Where to Watch Shorebirds in Grays Harbor

Grays Harbor is known for many things – world class fishing, clam digging, access to the Olympic National Park, whale watching and endless adventures in nature. However, there is one aspect of Grays Harbor that sees visitors flocking to the region every year. Each spring, for just a few weeks, the mudflats and beaches of Grays Harbor transform into rich feeding grounds, rumored to host nearly a million shorebirds.

As the shorebirds fly in huge, synchronized groups darkening large portions of the sky, raptors soar high above, waiting for the moment to swoop down and pick off a smaller bird in the air. Shorebirds are visible around Grays Harbor for most the year, making this an excellent adventure no matter the season.

bird watching
Head to Damon Point and see shorebirds, mountain views and incredible beach combing. Photo credit: Douglas Scott

The shorebird migration in the months of April and May is an event everyone should see, highlighted each year by a huge festival at the Grays Harbor Wildlife Refuge. Known as the Grays Harbor Shorebird and Nature Festival, this event draws birders from around the nation, all enamored with the majestic and beautiful flocks of avian who call our region home for a few weeks each year.  Read more here:  http://www.graysharbortalk.com/2017/05/05/where-to-watch-shorebirds-in-grays-harbor/