Area birders invited to use refuge's new blind
Friday, May 7, 2004 7:49 AM PDT
By Staff
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E-mail this articleVolunteers from the Friends of Willapa National Wildlife Refuge have installed a photography blind for public use.
Wildlife photography enthusiasts can schedule use of the blind at the Tarlett Slough unit, located off Lone Fir Cemetery Road.
"This photography blind is the first of its kind in Pacific County and we hope the community of wildlife photographers will enjoy the excellent viewing of marsh and forest edge areas," Charlie Stenvall, project leader of the Willapa NWR, said in a press release. "Access to this blind will not interfere with the birds' natural behavior, and the birds' need for protected habitat will not be impacted."
Birders and volunteers from the Friends of Willapa National Wildlife Refuge and Stenvall selected the site, which will offer a seasonal view of migratory ducks and geese in the winter and in the early spring will attract some shorebirds in from the bay. Jeff Collins built the blind.
The Willapa refuge is home to many of the 300 bird species found in Pacific County. The Tarlett Slough area, where the blind is located, is at the southernmost reaches of Willapa Bay and attracts the most number of migrating species because of its diverse habitat.
The blind is designed for wildlife photography with narrow openings for camera equipment, and not recommended for general wildlife viewing.
Telephoto/zoom lenses are strongly recommended to ensure long-distance capture of bird activity. There's a short hike to the building.
Use is by reservation only by calling (360) 484-3482. Users must sign in and pick up a key at the Willapa NWR office, which is open 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays.
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