Western Sandpipers, Black-bellied Plovers, Dunlins, and Surfbirds are just a few of the dozens of shorebird species on display all around the South Beach and vicinity during their annual spring migration and during the Shorebird Festival held last weekend April 29 through May 1. Each year hundreds of thousands of shorebirds stop on their migration northward to feed and rest along the bountiful estuaries, mudflats, marshlands, and beaches of Grays Harbor. With some arriving from as far south as Argentina and traveling over 15,000 miles round trip during their migration, it is no wonder so many are drawn to our area from all over the world just to view this spectacle of nature!
Fair-weather welcomed birders, artists, photographers, scientists and the like from far and wide to harbor. Event headquarters was located at the Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge in Hoquiam and from there folks could take guided and self guided tours at the refuge or are directed to other areas including the South Beach and vicinity. In particular Westport’s ocean beaches and Bottle Beach State Park, are among festivalgoers’ favorite locations. Our area’s close proximity to the ocean offers a uniquely dense concentration of bird species where thousands can be observed feeding and flocking on the open mudflats and beaches. All with a breathtaking river estuary panorama featuring the Cascade Mountain range.
Traditionally held the last weekend in April, the Shorebird Festival is hosted by area businesses, individuals, and groups such as Grays Harbor Audubon Society. Dozens of volunteers work year-round to coordinate this three-day family friendly event, which offers visitors field trips, lectures, a banquet with live auction, and a nature fun fair. The proceeds go to the Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge and to help support conservation outreach and education programs in the area.
The migration continues through the first week of May but many will continue to travel through and nest throughout the warmer months. Enjoy! To learn more the types of birds seen in our area and where to see them or to find out more about the Shorebird Festival visit www.shorebirdfestival.com.
