Washington supports a diverse range of birds shaped by its forests, wetlands, rivers, coastal habitats, and mountain ranges, as well as its position along major Pacific migration routes. This page brings together bird guides focused on species found in the state, including local bird groups and visual identification resources to support field identification throughout the year.
Eagles in Washington: Identification, Seasonality, and Key Locations
Washington supports two regularly occurring eagle species, each associated with different landscapes across the state. The Bald Eagle is widespread and closely tied to marine shorelines, rivers, lakes, and other aquatic habitats, where it is present year-round and often occurs in large numbers during winter. The Golden Eagle is much less common and is primarily a bird of open and mountainous terrain, especially in eastern Washington and other remote areas. This guide provides identification notes, seasonal patterns, regional distribution, and key locations for observing eagles across Washington. Read more
11 Blue birds in Washington (With Pictures)
Washington’s landscapes, ranging from rugged coastlines to forested mountains and open shrub-steppe, are home to a surprising number of birds with blue in their feathers. While some flash iridescent colors only in the right light, others display bold blue tones year-round. This article explores a handful of these species, from the noisy and intelligent California Scrub-Jay to the sleek, fast-flying Violet-green Swallow and the distinctive, crested Belted Kingfisher. These birds aren’t just beautiful, they play real roles in local ecosystems, whether they’re catching insects mid-air, caching food for winter, or fishing from stream banks. If you’ve spent any time birdwatching… Read more
9 Hawks in Washington (With Pictures)
Hawks are some of the most impressive birds you can spot in Washington. Whether soaring over open fields, gliding through dense forests, or perching on roadside poles, these birds of prey are a common yet exciting sight. With their sharp eyesight, powerful talons, and incredible speed, hawks play a key role in keeping local ecosystems balanced. Washington is home to a variety of hawk species, each with its own unique habits and habitats. Some, like the Red-tailed Hawk, are easy to spot, while others, like the Northern Goshawk, are more elusive. Whether you’re a casual birdwatcher or a dedicated wildlife… Read more
4 Hummingbirds in Washington (With Pictures)
Washington, with its lush landscapes and diverse climates, serves as a vibrant canvas for the enchanting world of hummingbirds. These tiny aviators, known for their dazzling colors and rapid wing beats, bring a touch of magic to gardens and wild spaces throughout the region. From the coastal areas to the eastern plains, hummingbirds thrive, darting with astonishing agility as they sip nectar from a plethora of flowering plants. The most common species, the Rufous Hummingbird, arrives in Washington each spring, its fiery plumage a striking contrast against the verdant backdrop of the Pacific Northwest. This tiny traveler, along with its… Read more
15 Owls in Washington (With Pictures)
Washington State, a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, offers a unique opportunity to explore the mysterious and fascinating world of owls. With its diverse landscapes ranging from dense, evergreen forests to the rugged coastlines and alpine meadows, the state is home to a wide variety of owl species, each with its own distinct characteristics and behaviors. In this article, we delve into the nocturnal realm of these raptors, unveiling the secrets of their lives and habitats. From the silent flight of the Great Gray Owl in the expansive coniferous forests to the elusive and rare sightings of the Spotted… Read more
11 Woodpeckers in Washington State and Where to Find Them
Washington State (WA) is situated in the Pacific Northwest Region on the Canadian border. The state has a mesmerizing array of bird species and a list that totals over 500 species. The state contains a good diversity of habits, including a long coastline, wetlands, mountain ranges, forests, shrubland, grassland, and lakes, all adding to the experience of Washington State birding. There are many excellent birding locations in the state covering a range of habitats. You will find Discovery Park close to Seattle, while Skagit Wildlife Area is slightly north. Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge is located northwest of the city, alongside… Read more
