Slavin Field Trip Report
by Lisa Clark, Coeur d’Alene Audubon Member
On April 25, eight members of Coeur d’Alene Audubon set out to explore the beautiful James T. Slavin Wildlife Conservation Area near Spokane—five of them visiting this birding spot for the very first time. This remarkable preserve is one of my favorite spring destinations, and it did not disappoint.
James T. Slavin offers so many advantages for birders. The trails are gentle, scenic, and easy to navigate, making the area enjoyable for a wide range of hikers. In mid-May, the hillsides erupt in spectacular wildflower displays—among the best I have seen anywhere in the Inland Northwest, which is saying a lot in such a beautiful region.
The wetlands and lake habitat make this area especially rewarding for birding. Because the waterbirds remain far enough from the trail, they are not easily disturbed by passing hikers, allowing for prolonged viewing opportunities. Unlike other birding spots where birds often scatter at our quietest approach, Slavin’s birds tend to remain relaxed, making it possible to observe large numbers and a wonderful diversity of species.
The abundance of birds here is always astonishing. During this trip, we observed over 100 Ruddy Ducks gathered in one flock—a dazzling sight with the males in full breeding plumage, their brilliant blue bills shining in the sunlight. Moments like that are unforgettable.
The beauty of this place feels almost magical. At first glance, the modest parking lot gives little hint of what lies ahead. The trail begins pleasantly enough, but as you approach the wetlands, the landscape opens into a breathtaking panorama of water, marsh, and birdsong. On this visit, the lush spring greenery, vibrant colors, blue sky, and towering white clouds created a perfect day in the field. We got lucky with ticks as well—not a one spotted or picked up.
It is inspiring to know that this land was protected through a conservation easement, preserving this rich habitat for wildlife and for all of us to enjoy. Every time I bring people here, I am reminded of just how special it is and how deeply it impresses me every time I visit.
While Chain Lakes will always be one of our treasured birding destinations, James T. Slavin comes in a very close second—and perhaps wins the award for “one-stop shopping,” offering incredible diversity in a single spot.
A spotting scope is especially helpful here, since many of the birds will be viewed at a distance. But that same distance is what allows such impressive numbers of birds to thrive undisturbed, making the experience all the more rewarding. A few of the first-time visitors are excellent birders and I was excited to share this experience with them; I know they will be back.
We recorded an impressive 43 species during our visit:
Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, Mallard, Green-winged Teal, Redhead, Ring-necked Duck, Lesser Scaup, Bufflehead, Common Merganser, Ruddy Duck, Mourning Dove, American Coot, Pied-billed Grebe, Eared Grebe, Double-crested Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, Osprey, Cooper’s Hawk, Northern Harrier, Bald Eagle, Red-tailed Hawk, Northern Flicker, Common Raven, Black-capped Chickadee, Mountain Chickadee, Tree Swallow, Violet-green Swallow, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, Pygmy Nuthatch, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Marsh Wren, Western Bluebird, American Robin, House Finch, Dark-eyed Junco, Savannah Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Spotted Towhee, Yellow-headed Blackbird, Red-winged Blackbird, and Brewer’s Blackbird.
It was a wonderful day afield, filled with birds, beauty, and the joy of sharing one of the Inland Northwest’s hidden gems.