Bird & Plant Walks

Birds, plants, and more!

Take a guided walk at Seahurst Park or along the Cedar River while learning about the birds and plants around you. Both have evolved together and play important roles in the health of local watersheds, as well as the mental health of people. Naturalists will share identification tips, species adaptations, and the importance of providing native habits.

No prior knowledge is required. These small outings are geared towards ages 13 years and up.

Summer 2024 Schedule


2nd Thursdays: 6:30-7:30 PM

Join us on Lake Washington, at Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park for an unmatched birdwatching experience. Guided by a ESC naturalists, identify marine birds and unwind by the water at “Dock and Drink.” Ideal for seasoned birders to those just starting out. Participants aged 21+.

This program is through the Renton Parks and Recreation department. $10 Resident/$12 Non-resident.

REGISTRATION REQUIRED


Bird Watching Partners

ESC is proud to partner with local birders to lead our bird and plant walks to share their knowledge, expertise, and enthusiasm.

Ed Dominguez

Ed is the Lead Naturalist at the Seward Park Audubon Center. He is knowledgeable about many different natural history topics and loves sharing his knowledge.

“People love what know, and protect what they love. Once you know a bird call or identification you will love that bird and want to protect its resources and habitats.”

Kevin, aka Porcupine

Kevin is the Lead Naturalist and Executive Director of South Sound Nature School. He regularly hosts programs around the south King County area about bird watching and outdoor exploration to share his love of being outside.

“Once you know how to think like an owl, you’ll start to see what they see. Where is a good resting place to watch for prey on your runway?”


The 4 Basic Questions for Bird Watching

The key to identify different bird species can come from asking these 4 questions.

What does it LOOK like? 

What does it SOUND like?

WHERE is it? 

WHAT is it doing?


Birding Resources

Find our favorite bird and plant resources such as field guides, online resources, and databases.

eBird.com is ESC’s preferred online database to submit our bird species lists to for community science.

Check out this list of books about birds, nests & birdwatching. These books are recommended by KCLS Burien librarian Lydia K. & Environmental Science Ctr naturalist Kharli R.

Watch our Toddler Time Birding Bits (for ages 3 and up) with Kharli Rose to look and listen for local backyard birds through songs, felt board games and exploring outdoors.

These fun programs are sponsored by the City of Burien, City of Renton, and King County Wastewater Treatment Division to connect the community with our shared watershed to build appreciation and stewardship of birds and our native plants.