Spotted Towhee—Photo: Mick Thompson

OPAS Backyard Birding: “Backyard Bird Population Trends”
Presenter: Matt McCoy, OPAS President
Saturday, January 3, 2026, 10:00 a.m. to noon
Dungeness River Nature Center
Suggested donation: $5

Matt McCoy

Through the years, we’ve learned a lot about the birds in our back yards—what they eat, the plants and habitats they need, how they behave, how to identify them by sight and sound, and where they go on migration. But do we really know how well they’re doing?

Ring in the New Year with retired wildlife biologist Matt McCoy as he explores backyard bird population trends. Using data from Bob Boekelheide’s Olympic Peninsula “Top 24” species, you’ll discover how trends are tracked, what’s driving them, and how you can make a difference in your own yard. Not all the news is grim—there are encouraging surprises depending on what and where you’re looking.

Admission to this program is free. However, we ask attendees to consider a donation of $5.00 per person to support ongoing OPAS education and conservation programs. Thanks for your support and interest!