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Celebrating Our Natural World and the Annual Spring Shorebird Migration

in Grays Harbor County

GRAYS HARBOR SHOREBIRD AND NATURE FESTIVAL

MAY 5-7, 2017

- 22nd Annual -

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P.O. Box 470

Montesano, W

A 98563

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VICE REQ

UESTED

Non Profit O

rg. U.S. Postage

PAID

Aberdeen, WA

Permit #5

See you at the Shorebird and N

ature Festival!

“Searching” by Isaiah Johnson

Hoquiam, Washington and Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge

For All Your Birding Needs

Wild Birds Unlimited Gig Harbor 800-851-2575 [email protected]

www.wbu.com\gigharbor Visit our booth at the Shorebird and Nature Festival.

We’ll have bird lover paraphernalia including scopes and binoculars and lots of things for your backyard birds

Grays Harbor Audubon Society Working for a Sustainable Balance Between Human

Activity and the Needs of the Environment

Stop by our booth at the Shorebird and Nature Festival to learn about the many ways YOU can get involved.

Join a field trip, come to a bi-monthly program, or work on a variety of conservation

and education programs!

Promoting Enjoyment of Birds and the Natural World www.ghas.org

Paid Advertisement

Need Help Identifying a Bird? Friends of Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge Complex

Can Help! Stop by the Nisqually Nature Shop and see the great selection of field

guides, nature books, kid’s books, and outdoor clothing. The Nisqually Nature Shop is operated by the Friends of Nisqually NWR Complex.

This non-profit organization supports programs at Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually and Grays Harbor NWRs and all proceeds from sales go to Refuge programs.

www.friendsofnisquallynwr.org

Paid Advertisements

Paid Advertisement

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PARTNERS AND SPONSORS

Friends of Nisqually NWRC Grays Harbor County Grays Harbor Tourism Greater Grays Harbor, Inc. Hoquiam High School Hoquiam School District Port of Grays Harbor Public School Employees, Hoquiam Chapter

Thanks to all the sponsors for their contributions!

Grays Harbor Audubon Society (ghas.org) City of Hoquiam (cityofhoquiam.com)

Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge (fws.gov/refuge/grays_harbor)

2017 Shorebird & Nature Festival Planning Committee Shannon Anderson, Port of Grays Harbor Jude Armstrong, Grays Harbor Audubon Society Jennifer Cutillo, Grays Harbor NWR Jean Davis, Community Member Jasmine Dickhoff, City of Hoquiam Vashti Engebretson, GHNWR, AmeriCorps Suzanne Hierholzer, Community Member Susette Huett, Community Member Sheila McCartan, Community Member Arnie Martin, Grays Harbor Audubon Society Dianna Moore, Grays Harbor Audubon Society Glynnis Nakai, Nisqually NWR Complex Diane Schwickerath, Grays Harbor Aud. Society Lynn Smith, Grays Harbor Audubon Society Janet Strong, Community Member Jim Ullrich, Wild Birds Unlimited, Gig Harbor Tracy Wood, City of Hoquiam

Would you like to help plan the 2018 Grays Harbor Shorebird and Nature

Festival?

Contact Arnie Martin at [email protected]

for more information.

Big Thanks To Our Sponsors!

www.shorebirdfestival.com

Each 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 formations while trying to escape a Peregrine Falcon.

Shorebird is the name given to the group of birds that are usually found along the shoreline. They include plovers, turnstones, sandpipers, dowitchers, and others. Some shorebirds can be found in Grays Harbor County all year; others only during their migration. A good way to start learning the common shorebirds is to attend the Festival’s shorebird identification class and field trip.

The shorebird spectacle happens every year at Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge and in other parts of the county. People from around the world come to view this event of hemispheric importance. The Festival works to bring people together for this incredible natural phenomenon.


- Celebrating the natural world and the spring shorebird migration.

About Our Cover Artist

Festival Partners

Quinault Indian Nation Volunteer Program, Nisqually NWRC, Olympia Washington Conservation Corps Washington Service Corps Westport Winery, Aberdeen Wild Birds Unlimited, Gig Harbor

Our cover artist, Isaiah Johnson, is now ten years old and in the fifth grade. He is attending Cosmopolis Elementary School and enjoys robotics technology and PE. In his drawing, he wanted to show a mother and baby shorebird looking for food in the mudflats together, so he titled his piece “Searching.” He used mixed media including colored pencils, watercolor pencils, and some paint to create it. Last year, he really

enjoyed the ceremony at the Festival. He is still continuing to draw, and most often likes to draw dragons. After school, he can be found practicing his flips and acrobatics on his family’s trampoline.

About the Poster Contest Each year, 1st-6th grade students in Grays Harbor County submit posters depicting North American shorebirds for the Shorebird and Nature Festival Poster Contest. Place winners are chosen from each grade; the Best of Show is selected from amongst the first place winners. The Best of Show artwork is used in Festival publicity. Congratulations to all the 2016 winners and thanks to all the students and teachers who participated. You can cheer on the 2017 artists during the Poster Contest Awards Ceremony, Saturday, May 6, 1pm at Hoquiam High School.

A Special Thank You To all the lecturers,

field trip leaders, and volunteers who con-

tributed their time and expertise with us.

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Understanding Shorebirds, The Miracle of Migration Speaker: Tim Boyer

Friday, May 5, 7:30pm Hoquiam High School

Dessert Reception prior to talk begins at 6:45pm Tickets may be purchased in advance (see page 12) or at the door for $15

While enjoying Tim’s stunning photographs, you will learn about a variety of shorebirds including the Pacific Golden Plover, Sanderlings,

Wandering Tattlers, Bar-tailed Godwits, and more! The emphasis of

Tim’s talk will be on eight of the 42 common shorebirds found in Washington, which he will use to explore trans-ocean migrations. Find out where and why they migrate and how

they are able to travel so far, often across the majority of the Pacific Ocean! Understanding their remarkable journeys requires looking beyond the North

American borders to where they spend most of their lives. These birds demonstrate the urgent necessity of a global

conservation effort.

You, too, will be shorebird enthusiasts after seeing Tim’s program!

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Tim Boyer, award-winning nature photographer and master birder, presents this program on the epic migrations of shorebirds. Combining his love of the

outdoors and photography with a passion for birds, Tim’s photos capture the stunning beauty and amazing behavior of shorebirds. His award winning

images have appeared in numerous magazines, and his fine art prints are sold at art festivals around the

Pacific Northwest. Tim has a particular love of shorebirds because of their incredible migrations. As a birder and photographer, he is also fascinated by their behavior by the edge of the sea. Tim’s photography

can be found at www.TimBoyerPhotography.com.

CAFES AND RESTAURANTS

8th Street Ale House 207 8th St. 612-3455

Casa Mia Pizza & Spaghetti 2936 Simpson Ave 533-2010

Deidra‛s Deli (Public Market) 1956 Riverside Ave 538-9747

Golden Dragon 710 Simpson Ave. 533-0510

Grizzly Den 300 Emerson Ave. 537-9840

Hum-Dinger Drive-in 104 Lincoln (Hwy 101 N)

533-2754

McDonalds 2501 Simpson Ave. 532-6020

Javalicious Espresso 801 Simpson Ave. 640-4340

Sasquatch Pizza & Wings 204 Lincoln St. 532-1222

Simpson Avenue Grill 825 Simpson Ave. 533-8907

Subway 2700 Simpson Ave. 537-1271

Taqueria Franco 501 Simpson Ave 532-0609

The Jitter House 623 Simpson Ave. 589-8581

Visit the City of Hoquiam‛s website at www.cityofhoquiam.com

THINGS TO SEE IN HOQUIAM

7th Street Theatre - Built in 1928 and designed for Vaudeville‛s live audience, the theater simulates an evening under the stars. The Theatre is listed on the State and National Historic Register. For more information check the website: 7thstreettheatre.com

The Elton Bennett Nature Walk - Elton Bennett was a prominent artist who contributed greatly to the Harbor. The walk, near the house he once lived in, has gravel trails that wind through trees next to a creek. The park is on Grand Avenue off of Hwy 101 North (approximately 8 blocks from the Riverside Avenue Bridge.

9th Street Boat Launch and Pier - This public boat docking area has picnic tables and a nice walk along the Hoquiam River.

28th Street Landing - The tower here provides a great view of the Chehalis River.

Polson Museum - This is the premier History Museum in Grays Harbor and a National Historic Site. For more information go to their website at polsonmuseum.org.

Hoquiam‛s Castle - This magnificent 20-room home was built in 1897 overlooking Grays Harbor by one of the founding lumber barons, Robert Lytle. It is on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Johnny Green Dike - Take a nice stroll on this walkway bordering the Hoquiam River. Start at Public Market (with Deidra’s Deli, a bakery, & craft booths) and walk to the Polson Museum.

Western Sandpiper, Photo by Tim Boyer

(Area Code 360)

Questions? Call (360) 289-5048

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Located in Grays Harbor County on the Pacific Coast, the City of Hoquiam’s history dates back to the 1890’s. Once a booming fishing and logging community, the town has now diversified into manufacturing, producing wood products, and building ships. Hoquiam residents enjoy a rural lifestyle with good schools and low crime. Glorious beaches and countryside, great hunting, camping and fishing opportunities are in their backyard. So are five state parks, the Olympic National Park, and Grays Harbor NWR. We welcome you to our community and hope you take advantage of the many local offerings mentioned on page 16.

Citizen science is a growing phenomena allowing the non-science public access to data collection, monitoring, and research projects across the spectrum of science. The Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team (COASST) is a 17 year old citizen science program with 800 active participants. At 75,000 birds of 175 species found, COASSTers discover the patterns that define "normal" annual signals. And with this almanac, COASST data have been used to assess the impacts of a changing climate and empower thousands of coastal residents to participate in science and conservation.

Julia K. Parrish is a Lowell A. Frankie L. Wakefield Professor of Ocean Fishery Sciences and the Associate Dean of the College of the Environment at the University of Washington. She is also the Executive Director of the Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team (COASST), the largest beached bird program in the world. Julia has been honored as a NOAA Year of the Oceans

Environmental Hero, and has received a Champions of Change award at the White House for her leadership in coastal citizen science.

Dinner: This year‛s Annual Dinner will offer a scrumptious catered meal

by O‛Brien‛s Catering located in Aberdeen. Dinner is served buffet style with your choice of several entree options. Page 12 has information on signing up for this important event.

Fundraising: Participants will have a chance to support the education

program at Grays Harbor NWR. Money raised is used to fund an AmeriCorps member who coordinates the program and provides classroom lessons on shorebirds and conservation to 3rd and 4th graders in Grays Harbor County. The money is also used to provide the bus transportation to the Refuge for participating classes. Last year, donations raised $4,267. We would love to see that amount increase this year.

Saturday, May 6, 5:30pm Elks Lodge, Hoquiam

Advance reservations are required by April 28 5:30pm Social and No-host Bar; 6:30pm Dinner; 7:30 speaker

Seabirds, Citizen Science and a Warming World Speaker: Dr. Julia Parrish

The numbered areas on this map show great bird viewing areas in the Grays Harbor area. The spring shorebird migration (mid April through mid May) boasts the greatest numbers of shorebirds, but there are some shorebirds that stay in these areas year round! You can find a diversity of bird species in Grays Harbor including waterfowl and sea birds. Many of these areas also have wonderful views and walks to enjoy. Grab your binoculars and take a birding tour of Grays Harbor County any day of the year!

AREA MAP

WELCOME TO HOQUIAM ANNUAL DINNER AND SPEAKER

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Festival Headquarters On Friday, until 3pm, events start or are located at the Grays Harbor NWR Office on Airport Way. On Friday starting at 4pm, then all day Saturday and Sunday, the Festival Headquarters is at Hoquiam High School, Hoquiam. From Aberdeen, follow US 101 to Hoquiam. Stay in the left lane onto Highway 109 (Ocean Shores Hwy.), this is also Emerson Ave. Hoquiam High School is on the right 1.1 miles from that intersection. Park in the school lot. See maps on pages 15 and 18.

Registration Pre-registration is recommended for fee events and must be postmarked by April 24th. Registration will be open on Friday from 7am to 3pm at the Grays Harbor NWR Office. Registration continues at Festival Headquarters on Friday from 4pm to 7pm, Saturday from 7:30am to 5pm and Sunday from 8am to 4pm.

Meals Field trip participants may order box lunches using the registration form. The Annual Dinner will be held on Saturday evening; seating is limited and pre-registration is required by April 28. See list of local restaurants on page 16.

Lodging Festival participants may make lodging arrangements directly with area providers. For lodging information call: Grays Harbor Tourism at (800) 621-9625; Greater Grays Harbor, Inc. at (800) 321-1924; or Westport-Grayland Chamber of Commerce at (800) 345-6223.

Weather/Clothing Western Washington weather is unpredictable at this time of year. Plan for wet and cool. Layers, raingear, and boots are recommended. The trail at Grays Harbor NWR is a hard surface and does not require special footwear.

Special Accommodations For those needing special accommodations, please contact Committee Member, Jennifer Cutillo, at (360) 753-9467.

FIELD TRIP DESCRIPTIONS GENERAL INFORMATION

This field trip will take you to the best shorebird viewing areas along the coast! Target birds are 22 species of shorebirds including Snowy Plover, Willet, and Long-billed Curlew. Good numbers of waterfowl and other water species will be encountered along the way. “Streaked” Horned Larks and Lapland Longspurs will also be sought after at Midway Beach Road. There will be some walking but most of the day will involve short visits to key areas in search of shorebirds. Bring or pre-order a lunch and dress appropriately!

Tokeland, Grayland and Westport Loop Friday, 7:30am - 3:30pm Field Trip Leaders: Bruce Labar and Ed Pullen

$45

This beautiful coastal resort town hosts some of the best birding spots on the West Coast with more species per location than anywhere else in the state of Washington. The tour will visit a variety of habitats and upwards of 60 species may be found. Highlights on this trip include: Semipalmated Plover, Whimbrel, Marbled Godwit, Sanderling, Wandering Tattler, Surfbird, and Rock Sandpiper.

Ocean Shores Friday, 8am - 3pm Field Trip Leaders: Scott Morrison and Dave Richardson Saturday, 8:30am - 3:30pm Field Trip Leaders: Phil Kelley and Mary Russell

$35

Huynisisoos is a great vantage point from which to observe seabirds over the open ocean. Pelagic Cormorants, Common Murres, and Tufted Puffins nest in the scenic seastacks. This may be the southern most nesting area for the “Sooty” Fox Sparrow. Huynisisoos is on Quinault Tribal lands and a Tribal guide will accompany the trip. Uneven, easy to moderate path; wear appropriate footwear.

Huynisisoos Saturday, 9am - 3pm Field Trip Leaders: Marcus Roening, Faye McAdams Hands, and Diane Yorgason-Quinn

$40 Lesser Yellowlegs photo by Michael Schramm/USFWS

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Grays Harbor Shorebird and Nature Festival

2017 Registration Form, page 2 Friday May 5 Field Trip, Tokeland/Westport (7:30am-3:30pm) …………... $45 Field Trip, Ocean Shores (8am-3pm)……………....…………. $35 Keynote Speaker, Tim Boyer (7:30pm-9pm)………………….. $15

Dessert reception prior to lecture starts at 6:45pm Saturday May 6 Lecture, Shorebird Identification (8am-9am)…………………. $10 Field Trip, Ocean Shores (8:30am-3:30pm)…………………… $35 Field Trip, Huynisisoos (9am-3pm)…………………………….. $40 Field Trip, Shorebirds for Beginners (9:15am-11:45am)…….. $15 Lecture, Antarctica: Past, Present, & Penguins (3:30-4:30pm) $10 Annual Dinner and speaker (5:30pm-9pm)……………………. $25 Note: Dinner reservations must be received by April 28. Please select:

Vegetarian Chicken Beef

Sunday May 7 Field Trip, Westport (8am-3:30pm)………………….………… $35 Lecture, The Peregrine Falcon (2pm-3pm)……………………. $10 Box Lunches Box Lunch Friday______________________________________ $8

(fill in field trip name)

Box Lunch Saturday____________________________________ $8 (fill in field trip name)

Box Lunch Sunday_____________________________________ $8 (fill in field trip name)

Vegetarian Turkey Ham


Box lunches include sandwich, fruit, and pop, made fresh and yummy by Deidra’s Deli, 1956 Riverside Avenue, Hoquiam, (360) 538-5880.

Be sure to complete page 1 of this form with your name and address.

FIELD TRIP DESCRIPTIONS

A bus will take you to the Sandpiper Trail at Grays Harbor NWR where you will walk to the prime shorebird viewing area at the tip of Bowerman Peninsula. As the shorebirds gather on the mudflats, you can learn to distinguish a Western Sandpiper from a Dunlin. Other possible birds include: Least Sandpiper, Black-bellied Plover, Red Knot and Peregrine Falcon.

Another special coastal town, Westport, is famous for its picturesque marina, fishing, and whale watching trips. Excellent birding places are the Westport (South) Jetty and Half Moon Bay, Johns River Wildlife Area, and Bottle Beach State Park. Scores of species will be found including: Greater yellowlegs, Red knot, Sanderling, and Western gull.

Shorebirds for Beginners Saturday, 9:15am - 11:45am Field Trip Leaders: Scott Morrison and Art Pavey

Westport Sunday, 8am - 3:30pm Field Trip Leaders: Phil Kelley and Mary O’Neil

$15

$35

FREE


Guided Walks Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge

Join us on a guided walk to the prime shorebird viewing area along the Sandpiper Trail at the Refuge. Knowledgeable guides will provide infor-mation about the Refuge and other wildlife and plants of interest along the trail. These walks are free and open to the public. The guides will have spotting scopes for better viewing. Binoculars are recommended.

Friday, 9am - 11am and Sunday, 11am - 1pm

Field trip participants heading out to the beach

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At the Birding Marketplace you will find a variety of vendors who have items for every level of nature enthusiast! There will be nature books and field guides, photographs, a variety of hand-crafted items, and things to enhance your backyard birding. Also, local organizations will be on hand to answer questions and provide information about their organization. For a list of vendors and exhibitors, see the festival website at www.shorebirdfestival.com.

BIRDING MARKETPLACE


2017 Registration Form, page 1 (for events with a fee)

Pre-registration must be postmarked by April 24th. Registrations will be filled in the order payment is received. Registrations will be taken at the time of the events as space permits. Registrations received by April 28th will be confirmed by e-mail or phone. Prices are per person, per event. There is no registration fee other than the

fee for each event.

Mail registration form with payment to: Registrar, GH Shorebird and Nature Festival

PO Box 2165 Ocean Shores, WA 98569

Make checks payable to: Grays Harbor Shorebird Festival

Your Name________________________________________________ Address___________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ Phone______________________ E-mail_________________________ Total Fees Enclosed $___________________________

Be sure to make your event choices on the other side of this form!

Where did you hear about this Festival?

Direct Mailing

Friend

Audubon Newsletter

Attended Previous Year

Newspaper____________________

Other_________________________

Registration Questions? (360) 289-5048

e-mail: [email protected]

Did you know? Proceeds from the Shorebird Festival help fund education programs and scientific research at GHNWR. Thanks to all the volunteers, trip leaders, lecturers, and sponsors who make this possible.

Shorebird identification can be tricky. With the help of experienced birders, you will become familiar with the more common shorebirds so that you can identify them in the field. You are encouraged to follow up this lecture with the “Shorebirds for Beginners” Saturday field trip to Grays Harbor NWR or the free guided walk on Sunday.

Shorebird Identification Basics Saturday, 8am - 9am Lecturer: Scott Morrison

Able to dive at speeds in excess of 200 miles per hour in pursuit of prey, the Peregrine Falcon is the fastest animal on the planet! While it is common knowledge that peregrines are fierce hunters, many people are unaware that they also scavenge for food similar to Turkey Vultures and gulls. Dan Varland and colleagues have documented this behavior during more than 30 years of raptor surveys on Washington’s coastal beaches. Dan will share photos of peregrine scavenging and discuss the unique qualities of the Pacific Northwest coast that make scavenging advantageous to Peregrine Falcons.

The Peregrine Falcon: Hunter and Scavenger Sunday, 2pm - 3pm Lecturer: Dr. Dan Varland Founder and Executive Director of Coastal Raptors

LECTURES

$10

$10

Join us for a photographic look at five of the six penguin species that call Antarctica home. Along with a brief look at history and the politics of the frozen continent, learn about the lives of some of its most fascinating inhabitants.

Antarctica: Past, Present, and Penguins Saturday, 3:30pm - 4:30pm Lecturer: Nancy Wells

$10

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Nature Fun Fair Saturday, 9am - 5pm Sunday, 9am - 4pm The Fun Fair has activities for all ages to discover their artistic side and learn about nature. Wildlife art projects and activities include Shorebird on a Stick, Thumbprint art, Mask Making, and more!

Mudflat Meals: See What Shorebirds Have for Dinner Saturday, 9am - 4pm Estuaries are teeming with life even in the most unexpected places. Some mudflats are estimated to contain as many as 40,000 organisms per cubic

inch of mud! Learn about the amazing critters living in the mudflats. Come see them yourself through microscopes; located in the Fun Fair.

Be a Shorebird in the Procession of the Shorebirds! Saturday, Mask Making: 9am - 5pm; Procession: 2pm Make cool bird masks in the Fun Fair area any time Saturday from 9am to 5pm. Join in the Procession of the Shorebirds in front of Hoquiam High School at 2pm just after the Poster Contest Awards Ceremony. You can also bring your own bird or nature related costume for the parade.

Shorebird Festival Poster Contest Awards Ceremony Saturday, 1pm - 1:30pm Come and help cheer on the 2017 Poster Contest Winners during the awards ceremony. The poster contest is open to Grays Harbor County students, grades 1-6. Winning posters are displayed at the Festival Headquarters.

The Shorebird Education Program is an opportunity for 3rd and 4th grade students in Grays Harbor County to learn about shorebirds and shorebird conservation. The program is offered by Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge with funding from partner organizations including Grays Harbor Audubon Society, the Grays Harbor Shorebird and Nature Festival, and the Washington Service Corps. The program is hands-on and multidisciplinary and provides a science-based curriculum to local schools.

Students in the program receive six classroom lessons through the school year and a free field trip to Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge during the spring shorebird migration. During in-class activities, the students learn about the science of shorebirds and the wildlife refuge. Topics range from spectacular shorebird adaptations to the wonders of migration. The Shorebird Education Program provides a wonderful opportunity for elementary-aged students to develop their skills in scientific inquiry and to gain an appreciation of nature in a truly natural setting!

The Shorebird Education Program is completely free to participating schools. Proceeds from the Shorebird and Nature Festival make this possible.

Festival proceeds: help pay the cost share match for the AmeriCorps member who coordinates the program.

pays for the cost of the buses for field trips to the Refuge.

Your participation in Festival events and donations during the Annual Dinner make this education program possible.

Thank you for your help and support!

RUN FOR THE BIRDS

Festival Run for the Birds Saturday 9am—10am Hoquiam City Hall, 609 8th Street Registration for the Run begins at 9am and the run starts at 10am. The run includes a 2 mile run/walk, a 5K, and a 10K run. The cost is $5 to run/walk and $15 to run/walk with a T-shirt to keep.

$

SHOREBIRD EDUCATION PROGRAM FREE FAMILY EVENTS

Proceeds from the Shorebird and Nature Festival help fund the Shorebird Education Program!

Viewing shorebirds during a Refuge field trip

Shorebird adaptations activity

Procession of the Shorebirds!

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Friday 6:50am-12:50pm Best Shorebird Viewing at Grays Harbor NWR

7:00am - 3:00pm Festival Information and Registration at Grays Harbor NWR on Airport Way

7:30am - 3:30pm Field Trip to Tokeland, Grayland, and Westport

8:00am - 3:00pm Field Trip to Ocean Shores

9:00am-11:00am Guided Walk at Grays Harbor NWR

4:00pm - 7:00pm Festival Information and Registration at High School

6:45pm - 9:00pm Keynote Speaker and dessert reception

Saturday 7:30am - 5:00pm Festival Information and Registration at High School

8:00am - 3:00pm Shuttle Bus to Refuge

8:00am - 2:00pm Best Shorebird Viewing at Grays Harbor NWR

8:00am - 9:00am Lecture on Shorebird Identification Basics


9:00am - 3:00pm Field Trip to Huynisisoos

9:00am-10:00am Shorebird Festival Run for the Birds

9:00am - 5:00pm Birding Marketplace with Vendors and Exhibitors

9:00am - 5:00pm Nature Fun Fair

9:00am - 5:00pm Mudflat Meals at Nature Fun Fair

9:15am-11:45pm Field Trip to Grays Harbor NWR - Birds for Beginners

1:00pm - 1:30pm Poster Contest Awards Ceremony

2:00pm - 2:30pm Be A Shorebird and Procession of the Shorebirds

3:30pm - 4:30pm Lecture, Antarctica: Past, Present, and Penguins

5:30pm - 6:30pm Social Hour with no-host bar

5:30pm - 9:00pm Annual Dinner and Speaker

Sunday 8:00am - 4:00pm Festival Information and Registration at High School


8:00am - 3:30pm Field Trip to Westport




11:00am-1:00pm Guided Walk at Grays Harbor NWR

2:00pm - 3:00pm Lecture, The Peregrine Falcon: Hunter & Scavenger

Shorebird Viewing at Grays Harbor NWR Along the Refuge’s Sandpiper Trail shorebirds can be viewed from a number of spots. During peak viewing times, volunteers with scopes will be available to help answer questions. At the Refuge, shorebirds can be viewed best during the period about 3 hours before to 3 hours after high tide. During high tide, birds are closer and more concentrated for better viewing. However, weather conditions such as wind and storms can greatly alter tides in Grays Harbor so good shorebird viewing is dependent on a number of factors and can be unpredictable. For coastal viewing, tidal cycles are not as critical. High tides along the coast are about 20 minutes earlier than at the Refuge.

Free Guided Walks Guided walks will be held on Friday from 9am - 11am and Sunday from 11am - 1pm. Meet at the Refuge Kiosk on Airport Way. These walks are free and open to the public.

The Shuttle Bus A Shuttle Bus will run continuously between Hoquiam High School and the Sandpiper Trail from 8am and 3pm on Saturday and Sunday. The suggested donation is $1 per rider.

2017 High Tide At Refuge Best Viewing Times

Friday, May 5 9:50am 6:50am - 12:50pm

Saturday, May 6 11:00am 8:00am - 2:00pm

Sunday, May 7 11:50am 8:50am - 2:50pm

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Friday 6:50am-12:50pm Best Shorebird Viewing at Grays Harbor NWR

7:00am - 3:00pm Festival Information and Registration at Grays Harbor NWR on Airport Way

7:30am - 3:30pm Field Trip to Tokeland, Grayland, and Westport


9:00am-11:00am Guided Walk at Grays Harbor NWR

4:00pm - 7:00pm Festival Information and Registration at High School

6:45pm - 9:00pm Keynote Speaker and dessert reception

Saturday 7:30am - 5:00pm Festival Information and Registration at High School



8:00am - 9:00am Lecture on Shorebird Identification Basics


9:00am - 3:00pm Field Trip to Huynisisoos

9:00am-10:00am Shorebird Festival Run for the Birds



9:00am - 5:00pm Mudflat Meals at Nature Fun Fair

9:15am-11:45pm Field Trip to Grays Harbor NWR - Birds for Beginners

1:00pm - 1:30pm Poster Contest Awards Ceremony

2:00pm - 2:30pm Be A Shorebird and Procession of the Shorebirds

3:30pm - 4:30pm Lecture, Antarctica: Past, Present, and Penguins

5:30pm - 6:30pm Social Hour with no-host bar

5:30pm - 9:00pm Annual Dinner and Speaker

Sunday 8:00am - 4:00pm Festival Information and Registration at High School


8:00am - 3:30pm Field Trip to Westport




11:00am-1:00pm Guided Walk at Grays Harbor NWR

2:00pm - 3:00pm Lecture, The Peregrine Falcon: Hunter & Scavenger

Shorebird Viewing at Grays Harbor NWR Along the Refuge’s Sandpiper Trail shorebirds can be viewed from a number of spots. During peak viewing times, volunteers with scopes will be available to help answer questions. At the Refuge, shorebirds can be viewed best during the period about 3 hours before to 3 hours after high tide. During high tide, birds are closer and more concentrated for better viewing. However, weather conditions such as wind and storms can greatly alter tides in Grays Harbor so good shorebird viewing is dependent on a number of factors and can be unpredictable. For coastal viewing, tidal cycles are not as critical. High tides along the coast are about 20 minutes earlier than at the Refuge.

Free Guided Walks Guided walks will be held on Friday from 9am - 11am and Sunday from 11am - 1pm. Meet at the Refuge Kiosk on Airport Way. These walks are free and open to the public.

The Shuttle Bus A Shuttle Bus will run continuously between Hoquiam High School and the Sandpiper Trail from 8am and 3pm on Saturday and Sunday. The suggested donation is $1 per rider.

2017 High Tide At Refuge Best Viewing Times

Friday, May 5 9:50am 6:50am - 12:50pm

Saturday, May 6 11:00am 8:00am - 2:00pm

Sunday, May 7 11:50am 8:50am - 2:50pm

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Nature Fun Fair Saturday, 9am - 5pm Sunday, 9am - 4pm The Fun Fair has activities for all ages to discover their artistic side and learn about nature. Wildlife art projects and activities include Shorebird on a Stick, Thumbprint art, Mask Making, and more!

Mudflat Meals: See What Shorebirds Have for Dinner Saturday, 9am - 4pm Estuaries are teeming with life even in the most unexpected places. Some mudflats are estimated to contain as many as 40,000 organisms per cubic

inch of mud! Learn about the amazing critters living in the mudflats. Come see them yourself through microscopes; located in the Fun Fair.

Be a Shorebird in the Procession of the Shorebirds! Saturday, Mask Making: 9am - 5pm; Procession: 2pm Make cool bird masks in the Fun Fair area any time Saturday from 9am to 5pm. Join in the Procession of the Shorebirds in front of Hoquiam High School at 2pm just after the Poster Contest Awards Ceremony. You can also bring your own bird or nature related costume for the parade.

Shorebird Festival Poster Contest Awards Ceremony Saturday, 1pm - 1:30pm Come and help cheer on the 2017 Poster Contest Winners during the awards ceremony. The poster contest is open to Grays Harbor County students, grades 1-6. Winning posters are displayed at the Festival Headquarters.

The Shorebird Education Program is an opportunity for 3rd and 4th grade students in Grays Harbor County to learn about shorebirds and shorebird conservation. The program is offered by Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge with funding from partner organizations including Grays Harbor Audubon Society, the Grays Harbor Shorebird and Nature Festival, and the Washington Service Corps. The program is hands-on and multidisciplinary and provides a science-based curriculum to local schools.

Students in the program receive six classroom lessons through the school year and a free field trip to Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge during the spring shorebird migration. During in-class activities, the students learn about the science of shorebirds and the wildlife refuge. Topics range from spectacular shorebird adaptations to the wonders of migration. The Shorebird Education Program provides a wonderful opportunity for elementary-aged students to develop their skills in scientific inquiry and to gain an appreciation of nature in a truly natural setting!

The Shorebird Education Program is completely free to participating schools. Proceeds from the Shorebird and Nature Festival make this possible.

Festival proceeds: help pay the cost share match for the AmeriCorps member who coordinates the program.

pays for the cost of the buses for field trips to the Refuge.

Your participation in Festival events and donations during the Annual Dinner make this education program possible.

Thank you for your help and support!

RUN FOR THE BIRDS

Festival Run for the Birds Saturday 9am—10am Hoquiam City Hall, 609 8th Street Registration for the Run begins at 9am and the run starts at 10am. The run includes a 2 mile run/walk, a 5K, and a 10K run. The cost is $5 to run/walk and $15 to run/walk with a T-shirt to keep.

$

SHOREBIRD EDUCATION PROGRAM FREE FAMILY EVENTS

Proceeds from the Shorebird and Nature Festival help fund the Shorebird Education Program!

Viewing shorebirds during a Refuge field trip

Shorebird adaptations activity

Procession of the Shorebirds!

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At the Birding Marketplace you will find a variety of vendors who have items for every level of nature enthusiast! There will be nature books and field guides, photographs, a variety of hand-crafted items, and things to enhance your backyard birding. Also, local organizations will be on hand to answer questions and provide information about their organization. For a list of vendors and exhibitors, see the festival website at www.shorebirdfestival.com.

BIRDING MARKETPLACE


2017 Registration Form, page 1 (for events with a fee)

Pre-registration must be postmarked by April 24th. Registrations will be filled in the order payment is received. Registrations will be taken at the time of the events as space permits. Registrations received by April 28th will be confirmed by e-mail or phone. Prices are per person, per event. There is no registration fee other than the

fee for each event.

Mail registration form with payment to: Registrar, GH Shorebird and Nature Festival

PO Box 2165 Ocean Shores, WA 98569

Make checks payable to: Grays Harbor Shorebird Festival

Your Name________________________________________________ Address___________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ Phone______________________ E-mail_________________________ Total Fees Enclosed $___________________________

Be sure to make your event choices on the other side of this form!

Where did you hear about this Festival?

Direct Mailing

Friend

Audubon Newsletter

Attended Previous Year

Newspaper____________________

Other_________________________

Registration Questions? (360) 289-5048

e-mail: [email protected]

Did you know? Proceeds from the Shorebird Festival help fund education programs and scientific research at GHNWR. Thanks to all the volunteers, trip leaders, lecturers, and sponsors who make this possible.

Shorebird identification can be tricky. With the help of experienced birders, you will become familiar with the more common shorebirds so that you can identify them in the field. You are encouraged to follow up this lecture with the “Shorebirds for Beginners” Saturday field trip to Grays Harbor NWR or the free guided walk on Sunday.

Shorebird Identification Basics Saturday, 8am - 9am Lecturer: Scott Morrison

Able to dive at speeds in excess of 200 miles per hour in pursuit of prey, the Peregrine Falcon is the fastest animal on the planet! While it is common knowledge that peregrines are fierce hunters, many people are unaware that they also scavenge for food similar to Turkey Vultures and gulls. Dan Varland and colleagues have documented this behavior during more than 30 years of raptor surveys on Washington’s coastal beaches. Dan will share photos of peregrine scavenging and discuss the unique qualities of the Pacific Northwest coast that make scavenging advantageous to Peregrine Falcons.

The Peregrine Falcon: Hunter and Scavenger Sunday, 2pm - 3pm Lecturer: Dr. Dan Varland Founder and Executive Director of Coastal Raptors

LECTURES

$10

$10

Join us for a photographic look at five of the six penguin species that call Antarctica home. Along with a brief look at history and the politics of the frozen continent, learn about the lives of some of its most fascinating inhabitants.

Antarctica: Past, Present, and Penguins Saturday, 3:30pm - 4:30pm Lecturer: Nancy Wells

$10

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2017 Registration Form, page 2 Friday May 5 Field Trip, Tokeland/Westport (7:30am-3:30pm) …………... $45 Field Trip, Ocean Shores (8am-3pm)……………....…………. $35 Keynote Speaker, Tim Boyer (7:30pm-9pm)………………….. $15

Dessert reception prior to lecture starts at 6:45pm Saturday May 6 Lecture, Shorebird Identification (8am-9am)…………………. $10 Field Trip, Ocean Shores (8:30am-3:30pm)…………………… $35 Field Trip, Huynisisoos (9am-3pm)…………………………….. $40 Field Trip, Shorebirds for Beginners (9:15am-11:45am)…….. $15 Lecture, Antarctica: Past, Present, & Penguins (3:30-4:30pm) $10 Annual Dinner and speaker (5:30pm-9pm)……………………. $25 Note: Dinner reservations must be received by April 28. Please select:

Vegetarian Chicken Beef

Sunday May 7 Field Trip, Westport (8am-3:30pm)………………….………… $35 Lecture, The Peregrine Falcon (2pm-3pm)……………………. $10 Box Lunches Box Lunch Friday______________________________________ $8

(fill in field trip name)

Box Lunch Saturday____________________________________ $8 (fill in field trip name)

Box Lunch Sunday_____________________________________ $8 (fill in field trip name)



Box lunches include sandwich, fruit, and pop, made fresh and yummy by Deidra’s Deli, 1956 Riverside Avenue, Hoquiam, (360) 538-5880.

Be sure to complete page 1 of this form with your name and address.

FIELD TRIP DESCRIPTIONS

A bus will take you to the Sandpiper Trail at Grays Harbor NWR where you will walk to the prime shorebird viewing area at the tip of Bowerman Peninsula. As the shorebirds gather on the mudflats, you can learn to distinguish a Western Sandpiper from a Dunlin. Other possible birds include: Least Sandpiper, Black-bellied Plover, Red Knot and Peregrine Falcon.

Another special coastal town, Westport, is famous for its picturesque marina, fishing, and whale watching trips. Excellent birding places are the Westport (South) Jetty and Half Moon Bay, Johns River Wildlife Area, and Bottle Beach State Park. Scores of species will be found including: Greater yellowlegs, Red knot, Sanderling, and Western gull.

Shorebirds for Beginners Saturday, 9:15am - 11:45am Field Trip Leaders: Scott Morrison and Art Pavey

Westport Sunday, 8am - 3:30pm Field Trip Leaders: Phil Kelley and Mary O’Neil

$15

$35

FREE


Guided Walks Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge

Join us on a guided walk to the prime shorebird viewing area along the Sandpiper Trail at the Refuge. Knowledgeable guides will provide infor-mation about the Refuge and other wildlife and plants of interest along the trail. These walks are free and open to the public. The guides will have spotting scopes for better viewing. Binoculars are recommended.

Friday, 9am - 11am and Sunday, 11am - 1pm

Field trip participants heading out to the beach

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Festival Headquarters On Friday, until 3pm, events start or are located at the Grays Harbor NWR Office on Airport Way. On Friday starting at 4pm, then all day Saturday and Sunday, the Festival Headquarters is at Hoquiam High School, Hoquiam. From Aberdeen, follow US 101 to Hoquiam. Stay in the left lane onto Highway 109 (Ocean Shores Hwy.), this is also Emerson Ave. Hoquiam High School is on the right 1.1 miles from that intersection. Park in the school lot. See maps on pages 15 and 18.

Registration Pre-registration is recommended for fee events and must be postmarked by April 24th. Registration will be open on Friday from 7am to 3pm at the Grays Harbor NWR Office. Registration continues at Festival Headquarters on Friday from 4pm to 7pm, Saturday from 7:30am to 5pm and Sunday from 8am to 4pm.

Meals Field trip participants may order box lunches using the registration form. The Annual Dinner will be held on Saturday evening; seating is limited and pre-registration is required by April 28. See list of local restaurants on page 16.

Lodging Festival participants may make lodging arrangements directly with area providers. For lodging information call: Grays Harbor Tourism at (800) 621-9625; Greater Grays Harbor, Inc. at (800) 321-1924; or Westport-Grayland Chamber of Commerce at (800) 345-6223.

Weather/Clothing Western Washington weather is unpredictable at this time of year. Plan for wet and cool. Layers, raingear, and boots are recommended. The trail at Grays Harbor NWR is a hard surface and does not require special footwear.

Special Accommodations For those needing special accommodations, please contact Committee Member, Jennifer Cutillo, at (360) 753-9467.

FIELD TRIP DESCRIPTIONS GENERAL INFORMATION

This field trip will take you to the best shorebird viewing areas along the coast! Target birds are 22 species of shorebirds including Snowy Plover, Willet, and Long-billed Curlew. Good numbers of waterfowl and other water species will be encountered along the way. “Streaked” Horned Larks and Lapland Longspurs will also be sought after at Midway Beach Road. There will be some walking but most of the day will involve short visits to key areas in search of shorebirds. Bring or pre-order a lunch and dress appropriately!

Tokeland, Grayland and Westport Loop Friday, 7:30am - 3:30pm Field Trip Leaders: Bruce Labar and Ed Pullen

$45

This beautiful coastal resort town hosts some of the best birding spots on the West Coast with more species per location than anywhere else in the state of Washington. The tour will visit a variety of habitats and upwards of 60 species may be found. Highlights on this trip include: Semipalmated Plover, Whimbrel, Marbled Godwit, Sanderling, Wandering Tattler, Surfbird, and Rock Sandpiper.

Ocean Shores Friday, 8am - 3pm Field Trip Leaders: Scott Morrison and Dave Richardson Saturday, 8:30am - 3:30pm Field Trip Leaders: Phil Kelley and Mary Russell

$35

Huynisisoos is a great vantage point from which to observe seabirds over the open ocean. Pelagic Cormorants, Common Murres, and Tufted Puffins nest in the scenic seastacks. This may be the southern most nesting area for the “Sooty” Fox Sparrow. Huynisisoos is on Quinault Tribal lands and a Tribal guide will accompany the trip. Uneven, easy to moderate path; wear appropriate footwear.

Huynisisoos Saturday, 9am - 3pm Field Trip Leaders: Marcus Roening, Faye McAdams Hands, and Diane Yorgason-Quinn

$40 Lesser Yellowlegs photo by Michael Schramm/USFWS

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Located in Grays Harbor County on the Pacific Coast, the City of Hoquiam’s history dates back to the 1890’s. Once a booming fishing and logging community, the town has now diversified into manufacturing, producing wood products, and building ships. Hoquiam residents enjoy a rural lifestyle with good schools and low crime. Glorious beaches and countryside, great hunting, camping and fishing opportunities are in their backyard. So are five state parks, the Olympic National Park, and Grays Harbor NWR. We welcome you to our community and hope you take advantage of the many local offerings mentioned on page 16.

Citizen science is a growing phenomena allowing the non-science public access to data collection, monitoring, and research projects across the spectrum of science. The Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team (COASST) is a 17 year old citizen science program with 800 active participants. At 75,000 birds of 175 species found, COASSTers discover the patterns that define "normal" annual signals. And with this almanac, COASST data have been used to assess the impacts of a changing climate and empower thousands of coastal residents to participate in science and conservation.

Julia K. Parrish is a Lowell A. Frankie L. Wakefield Professor of Ocean Fishery Sciences and the Associate Dean of the College of the Environment at the University of Washington. She is also the Executive Director of the Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team (COASST), the largest beached bird program in the world. Julia has been honored as a NOAA Year of the Oceans

Environmental Hero, and has received a Champions of Change award at the White House for her leadership in coastal citizen science.

Dinner: This year‛s Annual Dinner will offer a scrumptious catered meal

by O‛Brien‛s Catering located in Aberdeen. Dinner is served buffet style with your choice of several entree options. Page 12 has information on signing up for this important event.

Fundraising: Participants will have a chance to support the education

program at Grays Harbor NWR. Money raised is used to fund an AmeriCorps member who coordinates the program and provides classroom lessons on shorebirds and conservation to 3rd and 4th graders in Grays Harbor County. The money is also used to provide the bus transportation to the Refuge for participating classes. Last year, donations raised $4,267. We would love to see that amount increase this year.

Saturday, May 6, 5:30pm Elks Lodge, Hoquiam

Advance reservations are required by April 28 5:30pm Social and No-host Bar; 6:30pm Dinner; 7:30 speaker

Seabirds, Citizen Science and a Warming World Speaker: Dr. Julia Parrish

The numbered areas on this map show great bird viewing areas in the Grays Harbor area. The spring shorebird migration (mid April through mid May) boasts the greatest numbers of shorebirds, but there are some shorebirds that stay in these areas year round! You can find a diversity of bird species in Grays Harbor including waterfowl and sea birds. Many of these areas also have wonderful views and walks to enjoy. Grab your binoculars and take a birding tour of Grays Harbor County any day of the year!

AREA MAP

WELCOME TO HOQUIAM ANNUAL DINNER AND SPEAKER

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Understanding Shorebirds, The Miracle of Migration Speaker: Tim Boyer

Friday, May 5, 7:30pm Hoquiam High School

Dessert Reception prior to talk begins at 6:45pm Tickets may be purchased in advance (see page 12) or at the door for $15

While enjoying Tim’s stunning photographs, you will learn about a variety of shorebirds including the Pacific Golden Plover, Sanderlings,

Wandering Tattlers, Bar-tailed Godwits, and more! The emphasis of

Tim’s talk will be on eight of the 42 common shorebirds found in Washington, which he will use to explore trans-ocean migrations. Find out where and why they migrate and how

they are able to travel so far, often across the majority of the Pacific Ocean! Understanding their remarkable journeys requires looking beyond the North

American borders to where they spend most of their lives. These birds demonstrate the urgent necessity of a global

conservation effort.

You, too, will be shorebird enthusiasts after seeing Tim’s program!

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Tim Boyer, award-winning nature photographer and master birder, presents this program on the epic migrations of shorebirds. Combining his love of the

outdoors and photography with a passion for birds, Tim’s photos capture the stunning beauty and amazing behavior of shorebirds. His award winning

images have appeared in numerous magazines, and his fine art prints are sold at art festivals around the

Pacific Northwest. Tim has a particular love of shorebirds because of their incredible migrations. As a birder and photographer, he is also fascinated by their behavior by the edge of the sea. Tim’s photography

can be found at www.TimBoyerPhotography.com.

CAFES AND RESTAURANTS

8th Street Ale House 207 8th St. 612-3455

Casa Mia Pizza & Spaghetti 2936 Simpson Ave 533-2010

Deidra‛s Deli (Public Market) 1956 Riverside Ave 538-9747

Golden Dragon 710 Simpson Ave. 533-0510

Grizzly Den 300 Emerson Ave. 537-9840

Hum-Dinger Drive-in 104 Lincoln (Hwy 101 N)

533-2754

McDonalds 2501 Simpson Ave. 532-6020

Javalicious Espresso 801 Simpson Ave. 640-4340

Sasquatch Pizza & Wings 204 Lincoln St. 532-1222

Simpson Avenue Grill 825 Simpson Ave. 533-8907

Subway 2700 Simpson Ave. 537-1271

Taqueria Franco 501 Simpson Ave 532-0609

The Jitter House 623 Simpson Ave. 589-8581

Visit the City of Hoquiam‛s website at www.cityofhoquiam.com

THINGS TO SEE IN HOQUIAM

7th Street Theatre - Built in 1928 and designed for Vaudeville‛s live audience, the theater simulates an evening under the stars. The Theatre is listed on the State and National Historic Register. For more information check the website: 7thstreettheatre.com

The Elton Bennett Nature Walk - Elton Bennett was a prominent artist who contributed greatly to the Harbor. The walk, near the house he once lived in, has gravel trails that wind through trees next to a creek. The park is on Grand Avenue off of Hwy 101 North (approximately 8 blocks from the Riverside Avenue Bridge.

9th Street Boat Launch and Pier - This public boat docking area has picnic tables and a nice walk along the Hoquiam River.

28th Street Landing - The tower here provides a great view of the Chehalis River.

Polson Museum - This is the premier History Museum in Grays Harbor and a National Historic Site. For more information go to their website at polsonmuseum.org.

Hoquiam‛s Castle - This magnificent 20-room home was built in 1897 overlooking Grays Harbor by one of the founding lumber barons, Robert Lytle. It is on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Johnny Green Dike - Take a nice stroll on this walkway bordering the Hoquiam River. Start at Public Market (with Deidra’s Deli, a bakery, & craft booths) and walk to the Polson Museum.

Western Sandpiper, Photo by Tim Boyer

(Area Code 360)

Questions? Call (360) 289-5048

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PARTNERS AND SPONSORS

Friends of Nisqually NWRC Grays Harbor County Grays Harbor Tourism Greater Grays Harbor, Inc. Hoquiam High School Hoquiam School District Port of Grays Harbor Public School Employees, Hoquiam Chapter

Thanks to all the sponsors for their contributions!

Grays Harbor Audubon Society (ghas.org) City of Hoquiam (cityofhoquiam.com)

Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge (fws.gov/refuge/grays_harbor)

2017 Shorebird & Nature Festival Planning Committee Shannon Anderson, Port of Grays Harbor Jude Armstrong, Grays Harbor Audubon Society Jennifer Cutillo, Grays Harbor NWR Jean Davis, Community Member Jasmine Dickhoff, City of Hoquiam Vashti Engebretson, GHNWR, AmeriCorps Suzanne Hierholzer, Community Member Susette Huett, Community Member Sheila McCartan, Community Member Arnie Martin, Grays Harbor Audubon Society Dianna Moore, Grays Harbor Audubon Society Glynnis Nakai, Nisqually NWR Complex Diane Schwickerath, Grays Harbor Aud. Society Lynn Smith, Grays Harbor Audubon Society Janet Strong, Community Member Jim Ullrich, Wild Birds Unlimited, Gig Harbor Tracy Wood, City of Hoquiam

Would you like to help plan the 2018 Grays Harbor Shorebird and Nature

Festival?

Contact Arnie Martin at [email protected]

for more information.

Big Thanks To Our Sponsors!

www.shorebirdfestival.com

Each 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 formations while trying to escape a Peregrine Falcon.

Shorebird is the name given to the group of birds that are usually found along the shoreline. They include plovers, turnstones, sandpipers, dowitchers, and others. Some shorebirds can be found in Grays Harbor County all year; others only during their migration. A good way to start learning the common shorebirds is to attend the Festival’s shorebird identification class and field trip.

The shorebird spectacle happens every year at Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge and in other parts of the county. People from around the world come to view this event of hemispheric importance. The Festival works to bring people together for this incredible natural phenomenon.


- Celebrating the natural world and the spring shorebird migration.

About Our Cover Artist

Festival Partners

Quinault Indian Nation Volunteer Program, Nisqually NWRC, Olympia Washington Conservation Corps Washington Service Corps Westport Winery, Aberdeen Wild Birds Unlimited, Gig Harbor

Our cover artist, Isaiah Johnson, is now ten years old and in the fifth grade. He is attending Cosmopolis Elementary School and enjoys robotics technology and PE. In his drawing, he wanted to show a mother and baby shorebird looking for food in the mudflats together, so he titled his piece “Searching.” He used mixed media including colored pencils, watercolor pencils, and some paint to create it. Last year, he really

enjoyed the ceremony at the Festival. He is still continuing to draw, and most often likes to draw dragons. After school, he can be found practicing his flips and acrobatics on his family’s trampoline.

About the Poster Contest Each year, 1st-6th grade students in Grays Harbor County submit posters depicting North American shorebirds for the Shorebird and Nature Festival Poster Contest. Place winners are chosen from each grade; the Best of Show is selected from amongst the first place winners. The Best of Show artwork is used in Festival publicity. Congratulations to all the 2016 winners and thanks to all the students and teachers who participated. You can cheer on the 2017 artists during the Poster Contest Awards Ceremony, Saturday, May 6, 1pm at Hoquiam High School.

A Special Thank You To all the lecturers,

field trip leaders, and volunteers who con-

tributed their time and expertise with us.

For All Your Birding Needs

Wild Birds Unlimited Gig Harbor 800-851-2575 [email protected]

www.wbu.com\gigharbor Visit our booth at the Shorebird and Nature Festival.

We’ll have bird lover paraphernalia including scopes and binoculars and lots of things for your backyard birds

Grays Harbor Audubon Society Working for a Sustainable Balance Between Human

Activity and the Needs of the Environment

Stop by our booth at the Shorebird and Nature Festival to learn about the many ways YOU can get involved.

Join a field trip, come to a bi-monthly program, or work on a variety of conservation

and education programs!

Promoting Enjoyment of Birds and the Natural World www.ghas.org

Paid Advertisement

Need Help Identifying a Bird? Friends of Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge Complex

Can Help! Stop by the Nisqually Nature Shop and see the great selection of field

guides, nature books, kid’s books, and outdoor clothing. The Nisqually Nature Shop is operated by the Friends of Nisqually NWR Complex.

This non-profit organization supports programs at Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually and Grays Harbor NWRs and all proceeds from sales go to Refuge programs.

www.friendsofnisquallynwr.org

Paid Advertisements

Paid Advertisement

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