On June 25 a group of about 20 people from Seattle to Bellingham met at Big Four east of Verlot for the annual walk to the Ice Caves.  Pam Pritzl has been leading this trip for many years and once again brought together a good group of experienced birders.

The US Forest Service was in attendance and the interpretive specialist offered an interesting history of the Big Four Inn and the early pioneers who vacationed at this very spot.

On the leisurely walk to the picnic area, with a view of the ice caves, we spotted a variety of birds including a female harlequin duck and spotted sandpiper in the South Fork Stillaguamish River.  The boardwalk offered great views of three different swallows and at least four different flycatchers were located during the walk.

On our return trip an area of the boardwalk offered great views of a variety of woodpeckers and included a red breasted sapsucker fly-by for some of those standing on the boardwalk.

We dispersed about 2pm very satisfied with our total of about 44 bird species identified and numerous local plants discussed.  While the wildflowers were not at their peak, there were a great many to identify and enjoy.

Thanks to all who participated and we hope to see you again next year!

Photos by Jeff Osmundson

 

More photos by Mary Sinker - https://photos.app.goo.gl/Na5UV45ijjR5qSeS9