D best place for birds

Cedar Waxwing • Photo by Ruth Shelly

Hidden wetlands, osprey sightings and plenty of “bird nerd” conversation await this summer when Seven Capes Bird Alliance launches its new Birding by D River walks in Lincoln City.

The bite-sized bird walks begin this Saturday, June 6, and continue every first and third Saturday through Aug. 15, excluding July 4. Led by Seven Capes volunteers, the outings are designed to welcome everyone from experienced birders to curious first-timers.

Walkers will meet at Hostetler Park near D River before heading along a boardwalk winding through wetland habitat connecting to Devils Lake State Recreation Area. Depending on conditions and timing, the group might continue to the lake dock, where Osprey are sometimes found fishing the waters, while swallows dip overhead and herons guard the shore.

The new series was created in response to growing interest in the organization’s regular summer bird walks and aims to offer more accessible opportunities for locals and visitors to connect with coastal bird life.

Loaner binoculars and equipment will be available. The route includes mostly flat terrain with gravel paths, paved roads and boardwalk sections. Organizers ask guests to leave dogs at home.

The outings run from 10 to 11:30 am beginning this Saturday, June 6, at Hostetler Park, located east of Highway 101 just north of the D River beach access in Lincoln City. For more information, go to sevencapes.org.