Washington State Birding in Leavenworth
 
The Best Western Icicle Inn is a proud sponsor of the Harlequin Duck on www.LeavenworthSpringBirdfest.com

“The Four Seasons of Blackbird Island” 
Just a few blocks from the hustle and bustle of downtown Leavenworth lays a birdwatcher’s haven. Nestled along the Wenatchee River, Blackbird Island is home and refuge to an assortment of wildlife. The diverse habitat hosts seasonal favorites from Bald Eagles and Osprey fishing the rapids, to a large variety of warblers and other spring migrants. Flashes of color in the thickets could be a Western Tanager, Lazuli Bunting or American Goldfinches. Secretive tree nesters such as Wood Ducks are common, as are a variety of other waterfowl. Canada Geese follow the river as a flyway and can be heard in almost all seasons. Black-headed Grosbeaks make short work of wild berry crops, and their cousins, Evening Grosbeaks, flash black, white, and yellow as they move about from each food source. The soft tapping echoing through the snow-covered wood could possibly be a Northern Flicker, Downy, Hairy Woodpecker or an industrious Black-capped Chickadee! California Quail can be seen scurrying through the underbrush and in spring young ones follow their parents as if on a grand parade. Late summer skies can be laced with raptors as they prepare to fly south. Turkey Vultures, Red-tailed Hawks, Cooper’s Hawks, and an occasional falcon ride the morning thermals. By winter, the power lines are adorned with hunting American Kestrels and Sharp-shinned Hawks. Walk softly and you may be treated to a sight of a deer, an otter or even a bear. Just the gentle flowing of the water, the rustle of the trees and closeness of wild things is enough to send any curious nature lover to Blackbird Island.” - Diana Peffer, Leavenworth Chamber

Open printable Waterfront Park trail map here.

For a list of area birds please see www.leavenworthspringbirdfest.com/areabirds.htm

Click to open Great Washington Birding Trail large map image

To get your copy of The Great Washington Birding Trail Cascade Loop brochure and map, go to the Audubon society website at http://wa.audubon.org/ or call 1-866-wa-birds.

Download a list of Leavenworth area featured birding locations from Audubon Society.

You'll also find very useful information on the North Central Washington Audubon Society birding page at http://www.ncwaudubon.org/birding.htm

Spring Bird Festival - May
Experience a weekend celebrating birdsong and exploring the natural world through birding, geology, wildflowers and conservation. Art exhibits showcase local talents and a songbird concert at Canyon Wren Recital Hall caps off a weekend to delight the senses. The Leavenworth area features spectacular habitats, ranging from snow-capped mountains to sunny pine forests, attracting a wide variety of birds. Guided trips and activities range from leisurely strolls to active hikes and most events are free. Sponsored by North Central Washington Audubon, the US Forest Service, US Fish & Wildlife, Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce and the Icicle Arts, Barn Beach Reserve.  See www.LeavenworthSpringBirdfest.com to learn more.

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