Common Murre colony by Ruth Shelly

Join us for a guided walk featuring seabirds and their dependence on Oregon’s rocky habitat at Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area in Newport on Wednesday, May 20, 8:30 - 10:30 a.m. 

Common Murres and Brandt’s Cormorant by Ruth Shelly

May is a spectacular time to observe the nesting seabirds at Yaquina Head, when thousands of Common Murres crowd the top of colony rock. Hundreds of Brandt's Cormorants will be displaying their electric turquoise throats, showing off to their mates. Pelagic Cormorants will be showing their bold white flank patches, making them easy to identify. Nesting Black Oystercatchers are particularly vocal in spring, as they chase intruders from their territories.  We’ll also get great looks at the harbor seals through the spotting scope. Offshore, the loon migration is well underway, and we’ll see them in breeding colors as they stream north.

We’ll discuss how to responsibly enjoy watching seabirds and other wildlife dependent on Oregon’s rocky habitat, and learn what is being done to protect these natural habitats.

Eric Horvath will lead the walk. Eric holds a degree in zoology from Oregon State University and has written scientific papers on birds and mammals.  He has conducted ornithological research in Oregon, Arizona, Mexico, and Australia, and has guided birding tours since 1990 throughout the U. S., and to Panama, Peru, and Ecuador.  Eric's interests also include photography, botany, and geology.

The event is free, but registration is required. Binoculars will be provided, or bring your own. Dress for the weather, as we’ll go rain or shine. Yaquina Head is located at 750 N. Lighthouse Dr., Newport, OR.  The entrance fee for the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area is $7 per vehicle, which covers access to the lighthouse, interpretive center, and tidepool areas. Day passes are purchased at the park entrance, and America the Beautiful or Oregon Coast Passport passes are accepted.