National Audubon Society

NEWSLETTER April 14, 2022

An Aerial Return to Lake Washington

Did you know that two of our flying fisher-birds are back in our area? Within the past week, Caspian terns and Osprey have returned to Lake Washington for the summer season. Caspian terns (named for the Caspian Sea, where they are common) migrate from as far away as Venezuela (4,000 miles!). Superficially resembling gulls, these birds can be recognized by their bright orange bills and black head caps. Often heard before seen, their raspy loud vocalization is reminiscent of an alley tomcat. Osprey are our region’s only migratory raptors, spending winters in Baja California or coastal Central America. Listen for their high-pitched chirpy squeals above Lake Washington. Look up and you will catch a glimpse of this brown and white fishing specialist with yellow eyes and prominent brown eye stripes. These birds are another sign that Spring is in full swing!

Osprey photo by Greg Thompson

Ruby-crowned Kinglet photo by Josh Graham

The Early Bird

Sunday, April 17, 2022
8:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Free
Advance Registration Required

Join us in Seward Park during a point in the day when 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

Ruby-crowned Kinglet photo by Josh Graham

Guided Nature Walk | Wildflowers Emerge

Sunday, April 17, 2022
1:00pm - 3:30pm
Free
Advance Registration Required

Ask anyone to name their favorite aspect of spring and wildflowers are sure to be near the top of the list. From the magnificent displays of dogwood and highbush cranberry to the lovely camas to fragrant native roses, floral displays delight us all with an amazing variety of colors, shapes, and scents. The nectar and pollen they provide are critical food sources for pollinating birds and insects. Join Lead Naturalist Ed Dominguez as we indulge our senses and learn about the important role wildflowers play in our local ecosystem.

Learn more and register

Camas photo by UW Sustainability

Meditation Nature Walk

Sunday, April 24, 2022
9:30 AM - 11:15 AM

Free
Advance Registration Required

Tune your awareness to the natural world of Seward Park's ancient forest, sky, and shore. Find peace and rejuvenation on a guided meditation walk with Kimberly Bowen, meditation and martial arts teacher and former staff at Seward Park Audubon Center. Modest pace, up to 2 miles including some stairs. Older children who can maintain silence may join with their adults. No pets, please.

Learn more and register

Photo by Dave in Seattle

Denise Takahashi | Sanderlings, Westport, WA

Denise Takahashi | Birds Near and Far

Saturday, April 16, 2022
Sunday, April 17, 2022
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Free

Inspired by the beautiful coastal landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, artist Denise Takahashi was awakened to the colors and majesty of birds while studying ornithology. She has emerged to create avian paintings that range from high-focus realism to broader abstracts. Her show, 'Birds Near and Far' showcases familiar birds and landscapes from the Pacific Northwest and takes us to the east coast, Europe, and Asia.

Stop in this Saturday and Sunday for coffee and tea. This exhibit runs through the end of June.

Learn more about Denise Takahashi

Denise Takahashi | Sanderlings, Westport, WA

Let's Get Ready For Summer Camp!

Registration for Summer Camp is now open!

Seward Park is a great place for kids during the summer. It’s even more fun when they join us for our week-long day camps. Discovering birds and other wildlife in our forest, playing games in the fields, and cooling off in Lake Washington.

Learn more and register

Photo by Kathryn Sechrist

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Seward Park Audubon Center
5902 Lake Washington Blvd S, Seattle, WA 98118
206-652-2444 | Seward Park website

© 2025 National Audubon Society, Inc.

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