Starrigavan Bird Viewing Platform
Description:
The Starrigavan recreation area is nestled in a lovely estuary near the historic community of Sitka. The area features a wide range of accessible recreation facilities including camping and picnicing sites, and boardwalks. From the viewing platform observant wildlife watchers may see great blue herons, waterfowl, shorebirds and bald eagles.
Viewing Information:
The platform is located at the begining of the quarter-mile long Estuary Life Interpretive Trail. The estuary at Starrigavan Bay, located northeast of the old Sitka Historic Site, is home for several species of resident and migrant birds. Waterfowl nest here and use the area for resting during spring and fall migrations.
Bald eagles nest in the area and often perch in surrounding trees. Great blue herons pose like statues. Other birds commonly seen in the area include a variety of ducks and songbirds.
Along the shoreline of Starrigavan Marsh are roosting platforms constructed as resting areas for migrating waterfowl. A variety of ducks, including buffleheads, mergansers, goldeneyes, canvasbacks and mallards migrate through the area. Shorebirds are also common, with large flocks passing through during the spring and fall migrations.
Safety First:
Prepare for wet and chilly weather at any time of the year.
Be cautious of bears in the area. NEVER approach a bear under any circumstances. If you are lucky enough to see one, view it from a distance. Go to the Bear Sense page for more information about how to behave in bear country.
Directions:
From the Russian Orthodox church in downtown Sitka, drive 7.5 miles north on Halibut Point Road to the ferry terminal. Continue past the boat ramp and the Old Sitka Historic Site and cross the bridge to the parking area.
Ownership & Management:
USDA Forest Service, Tongass National Forest; Sitka Ranger District (907) 747-6671
Closest Town:
Sitka, Alaska
Best Viewing Season:
Spring-fall