Slavin Conservation Area- A Birding Hotspot

Submitted by George Sayler, Coeur d’Alene Audubon Board Member

Slavin Conservation Area lies just southwest of Spokane, a mere 45 minute drive away. The 628 acre area has hosted over 120 species of birds. On a recent field trip, five sharp-eyed birders from Coeur d’Alene Audubon and one new friend identified 30 of them. Five of us had never been there before, and we all agreed it would be well worth more trips. The area is a mix of a large pond, cattail marshes, open fields and pine woodlands. And, the woodlands just happened to be carpeted with hundreds of Grass Widows, Glacier Lilies, Buttercups, Yellow Bells and more. Birds and blooms – a double treat. The beauty of the clear blue sky was also welcome; the very strong biting wind was not. There were plenty of trails, and the hiking was easy.

Of the species seen, there were a number of standouts that included a relatively large group of Ruddy Ducks, which seemed more vibrantly colored than usual, possibly because it is mating season for them. A special treat was a very good view of a Marsh Wren, perched high on a cattail with its tail sharply angled up over its back. It seemed as if it were showing off for us! Other good sightings included a Says Phoebe, Yellow-headed Blackbirds, Cinnamon Teal and a Red-crowned Kinglet.

Coeur d’Alene Audubon birders zero in on the abundance of birds populating just a small section of this gorgeous landscape. Still early in the season, the birding was so good that we all agreed we would be back within a few weeks.

With the many species seen, many more to be identified, its varied habitats, lack of crowds, and easy access from Coeurd’Alene, Slavin Conservation Area is sure to become a field trip favorite.

This is a photo of four excellent birders who are active members of Coeur d’Alene Audubon. Joining this group equals a great day of bird and wildflower identification! All are welcome-check our calendar for upcoming events.