Meet the New Birds Connect Seattle Van

Birds Connect Seattle Van on a recent Birding Vacation

Nearly 12 years ago, during a staff retreat, our team gathered to brainstorm “blue sky” visions for the future of our organization. Our team has never been short on vision, so the room was filled with big dreams (many with big price tags). One such idea came from Program Director (then Education Manager) Christine Scheele, who proposed a bus to support our various program offerings. Thanks to the generous support of our members, Christine’s vision is finally a reality. While not quite a bus, we’re now the proud owners of a new 15-passenger Ford Transit van.

Rather than coordinating logistically complicated carpools, we’ll now be able to bring many of our field trip participants together in one vehicle, with plenty of room for binoculars, spotting scopes, and snacks. This means more time spent in the field and less time coordinating in parking lots. It also gives participants extra opportunities to connect with trip leaders and learn along the way.

Beyond getting us from place to place, the van creates more opportunities for connection along the way. Our Young Birders were the first to take it for a spin this summer, kicking off its role in bringing birders together. We look forward to taking Bird University participants, Nature Camp field trips, and community members heading out for field trips and classes along for the ride. The van is also a win for the environment: despite its larger size, it will help reduce the overall carbon footprint of our trips.

Beyond supporting our programs, the van will serve as a mobile nature center and a rolling billboard for our organization. The unique wrapping along its sides showcases local bird species with photos from long-time community member Sharon Wada. It also prominently displays a QR code giving curious passersby an easy way to learn how to get involved in our mission to connect people with birds and protect the places they need to thrive.

We can’t wait to hit the road with you on our next adventure, wherever it takes us. Spot the van out and about in Seattle? We’d love to see your sightings. Tag @birdsconnectsea on Instagram or Facebook, or send us an email to let us know where you spotted our feathered ride.

Meet the Birds on the Van

Take a closer look at the birds featured on our van, brought to life through photographs by longtime community member and local wildlife photographer Sharon Wada.

Lesser Yellow-Legs

Bright yellow legs and a slender bill make the Lesser Yellowlegs a graceful shorebird to look for along shallow wetlands and mudflats on your next birding trip to the water.

Learn More on Birdweb

Great Horned Owl

With its prominent feathered “horns,” bright yellow eyes, and deep, echoing hoots, the Great Horned Owl is a powerful hunter that can be found in habitats ranging from forests to city parks, often listening for its next meal after dark. An exciting sight to spot on an outing, whether in a forest or a neighborhood park.