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Earth’s ecosystem morphs with the seasons and is affected by living organisms throughout the year. The seasonal migration cycles of all animal species affect the entire ecosystem, as different organisms travel to and from different types of areas in the world for survival. When the seasons change in Washington, specifically on campus, salmon and crows are a major part of the seasonal change.  

In autumn, northern populations of crows tend to migrate southward, which creates roost. Roosts are communal resting areas where 10,000 to 16,000 crows typically sleep at night. UWB is an ideal location for crows to roost due to its proximity to the wetlands. According to A Story of 10,000 Crows: The Nightly Migration to UW Bothell Campus, “they go to a roost because it’s safer than sleeping out on their own, where they’re spread out over many owl territories, or near raccoons, which are their predators.” Autumn is the season when crows prepare for the colder months and migrate away in partial migration, meaning not all individuals of the species migrate.   

During the past year, crows at UW Bothell have been changing. Dr Ursula Valdez is a tropical ecologist with a research interest in predator ecology, community ecology, and tropical conservation. She is a professor and teaches natural science classes such as BIS 141 Natural History of the PNW and BIS 390 Ecology and the Environment. According to Dr. Valdez, UW Bothell is a perfect place for the crows to settle down and roost by,  “Possibly associated that provided a protected roosting habitat, from the weather elements during fall and winter, a safe place from predators, a good place to interact with other crows … but this past winter they left our campus after more than a decade … so it seems that something may have change and they found a another place with characteristics that are now important for them.” She explains why birds like crows’ roost and the significance of roosting. This research can help identify safe environments around Washington that crows like as habitats. 

As early autumn arrives, Chinook, Sockeye, and Coho salmon migrate back to their natal stream to spawn after spending most of their lifetime in the ocean. One can view Chinook in North Creek, which passes through the restored wetlands on campus. There is also a small population of Kokanee salmon, a local freshwater species that goes out to Lake Washington before spawning. These salmon are keystone species and food sources for animals that live in rivers and wetlands. According to Salmon on Campus, “they are an important food source for predators, and they also benefit from the presence of beavers that create habitat by building ponds.” The wetlands and North Creek, where the salmon returns, are an essential part of the UWB environment. This area, once farmland, was restored in 1997, alongside the campus construction, to create more wildlife habitats and restore the land to its full for biodiversity. Without this project, numerous species like crows, salmon, or beavers would not be able to be supported on campus. The aim for biodiversity is to educate the community about the importance of these species and the conservation efforts of the environment like North Creek. 

During the North Creek Wetland’s restoration, numerous varieties of native plants were planted to create a thriving ecosystem. This included the Evergreen Huckleberry and Trailing Blackberry, both of which can be harvested and enjoyed in the fall. Native plants at UWB provide a habitat for birds, insects, pollinators, and salmon, creating shade and improving river systems. According to Dr. Valdez, “there are more than 60 species at UWB” such of which include Anna’s hummingbirds, Frugivores, and Bald Eagles. Dr. Valdez explains in detail on the many species Bothell has and how each of them is an important part of the ecosystem. No matter what type of species, every species has an important role even if it is small. 

If you are looking for hands-on experience in restoration, then you can volunteer in the wetlands. You can also participate in outdoor work, including removing invasive species, planting native species, and performing other general wetland maintenance. These volunteer sessions usually last for two and a half hours and are a great way to help maintain UW Bothell wetlands. Another way to get involved and volunteer is through clubs on campus. The Alliance for Sustainability Club hosts volunteer restoration events and educational events related to sustainability, such as campus tours and walks. as campus tours and walks. 

Another great resource on campus relating to outdoor recreation is Outdoor Wellness. It can provide an excellent opportunity to experience nature with the community. In the past, Outdoor Wellness hosted birdwatching events, nature walks, outdoor activities, and more. The Nest Gear Shop at the Lower Level of the ARC, offers equipment for students to check out at no cost. Dr. Valdez expresses upcoming events, “Yes, we are having the Wildlife Watch on Tuesday Nov. 18, and we are also having the Christmas Bird Count on Dec 20.”  

Furthermore, UW Bothell offers a variety of classes related to the environment, including Urban Life and Nature: Crows & Other Birds Inhabiting the Cities (B Core 110), Salmon and Society (B Bio 335), Intro to Ecology (BES 312), Intro to Restoration Ecology (BES 362), and more. There are also research opportunities related to Salmon with Dr. Jensen during spring and autumn as either a fry trapper or part of The Salmon Watcher Program. 

If students are interested in project-based internships focusing on research around conservation and restoration in the park, then CoSEE is a great way to start. CoSEE is the Collaborative for Socio-Ecological Engagement, located in the Environmental Education and Research Center (EERC) at Saint Edward State Park. CoSEE offers community engagement such as nature walks with Washington State Parks, providing hands-on experiences with local ecosystems, and offering monthly restoration events focusing on invasive species removal. 

Earth is a sacred planet and will be destroyed if not actively maintained. Every part of the ecosystem influences a major part of the world and without a certain part, the environment can change drastically. Taking steps to learn about ecosystems and how to maintain a clean environment and clean can be a great starting point for a healthy planet. This fall, act by stopping by the wetlands and greenhouse at UW Bothell to discover the notable species and plants that are crucial to the university’s ecology and the well-being of students.