Nisqually Wildlife Refuge

The Nisqually River Delta, a biologically rich and diverse area at the southern end of Puget Sound, supports a variety of habitats.  Here, the freshwater of the Nisqually River combines with the saltwater of Puget Sound to form an estuary rich in nutrients and detritus.  These nutrients support a web of sea life - the benefits of which extend throughout Puget Sound and beyond.
                                                                 - http://www.fws.gov/refuge/nisqually/

Living in Washington state for my entire life, I have only been to the refuge twice, the first time being last year. It took us a long time to visit because dogs are not allowed. We fell in love with the area because all but a short section of the walking path is a wooden boardwalk. It's a clean, safe place to take in a 2-4 mile walk. 

Blue Heron's are often seen feeding in the area.

The tide was still in while we were here on this day.

The grasslands of the refuge.

A lot of ducks are in the area. In fact, the farthest portion of the trail closes between October and January for waterfowl hunting season. There are areas nearby that are open to hunters and for the safety of the public, the boardwalk at the farthest point of the property is off-limits.

Not EXACTLY sure what kind of raptor this is. 

Best suggestion I have heard is rough-legged hawk.

Here's it's backside. Not one of my favorite pics, but I wanted to add it in case anyone wants to give their suggestion on what kind of bird this is.