, and be prepared for cool, damp February conditions.

Join us for an early February bird walk at Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge in southeast Portland. This expansive wetland complex along the Willamette River features a rich mosaic of open water, emergent marsh, wet meadow, and riparian woodland, making it one of the best urban birding spots in the region, especially during the winter months.

In February, Oaks Bottom often hosts a wide variety of waterfowl, including Mallard, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Northern Shoveler, and Green-winged Teal. The deeper ponds may hold Bufflehead, Ring-necked Duck, and Hooded Merganser. Along the marsh edges and shrubs, we’ll listen and look for Song Sparrows, Golden-crowned Sparrows, and other wintering passerines, while Virginia Rail or Sora are possible with patience and a bit of luck. Great Blue Herons and Great Egrets are frequently seen stalking prey, and overhead we’ll scan for Bald Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks, Northern Harriers, and other raptors using the refuge as hunting grounds.

This walk is open to birders of all experience levels and is especially welcoming to beginners. We’ll keep a relaxed pace with plenty of time for observation and questions. The trail begins and ends at a 1/8th mile hill considered “Moderately Easy” but may be difficult for those with mobility concerns. Bring binoculars if you have them, dress for the weather, and be prepared for potentially damp or muddy conditions along the trail.

Join us for an early February bird walk at Orenco Nature Park in Hillsboro. This restored wetland and greenway corridor winds through a mix of open ponds, seasonal wetlands, native shrubs, and riparian trees, creating excellent habitat for birds right in the heart of the Orenco neighborhood. Winter is a rewarding time to visit, as waterfowl and raptors are often active and vegetation is sparse, making birds easier to spot.

In February, the park’s ponds and channels may host Mallard, American Wigeon, Gadwall, Northern Shoveler, and Green-winged Teal, with the possibility of Wood Ducks tucked into quieter areas. Along the edges of the wetlands and trails, we’ll watch for Song Sparrow, Golden-crowned Sparrow, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, and other wintering songbirds moving through the shrubs. Great Blue Herons are regular here, and we’ll keep an eye on snags and open skies for Red-tailed Hawks, Cooper’s Hawks, Bald Eagles, and other raptors hunting over the wetlands and nearby fields.

This walk is open to birders of all experience levels and is especially welcoming to beginners. We’ll move at a relaxed pace with plenty of time for observation, discussion, and questions. Trails are mostly flat packed gravel and considered easy, but surfaces may be wet or muddy depending on recent weather. Bring binoculars if you have them, dress for the conditions, and be prepared for a leisurely winter birding stroll close to home.

MEETING LOCATION PIN HAS BEEN UPDATED AS OF JAN-24-2026, PLEASE SEE PIN BELOW. We will meet on the corner of NE 21st Ave and NE Elrod Dr then walk North West along NE Elrod Dr for about 0.25mi until we reach the slough.
Map (https://maps.app.goo.gl/xEQpAeezqdv6qGfUA)

Parking will best be found on NE Riverside Way and can be found at the following pin: (https://maps.app.goo.gl/9bkP4vRxLAcsG3Gf9)

Join us for a slightly earlier (9:00am) winter bird walk at the Columbia Slough: Elrod Access in northeast Portland, led by Deborah. This section of the Columbia Slough offers a mix of open water, marsh, and riparian habitat, making it a productive spot for winter birding within the city.

During the winter months, the slough commonly hosts a variety of waterfowl, including Mallard, Gadwall, American Wigeon, and Northern Shoveler. We’ll also watch for Bufflehead and Ring-necked Duck on the open water. The reed filled edges and shrubs may hold Song Sparrows, Golden-crowned Sparrows, and other wintering songbirds, while Great Blue Herons and Great Egrets are often seen hunting along the shoreline. Overhead, keep an eye out for Bald Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks, and other accipiters cruising the corridor.

This walk is open to birders of all experience levels and is especially welcoming to beginners. We’ll keep a relaxed pace with plenty of time for observation and questions. Bring binoculars if you have them, dress for the weather, and be prepared for potentially damp or muddy conditions along the trail.

Join us for a winter bird walk at Smith and Bybee Wetlands led by Emma. Though the trail is relatively short, we’ll move at a relaxed pace - so dress warmly and bring a hot beverage if you so choose. One of the largest urban wetlands in the United States, Smith and Bybee is a mosaic of tall cottonwoods, open water, and low wetlands, and remains one of Metro’s best-kept birding secrets.

In winter, the wetlands often host a variety of waterfowl, with chances to see Mallards, Gadwall, and American Wigeon on the water. In the trees and along the edges, we’ll keep an eye out for Ruby-crowned Kinglets, Wrens, Downy Woodpeckers, and other winter songbirds tucked into the habitat. On a good day, you might hear Bald Eagles or Kingfishers fly overhead!

This walk is open to birders of all experience levels and is especially well-suited for beginners. We’ll move at an easy pace with frequent stops for viewing and identification. Bring binoculars if you have them, dress warmly, and expect muddy paths depending on recent weather.

Trails are paved throughout the area, including in the parking lot, near the restroom and shelter. The trail includes two covered viewpoints and occasional benches. Bike racks and parking are available on-site, please see the Smith and Bybee website for full transit and access information.

Join us for a winter bird walk at Whitaker Ponds Nature Park led by Kim. Whitaker Ponds is a small but bird-rich wetland tucked into northeast Portland. This site offers excellent opportunities to observe waterfowl, wetland birds, and songbirds in a compact and accessible setting.

In January, the ponds often host a variety of ducks, including Mallard, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, and American Wigeon. We’ll also be on the lookout for Wood Ducks, which are frequently seen here year-round. Along the pond edges and in nearby shrubs, expect Song Sparrows, Spotted Towhees, and flocks of Bushtits. Overhead, we may see Belted Kingfishers darting between perches, along with Red-tailed Hawks or other raptors passing through the area.

This walk is open to birders of all experience levels and is especially well-suited for beginners. We’ll move at an easy pace with frequent stops for viewing and identification. Bring binoculars if you have them, dress warmly, and expect muddy paths depending on recent weather.

Sidewalks are paved near the parking lot, porta-potty and gazebo, then unpaved for the majority of the loop. Bike racks and parking are available on-site, please see the Whitaker Ponds website for full transit and access information.

Join us for a winter bird walk at Fernhill Wetlands led by Susan. Enjoy a flat, accessible mile-loop trail that will wind between water, trees and bountiful bushes. Fernhill is an official Important Bird Area per the Oregon Bird Alliance. 

Fernhill is an important stop for migrating birds. Here, you can anticipate seeing waterfowl, including herons and egrets, as well as plentiful songbirds and birds of prey. If you’re lucky, you might even see the elusive Virginia Rail!

This walk is open to birders of all experience levels and is especially well-suited for beginners. We’ll move at an easy pace with frequent stops for viewing and identification. Bring binoculars if you have them, dress warmly, and expect muddy paths depending on recent weather.

Trails are paved near the parking lot, restroom and shelter, then unpaved for the majority of the loop. The trail also includes several benches and covered areas throughout. Bike racks and parking are available on-site, please see the Fernhill website for full transit and access information.

Join us for a winter bird walk along the Oaks to Woodlands Trail at the Carty Unit of Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge lead by Kim. This scenic loop passes through oak savanna, mixed woodland, and open fields, offering excellent opportunities to observe both resident birds and winter visitors in a peaceful setting.

Late December is a great time to look for Western Bluebirds, which often form flocks in the oak areas during winter. We may also encounter Acorn Woodpeckers, White-breasted Nuthatches, and Chestnut-backed Chickadees moving through the trees. Open areas and fence lines can host American Kestrels and Red-tailed Hawks, while the surrounding refuge provides chances to spot Northern Harriers, Bald Eagles, and large flocks of geese overhead.

This walk is open to birders of all experience levels. We’ll move at a moderate pace with frequent stops to observe and discuss birds, habitats, and seasonal behavior. Dress warmly for winter conditions, bring binoculars if you have them, and be prepared for muddy trails.

Join us for a winter bird walk at Whitaker Ponds Nature Park lead by Nicole. Whitaker Ponds is a small but bird-rich wetland tucked into northeast Portland. This site offers excellent opportunities to observe waterfowl, wetland birds, and songbirds in a compact and accessible setting.

In December, the ponds often host a variety of ducks, including Mallard, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, and American Wigeon. We’ll also be on the lookout for Wood Ducks, which are frequently seen here year-round. Along the pond edges and in nearby shrubs, expect Song Sparrows, Spotted Towhees, and flocks of Bushtits. Overhead, we may see Belted Kingfishers darting between perches, along with Red-tailed Hawks or other raptors passing through the area.

This walk is open to birders of all experience levels and is especially well-suited for beginners. We’ll move at an easy pace with frequent stops for viewing and identification. Bring binoculars if you have them, dress warmly, and expect muddy paths depending on recent weather.

Join us for a relaxed winter bird walk at Powell Butte lead by Emma. This is one of Portland’s best spots for open-country and woodland birds. We’ll explore a mix of meadow, forest edge, and viewpoint areas, keeping an eye and ear out for birds active during the colder months.

December birding at Powell Butte often includes a variety of raptors, such as Red-tailed Hawks and American Kestrels, soaring over the butte. In the trees and brush, we may encounter Dark-eyed Juncos, Golden-crowned Sparrows, White-crowned Sparrows, and flocks of chickadees. Woodpeckers like Downy and Northern Flicker are common, and we’ll also be watching for Bald Eagles and other winter visitors passing through.

This walk is open to birders of all experience levels. Bring binoculars if you have them, dress for winter conditions, and be prepared for slightly uneven trails. We’ll move at a casual pace and take time to help with identification and discussion along the way!

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