BLM will lead birding walk to observe World Birding Day

ARCATA, Calif. - The Bureau of Land Management is hosting a free guided bird walk at the Ma-le'l Dunes near Eureka in celebration of World Migratory Bird Day, Saturday, May 10, from 8 to 10 a.m. Participants should meet at the Ma-le'l Dunes South parking area. Registration is not needed to join.

Dan Dendler, BLM park ranger, will lead this 1.5-mile hike on loose sandy trails through the dunes. Participants will learn how to effectively use binoculars, basic bird identification, and other birding tips. There will be limited binoculars and bird guides available for use on a first come, first served basis.

To get to the Ma-le'l Dunes parking area, take exit 713 for Samoa Boulevard from Highway 101 and travel West on Samoa Boulevard/CA-255S for 4.1 miles. Turn left onto Young Lane followed by a left turn onto Vera Linda Lane. Continue on Vera Linda Lane until arriving at the Ma-le'l Dunes South Unit parking area.

World Migratory Bird Day is a biannual event occurring every May and October that focuses on the protection of migratory birds and the various habitats they use as they make their journeys. The goal for WMBD 2025 is to promote a healthy coexistence of humans and birds by making our local cities and communities more bird friendly.

The Ma-le'l Dunes includes 937 acres cooperatively managed by the BLM and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge. It is a National Natural Landmark, a designation given by the National Park Service recognizing its outstanding coastal dune ecosystem. The BLM manages the southern 206 acres for conservation and hiking and horseback riding.