Birding

Birding at the Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer offers a remarkable opportunity to observe a diverse array of species across its riverine sloughs, tidal swamps, and verdant pastures.

In addition to the Columbian white-tailed deer sharing the landscape, birdwatchers can spot a wide variety of feather friends. The refuge is an essential wintering and nesting ground for numerous waterfowl species, including mallards, northern pintails, wood ducks, and Canada geese. Along the Columbia River and the backwaters, you can frequently sight majestic bald eagles perched on snags or soaring overhead, alongside ospreys, great blue herons, and various hawks. The riparian forests and marsh edges also host vibrant populations of song sparrows, marsh wrens, red-winged blackbirds, and swallows, making every season a rewarding experience for field observers.