Birding in Snohomish County and Camano Island, 3rd Edition

A field guide to the best birding locations in Snohomish County and Camano Island, Washington

A full-color, updated and expanded 3rd edition of Philip Zalesky’s original book, Birding in Snohomish County and Camano Island, 3rd Edition is a celebration of the variety and bountiful birding locations in the area. With habitats ranging from marine to alpine, the diversity of species that can be found here are a birder’s dream.

This new edition covers more than 80 locations, noting general information about the sites and which birds are common at each. Philip Zalesky’s original site descriptions have been revised and updated, including new observations, recent sightings, and historical and natural history information. Our local birders have added their own interesting anecdotes, including the many ways things have changed since the 2nd edition was published in 2001. Local bird photographers have contributed over 100 full-color photographs showing the splendor of our local birds and the wondrous beauty of the birding habitats found in our area. A checklist includes all 355 species of birds ever sighted in Snohomish County and Camano Island.

We hope this book will guide you to new areas you haven’t explored yet, or give you an idea of where to start if you’re visiting Western Washington.

All proceeds will help fund local conservation efforts in Snohomish County and Camano Island.

Earlier Editions

Originally published in 1997, with a 2nd edition in 2001, the book endeavors to highlight many of the best birding locations in Snohomish County. It includes well-known locations, such as Spencer Island and the Edmonds Marsh, but also touches on lesser known parks and locations such as Narbeck Wetland Sanctuary and Chase Lake. The original text was written by Philip Zalesky, and his down-to-earth prose is what makes this book so endearing.

A lot has changed in the past 22 years since the 2nd edition was released, and we captured many of the new opportunities that have come to be in recent years in this new 3rd edition. New additions to the book include Miner’s Corner Park (opened in 2014) and Baywood Nature Trail (opened in 2023).