Located in the San Juan archipelago of Washington State, Orcas Island is a captivating destination that offers a unique mix of stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and serene landscapes. Known as the “Gem of the San Juans,” Orcas Island provides countless opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, kayaking, and birding.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a casual nature enthusiast, this guide will take you through some of the best birding spots on Orcas Island and introduce you to the incredible avian species that reside here. We’ll also review some of the best Orcas Island hotel options to make your stay on the island truly memorable.
About Orcas Island
Orcas Island, the largest of the San Juan Islands in Northwest Washington’s Salish Sea, features a landscape of forests, mountains, lakes, and coastline. Named after Juan Vicente de Gúemes Padilla Horcasitas y Aguayo, the island is known for its rich history and cultural legacy. It was initially inhabited by the Lummi tribe and other Straits Salish peoples until European exploration in the late 18th century. By the mid-19th century, settlers arrived, shifting from agriculture to tourism by the 20th century with developments like Moran State Park. Historically, Orcas Island experienced challenges for native populations and settlers, but figures like Sidney R. S. Gray contributed to its development. One of the island’s main towns is Eastsound, which serves as the cultural and commercial center, offering visitors a variety of shops, galleries, and restaurants.
What Kinds Of Birds Live Here?
Orcas Island is a bird-watcher’s paradise, home to various avian species thriving in diverse habitats. The island’s mix of coastal cliffs, wetlands, forests, and meadows creates an ideal environment for both migratory and resident birds. Here’s a glimpse into some of the remarkable birds you can spot on the island:
Trumpeter Swans
The Trumpeter Swan is the largest native waterfowl species in North America and can be seen gracing the waters of Orcas Island. These elegant birds are known for their distinctive trumpeting call, which can be heard from quite a distance.
Loons
Loons are another species you’ll likely encounter with their hauntingly beautiful calls and striking black-and-white plumage. They are skilled divers and can often be seen fishing in the island’s lakes and along the coastline.
Harlequin Ducks
These colorful ducks, with their bold white, blue, and rust patterns, are often found in rocky coastal areas. Harlequin Ducks are known for their preference for fast-moving waters, making them a thrilling sight for birders.
Buffleheads
Buffleheads are small, energetic diving ducks that frequent the waters around Orcas Island. Males are easily recognizable by their contrasting black-and-white plumage and striking white head patches.
Surf Scoters
Surf Scoters, with their distinctive black feathers and large, colorful bills, are often seen bobbing in the surf or diving for mollusks. They are a common sight along the island’s rocky coastlines, particularly during the winter months when they migrate to the coastal waters of the Pacific Northwest. These striking sea ducks are known for their unique foraging behavior, often diving to significant depths to forage on a diverse diet that includes mollusks, crustaceans, and other marine invertebrates.
Hooded Mergansers
Hooded Mergansers are striking ducks with memorable crests that make them particularly distinctive. The males are especially eye-catching, featuring black-and-white plumage and dramatic fan-shaped head crests that can raise or lower depending on their mood or during courtship displays. Females are more subtly adorned with brownish bodies but still sport the same elegant crest. Their unique hunting technique involves sharp, serrated bills that help them grip their slippery prey.
Black Bellied Plovers
Black Bellied Plovers are migratory shorebirds that frequent Orcas Island beaches and mudflats, particularly during migration. These birds are remarkable for their striking breeding plumage, which features a black belly and face sharply contrasted by a white forehead and crown. During the non-breeding season, their plumage becomes more muted with mottled grey and white, but they are still easily recognizable by their sturdy build and distinctive appearance. Black Bellied Plovers are known for their keen eyesight, which they use to spot prey from a distance.
Plan Your Visit
Ready to experience the joy of Orcas Island birding for yourself? Browse our full selection of Orcas Island hotel rooms to get started!
Where To Go Birding On Orcas Island
Birding on Orcas Island is a rewarding experience, thanks to its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife. Here are some of the top bird-watching spots on the island:
Mount Constitution
Mount Constitution, the highest point in the San Juan Islands, offers breathtaking views and excellent birding opportunities. The lush forests and open meadows attract a variety of avian species, including raptors, songbirds, and woodpeckers. Hiking to the summit is also a rewarding adventure in itself and is considered one of the best Orcas Island hikes.
Cascade Lake
Located in Moran State Park, Cascade Lake is a prime spot for bird-watching. The serene lake attracts waterfowl such as ducks, swans, and loons, while the surrounding forests and trails provide habitat for various songbirds and woodpeckers. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars!
Turtleback Mountain Preserve
Turtleback Mountain Preserve is a birding hotspot known for its diverse ecosystems, which range from wetlands to forests to open meadows. This area is home to many species of birds, including eagles, hawks, and migratory songbirds. The trails here are also popular among hikers, offering some of the most scenic hiking spots on Orcas Island.
Check Out The Merlin App
If you’re new to birding or want to enhance your experience, downloading the Merlin Bird ID app can be a game-changer. Developed by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, this app helps you identify bird species based on location and observations. It’s convenient on Orcas Island, where the variety of bird species can be pretty overwhelming. With the Merlin app, you can log your sightings, learn about different species, and even listen to their calls—making your birding adventure educational and enjoyable.
Book Your Lodging in Orcas Island with The Village Inn at Eastsound
When planning your birding excursion to Orcas Island, choosing the right place to stay is crucial. The Village Inn At Eastsound stands out among the hotels on Orcas Island, offering a boutique experience that combines comfort, convenience, and sustainability. Located in the heart of Eastsound, this charming inn provides easy access to various things to do on Orcas Island, including popular birding spots and scenic hikes. Whether you’re heading to Moran State Park for bird-watching or exploring the local shops and restaurants, everything is within easy reach. We are also a pet-friendly Orcas Island hotel, with every room including welcome bags and pet supplies to keep your furry friends comfortable during your stay.
The Village Inn At Eastsound is also committed to eco-friendly practices. The furnishings are sustainably sourced, ensuring your stay is comfortable and environmentally responsible. The on-site water refill station also discourages single-use plastics, aligning with sustainable practices. A standout feature of The Village Inn at Eastsound is its on-site electric vehicle chargers, offering added convenience for guests driving electric cars. Whether you’re visiting Orcas Island for its birding opportunities, scenic hikes, or other Orcas Island attractions, staying at The Village Inn At Eastsound ensures that you’ll have a comfortable, convenient, and eco-friendly base for your adventures.
