Mailtribune.com - Oregon Outdoor Features

When the going gets hot

When the heat of summer hits the Rogue Valley most birders hang up their binoculars. Spring migration is long over and fall migration won't begin for a month or so. Plus, it's just too hot for the birds and birders to be active.

Klamath refuges a hotbed for birders

When most birders think of birding in the Klamath area, they imagine bald eagles and winter weather. Though this area is famous for both, spring and summer offer some of the best birding around.

Lower Table Rock is birder's paradise

One of the springtime events I look forward to every year is climbing one of the Table Rocks. Both mountains offer a moderate hike, they're close to town, with wonderful birding spots and spectacular views. The weather is good now, the wildflowers are at their best, and the birds have arrived ready to nest while sporting their best breeding plumage.

Hummingbirds are dynamos of nature

When I ask people, "What is your favorite wild bird?" they usually say hawks or eagles. But when I ask, "What is your favorite backyard bird?" they almost always say hummingbirds.

New field guide a gem for local birders

I've been asked by several friends recently to recommend a field guide for identifying birds in their yard and in the field. It's been several years since I've written about guides, so I figured this was a good time. I already knew which books were the favorites among most serious birders, so it was a "no-brainer."

There is no such thing as a 'sea gull'

For many years I've wanted to write a column on gulls, but for one reason or another I've just never managed to get it done. There never was enough room or it didn't seem like the correct time.

Klamath Basin eagles are worth a trip

I think if you asked people to pick the most majestic bird, the bald eagle would win, hands down.

Try the 'Big Sit'

It seems that each year birders look forward to two major events, the Audubon Society's Christmas Bird Count, held annually in December, and the "Birdathon," which is usually held in May.

Tips for a better bird photo

Every year when the In Flight photo contest gets under way, I'm asked questions about how to get good photos of wild birds. So, every year I try to give photo tips that are tried and true, and I try to add a few new ones to the mix.

In Flight photo contest is here

As many of you have already pointed out to us, the annual In Flight Photo Contest was not held during its traditional time in late summer.

Check out raptors at Dutchman's Peak, Crater Lake

In the last column we learned about shorebird migration — when it takes place and where to go to watch the spectacle. And, as interesting as that is, today we are going to explore a migration that many birders feel is even more exciting — raptor migration.

Click here view more Oregon Outdoors photo galleries

Find great outdoor products and services, powered by eSouthernOregon.com

Find Oregon Outdoors stories by keyword.

Click here to send us your story to be published in Oregon Outdoors

Partners