First-Bird Trifecta

First-Bird Trifecta

As a New Year’s tradition, some birders play a game known as “Bird of the Year,” where the first bird seen/heard in the new year becomes an omen or inspiration for the 12 months ahead. Some pledge to learn all they can about said bird, while others commit to simply...
Birdwatching Expert Shares Favorite Island Hot Spots

Birdwatching Expert Shares Favorite Island Hot Spots

As the holidays approach and the light wanes, we’re thankful that there are always natural wonders to experience on these islands, no matter the season. We are also thankful to the knowledgeable naturalists among us who help us uncover our islands’ natural surprises...
Barney and Blanche: a tale of barn owls nesting

Barney and Blanche: a tale of barn owls nesting

by: Mark Timken, owl painting by Beatrice Timken Hope just means another world might be possible, not promised, not guaranteed. Hope calls for action; action is impossible without hope.  —Rebecca Solnet, 2016, p. 4 “Look! An owl!” my partner exclaimed with...
Fin whale on Vashon

Fin whale on Vashon

by: Bianca Perla, featured photo above by Kelly Keenan. Have you ever touched whale skin? It’s slippery and firm like the smooth skin of a wet apple. Have you had the chance to stand and look down into a whale’s gaping mouth? The lines of stiff baleen fray open to...
Walking on water

Walking on water

by: Kathryn True Every few years, islanders are treated with a rare and miraculous gift: the ability to walk on water – water in its solid state, that is. The far reaches of ponds that we normally gaze longingly at, bound as we are to terrestrial shores, are suddenly...