Birding on the Madaket Summer Boat Tours Support Godwit Days

This is a press release from the Godwit Days Spring Migration Bird Festival:

Birding on the Madaket returns this summer with three guided boat tours aboard the historic Madaket on July 19, August 23, and September 20, from 4 to 6 p.m. The tours offer a unique opportunity to experience Humboldt Bay from the water with local bird experts as guides.

Exposed mudflats along the shoreline attract flocks of shorebirds, while seabirds can often be seen in the bay’s open waters. Osprey and Peregrine Falcons are frequently spotted perched on structures along the shoreline or soaring overhead. Terns and gulls roosting on pilings are accustomed to the boat passing nearby, often providing close-up views, while shorebird flocks may sweep past in flight. In addition to birds, harbor seals, California sea lions, and harbor porpoises may be seen during the two-hour tours.

Participants will also experience a piece of local history aboard the Madaket, the oldest passenger vessel in continuous service in the United States and a California Historical Landmark vessel.

Proceeds benefit Godwit Days, the Arcata-based nonprofit dedicated to birding and nature education on California’s North Coast, which also hosts the annual Godwit Days Spring Migration Bird Festival.

Tours depart from the Madaket loading dock at the foot of C St. in Old Town Eureka. Tickets are $55 per person and pre-registration is required. Seating is limited, and the tours frequently sell out, so early registration is recommended.

For tickets and additional information, visit www.godwitdays.org.