Coastal birding habitat

Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge

Washington · Pacific Northwest

Habitat
CoastalWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Washington, with 222 species recorded on eBird. This coastal and wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, and Mallard 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

Red-necked Stint

Calidris ruficollis

7/18/20263234 Front Lane, Tokeland, Washington, US (46.708, -123.972)1 observed

Stilt Sandpiper

Calidris himantopus

7/18/2026Hoquiam STP1 observed

Northern Flicker (Yellow-shafted x Red-shafted)

Colaptes auratus

7/15/2026Tokeland--marina1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

1407/18/2026

Black-bellied Plover

67/18/2026

Killdeer

47/18/2026

Semipalmated Plover

217/18/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

257/18/2026

Ring-billed Gull

27/18/2026

Western Gull

147/18/2026

Northern Harrier

17/18/2026

American Crow

147/18/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

27/18/2026

Tree Swallow

47/18/2026

Barn Swallow

167/18/2026

Cliff Swallow

127/18/2026

Marsh Wren

87/18/2026

Bewick's Wren

17/18/2026

European Starling

347/18/2026

Swainson's Thrush

37/18/2026

American Robin

107/18/2026

Savannah Sparrow

17/18/2026

Song Sparrow

127/18/2026

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 Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge include Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, Mallard, Common Goldeneye, Ring-billed Gull. The area supports coastal, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge?
Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.