PORT TOWNSEND — The Port Townsend Marine Science Center is opening a window into marine life through a low-tide beach walk tonight.
“This will give people an opportunity to connect with their neighbors and appreciate where we live,” said AmeriCorps volunteer Zofia Knorek, who will lead the group.
“We will also see many animals that are nocturnal that most people haven’t seen before.”
The free event will take place from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and will originate at North Beach County Park, 5880 Kuhn St.
Quick talk
Participants should meet in the parking lot, where they will hear a quick talk on marine animal safety.
They will then divide into small groups to explore the beach, heading along the shoreline in both directions.
The low-tide walks are an annual event, with participants coming in close contact with various sea life, including hermit crabs and even the occasional giant Pacific octopus.
Shedding light
Knorek said she expects overcast conditions and no moon, adding to the darkness, but there will be a certain number of helmet lamps available for illumination.
Participants also can bring their own flashlights and should be prepared to walk a half-mile each way on a gravel beach.
They are encouraged to wear waterproof, closed-toe shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, and to bring along warm beverages like hot chocolate or tea in closed containers to ward off the chill.
Knorek said many of the more ambulatory animals will attempt to hide in nooks and crannies if they see a light, but there will be plenty of invertebrates on the beach at night.
There could be a glimpse of a giant Pacific octopus, as they tend to visit low-tide areas in search of food, Knorek said.
Tonight’s temperatures will range between 39 degrees and 45 degrees, according to the National Weather Service.
For more information, go to www.ptmsc.org.
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Jefferson County Editor Charlie Bermant can be reached at 360-385-2335 or cbermant@peninsuladailynews.com.
