Field Trip: Fall Migration at Smith and Bybee Wetlands

Smith and Bybee Wetlands, a 2,000-acre public park between the Columbia River and Columbia Slough is named for the two lakes representing the centerpiece to one of the country’s largest urban wetlands. Although surrounded by an industrial complex and abutting a former landfill to the south, the richly biodiverse green space was restored to its former functioning as a tidal, fluctuating marshland that allows for the seasonal movements and feeding opportunities that large populations of bird and fish species rely on to complete their life cycles.

We will walk along the forested Interlakes Trail, as well as the edges of mudflats scanning for dabbling ducks and small to large waders, e.g., herons, egrets, shorebirds (Western, Baird’s, and Pectoral Sandpipers, dowitchers, yellowlegs, and Dunlin). Given the site’s fabled pedigree, we may have chances to turn up more rare species, like Snowy Egret, which has been seen during previous fall migration windows.

Please remember to bring binoculars, a scope if you have one, appropriate clothing, and boots, preferably wellies or gum boots, for occasional wet grass and mud. Don’t forget water! Also, bug spray and sunscreen may be helpful to apply given the presence of mosquitos in wet areas and periods of full sun exposure along the flats.

Meeting Location: 5300 N Marine Dr, Portland, OR 97203

Masks are optional on this outdoor program.