Cold Shorts, Warm Welcome: A Winter Bird Walk at Lake Sammamish

At 8:00 a.m. sharp, a small but enthusiastic group—about 15 to 20 birders—gathered for a winter bird walk at Lake Sammamish State Park, hosted by the Eastside Audubon Society. The thermometer read 31°F, and while the cold alone was bracing, the morning had another trick up its sleeve.

By 10 a.m., a thick fog rolled in over the lake, muting the colors and making the shoreline feel even more wintry. It was one of those mornings where you question your life choices—especially if, like me, you were the only person wearing shorts which wasn't a problem, but forgetting my gloves at home was. I found myself limiting the times I raised my binoculars to scan for birds. Instead I waited for those around me to signal what birds were around.

Despite the chill, the group energy was warm and welcoming. As a newcomer to this meetup, I was immediately struck by how social and inclusive everyone was—easy conversations, shared scopes, and plenty of patient explanations for IDs and calls. No gatekeeping, just genuine enthusiasm for birds and being outside together.

My personal highlight came at Tibbetts Beach, where I had a rare moment of glory: I was the first to spot a Hooded Merganser cruising the nearshore waters. Calling it out to the group felt like earning a small but meaningful merit badge—proof that even a newbie in shorts can contribute.

The rest of the walk unfolded at an unhurried pace, with people drifting between quiet observation and lively chatter, binoculars fogging up almost as fast as the lake itself disappeared into gray. It was the kind of morning that reminds you birding isn’t just about the species list—it’s about shared attention, collective curiosity, and standing together in the cold because something beautiful might appear.

I left with cold legs, warmed spirits, and a strong sense that this wouldn’t be my last walk with Eastside Audubon. Fog, frost, and all—it was a perfect introduction.