Bird Alliance of Oregon Birding Day: Birding the Willamette from Milwaukie to West Linn *FULL*

Visit some lesser-known birding spots along the Willamette River with our expert birder, Dan van den Broek. We will begin at Milwaukie Bay Park where we walk along the waterfront searching for Yellow-rumped Warbler and Hermit Thrush feeding in the wax myrtles. Gadwall, Bufflehead, Short-billed, and California Gulls will be feeding in the river. 

We’ll explore the recently restored Boardman Wetland, complete with a raised metal boardwalk allowing close-up views of Green-winged Teal and an ever-changing mix of ducks. We’ll also explore the lagoon at Clackamette Cove along the Clackamas River Trail where cormorants, mergansers, goldeneye, and various ducks seek food and shelter. The adjacent habitat is home to wintering meadowlarks, raptors, and sparrow flocks. 

Finally, we’ll visit Willamette Park and the ponds and surrounding wetlands of the old Publisher’s Paper Mill along the Willamette River. This bottomland attracts numerous ducks as well as Great Egret and is an excellent place to see Black Phoebe and Red-shouldered Hawk.  

Throughout the day, we’ll discuss some of the ongoing conservation issues in these areas. 

Birders of all experience levels are welcome. Make sure to bring lunch and dress for the weather.