12 of us from the Intro to the Natural World course (Seattle Mountaineers) met for an 8-11 AM birding morning under clear skies and perfect conditions for World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) 2026.
As a group we had a satisfying 43 species including wood ducks, Virginia rails, several great blue herons, warblers, goldfinches, house finches, and 5 bald eagles. This is THE best time to bird the Fill with males in bright plumage, birdsong galore, and peak migration. I arrived early to scout from 6:15-7:45 AM which brought my personal birding total for the day to 51, a high for 2026.
We started with introductions and a tour around Yesler Swamp, took a brief restroom break at 9 AM (the doors open automatically - we only saw people preparing for an auction as we finished near 11) and then birded clockwise along the water, including the westernmost portion near the UW crew boat launch to enjoy purple martens and cedar waxwings.
The Virginia rails are near the creek that runs on the west side of the Fill, just across (east) of campus and due south of the bridge. A family with a bike and carriage were there around 10:15 which dashed my hopes of showing them off to my group, but luckily the second half of our group got to spot them.
Wonderful group, fantastic morning.
CONDITIONS:
Parking is still unlimited (no time limit) although for how much longer remains unclear. Many people were out enjoying the Fill including several large birding groups (bigger than our 12) and it appears that there may have been a footrace as people coming through in groups had racing bibs/numbers on.
The trail is mostly clear andin good shape, except at the westernmost part near one of the ponds where a board has been placed over the worst of the mud. All the ponds are high and have cottonwood seeds floating around - if you have allergies or sensitivities be prepared (still feel a tickle this afternoon). Foliage is mostly grown in making it trickier to see many of the more timid birds.
Lovely group and fun outing.
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