Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge — Friday, Jan. 3, 2025

I have to remind myself that those who are willing to get wet will be rewarded. Birdwatchers apparently aren’t bothered by a little rain. I was surprised to find a couple dozen cars in the lot as the rain sprinkled down. After a quick stop at the restrooms and visitor center, I hit the trail. When I got to the Nisqually Overlook, I spotted a dozen eagles and caught a glimpse of a green heron flying off. As I continued, I heard the croaking tree frogs and woodpecker pecking. Lots of different ducks, geese and herons.
From the long boardwalk I heard shots across the way. With my new binoculars I spotted some duck hunters across the mud flats and watched their well trained and very energetic bird dog collecting their ducks.
When the rain stopped and the sun tried to pop out, the frogs quieted down and the little birds had a chance to sing. All in all, a very nice day.