Most residents of Puget Sound are familiar with the sights of a summertime beach walk. The moon snails, starfish, Dungeness crabs and octopuses.

But these critters don't vanish during the winter. In fact, they become easier to spot, especially during nighttime beach strolls when the predators are not around and the tide is low.

Highline residents are invited to immerse themselves in the chilly ambience of a living treasure hunt this winter during two night time beach walks, which will be hosted by local experts provided by People For Puget Sound, the Environmental Science Center and the Seattle Aquarium's Beach Naturalist program.

Also sponsored by Burien's Park and Recreation Department, both walks will take place at Seahurst Park, with the first scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 22, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

The second walk will be Jan. 19 from 7 to 9 p.m.

Low tides on these evenings will allow beach visitors to see animals that are usually hiding during the daytime or covered by high tide.

Come dressed for cold, and possibly wet, weather, as volunteers help identify wildlife and tell visitors about the life cycle and habits of the creatures they observe.

Please bring flashlights, a warm hat and dry gloves. Because participants will be splashing around in tide pools, wear waterproof boots for walking in cold, ankle-deep water.

After the beach walk, visitors are welcome to stick around for a hot drink and sit by the bonfire, sharing stories of what they spotted during the walk.

Last year, visitors saw elephant barnacles, colorful anemones and molting Dungeness crabs.

To reserve a spot for either beach walk, or for more information, call Daoud Neil Miller at 206-382-7007, or e-mail dmiller@pugetsound.org