Newcomers will get a solid start and birders at all levels will get better acquainted with some of Washington’s notable bird species in four Eastside Audubon birding classes starting soon.

Taught by recognized local experts, the four birding classes are:

Birds of Puget Sound, a fort part course visiting four different field locations on Sundays from Jan. 22 through Feb. 12. Brian H. Bell, a professional birding and natural history guide and co-author of Birds of Washington State (Lone Pine), will be teaching basic principles, identification techniques, and more advanced skills. This course is designed for people of all skill levels.

Washington’s Woodpeckers, starting on March 9 is also taught by Bell. Students will learn how to find and identify the 12 Washington woodpecker species by their field marks, calls, drumming, and habits. This course is also designed for birders of all levels.

Shorebird Identification, starting on March 20, is taught by Tim Boyer, a professional photographer and shorebird specialist. He will help students to develop an eye for the similarities and differences among the “peeps” and will explain the epic migrations that bring these birds to the Washington shore. The course is also designed for birders of all levels.

Spring Birding for Beginners takes place during May. It is taught by Mike West, an expert instructor and international birder, who will teach methods for identifying species in the field. This class is geared toward beginners as well as for people who’ve been birding for awhile and want some basic how-to.

Fees and meeting places vary from class to class. These details, as well as classroom and field trip dates for each birding class, can be found on the Eastside Audubon website at http://www.eastsideaudubon.org/birding/classes.

Registration information is also available at the website or from the Eastside Audubon office: email office@eastsideaudubon.org or call 425- 576-8805. Birding class sizes are limited, so early registration is encouraged.