A sunny solstice evening at the Stillwater Unit, where Andy McCormick guided 20-plus birders to 38 species.

Eastside Audubon celebrated the summer solstice with back-to-back evening bird walks—our first since before COVID—and the weather couldn't have cooperated more.

On Friday, June 19, Andy McCormick led more than 20 birders through the Stillwater Unit of the Snoqualmie Wildlife Area. Under sunny skies and a balmy 83°F, the group tallied an impressive 38 species over two-plus hours. Highlights included singing Red-eyed Vireos, Bullock's Oriole, Lazuli Bunting, and Black-headed Grosbeaks feeding recently fledged young.

Birders take in the views from the Juanita Bay boardwalk during Chuck Guilford's Saturday walk.

The next evening, Saturday, June 20, Chuck Guilford guided another crowd of 20 birders through Juanita Bay Park in Kirkland. The outing produced 35 species and 236 individual birds, among them five Bald Eagles, Osprey, a Red-breasted Sapsucker carrying food, and a Bewick's Wren tending an occupied nest. A beaver stole the show, swimming within feet of the central pier and chomping a tree branch just feet from the boardwalk.

Two beautiful evenings, two great turnouts, and more than 70 species between them—a fitting way to welcome back a beloved tradition and the longest days of the year. Thanks to Andy, Chuck, and everyone who came out!