Varied Thrush with snowberry. Photo: Steve Koehler

“Home as Habitat”

Presented by Steve Koehler, Olympic Peninsula Audubon

Saturday, January 4, 2025, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon

Rainshadow Hall, Dungeness River Nature Center

Suggested donation: $5

Steve Koehler

As we start a new year, let’s think about how we share our yards with native birds and plants, as well as other species they mutually depend on. This program features photos taken by Steve in his family’s yard, showcasing the species we are fortunate to live alongside.

We’ll explore how the plants our local birds evolved with provide habitat—including food, shelter and nesting places. This is an exploration beyond feeders and nest boxes to consider the habitat birds and wildlife used before human presence on the Peninsula. The emphasis is on how birds, and the insects they require, use our local flora throughout the various stages of the life of a plant—and just as importantly—after the plant no longer lives. We’ll talk about which native plants may already be present in your yard. In many cases, it is not necessary to add native plants, it could be just a matter of encouraging what’s already there. 

Bring your ideas and questions, as well as your recommendations and knowledge of local resources.

Admission to each seminar is free. However, we suggest a donation of $5.00 per person to support ongoing OPAS education and conservation programs. Please note that we encourage participants to observe current COVID safety precautions as recommended by Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe and Clallam County Public Health for the protection of attendees and volunteer staff.