For those in the know, the names alone inspire excitement. 

Swainson’s thrush. Brown creeper. Wilson’s warbler.

For others, it’s their distinctive calls that arouse fascination. Either way, to have one’s patience and diligence rewarded with an actual eyeful of these avian all-stars? Well, it’s a lot like spotting a celebrity — one whose appeal never fades. 

Though admittedly, selfies with them are more difficult.  

Black-headed grosbeak. Common yellowthroat. Cedar waxwing.

All those and more regional bird species can be spotted by those quick and keen enough around Jefferson County. And despite — or perhaps because of — the restrictions necessitated by the ongoing health crisis, the appeal of the search has only increased of late. 

As proclaimed in a recent New York Times feature, “Bird-watching has surged in popularity during the pandemic.” 

The numbers bear it out, too. 

According to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, birders set a world record
May 9 for “Global Big Day,” an annual bird-spotting event. 

“Participants using the lab’s eBird platform reported more than 2 million observations — the most bird sightings documented in a single day — and recorded 6,479 species,” reported the Times. 

Birders are reportedly finding relief in the distanced, outdoor activity, one which provides both the thrill of the hunt and the joy of discovery. 

Think of it as the original “Pokemon Go.” 

Locally as well, the appeal is apparent. 

Port Townsend radio station KPTZ recently hosted a special chat with Christie Lassen of the nature shop Wild Birds Unlimited to discuss the birding boom that began during the pandemic lockdown. And Admiralty Audubon Society, a chapter of the National Audubon Society serving Port Townsend and the communities of eastern Jefferson County, has been leading scaled-down COVID-era outings for birding pros and newbies alike. 

The next, a walk through Anderson Lake State Park slated for 9 a.m. to noon Monday, Aug. 31, will be led by certified trip leader and local nature photographer Beverly McNeil.

A retired physician assistant and one of the member artists at the Port Townsend Gallery, McNeil said groups embarking on recent trips have been limited to five, with no sharing of equipment allowed (and no carpooling outside of shared households) to ensure compliance with COVID safety guidelines. 

And yes, masks are required. 

“I’ve sent out instructions to the trip leaders to follow the nationwide recommendations on spacing and masks for participants as they lead trips with the only difference from the trips prior to the corona epidemics is to wear masks, maintain appropriate spacing and speak louder if necessary,” said  David Gluckman, the society’s field trip chair. “Outside activities with appropriate spacing should be sufficient protection in and of itself — adding masks makes it that much more protective.”

The smaller groups are actually a boon, to hear McNeil tell it. Too much movement and conversation, she said, will scare away the birds. 

“Where more people are out you’re going to see less birds,” she said.

Which, of course, makes Anderson Lake State Park ideal.

“Lake Anderson is really birdy,” McNeil said

“[It’s] perfectly safe to walk around there,” she added. “I go there about every two weeks [and] usually I don’t see anybody else there.”

On a recent group walk, McNeil said she spotted 21 species, a fairly typical total for Anderson Lake. Among that day’s birds was at least one noteworthy standout: the Western tanager, a particularly resplendent American songbird.

“That’ll snag a few people,” McNeil said. “I love to get people hooked.” 

All the aforementioned birds were spotted by McNeil near Lake Anderson in the past two months. Of course, there is no certainty they’ll put in an appearance during the society’s outing. 

Then again, that’s half the fun.

“It is always a gamble, and the birds go where the food and climate are most suitable for each species,” McNeil said. 

Though the majority of participants of late do boast some birding experience, McNeil said newbies should not shy away from signing up. The outings are free and serve as a perfect introduction to the world of bird watching.

“They’re beautiful [and] each one has a distinctive call,” McNeil said, comparing listening to the wilderness to being akin to listening to an orchestra. Experienced birders can pick out select songs, the way some can isolate a specific instrument, and identify the birds that way.

“Then you look for them,” McNeil said. “I know most — most not all — of the calls.” 

Would-be birders are asked to bring their own binoculars (and face covering), as well as a jacket, appropriate walking shoes, and water. 

Also, be prepared for mosquitos. 

Plan for a 2½-hour walk. Groups will meet at the first entrance to the park. You will need a Discover Pass to park. Contact McNeil at 360-301-4745 or blmcneil59@gmail.com for more information and to save a space. 

If enough interest is expressed, McNeil said she is confident the society can arrange additional outings. 

Admiralty Audubon Society was established in 1978. Its mission is to initiate, promote, assist, and encourage the understanding and appreciation of nature and the conservation of wildlife and wilderness, natural resources, and natural beauty.

Visit www.admiraltyaudubon.org to learn more.