Celebrity guest Puddles the Blue Goose made a surprise appearance. (USFWS)  - Photo Credit: n/a

Nancy McQuillan of the Friends of Humboldt Bay NWR reads a nature adventure to a Fly-Off participant. (USFWS) - Photo Credit: n/a

The 9th Annual Aleutian Goose Fly-Off was again a very successful event for the refuge.  More than 750 visitors participated in the event, even though the famous Humboldt County rain made its appearance throughout the weekend.  The geese provided an amazing spectacle as always, and dedicated volunteer interpreters told the Aleutian goose's story of near extinction to successful recovery.  The post fly-off activities, hosted by the Friends and Volunteers of Humboldt Bay NWR, made the event a true Family Fun Day.  Family activities included decoy painting, storytelling, birdfeeder building, the refuge Quest and more.

Visitors from as far away as Washington state and the Marin Audubon Society traveled to Humboldt County for the event.  We are proud to host this popular community event, appreciative of the support and interest of the local media and are excited to see the Fly-Off and Family Fun Day grow each year. 

We encourage visitors to check our website frequently for updates and announcements about special events and other happenings at the refuge at .  Next years Fly Off will take place on March 3rd and 4th.

                                                                                                       -- FWS --