Presentations will be in the Plaza Room, located directly above the Edmonds Public Library (650 Main St, Edmonds, WA 98020).
June 6, 2026
Understanding Bird Songs
10:15-11:15 AM
Presented by David Lukas
Since the dawn of time, humans have been fascinated and inspired by bird songs. But how do we study bird songs today, and what have these studies taught us about the world of bird song? In this talk, we will explore how and why birds sing, and how we study bird songs as a way of understanding what they are saying to each other. This talk will open a new world for you because bird songs and vocalizations are a huge part of how birds interact with each other, and they are one of the most important ways we appreciate birds.
David Lukas is a well-known naturalist and author based in the Methow Valley. He has written seven books and contributed chapters to over 40 other books on a tremendous range of nature topics. He has also led thousands of natural history tours, classes, workshops, and presentations. David’s most recent project is producing a weekly nature newsletter at www.lukasguides.com.
June 6, 2026
How Sweet It Is: Your love for coffee, chocolate, and maple syrup can support bird conservation
11:30 AM-12:30 PM
Presented by Bryony Angell
Did you know how you grocery shop can impact the conservation status of the migratory birds you love? Learn about the eco certifications from The Smithsonian Institute and Audubon Vermont which support wild birds habitats in the coffee, cocoa and maple syrup markets!
In addition to learning about these exciting products, enjoy samples of select chocolate and maple syrup as part of the presentation!
Bryony Angell writes and speaks about birding culture. Her stories focus on the human side of birding for resulting community connection and conservation impact. Her stories appear in Audubon.org, the ABA’s Birding Magazine, BWD, The Seattle Times, and more. She’s been a guest speaker at Avistar Brazil, Cape May Spring Birding Festival, and local birding festivals across Washington State. She lives and birds in Skagit County. Learn more about Bryony at: www.bryonyangell.com
June 6, 2026
The Little Seabird with a Big Purpose: Pigeon Guillemots of Puget Sound
1:30-2:30 PM
Presented by Shannon Boldt
Pigeon Guillemots are remarkable yet often overlooked seabirds. They’re small in stature but mighty in their presence and role as indicators of Puget Sound health. Despite breeding along the shores of Puget Sound and living in its waters year-round, many in our community have never heard of them—until now! Come meet the Pigeon Guillemot through the lens of a growing group of dedicated community scientists. You’ll get to know these charismatic birds, from their unique behaviors and striking personalities, to their integral place in the nearshore ecosystem. Learn how the Salish Sea Guillemot Network breeding survey serves to monitor their populations, what this data tells us about Puget Sound, and why these seabirds serve as a valuable measure of environmental health. Also discover why we adore them, and leave feeling motivated to discover them for yourself. Whether you’re a seasoned bird enthusiast or simply curious, this is your chance to see PIGU in a whole new light!
Shannon Boldt serves as the Program Coordinator for the Salish Sea Guillemot Network’s Pigeon Guillemot Breeding Survey. She is also a Research Biologist and a dedicated community science volunteer. Her deep fascination of the marine environment, particularly Puget Sound, fuels her passion for studying marine life (and birds!), promoting community connection to marine ecosystems, and advocating for environmental stewardship.
June 6, 2026
Bird journalism: Writing about puffins for the Seattle Times
2:45-3:45 PM
Presented by Amanda Zhou
Two puffin species, both alike in dignity. In the Salish Sea we lay our scene. In Washington state, the iconic tufted puffin has become a rarer sight as its population has declined precipitously. Meanwhile, the rhinoceros auklet (which is a puffin despite its name, more on this later) has flourished. What happened? Captivated by this mystery and a simple desire to spend a workday bird watching, climate and environment reporter Amanda Zhou visited Smith and Protection Island with researchers in 2025 to write a story for the Seattle Times. Hear about how the story came together and learn more about these widely loved seabirds and the work being done to ensure their survival from the lens of a journalist and amateur birder.
Amanda Zhou is a climate and environment reporter on the Seattle Times's Climate Lab, where she enjoys writing about energy policy, environmental justice, urban planning, and occasionally, birds. She has worked for newspapers professionally since 2019, previously covering policing, breaking news and homelessness. She grew up in Boston and New Hampshire and enjoys rock climbing and biking in her free time. You can follow her work at @amanda_z_reporter on Instagram or visit her website at amandaczhou.com.