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Petersburg is located on the northern tip of Mitkof Island adjacent to the Inside Passage. It is a small vibrant commercial fishing community with about 3,000 permanent residents and is surrounded by the Tongass National Forest. The town is off the beaten path of the large cruise ships, which cannot navigate the Wrangell Narrows.
Mitkof Island is near the mouth of the Stikine River where the river delta and the river corridor cutting through the mainland mountains can result in unique opportunities for birding since the river is important for migrants and breeding birds as well as providing a corridor for wayward species from the interior. The island has an extensive road system providing access to a variety of habitats and recreation sites with trails.
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General Area Overview and Information Sources:
- Petersburg Chamber of Commerce
- Municipality of Petersburg
- US Forest Service Petersburg Ranger District
- US Forest Service Petersburg Motor Vehicle Use Map (PDF)
- Petersburg Medical Center
Birding and Wildlife Resources:
Birding Trail Map for Petersburg (click on site names for details).
Sites in Petersburg
Blaquiere Point
Watch for the Band-tailed Pigeon (casual) in May.
Blind River Rapids
The tide flat is especially good birding during the spring or fall migrations.
Blind Slough and Swan Observatory
Hundreds of trumpeter swans stop at this area during their fall migration.
Crescent Beach
Notable species include Red-breasted Merganser, Horned Grebe and Western Grebes.
Eagle's Roost Park
Take the trail down to the beach and watch for Pelagic Cormorant.
Hungry Point Trail
This trail offers a short, easily accessible hike.
Hungry Point - Nordic Drive
The highest numbers of birds are usually seen on an outgoing tide.
Little Dry Island
Excellent habitat for shorebirds and waterfowl.
Mallard Slough
Provides excellent views and access to the Stikine River delta and LeConte Bay.
Mitkof Highway
A wide variety of waterfowl, seabirds, and passerines.
Nature Boardwalk
The trail links in with the Hungry Point Trail.
Ohmer Creek Trail
The varied habitats can provide a wide array of bird species typical of Mitkof Island.
Petersburg Creek
Watch for Savanah Sparrows, American Pipits, Violet-green Swallows, and a host of warblers.
Petersburg Town Center
Approximately 130 bird species have been detected in Petersburg.
Sandy Beach
Western Screech Owl have nested in the vicinity.
Three Lakes Trails
The Forest Service maintains a camping shelter between Sand and Hill Lakes
Wharf Park
Great Blue Herons often roost at this location.
Wrangell Narrows
Best viewed by charter or tour boat.
Birding Photo: Ben Sullender
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