Mallard ducks resting on a fallen log near water.

Union Bay Natural Area/Montlake Fill

Washington · Pacific Northwest

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

Entrance Fee

Free

Hours

Open daily, dawn to dusk

About This Location

Union Bay Natural Area/Montlake Fill is a productive birding destination in Washington, with 264 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Canada Goose, Wood Duck, and Northern Shoveler 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

Arctic Tern

Sterna paradisaea

7/21/2026Murden Cove & Estuary1 observed

Black Turnstone

Arenaria melanocephala

7/21/2026Edmonds Waterfront2 observed

American White Pelican

Pelecanus erythrorhynchos

7/19/202614607 52nd Ave W, Edmonds US-WA (47.8669,-122.3025)40 observed

Black Phoebe

Sayornis nigricans

7/19/2026Kent Ponds (GRNRA)3 observed

Western Kingbird

Tyrannus verticalis

7/19/2026Van Doren's Landing Park1 observed

Northern House Wren

Troglodytes aedon

7/19/2026Discovery Park1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

27/21/2026

Wood Duck

47/21/2026

Gadwall

17/21/2026

Mallard

107/21/2026

Anna's Hummingbird

17/21/2026

Green Heron

17/21/2026

Great Blue Heron

27/21/2026

Osprey

17/21/2026

Bald Eagle

17/21/2026

Belted Kingfisher

17/21/2026

American Crow

87/21/2026

Tree Swallow

97/21/2026

Barn Swallow

27/21/2026

Marsh Wren

37/21/2026

American Robin

77/21/2026

Cedar Waxwing

57/21/2026

Song Sparrow

47/21/2026

Spotted Towhee

17/21/2026

Virginia Rail

17/21/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

27/21/2026

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.

  4. 4

    Onshore winds can push pelagic species closer to shore, making post-storm days excellent for rarities.

  5. 5

    Bring quality optics — a good pair of binoculars (8x42 or 10x42) makes all the difference in species identification.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Union Bay Natural Area/Montlake Fill for birding?
The best months to visit Union Bay Natural Area/Montlake Fill for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Union Bay Natural Area/Montlake Fill?
Notable species at Union Bay Natural Area/Montlake Fill include Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Northern Flicker, Rock Pigeon, American Crow, Double-crested Cormorant, Hooded Merganser, Black-capped Chickadee, Bald Eagle. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Union Bay Natural Area/Montlake Fill?
Birding at Union Bay Natural Area/Montlake Fill is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
Is there an entrance fee at Union Bay Natural Area/Montlake Fill?
There is no entrance fee at Union Bay Natural Area/Montlake Fill. Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk.
What amenities are available at Union Bay Natural Area/Montlake Fill?
Union Bay Natural Area/Montlake Fill offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.