Have a mi-grate weekend

April offers birdwatchers the unique opportunity to spot both early migrants and lingering winter birds and waterfowl, as well as resident raptors and woodland birds.

Audubon Society of Lincoln City will lead two bird walks in search of these winged signs of spring: in Lincoln City on Friday, April 8, and at Nestucca Bay on Saturday, April 9.

Spring Lake Open Space, Lincoln City

Discover this hidden treasure within the city limits about a quarter mile from Highway 101. A rough one-mile trail loops around Spring Lake; other trails venture up into an old clear cut. Blooming skunk cabbage and other wetland plants fill the marshy area. Birds will sport breeding plumage and nesting behaviors.

The group will meet in the Spring Lake Open Space parking lot on Port Avenue

Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge.

The new, two-mile Two Rivers Nature Trail is currently partially closed to protect a pair of nesting bald eagles, but the group will meet at the main parking lot, bird that area, and then hike to the upper lot for spectacular views.

Heading north on Highway 101, turn left at the refuge entrance on Christensen Road and meet in the lower parking area.

All the group’s bird walks are family-friendly, easy to moderate, with no pre-registration or experience required. Binoculars and guidebooks can be provided. Walks are held rain or shine; dress appropriately for coastal weather and muddy trails.

Both this weekend’s walks begin at 9 am. For more information, go to lincolncityaudubon.org.