Coastal birding habitat

Getty's Cove

Washington · Pacific Northwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Getty's Cove is a productive birding destination in Washington, with 202 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Greater Scaup, Lesser Scaup, and Bufflehead among many others. Coastal and forest habitats support impressive year-round resident species and seasonal migrants.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Western Kingbird

Tyrannus verticalis

4/16/202628029–28033 Vantage Hwy, Ellensburg US-WA 46.96676, -120.175431 observed

Nashville Warbler

Leiothlypis ruficapilla

4/12/2026Getty's Cove1 observed

Chipping Sparrow

Spizella passerina

4/12/2026Wild Horse Renewable Energy Center3 observed

Gray Flycatcher

Empidonax wrightii

4/10/2026Green Gate—WDFW Public Lands Access (46.98967, -120.27337)1 observed

Dusky Grouse

Dendragapus obscurus

4/8/2026Beacon Ridge Road, Ellensburg, Washington, US (47.034, -120.227)1 observed

Long-tailed Duck

Clangula hyemalis

4/8/2026Getty's Cove3 observed

Fox Sparrow (Slate-colored)

Passerella iliaca

4/8/2026Getty's Cove2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

44/17/2026

Ring-necked Duck

44/17/2026

Greater Scaup

74/17/2026

Bufflehead

94/17/2026

Common Goldeneye

14/17/2026

California Quail

14/17/2026

Wild Turkey

24/17/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

24/17/2026

American Coot

14/17/2026

Killdeer

24/17/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

14/17/2026

Horned Grebe

14/17/2026

Common Loon

14/17/2026

Turkey Vulture

24/17/2026

Bald Eagle

24/17/2026

Belted Kingfisher

24/17/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

14/17/2026

American Kestrel

14/17/2026

Say's Phoebe

44/17/2026

American Crow

24/17/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  3. 3

    Pack rain gear — the best birding often coincides with drizzly conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Getty's Cove for birding?
The best months to visit Getty's Cove for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Getty's Cove?
Notable species at Getty's Cove include Greater Scaup, Lesser Scaup, Bufflehead, Wild Turkey, Mourning Dove. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Getty's Cove?
Birding at Getty's Cove is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Getty's Cove?
Getty's Cove offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.