BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//RAINIER AUDUBON SOCIETY - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:RAINIER AUDUBON SOCIETY X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://rainieraudubon.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for RAINIER AUDUBON SOCIETY REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Los_Angeles BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20240310T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20241103T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20250309T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20251102T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20260308T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20261101T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20270314T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20271107T090000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260513T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260513T200000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20260414T171615Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260414T171621Z UID:10003199-1778698800-1778702400@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Seabirds Live! event in Tacoma: Multimedia storytelling with Eric Wagner and Peter Hodum DESCRIPTION:Inbox URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/seabirds-live-event-in-tacoma-multimedia-storytelling-with-eric-wagner-and-peter-hodum/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=application/pdf:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/SeabirdsLive-8.5x11-Flyer-DIGITAL-1.pdf END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260511T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260512T235959 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20260316T001113Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T003925Z UID:10003194-1778457600-1778630399@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Birdathon Field Trip to Eastern WA DESCRIPTION:Monday\, May 11th\, 2026\, and optional May 12th\, 2026. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJoin Barbara Petersen for a fundraising field trip to Eastern Washington!Collect sponsors and raise Birdathon money to help our Rainier Audubon chapter cover the cost of bringing live bird presentations such as John the Falconer or Craig Moran to our annual Nature Festival and monthly Program Nights. \n\n\n\nTwo options this year for Barbara’s Birdathon field trip. Either ride with Barbara on Mon May 11 and be prepared to stay overnight in George\, Moses Lake or Othello. We’ll drive home Tuesday\, May 12\, with a possible stop for lunch. (We’ll make hotel reservations in advance.) OR\, ride with others and turn around at dusk\, or whenever you like\, on Monday to head back to our side of the Pass to the Renton Park & Ride. \n\n\n\nGather your own Birdathon sponsors before going on this field trip\, OR sponsor Barbara by pledging 25 cents per species found on the trip or any donation amount. All funds will be used to help with costs of bringing live bird presentations to our chapter events. The very popular John the Falconer has been invited to the 2026 Rainier Audubon Nature Festival at Flaming Geyser State Park again this June. \n\n\n\nWe’ll bird locations on Snoqualmie Pass\, in Cle Elum\, Ellensburg\, Vantage\, Frenchman’s Coulee\, and near Wanapum Dam. With a goal of 75 species\, we’ll look for Mountain and Western Bluebird\, Mountain Chickadee\, Say’s Phoebe\, White-throated Swift\, Pygmy and White-breasted Nuthatch\, Yellow-headed Blackbird\, raptors\, songbirds\, waterfowl\, and lovely scenery. \n\n\n\nMeet at 7:00AM on Monday\, May 11th at South Renton Park & Ride\, 205 S 7th St\, just north of Grady Way and Renton Village Shopping Center\, to form carpools if participating on Monday May 11th only. Special plans will be needed to ride with Barbara and avoid leaving cars at the Park & Ride overnight. Bring binoculars\, scopes\, cameras\, layered clothing for varying weather conditions\, lunch\, snacks\, beverages\, sunscreen. \n\n\n\nEmail Barbara (bpbatfan@aol.com)for info about the overnight option. \n\n\n\n Currently RegisteredAttendance: 0 / ∞ \n \n\n Be the first! \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n First*\n \n \n \n\n\n\n Last*\n \n \n \n\n\n\n Email*\n \n \n \n\n\n\n Phone*\n \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n I have read and agree to the terms of this release and indemnity agreement in its entirety.*\n \n Terms and Conditions Page \n\n\n\n CAPTCHA – What is 4 + 2*\n \n \n \n\n\n \n\n \n Comments\n \n \n If you are a human\, do not fill in this field \n \n \n\n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n\n \n Already registered?\n Already registered? \n\n \n Use this tool to manage your registration. \n \n\n \n \n Enter your registered email address* URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/birdathon-field-trip-to-eastern-wa/ LOCATION:South Renton Park & Ride\,\, 205 S 7th ST\, Renton\, Washington\, 98057\, United States CATEGORIES:Birdathon,eBird Event,Fieldtrips ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Western-Bluebird.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260501T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260503T170000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20260318T233243Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T190829Z UID:10003196-1777622400-1777827600@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Grays Harbor Shorebird and Nature Festival DESCRIPTION:Plan to attend the next festival: May 1 – 3\, 2026.May 1: Shorebird viewing at Grays Harbor National Wildlife RefugeMay 2-3:  Festival activities at Hoquiam Middle School\, 200 Spencer St.\, Hoquiam\, WA 98550 \n\n\n\nEach spring\, hundreds of thousands of shorebirds stop to rest and feed along the Washington Coast and in the Grays Harbor estuary during their migration northward. Coming from as far south as Argentina\, these Arctic-bound shorebirds are among the world’s greatest migrants. Some birds travel over 15\,000 miles round trip! The concentration of birds during spring migration offers people a great chance to view a number of shorebird species. With luck you will also see the birds fly together in beautiful formation “murmurations” while trying to escape a Peregrine Falcon. \n\n\n\nGrays Harbor Shorebird Festival  URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/grays-harbor-shorebird-and-nature-festival-2/ CATEGORIES:Bird Festivals END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260430T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260430T140000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20260219T000408Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260322T163152Z UID:10003185-1777543200-1777557600@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:King County Regional Meeting DESCRIPTION:This is a great opportunity to find out what our neighborhood chapters are doing\, and to share our own projects. \n\n\n\nIf you would like to join us\, please contact me at so we can register you for lunch.dan_streiffert@hotmail.com \n\n\n\nThis message is going out to chapter leaders at Birds Connect\, Eastside\, Rainier\, and Vashon.  \n\n\n\nWe have a lot to catch up on at this spring’s in-person Regional Meeting. By then: \n\n\n\n\nThe 2026 legislative session will be complete\n\n\n\nWe may have a new policy lead on staff\n\n\n\nProgress will be underway on Lights Out Washington\n\n\n\nPlanning will be ramping up for Bird Week/ACOW 2026 this October in Bellingham\n\n\n\nSpring birding festivals will be in full swing\n\n\n\n\nIt will also be a great opportunity for our new(ish) VP\, Amanda Kaplan\, to meet your chapters in person. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n← Back Thank you for your response. ✨\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\nEmail(required)\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\nSubmit\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \nΔ URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/king-county-regional-meeting/ LOCATION:Seward Park Audubon Center\, 5900 Lake Washington Blvd S\, Seattle\, Washington\, 98118\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260420T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260420T200000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20260202T013645Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260322T155800Z UID:10003181-1776711600-1776715200@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:"Mighty and Tiny:  The Territorial World of Hummingbirds" DESCRIPTION:by Alyssa J. Sargent \n\n\n\nWhat does a day in the life of a hummingbird entail? Where do they travel\, and which rival is worth attacking? Does it pay off to stay near home\, saving energy for inevitable battle\, or to fly further afield—facing new perils—to find food? Cutting-edge technologies can help us to answer these questions. In my PhD\, I study hummingbirds in Colombia using “on-board” devices\, which we equip to the birds themselves; these tiny electronics allow us to map where individual hummingbirds disappear to\, how active they really are\, and how thick the competition can get at a given feeder. Come join me and take a peek\, up close\, at the swashbuckling lives of the world’s smallest birds! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAlyssa J. Sargent is a PhD candidate and National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellow at the University of Washington\, where she’s a part of the Behavioral Ecophysics Lab. In her current work\, she studies the swashbuckling\, drama-packed lives of hummingbirds in Colombia. Alyssa loves to come up with creative ways to share her research with people—including a bilingual board game\, “Hummingbird Sugar Rush” (“Fiebre de Azúcar en Colibríes”)—to teach people about the decisions hummingbirds must make every day. Throughout her career\, she’s studied birds in Australia\, Portugal\, Ecuador\, Canada\, Puerto Rico\, and numerous states. URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/mighty-and-tiny-the-territorial-world-of-hummingbirds/ LOCATION:Federal Way United Methodist Church\, 29645 51st Ave SWA 98001\, Auburn\, Washington\, 98001\, United States CATEGORIES:Monthly Program Night ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/white-necked-jacobin-profile-scaled-e1774194586747.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260418T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260418T130000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20260220T184456Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260410T025844Z UID:10003187-1776502800-1776517200@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Bass Lake Complex Spring 2026 Bird Walk DESCRIPTION:Revised Date!\n\n\n\nLeaders: Ken Schroeder and Dolly OwenJoin leaders Ken Schroeder and Dolly Owen for a half-day exploration of the Bass Lake Complex Natural Area. We do a one-way walk to explore three different lakes in this lowland basin along a well-maintained trail\, for a total of 1.8 miles. There are only a few gentle uphill sections. We go slowly for birding and nature study. With luck we will observe some spring migrating birds\, and possibly a glimpse of the Mt. Rainier Elk herd. Our walk ends at the mysterious “Sinkhole Lake” with a well-deserved reputation of being bottomless.The Bass Lake Complex is a ten-minute drive from Flaming Geyser State Park. We will meet at Whitney Bridge Park at the intersection of SE Green Valley Road\, and 218th Ave SE. This intersection is just west of Flaming Geyser State Park. Look for our vehicles parked in a gravelly pull-off at this intersection.When all guests have arrived\, we will caravan to Sinkhole Lake. Two cars are parked here while the other two cars shuttle all birders to our starting location at Bass Lake. At the conclusion of the hike\, we shuttle back to the starting point and go our separate ways. Stopping for lunch at the nearby\, and world famous\, “Black Diamond Bakery” is optional.We must have a total of four cars that each seat four to shuttle between the starting and ending points. This bird hike is capped at six guests\, plus two leaders for a total of eight. We remain together for the entire outing.Bring hiking boots\, a water bottle\, a few snacks\, rain gear\, binoculars\, an optional hiking pole\, and your sense of adventure. If the weather is bad\, we will postpone to the following weekend. \n\n\n\n Currently RegisteredAttendance: 0 / ∞ \n \n\n Be the first! \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n First*\n \n \n \n\n\n\n Last*\n \n \n \n\n\n\n Email*\n \n \n \n\n\n\n Phone*\n \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n I have read and agree to the terms of this release and indemnity agreement in its entirety.*\n \n Terms and Conditions Page \n\n\n\n CAPTCHA – What is 4 + 2*\n \n \n \n\n\n \n\n \n Comments\n \n \n If you are a human\, do not fill in this field \n \n \n\n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n\n \n Already registered?\n Already registered? \n\n \n Use this tool to manage your registration. \n \n\n \n \n Enter your registered email address* URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/bass-lake-complex-spring-2026-bird-walk/ CATEGORIES:eBird Event,Fieldtrips ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/54585793448_b46928a971_c.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260418T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260418T170000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20260318T232405Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T190921Z UID:10003195-1776499200-1776531600@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Olympic Peninsula BirdFest DESCRIPTION:Set on Washington State’s North Olympic Peninsula\, between the million-acre Olympic National Park and the Strait of Juan de Fuca\, this region is renowned for its rich birdlife and diverse habitats\, making it one of the Pacific Northwest’s premier birding destinations.Olympic BirdFest takes place each April\, timed perfectly to capture the overlap of wintering birds and spring migration. Species such as Harlequin and Long-tailed Ducks\, seabirds\, and winter songbirds are still present\, while spring arrivals like Rufous Hummingbirds return from Mexico alongside the blooming red-flowering currants. \n\n\n\nExpert-led field trips explore some of the region’s most iconic birding locations\, including Sequim Bay\, Port Angeles Harbor\, Dungeness Bay\, Ediz Hook\, Dungeness Spit\, and the Elwha River. Additional outings venture through forests\, fields\, and prairies to seek out a variety of songbirds. Beyond the field trips\, BirdFest offers engaging presentations\, workshops\, and a Saturday night banquet featuring a special guest speaker and raffle.  \n\n\n\nSee the BirdFest 2025 recap video here \n\n\n\nSequim is the ancestral home of the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe (a partner of the non-profit Dungeness River Nature Center). Their Tribal headquarters are at the head of Sequim Bay at Blyn. A tour explaining traditional Northwest Coast totemic art (totem poles\, house posts\, masks\, and signage) at the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribal Center and their Seven Cedars Resort properties will also be offered. For more information about the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe\, see https://library.jamestowntribe.org/home where you can also find pre-recorded presentations by tribal elders and leaders on the Tribe’s culture and history. \n\n\n\nOlympic BirdFest is the Dungeness River Nature Center’s largest annual fundraiser brought to you in partnership by the Olympic Peninsula Audubon Society and the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe. This event supports hands on environmental education that inspires the next generation of bird lovers. \n\n\n\nOlympic Peninsula BirdFest  URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/olympic-peninsula-birdfest/ CATEGORIES:Bird Festivals END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260416T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260419T235959 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20260224T221702Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T222450Z UID:10003189-1776297600-1776643199@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Harney County Migratory Bird Festival DESCRIPTION:Spend an amazing weekend witnessing the spectacular spring migration in the Harney Basin of Southeast Oregon. View thousands of migratory birds as they rest and feed in the wide-open spaces of Oregon’s high desert. From waterfowl to shorebirds\, cranes to raptors\, wading birds to songbirds\, you’ll see them all! The festival offers non-stop birding activities along with historical and cultural information for all ages. Whether you’re a beginner or a lifelong wildlife enthusiast\, the festival has something for everyone. Don’t miss this extraordinary weekend. The Harney County Migratory Bird Festival is generously organized and hosted for the benefit of our community by the Friends of Malheur Refuge\, Bureau of Land Management\, Bird Alliance of Oregon\, High Desert Partnership\, and Harney County. The festival is held annually in honor of John Scharff\, who served as Refuge Manager at Malheur National Wildlife Refuge for over 34 years — the longest tenure of any on-site manager in the National Wildlife Refuge System. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMigratory Bird Festival | April 16-19\, 2026 URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/harney-county-migratory-bird-festival-3/ CATEGORIES:Bird Festivals ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/46961370155_b88c866c50_c.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260321T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260321T120000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20260320T002309Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260320T003602Z UID:10003198-1774087200-1774094400@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Foothills Rails-to-Trails Coalition Volunteer Work Party DESCRIPTION:Volunteer Work Party | March 21 | Alderton\n\n\n\nJoin Foothills Rails-to-Trails Coalition for a hands-on volunteer work party caring for the Foothills Trail near Spooner Farms in Alderton. \n\n\n\nVolunteers will help care for trees and shrubs planted last spring\, supporting the long-term health of the trail and surrounding landscape. This is a great opportunity to give back\, learn more about trail stewardship\, and connect with fellow community members. \n\n\n\nNo experience is required — tools\, guidance\, and light snacks will be provided. Please dress for the weather and be prepared to work outdoors. \n\n\n\nAfter you register\, we’ll send additional details closer to the date\, including parking information and what to bring. \n\n\n\nSigned volunteer waivers are required annually and must be completed prior to participation.Register URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/foothills-rails-to-trails-coalition-volunteer-work-party/ CATEGORIES:Work Party END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260320T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260322T170000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20260223T182247Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260304T185534Z UID:10003188-1773993600-1774198800@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:2026 Othello Sandhill Crane Festival DESCRIPTION:Join us March 20-22\, 2026\, in the beautiful Columbia Basin\, Othello\, WA. You’ll have the chance to see thousands of Sandhill Cranes\, ducks\, and geese as they gather against the stunning backdrop of the Saddle Mountains and sprawling cornfields. We have a fantastic lineup of wildlife viewing opportunities\, along with engaging talks\, fun tours\, hikes\, and workshops for everyone to enjoy. Experience the warmth of our friendly rural community while taking in the fantastic sight of the Sandhill Crane migration. We can’t wait to see you there!  URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/2026-othello-sandhill-crane-festival/ CATEGORIES:Bird Festivals ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/2026_Poster_Final_JPG_edited.avif END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260316T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260316T200000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20250919T031714Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260222T025317Z UID:10003171-1773687600-1773691200@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:The Joy of Spring and Summer Birds DESCRIPTION:by Thomas BancroftBirds are amazing. Here in Washington\, they range in size from minute hummingbirds to swans and eagles. Some stay here all year; others fly incredible distances in their migration. Thrushes have songs like a woodwind quartet\, while hawks and vultures squawk and screech. These creatures always leave me with a sense of awe. Their hollow bones and air sacks make them light enough to fly\, and their cardiovascular system is far more efficient than the best mammalian athletes. Evolution has blessed the world with more kinds of birds than mammals\, heck\, more perching birds than mammals. This isunquestionably the age of birds. This talk will explore birds that are in Washington during the spring and summer. We will look at common ones\, hard-to-identify ones\, and some rare or more difficult-to- discover ones. Songs\, distributions\, and migrations will all be topics to ponder. Oh\, and then how have they evolved? Our journey will jump from Puget Sound lowlands over the top of the Cascades to Eastern Washington\, all with the goal of leaving us mesmerized by our feathered friends.Perhaps we can make some sense of why birds leave us with wonder\, awe\, and incredible joy.Thomas Bancroft’s lifelong passion for birds and nature has been the driving force behind his illustrious career. His earliest memory is of his mother helping him identify Black-capped Chickadees. He was five. Growing up on a farm\, he was constantly immersed in the beauty of nature. This love for the natural world led him to pursue these interests in undergraduate and graduate school. Thomas holds a Ph.D. in Biology and an M.A. in Zoology\, both from the University of South Florida. He led a research program on Everglades conservation for over a decade\, during which time he helped craft restoration and management plans for this spectacular wild area. URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/the-joy-of-spring-and-summer-birds/ LOCATION:Federal Way United Methodist Church\, 29645 51st Ave SWA 98001\, Auburn\, Washington\, 98001\, United States CATEGORIES:Monthly Program Night ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Perching-Bird-Collage-scaled-e1771728231507.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260216T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260216T200000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20260121T211711Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260217T003159Z UID:10003179-1771268400-1771272000@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Why Washington Matters to Waterfowl DESCRIPTION:by Kyle Spragens \n\n\n\nFor a variety of reasons\, the ducks\, geese\, and swans that rely upon Washington’s waters and wetlands every year\, are often taken for granted or unnoticed. Using insights and stories from projects across the Pacific Flyway\, you will come away with a deeper appreciation and the urge to take a longer look at these migratory masters of the marsh. \n\n\n\nKyle Spragens is the WDFW Waterfowl Section Manager\, coordinating monitoring and research activities statewide. He serves on the Pacific Flyway Study Committee charged with status assessments and harvest regulation responsibilities throughout the Pacific Flyway states. Currently he is the U.S. Chair for the Pacific Birds Habitat Joint Venture Management Board and looks for an opportunity to talk about waterfowl whenever folks are interested. To find out more please visit: https://pacificbirds.org/about-pacific-birds/our-people/kyle-spragens/ \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n3 Billion Birds Lost URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/why-washington-matters-to-waterfowl/ LOCATION:Federal Way United Methodist Church\, 29645 51st Ave SWA 98001\, Auburn\, Washington\, 98001\, United States CATEGORIES:Monthly Program Night ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Screenshot-2026-01-21-at-1.11.33-PM.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260214T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260214T140000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20260117T193718Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260210T001247Z UID:10003178-1771063200-1771077600@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Burien Bird Festival DESCRIPTION: URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/burien-bird-festival-2/ CATEGORIES:Bird Festivals ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/image.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260213T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260216T235959 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20260206T033435Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260206T033641Z UID:10003183-1770940800-1771286399@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Great Backyard Bird Count DESCRIPTION:Connect to Birds\, to Nature\, and with Each Other\n\n\n\nShare your birds with us February 13-16 and be a part of this global event. \n\n\n\nLearn How to Participate \n\n\n\nEnter Birds on eBird URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/great-backyard-bird-count-2/ CATEGORIES:eBird Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Screenshot-2026-02-05-at-7.30.19-PM.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260122T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260122T170000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20260121T215806Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260121T215810Z UID:10003180-1769097600-1769101200@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:A Look Ahead at U.S. Bird Conservation Policy in 2026 DESCRIPTION: URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/a-look-ahead-at-u-s-bird-conservation-policy-in-2026/ CATEGORIES:Webinar ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/T9PgKo6HDMpAVzhAxRMcsOZ0fbP739iY8rMcfBOI.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260119T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260119T200000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20251218T195827Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251218T195937Z UID:10003177-1768849200-1768852800@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Saving the Nisqually Delta DESCRIPTION:by Janine Gates \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSaving the Nisqually Delta is an inspiring drama that captures the voices and efforts of environmentalists who fought proposals by ports\, counties\, cities\, and corporations to industrialize the delta. It also recognizes those who are currently caring for the Nisqually River watershed\, from its headwaters at Mount Rainier National Park to the Nisqually Reach.  \n\n\n\nSignificant threats to industrialize the Nisqually Delta were thwarted by effective citizen activism\, but today\, the Nisqually Delta is still at risk. The cumulative impact of urban and industrial encroachment still threatens the Nisqually Delta and its ecosystem. \n\n\n\nSince publication\, I have been busy giving slide show presentations throughout the Nisqually watershed and beyond. I have lots of stories to share\, and I am grateful to all the organizations and local businesses who have hosted me. I’m booked at events through February 2026!  \n\n\n\nFor more information\, go to my Saving the Nisqually Delta website\, https://savingnisquallydelta.com\, Instagram: @Ja9Olympia\, or Facebook: Saving the Nisqually Delta.  URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/saving-the-nisqually-delta/ LOCATION:Federal Way United Methodist Church\, 29645 51st Ave SWA 98001\, Auburn\, Washington\, 98001\, United States CATEGORIES:Monthly Program Night ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Saving-the-Nisqually-Delta-book-cover.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260117T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260117T170000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20251119T030109Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251230T164636Z UID:10003176-1768635000-1768669200@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Skagit Valley field trip DESCRIPTION:Join Rainier Audubon for a trip north to visit the Skagit Valley. Species we see include Bald Eagle\, SnowGeese\, and American Wigeon\, we sometimes see Northern Harrier\, Northern Pintail\, Green-winged Teal\, Kestrel and shore birds. This trip would for suitable for those with differing abilities\, since a lot of thebirding can be done from the car.Bring: Lunch\, beverages\, and warm clothes. A scope is very welcome.Meet: January 17\, 2026 at 7:30 AM at Kent Station\, near Panera Bread. Park in the lot or nearby parkinggarage.521 2nd Pl N Suite 101\, Kent\, WA 98032https://goo.gl/maps/ATtKwd8aNCzx946T8 \n\n\n\n Currently RegisteredAttendance: 0 / ∞ \n \n\n Be the first! \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n First*\n \n \n \n\n\n\n Last*\n \n \n \n\n\n\n Email*\n \n \n \n\n\n\n Phone*\n \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n I have read and agree to the terms of this release and indemnity agreement in its entirety.*\n \n Terms and Conditions Page \n\n\n\n CAPTCHA – What is 5 + 5*\n \n \n \n\n\n \n\n \n Comments\n \n \n If you are a human\, do not fill in this field \n \n \n\n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n\n \n Already registered?\n Already registered? \n\n \n Use this tool to manage your registration. \n \n\n \n \n Enter your registered email address* URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/skagit-valley-field-trip-3/ CATEGORIES:Fieldtrips ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/39718717344_4c5bf6fa2f_c.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251228T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251228T235959 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20251012T025105Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251211T034858Z UID:10003173-1766880000-1766966399@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Christmas Bird Count 2025 DESCRIPTION:While the month of November may spell Thanksgiving and pumpkin pie to some\, it is also the month to plan ahead for the annual Christmas Bird Counts (CBCs) taking place throughout all of North America and beyond. We have scheduled Rainier’s CBC for Sunday\, December 28th\, 2025. Mark your calendars!The origin of Christmas Bird Counts dates back to the year 1900\, when Frank Chapman\, an ornithologist with the Museum of Natural History in New York City\, challenged people to count birds rather than shoot them as was the custom at that time. Today there are more than 2100 active CBC circles across the US\, Canada and several Latin American and Caribbean countries. \n\n\n\nRainier Audubon\, active in the CBC since becoming a National Audubon chapter in 1980\, fielded six birders and counted 73 species on its first official count\, known as the Kent-Auburn CBC. This annual survey of birds and their wintering habitats continues to increase the understanding of population trends\, and our awareness of habitat change and its impact on birds everywhere. \n\n\n\nWhile this longtime citizen science project is of great value to science\, an important part of a CBC is for participants to have fun on this special day! Everyone is invited to participate\, and everyone is welcome\, whether a new birder of an experienced one. \n\n\n\nThree ways to help: \n\n\n\n1) We have terrific leaders for field teams birding each of the eight areas within the 15-mile diameter Kent-Auburn count circle\, so come on out and join a team. Wear warm\, waterproof clothing and bring a lunch and snacks. \n\n\n\n2) If you live within the Rainier count circle\, count birds at home doing a feeder watch. We have forms for recording your sightings which can be sent to our compiler. \n\n\n\n3) Another way to participate is to join the count dinner team! These generous folks plan\, set up for and prepare a warm meal at the church where our monthly programs take place. \n\n\n\nAll CBC participants are welcome at the dinner at 4PM\, where we warm up with hot food\, review a tally of bird species seen\, and enjoy stories of the day from the field teams.  \n\n\n\nSignup for the CBC Dinner at the Church so we can get a head count for Pizza!\n\n\n\n Currently RegisteredAttendance: 0 / ∞ \n \n\n Be the first! \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n First*\n \n \n \n\n\n\n Last*\n \n \n \n\n\n\n Email*\n \n \n \n\n\n\n Phone*\n \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n I have read and agree to the terms of this release and indemnity agreement in its entirety.*\n \n Terms and Conditions Page \n\n\n\n CAPTCHA – What is 2 + 3*\n \n \n \n\n\n \n\n \n Comments\n \n \n If you are a human\, do not fill in this field \n \n \n\n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n\n \n Already registered?\n Already registered? \n\n \n Use this tool to manage your registration. \n \n\n \n \n Enter your registered email address*\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n\n\n\nFor further information or to sign up\, contact Barbara Petersen\, 253 389 3204\, or bpbatfan@aol.com. URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/christmas-bird-count-2025/ LOCATION:Federal Way United Methodist Church\, 29645 51st Ave SWA 98001\, Auburn\, Washington\, 98001\, United States CATEGORIES:eBird Event,Fieldtrips ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/2021-12-26-DLS_0024.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251215T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251215T200000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20250919T031106Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251216T021147Z UID:10003170-1765825200-1765828800@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Malheur NWR - 2025 DESCRIPTION:by Dan Streiffert \n\n\n\nMeeting Cancelled! \n\n\n\nDan Streiffert is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.\n\n\n\nJoin Zoom Meeting – Starts at 7 pm \n\n\n\nhttps://us06web.zoom.us/j/86845665547?pwd=iylC7JzctWO4rFJD6KoxEnBIPM8KWV.1 \n\n\n\nMeeting ID: 868 4566 5547 \n\n\n\nPasscode: 188932 \n\n\n\nFor the past several years the low accumulation of snowpack and rainfall has resulted in a continual reduction in the size of Malheur Lake\, to the point where the lake has nearly disappeared. But this changed in 2025 with a 150% snowpack. As a result\, there is now enough deep water at the Narrows for Harney and Malheur Lakes to merge. This is both good and bad news. \n\n\n\nThe good news is an abundance of waterfowl throughout the spring with an extension of the nesting season to the point where many of the birds have had 2 – 3 broods of chicks. \n\n\n\nThe bad news is that with water everywhere\, the birds are spread out all over the area\, much of which has flooded making it hard to reach.  The flooding was so bad that the north end of Burns flooded the week before the Migratory Bird Festival that was ultimately cancelled. \n\n\n\nBut there were a few special spots for birding.  Just 3 miles south of the headquarters on the Center Patrol Road (CPR) is Wright’s Pond.  This has never had any water in it in all the years I have been going to Malheur.  This year\, due to the snowpack and modifications in the water canals\, the area became a large lake.   By the end of May 2025\, the lake was full of Avocets and Stilts nesting on numerous islands in the lake. And by this time the birds had become use to the cars and were relatively close to the road. All the nests were about to overflow with new chicks.   And I had to leave the next day. But there was one nest with new chicks… \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSee More URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/malheur-nwr-2025/ LOCATION:Federal Way United Methodist Church\, 29645 51st Ave SWA 98001\, Auburn\, Washington\, 98001\, United States CATEGORIES:Monthly Program Night ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/54433421135_915163cbc3_c.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251129T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251129T120000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20250903T145520Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251021T050501Z UID:10003164-1764406800-1764417600@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Clark Lake Park - Half Day bird walk with Barbara Petersen and Steve Johnson DESCRIPTION:Barbara Petersen and Steve Johnson will lead a bird walk for a fall exploration of Clark Lake Park the Saturday after Thanksgiving. The park offers a variety of habitat types and bird species. Follow trails to the lake and through forest\, wetland\, meadow and even an old orchard. We’ll walk one or two miles at a leisurely place searching for waterfowl\, raptors and autumn passerines. Bring binoculars\, spotting scopes\, cameras\, warm layers\, water and snacks.Meet: Join us at Clark Lake Park at 12520 SE 240th St. in Kent at 9:00 AM \n\n\n\n Currently RegisteredAttendance: 0 / ∞ \n \n\n Be the first! \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n First*\n \n \n \n\n\n\n Last*\n \n \n \n\n\n\n Email*\n \n \n \n\n\n\n Phone*\n \n \n \n\n\n\n \n \n I have read and agree to the terms of this release and indemnity agreement in its entirety.*\n \n Terms and Conditions Page \n\n\n\n CAPTCHA – What is 4 + 3*\n \n \n \n\n\n \n\n \n Comments\n \n \n If you are a human\, do not fill in this field \n \n \n\n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n\n \n Already registered?\n Already registered? \n\n \n Use this tool to manage your registration. \n \n\n \n \n Enter your registered email address* URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/clark-lake-park-half-day-bird-walk-with-barbara-petersen-and-steve-johnson-2/ LOCATION:Clark Lake Park\, 12520 SE 240th St\,\, Kent\, Washington\, 98031\, United States CATEGORIES:Fieldtrips ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/250420-046-2-Enhanced-NR.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251117T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251117T200000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20250919T024756Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251016T234805Z UID:10003169-1763406000-1763409600@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Birding in Northern Peru DESCRIPTION:by Marie and Craig Johnson\, Barbara Peterson \n\n\n\nCraig Johnson\, Marie West-Johnson\, Barbara Peterson – Just birders who love to travel the world to see unusual and endemic birds in many diverse habitats\, meet new people\, and experience new cultures.    \n\n\n\nPuple-throated Sunangle\n\n\n\nNorthern Peru is home to colorful tanagers and hummingbirds\, along with many endemic birds.  We stayed at Waqanki Lodge where fruiting trees and beautiful landscaped gardens attracted tanagers and hummingbirds.  We also visited an easily accessible crevice with roosting oilbirds.  Oilbirds are the ONLY nocturnal frugivore bird in the world.   \n\n\n\nThe centerpiece of our trip was our four night stay at the Owlet Lodge located in the Abra Patricia Reserve.  This is a priority site for the critically endangered Long-whiskered Owlet.  The Rusty-tinged and Chestnut Antpittas can also be coaxed into view at this lodge.  The flying jewel here is the Marvelous Spatula-tail\, an extraordinary hummingbird with a range restricted to a single Andean Valley near the Huembo Interpretation Center. URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/birding-in-peru/ LOCATION:Federal Way United Methodist Church\, 29645 51st Ave SWA 98001\, Auburn\, Washington\, 98001\, United States CATEGORIES:Monthly Program Night ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Blue-necked-Tanager-900.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251020T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251020T200000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20250917T024635Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251016T234924Z UID:10003168-1760986800-1760990400@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Ecology of Our Endangered “Regal” Hawk DESCRIPTION:If you’ve driven through the arid shrub-steppe landscape in eastern Washington and caught a glimpse of an impressive hawk in striking white and rust-colored plumage you’ve probably been treated to an increasingly rare sighting – that of our largest soaring hawk\, the Ferruginous Hawk (Buteo regalis). \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPlease join us as we explore unique aspects of the breeding ecology\, winter ecology\, and migration of this iconic hawk\, and how we are working to recover this endangered species. \n\n\n\nJim Watson is a Wildlife Research Scientist with the Washington Department of Fish andWildlife (WDFW) and the lead researcher for statewide raptor studies. He has spent the past 50 years studying raptors in the western United States and abroad. Jim’s research focus includes raptor population dynamics\, migration ecology\, and management of raptors in human landscapes. His recent work evaluates impacts of wind energy and lead contaminants on golden eagles and ferruginous hawks. URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/ecology-of-our-endangered-regal-hawk/ LOCATION:Federal Way United Methodist Church\, 29645 51st Ave SWA 98001\, Auburn\, Washington\, 98001\, United States CATEGORIES:Monthly Program Night ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Ferruginous-Hawk.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251011T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251011T140000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20250902T020106Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250917T030338Z UID:10003163-1760169600-1760191200@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Fall Color and Fall Birds DESCRIPTION:With Steve Johnson8:00 AM to early afternoonSign up early for this popular annual trip with Steve. Visit picturesque parks and beaches in King County and Pierce County during a great time of year to look for returning fall birds. We will travel to local parks and beaches along Puget Sound\, searching for many species of sea birds and forest birds. This is a good time of year to encounter scenic views and fall color. Expect to walk short distances from the cars. People who wish to leave early may do so.Bring: Lunch\, beverages\, and warm clothes. A scope is very welcome.Meet: 8:00AM at the Redondo Heights Park and Ride\, 27454 Pacific Hwy S\, Federal Way\, WA 98003https://goo.gl/maps/BxnYcdDhbSivzyUS7 \n\n\n\nSign-up: Call or email Steve Johnson\, 253- 941-9852. johnsonsj5@msn.com URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/fall-color-and-fall-birds-4/ CATEGORIES:Fieldtrips ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Coopers-Hawk.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251005T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251005T130000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20250925T022212Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T024030Z UID:10003172-1759654800-1759669200@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Bass Lake Complex Fall 2025 Bird Walk DESCRIPTION:Sunday\, October 12@9:00am – 1:00 pm (Backup Bad Weather Date)Leaders: Ken Schroeder and Dolly OwenJoin leaders Ken Schroeder and Dolly Owen for a half-day exploration of the Bass Lake Complex Natural Area. We do a one-way walk to explore three different lakes in this lowland basin along a well-maintained trail\, for a total of 1.8 miles. There are only a few gentle uphill sections. We go slowly for birding and nature study. With luck we will observe some fall migrating birds\, and possibly a glimpse of the Mt. Rainier Elk herd. Our walk ends at the mysterious “Sinkhole Lake” with a well-deserved reputation of being bottomless.The Bass Lake Complex is a ten-minute drive from Flaming Geyser State Park. We will meet at Whitney Bridge Park at the intersection of SE Green Valley Road\, and 218th Ave SE. This intersection is just west of Flaming Geyser State Park. Look for our vehicles parked in a gravelly pull-off at this intersection.When all guests have arrived\, we will caravan to Sinkhole Lake. Two cars are parked here while the other two cars shuttle eight birders to our starting location at Bass Lake. At the conclusion of the hike\, we shuttle back to the starting point and go our separate ways. Stopping for lunch at the nearby\, and world famous\, “Black Diamond Bakery” is optional.We must have a total of four cars that each seat four to shuttle between the starting and ending points. This bird hike is capped at six guests\, plus two leaders for a total of eight. We remain together for the entire outing.Bring hiking boots\, a water bottle\, a few snacks\, rain gear\, binoculars\, an optional hiking pole\, and your sense of adventure. If the weather is bad\, we will postpone to the following weekend.To register for this outing please email Ken Schroeder at kenschroeder@msn.com.Ken is also at 253-939-7470. URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/bass-lake-complex-fall-2025-bird-walk/ CATEGORIES:eBird Event,Fieldtrips ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Wood-Duck.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251004T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251004T113000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20250912T031148Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250912T031156Z UID:10003166-1759564800-1759577400@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Wild Birds Unlimited Store October Bird Walk DESCRIPTION:Join Barbara Petersen’s next WBU bird walk on Saturday Oct 4 to Browns Point Lighthouse Park. Meet at the Burien WBU store by 8:15am to form carpools\, or at 8:50am at Browns Point Lighthouse Park. \n\n\n\nWe’ll look for passerines along edges of park and for saltwater birds on the Sound. We’ll try to finish by 11:30 and be back at WBU by noon. \n\n\n\nCall Burien’s Wild Birds Unlimited store to sign up\, 206-241-3201 URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/wild-birds-unlimited-store-october-bird-walk/ LOCATION:Browns Point Lighthouse\, 201 Tulalip St NE\, Browns Point\, Washington\, 98422\, United States CATEGORIES:Fieldtrips ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Surf-Scoter.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250915T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250915T200000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20250812T173057Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250815T214916Z UID:10003161-1757962800-1757966400@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Using Native Plants to Attract Insects to our Gardens DESCRIPTION:by Alex Juchems \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBird populations are on the decline as reported in the 2025 US State of the Bird report. The report describes how 229 bird species in the US are at a critical point\, requiring immediate conservation to avoid extinction. At the same time\, insect species worldwide are declining at an alarming rate of 9% each decade as reported in the journal Science. The journal also reported that over the last 150 years\, the world has lost up to 10% of insect species which equates to 500\,000 species that have gone extinct on our watch.The relationship of these two trends\, and how one birder’s journey to moth enlightenment offers hope that we can reverse the decline of both birds and insects\, is what our speaker Alex Juchems will share at the September 15th Rainier Audubon meeting.Alex has been a member of Rainier Audubon Society for nearly 25 years. He has served RAS as a Board member\, Christmas Bird Count coordinator\, and Bird-a-thon coordinator. Most recently Alex provided field support for Puget Sound Bird Observatory’s shore bird surveys as part of the Nature Conservatory’s estuary study at Port Susan Bay near Stanwood\, Washington.He is also one of many RAS birders assisting PSBO in collecting data for their secretive bird surveys. He is currently serving on the Board of the Foothills Trail Coalition\, providing habitat conservation support along the 22-mile trail. He lives and gardens with his family in Bonney Lake. \n\n\n\n\nBird Friendly Backyards URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/using-native-plants-to-attract-insects-to-our-gardens/ LOCATION:Federal Way United Methodist Church\, 29645 51st Ave SWA 98001\, Auburn\, Washington\, 98001\, United States CATEGORIES:Monthly Program Night ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/MG_6095Yellow-headed-Blackbird-scaled-e1755017321721.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250912T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250912T203000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20250828T194739Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250828T200607Z UID:10003162-1757700000-1757709000@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Swift Night Out – Vaux’s Swifts in Selleck\, WA DESCRIPTION:Backup Date: Friday\, September 19 @ 6:00 pm – 8:30 pmLeaders: Dolly Owen\, Ken SchroederJoin us for a “Swift Night Out” in the small town of Selleck\, WA to see the amazing Vaux’s swifts return for the evening to their brick-chimney\, communal roost site. Each May\, thousands of migrating Vaux’s Swifts stop off for a well-deserved rest on their long journey to northern Canada. While the number of Swift’s returning to this site is weather dependent\, and can vary from day-to-day\, we expect to see hundreds or even thousands of birds after sunset. We meet in Covington and carpool to Selleck to minimize our impact on this small community. Participants can also meet in Selleck. In case of rain\, we will reschedule the outing to the following week. See the links below for more details.Meet:6:00 pm at Fred Meyer’s North Parking Lot\, Covington\, 16735 SE 272nd St\, Covington\, WA 98042Directions: We will meet in the north parking lot of Fred Meyers’s in Covington. This is the same shopping center for the Covington Costco. From HWY 18 take the WA-516/SE 272nd ST exit toward Covington. This street is also called Kent-Kangley Road. Just east of the bridge there is a Wendy’s on the right. Either turn right at Wendy’s or at the next stoplight at 168 th PL SE. Find us close to the restaurant parking lot\, near Fred Meyer’s.Bring: Snacks\, drinks\, lawn chair\, and a warm jacket. Binoculars are optional.Access: Easy access with no walking required. Bring along your lawn chair for comfortable viewing.Sign-up: Call or email Ken Schroeder to sign-up or for more information.kenschroeder@msn.com 253-939-7470More Information:https://rainieraudubon.org/advocacy/couting-vauxs-swifts-at-the-selleck-schoolhouse/https://www.vauxhappening.org/ \n\n\n\n\nSelleck Schoolhouse Chimney URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/swift-night-out-vauxs-swifts-in-selleck-wa-5/ CATEGORIES:Fieldtrips ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Vauxs-Swift-Image-e1692757346449.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250607T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250607T160000 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20250109T040712Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250429T180600Z UID:10003147-1749286800-1749312000@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Rainier Audubon Nature Festival 2025 DESCRIPTION:Join us for the 2025 Rainier Audubon Nature Festival at Flaming Geyser State Park. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis wonderful state park is only 15 minutes east of downtown Auburn\, on Green Valley Road. The event is Saturday\, June 7\, 2025\, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.Our feature presentation is a live bird show. “The Falconer” will present several raptors\, including a hawk\, falcon\, owl\, vulture\, and an eagle. Other activities include presentations on native plants\, mushrooms\, bats\, wildlife rehabilitation\, wildlife conservation\, gardening\, astronomy\, geology\, and local birds.The kids can paint birdhouses at the crafts station while you parents enjoy the exhibits. Bird lovers of all ages can learn how to attract our avian friends using nest boxes and feeders\, and bird identification\, and native plant walks will be held throughout the day. Amateur astronomers will have telescopes available to safely view sunspots outside the park lodge.Bring the family and your binoculars along for a day of “Birding and Learning.” This is a FREE ENTRY day at Flaming Geyser State Park. No Discover Pass is required. \n\n\n\nNo food or potable water is available at the park! \n\n\n\nAll presentations and activities start at the park Lodge. \n\n\n\n\nIndoor PresentationsTimeGeology of FGSP10:00 – 10:15“The Falconer” : Live Birds11:00 – 12:45Astronomy: “The Sun”1:00 – 1:30Astronomy: “Dark Skies”1:30 – 2:00The American Kestrel2:00 – 2:30Nature ExhibitsAll dayOutdoor ActivitiesTimeBird Identification Walk9:00 – 10:00Geology of FGSP Walk10:15 – 11:00Bird Walk1:00 – 2:00Native Plant Walk2:00 – 3:00Kestrel Nest Hole Walk2:30 – 3:30Solar Telescope ViewingAll Day\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFlaming Geyser State Park\n\n\n\n\nBest Trails in Flaming Geyser State Parkhttps://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/washington/flaming-geyser-state-park \n\n\n\nPhotos and videos of the parkhttps://flic.kr/s/aHsmHGT2XD URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/rainier-audubon-nature-festival-2025/ LOCATION:Flaming Geyser State Park\, 23700 SE Flaming Geyser Rd\, Auburn\, Washington\, 98092\, United States CATEGORIES:Bird Festivals ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Falconer-2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250605T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250608T235959 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20250320T151632Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250320T151638Z UID:10003158-1749081600-1749427199@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Washington Ornithological Society/Western Field Ornithologists ANNUAL CONFERENCE DESCRIPTION:Yakima Convention & Event CenterYakima\, WA \n\n\n\nhttps://wos.org/annual-conference/current-year/REGISTRATION IS OPEN! \n\n\n\nWestern Field Ornithologists (WFO) and Washington Ornithological Society (WOS) areteaming up for the 2025 Annual Conference. \n\n\n\nNestled between the majestic Cascade Mountains and the serene Columbia River\, Yakima Valley offers an unparalleled diversity of habitats perfect for birding enthusiasts. From alpine tundra and evergreenforests to desert canyons\, grasslands\, and riparian woodlands\, this region is a haven for avian species and their admirers. Whether you are drawn to the open pine forest or marsh wetlands\, Yakima andits neighboring counties provide ideal conditions for seeing a wide range of birdlife in action. \n\n\n\nThe 2025 program will combine the best of both organizations including: \n\n\n\n* Stump the Experts: Bird Quiz Night with Dennis Paulson and Shep Thorp* Sound Identification Team Challenge with Nathan Pieplow* Educational workshops and presentations of original scientific research* Full-day and half-day birding field trips will cover a diverse range of habitats from the wetlands and shrub-steppe of lower elevations to the open forests on the eastern slopes of the Cascades* Over 190 species of breeding birds and migrants are possible through various trips* Woodpeckers are a particular highlight\, with 11 of 12 of breeding woodpeckers possible in Washington on field trips* Yakima and Kittitas Counties have a high diversity of owls; up to nine owl species could be possible on various field trips \n\n\n\nREGISTRATION IS OPEN AND YOU CAN SECURE YOUR HOTEL ROOMS TODAY! VISIT THE WOS CONFERENCE HOTEL INFORMATION PAGE FOR HOTEL RATES AND RESERVATION INFORMATION. \n\n\n\nhttps://wos.org/annual-conference/current-year/ URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/washington-ornithological-society-western-field-ornithologists-annual-conference/ LOCATION:Yakima Convention & Event Center Yakima\, WA CATEGORIES:Bird Festivals,eBird Event END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250603T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250605T235959 DTSTAMP:20260423T120244 CREATED:20250119T003232Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250119T225718Z UID:10003149-1748908800-1749167999@rainieraudubon.org SUMMARY:Eastside of Cascades Birding Field Class - Rare Birds Unique Landscape DESCRIPTION: URL:https://rainieraudubon.org/event/eastside-of-cascades-birding-field-class-rare-birds-unique-landscape/ CATEGORIES:Class ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://rainieraudubon.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Screenshot-2025-01-18-at-4.26.19 PM.webp END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR