Coastal birding habitat

Samish Island

Washington · Pacific Northwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Samish Island is a productive birding destination in Washington, with 223 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Pacific Wren, American Robin, and House Sparrow 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 Meadowlark

Sturnella neglecta

5/31/2026Channel Drive2 observed

Red Knot

Calidris canutus

5/31/2026Skagit Wildlife Area--Fir Island Farm Reserve (Hayton Reserve)1 observed

Manx Shearwater

Puffinus puffinus

5/31/2026Near house2 observed

Yellow-breasted Chat

Icteria virens

5/31/2026Northern State Recreation Area1 observed

American White Pelican

Pelecanus erythrorhynchos

5/30/2026Taylor Stairs & Vicinity (48.725, -122.494)5 observed

Black Phoebe

Sayornis nigricans

5/30/2026Skagit Wildlife Area--Wiley Slough2 observed

Semipalmated Plover

Charadrius semipalmatus

5/29/2026Skagit Wildlife Area--Fir Island Farm Reserve (Hayton Reserve)2 observed

Sandhill Crane

Antigone canadensis

5/28/2026Skagit Wildlife Area--Wiley Slough3 observed

Pectoral Sandpiper

Calidris melanotos

5/28/2026Skagit Wildlife Area--Fir Island Farm Reserve (Hayton Reserve)4 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Eurasian Collared-Dove

15/31/2026

Anna's Hummingbird

15/31/2026

American Crow

15/31/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

15/31/2026

Chestnut-backed Chickadee

15/31/2026

Barn Swallow

45/31/2026

Red-breasted Nuthatch

15/31/2026

Northern House Wren

15/31/2026

Bewick's Wren

15/31/2026

European Starling

15/31/2026

American Robin

25/31/2026

Cedar Waxwing

25/31/2026

House Sparrow

15/31/2026

House Finch

25/31/2026

Pine Siskin

25/31/2026

American Goldfinch

15/31/2026

White-crowned Sparrow

25/31/2026

Spotted Towhee

15/31/2026

Yellow-rumped Warbler

15/31/2026

Black-headed Grosbeak

15/31/2026

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 Samish Island for birding?
The best months to visit Samish Island for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Samish Island?
Notable species at Samish Island include Pacific Wren, American Robin, House Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, Canada Goose. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Samish Island?
Birding at Samish Island is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Samish Island?
Samish Island offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.