As winter draws to a close, we eagerly anticipate the return of warmer days and the awakening of nature. This transition marks the perfect time to kick off a new birding field trip season. Whether you're a seasoned birder or just beginning, join us as we explore diverse habitats and enjoy the sights and sounds of migratory and resident birds. Get your binoculars ready—adventure awaits! Details will be posted on the events page of the website. These events are offered free of charge, as usual.
Indian Paint Rocks – Join superb naturalist Jon Isacoff for a last of winter hike on Sunday, February 1st. This area, along the Little Spokane River offers a somewhat challenging walk and never fails to produce a nice variety of birds.
Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge - Beginning Saturday March 14, Joe Cooney, a Spokane Audubon board member and very experienced trip leader will be doing field trips through Spring and Summer. Each month, you can expect to see new species. Joe is a friendly guy who is happy to share his birding knowledge with new and experienced birders.
Reardan Audubon Lakes – On March 7, April 11, and May9, join Madonna Luers, Audubon board member, and Woody Myers, retired Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Biologist, for Spring Migration at Reardan Audubon Lake Wildlife Area. It is fascinating to watch the procession of waterfowl as they stage at this preserve on their way to their breeding grounds. No registration necessary – just show up – loaner binoculars are available.
Medical Lake - Bea & Jim Harrison will be leading trips at Medical Lake Waterfront Park beginning April 18th and one Saturday a month through June. This is an easy paved walk and is open to anyone. See beautiful waterfowl in the lake and a variety of birds along the wooded pathway. Bea and Jim are experienced leaders and eager to encourage new birders.
Saltese Flats – Once again this year, birdwatcher Tim O’Brien will lead 1st Wednesday walks at one of Spokane County’s best birding locations. No need to register.
Glen Tana – Partnering with Inland Northwest Land Conservancy (INLC), Spokane Audubon is sponsoring monthly walks at this private wildlife preserve recently acquired by INLC. Check the website for a link to sign up for this unique opportunity.
Malheur – If you are interested in an out-of-town multi-day adventure, join Bill and Ann-Scott at Oregon’s Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. This beautiful refuge is famous for its spectacular concentrations of wildlife.
Little Pend Orielle NWR – Saturday, June 13, enjoy an amazingly beautiful and remote refuge with former refuge manager and our chapter vice-president Lisa Langelier. This can be a day trip or an overnight trip if you prefer. .
Little Spokane River – Paddlers get ready for a fun July day floating the Little Spokane and birdwatching! Carrie Dugovic will lead this relaxed paddle with bird watchers Jim and Bea Harrison. Expect to see Ospreys, Bald Eagles, Bullock’s Orioles, Common Mergansers and other waterfowl and an occasional moose.
As you anxiously await the arrival of warmer weather, get ready to hone your birding skills, or just get out in nature and enjoy meeting new people with Spokane Audubon Society. Be sure to check the www.audubonspokane.org website often for details on these trips. New events and field trips will be added as Spring and Summer progresses. Some trips require advanced reservations and have a maximum number of participants.
