📅 Event Details
Date: Saturday, August 15, 2026
Time: 9:00am
Location: We’ll meet at the South parking lot near Sellwood Park
Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BhSU3Exx19qKUKx26
Leader: Emma
🐦 Overview
Join Emma for a late summer morning bird walk at Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge, one of Portland's premier urban birding destinations. Stretching along the east bank of the Willamette River, Oaks Bottom offers an outstanding blend of marsh, open water, riparian woodland, and oak savanna, providing excellent birding opportunities throughout the year.
By mid-August, fall migration is beginning to pick up. Local breeding birds are still abundant while the first waves of migrating warblers, flycatchers, and shorebirds begin passing through the refuge. The changing season means every walk offers something new, making Oaks Bottom an exciting place to explore for birders of all experience levels.
👟 Accessibility & What to Expect
Parking: Parking lot (plentiful)
Restroom Access: Yes (Sellwood Park)
Pace: Easy
Distance: Approximately 2–3 miles
Terrain: The trail begins and ends with a short 1/8-mile hill that is considered moderately easy but may be challenging for those with mobility concerns. The remainder of the route follows mostly flat, packed gravel trails with only minor elevation changes.
This walk is open to birders of all experience levels and is especially beginner friendly. We'll move at a relaxed pace with frequent stops for bird identification, photography, and discussion.
🌿 Habitat & What We’ll See
As migration begins, Oaks Bottom becomes increasingly active with both resident birds and early southbound migrants. We'll explore wetland edges, forest trails, and open viewpoints while searching for a variety of species taking advantage of the refuge's diverse habitats.
Some of the species we'll be looking for include:
Wood Duck
Great Blue Heron
Green Heron
Belted Kingfisher
Osprey
Cedar Waxwing
Willow Flycatcher
Black-headed Grosbeak
Yellow Warbler
Wilson's Warbler
American Goldfinch
Barn, Tree, and Violet-green Swallows
We'll also keep an eye on the marsh for Virginia Rail or Sora, and watch the tree canopy for migrating songbirds making their first southbound journey of the season.
🎒 What to Bring
Binoculars or a spotting scope (if you have them)
Water
Sun protection
Comfortable walking shoes
Bug repellent if you’d like