Beginner Friendly Birding @Orenco Woods Nature Park w/Rose City Bird Collective

Join us for an early February bird walk at Orenco Woods Nature Park in Hillsboro, hosted by Rose City Bird Collective in cooperation with Birding for the People, and led by Lauren & Mel.
This is a slow-paced, beginner-friendly outing with lots of stops for bird ID, learning, and community connection. We’ll stroll the looping gravel paths and boardwalks at a relaxed pace, taking our time to scan the wetlands, shrubs, oak savanna, and forest edges.
Orenco Woods Nature Park is a restored natural area featuring wetlands along Rock Creek, gently rolling hills, upland forest, and open lawn areas. Winter is a rewarding time to visit, as waterfowl and raptors are often active and the lighter vegetation makes birds easier to spot.

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### 🐦 What to Expect

• Beginner-friendly bird identification (no experience needed!)
• Relaxed pace with frequent stops for viewing and photos
• Social, welcoming, community-focused vibe
• Short loop / out-and-back style walk with time for questions and discussion

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### 🌿 Bird Highlights (Possible, not guaranteed)

Typical species count: 20+ species
Notable possibilities include:

• Red-tailed Hawk
• Red-breasted Sapsucker
• Great Blue Heron
• Downy Woodpecker

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### ♿ Accessibility & Trail Conditions

• Surface: packed gravel, boardwalks, some paved connectors
• Grade: gently rolling / mostly easy
• Distance: 1ish Miles
• Expect: wet or muddy patches after rain
• Crowds/noise: light to moderate neighborhood foot traffic, families, dogs on leash
• Shade/sun: mixed open lawn and wooded sections
• Seating: benches and picnic shelter areas available
• Restrooms: seasonal / may be limited — plan ahead
• Cell service: reliable

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### 📍 Meet-Up & Logistics

Meet-up location: Main entrance plaza near the apple sculpture / central lawn
Address: 7100 NE Birch St., Hillsboro
Parking: small lot + nearby neighborhood street parking
Distance from parking: short walk (1–3 minutes)
Transit: MAX Red & Blue Lines — Orenco Station stop (~0.5 mile walk)
Hours: Park open sunrise to sunset

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### 🔭 Binoculars / Optics

• Group spotting scope available
• Limited extra binoculars may be available
• No binoculars? Still totally welcome!

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### ❄️ Weather + What to Wear

Winter birding can be chilly—dress in layers and plan for slow walking and occasional standing still. Waterproof shoes are recommended, especially after recent rain. Trails are generally easy but can be damp or slick in places.

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### ✅ Safety & Responsibility

This is an outdoor community walk on public park trails. Conditions may be wet or uneven depending on weather. Please use your best judgment, stay within your comfort level, and help us keep the group together. By attending, you agree to take responsibility for your own safety and personal belongings.
All ages are welcome—minors must stay with a parent/guardian at all times.
We’d love to have you join us—whether it’s your first bird walk or your millionth! 🐦