birds_of_winter_skagitSkagit Valley and La Conner offer an authentic experience in many ways and nothing is perhaps more unique and beautiful than the annual migration of birds into this inviting part of Washington State.

Providing an ideal wintertime habitat for hundreds of different types of bird species, the farmlands and wetlands as well as the prairies and forests along with the local marine environment provide for the ideal habitat for a host of different species of birds.

Perhaps most impressive of all is the fact that many of these birds migrate into the area each year from Siberia and Alaska.  In honor of these birds, we welcome you to the La Conner Birding Festival as part of the Birds of Winter Experience! 

 

Incredibly Fertile Valley

The diversity of birdlife is absolutely remarkable and is a big draw for people from across the country and from around the world that truly enjoy birding. As an added advantage, those birding in Skagit County can also enjoy an abundance of family farms that are situated throughout this incredibly fertile valley. Clearly without a doubt one of Washington State’s most anticipated annual events is the return of migrating birds to the fertile lands of Skagit County. As the ideal natural feeding ground for many different bird species, it is the perfect place for them to store up energy for their return flight home.

Snow Geese La Conner

Learning About Migratory Birds

Best of all, there is a multitude of classes, discussions and talks about birds that can be found throughout the Valley during this wonderful time of year. Learning about migratory birds from experts in the field is a great way to become immersed in this naturally occurring annual event. There are even a number of workshops and tours that can guide visitors in experiencing the pleasure of viewing majestic Eagles while floating along the Skagit River. Local guides offer the advantage of knowing where the best spots to view or photograph migratory birds are found.

short eared owls skagit

Opportunities Abound Everywhere in Skagit Valley

Areas that offer amazing bird-watching opportunities include the Skagit Flats as well as Samish Flats, and Fidalgo Island, along with the upper Skagit River and many other unique locations or birding sites. From the Killdeer to the American Kestrel and the Northern Pintail as well as even the Red Tailed Hawk, opportunities abound everywhere in Skagit Valley to see some of nature’s most impressive birds.