Join us for an early summer 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 early June, Whitaker Ponds should be full of breeding-season bird activity as the ponds, slough, cottonwoods, and dense shrubs come alive with summer sights and songs. Around the water, we may look for Mallards, Wood Ducks, Pied-billed Grebes, Great Blue Herons, Belted Kingfishers, and possibly Hooded Mergansers. The surrounding riparian woodland and brushy edges should offer plenty of songbird activity, including Song Sparrows, Spotted Towhees, Bewick’s Wrens, Bushtits, Black-capped Chickadees, American Robins, and Cedar Waxwings. Early June is also a good time to listen and watch for summer visitors such as Western Wood-Pewee, Black-headed Grosbeak, Bullock’s Oriole, and warblers moving through or settling into the area. Over the ponds and open areas, we’ll keep an eye out for Tree Swallows, Violet-green Swallows, Barn Swallows, and possibly Purple Martins, along with raptors like Red-tailed Hawks passing 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. 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.

We’ll meet at the main parking lot. https://maps.app.goo.gl/VvqHWrL74EQcMNtf6