Tweet yourself to a birding excursion

With spring approaching, bird activity increases, making this a great time to get outside and observe birds preparing for the nesting season.

Audubon Society of Lincoln City will lead walks this Friday and Saturday, March 8 and 9, that explore both public and private preserves in Lincoln City and Newport.

Friday, March 8 • Spring Lake Open Space

This hidden treasure is within the Lincoln City limits roughly a quarter of a mile from Highway 101. Except for the paved trail at the top, most trails are muddy and uneven. The trail follows the lake edge closely most of the way. Possible species sightings will include winter sparrows and other songbirds.

The group will meet at 9 am at the Spring Lake Open Space parking lot on Port Avenue and NE 14th Street.

Saturday, March 9 • Yakona Nature Preserve

The Yakona Nature Preserve and Learning Center is a privately owned property located on Newport’s Yaquina Bay, with limited public access. It includes both deep forests and bay frontage. The walk is moderately difficult with some elevation gain. Meet at the locked gate at the end of SE 40th Street near the Wilds Taphouse (formerly Wolf Tree Brewery) in South Beach, near the Oregon Coast Community College campus. Arrive at 8:45 am to carpool to the property.

All the group’s bird walks are free, family-friendly, easy to moderately easy and no pre-registration or experience is required. Binoculars and guidebooks are provided. Walks are held rain or shine.

For more information, go to lincolncityaudubon.org.