NEWSLETTER July 8, 2021

Where Have All the Mallards Gone? Did you know that Mallards can alter their appearance? You may have noticed that our colorful Mallard males (Drakes) seem to be absent around the lakeshore here in Seward Park.  But not to fear…they’re still here!  In July our mallard drakes molt, shedding their colorful green heads, white collars, and orange breasts for the subdued browns and tans of what we call Eclipse Plumage.  This color change provides important camouflage as the mallards also molt all of their primary flight feathers simultaneously and are unable to fly.  For the remainder of the summer they will hang out in bachelor groups, staying close to shore to retreat under the cover of shrubs should a predatory raptor swoop overhead.  By mid-September, as the days shorten, they will molt again…this time regaining their resplendent breeding plumage in preparation for their upcoming courtship rituals.

Mallard photo by Bart

THIS WEEKEND! Fear Less: Annie Marie Musselman at Wolf Haven Sanctuary Artist’s Reception Sunday, July 11 1:00 – 3:00 PM Free The late-day sun shines on Tenino, WA, where award-winning conservation photographer Annie Marie Musselman brings into focus this megafauna species at the center of myths, legends, and controversy. The results are magical, photographic images that could only be captured by the loving heart of a passionate advocate for these captive-born wolves that reside in this Washington sanctuary.  The Seward Park Audubon Center is honored to show the work of Annie Marie Musselman in the Center’s Garry Oak Gallery. Annie Marie’s exhibit opens with a reception to celebrate this artist, whose images have appeared on the covers of Audubon, Smithsonian, and Outside magazine, and inside The New Yorker, Rolling Stone, National Geographic, and the New York Times.  Join us to meet the artist, take in her intimate images, and enjoy a few warm cookies. This is a free event and open to the public. Learn more and add to your calendar

Jesse Shilo Love | Photograph by Annie-Marie Musselman

The Early Bird Saturday, July 10, 2021 8:00 - 10:00 AM Free Advance Registration Required Join us in Seward Park during a point in the day where the bird's calls and songs are lifted high above the din of the busy day that follows. Lead Naturalist Ed Dominguez leads our trek through the fields and forest as we tune in to migrating and resident birds and bring them into view as the opportunity allows. We provide the binoculars, and you bring your curiosity. Learn more and register

Pacific Wren photo by Mack Thompson

Guided Nature Walk | Berrylicious Berries of Seward Park Saturday, July 10, 2021 1:00 - 3:00 PM Free Advance Registration Required Delicate, nourishing. medicinal, and delicious. The birds and other wildlife take in the bounty of berries that thrive throughout Seward Park. These beneficial plants have evolved with the soil, insects, wildlife, and other plants and play a role in this ecosystem. Join Ed Dominguez on the trails through Seward Park to share in the story of our salmonberry, huckleberry, thimbleberry, and more. Learn more and register

Thimbleberry photo by Pictoscribe

The Early Bird Saturday, July 17, 2021 8:00 - 10:00 AM Free Advance Registration Required Join us in Seward Park during a point in the day where the bird's calls and songs are lifted high above the din of the busy day that follows. Lead Naturalist Ed Dominguez leads our trek through the fields and forest as we tune in to migrating and resident birds and bring them into view as the opportunity allows. We provide the binoculars, and you bring your curiosity. Learn more and register

Cooper's Hawk photo by Mick Thompson

Guided Nature Walk | Avenue of the Giants: Big Trees of Seward Park Saturday, July 17, 2021 1:00 - 3:00 PM Free Advance Registration Required These formidable giants continue to play a large role in the economy and climate of the Pacific Northwest. As timber, they support housing for humans As standing trees, they provide homes for wildlife. And as decomposing trees, they nourish the next generation of life in the forest. Join Ed Dominguez for a stroll amongst the giants to learn how these trees play a role in history and our daily lives. Learn more and register

Photo by David Prasad

Seward Park Reforestation Friday, July 23, 2021 8:30 – 10:30 AM Advance Registration Required We are inviting our forest warriors to come out this month to help us remove invasive plant species from Seward Park. We are providing tools, gloves, and good cheer as we work the land to protect the places birds and other wildlife need to thrive. Learn more and register

Photo by Amy Scarfone

Order Up! Due to the pandemic, the Center remains closed, but we are now accepting orders for curbside pick-up. Choose from many birdfeed options, fun jigsaw puzzles, handmade bird boxes, and our favorite books. Place your order online for pickup on Saturday or Sunday mornings. All orders must be placed online. No walkup purchases allowed. We’ll see you back in the park soon! Shop online for curbside pickup

Traffic Update Three miles of Lake Washington Blvd S (from Mt Baker Park to Seward Park) will open to people walking, rolling, and biking on weekends & holidays through at least Labor Day. To gain entry into Seward Park, motor vehicles must use S. Juneau Street. Please include this advisory when you plan your next trip to Seward Park.   Read more

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