Birding for Shorebirds at Ted Trueblood WMA

Registration is required to attend this event, as space is limited. Individuals on the waitlist will be contacted with instructions if a spot becomes available. Only those who have completed Eventbrite registration and received a confirmation email may attend, including attendees needed for accessibility assistance.

Join Golden Eagle Audubon for a shorebird-focused birding adventure to the Ted Trueblood Wildlife Management Area (WMA). Our goal is to observe migrating shorebirds using the WMA's shallow water and mudflats, and any waterfowl and other bird species that may be present.

We plan to begin birding at the Main Pond on Ted Trueblood Lane before continuing to the South Ponds. If there is water at the Main Pond, we will scope from the viewing platform near the gravel parking area and bird the surrounding brush habitat. At the South Ponds, we will venture around one or more of the ponds, depending on temperatures, trail conditions, and the interests of the group. Access at the South Ponds depends on trail conditions, including whether annual kochia has overgrown the paths and whether Idaho Fish and Game (IDFG) has mowed them. As time allows, we may also drive along River Road toward CJ Strike Dam to look for shorebirds and other waterbirds on the islands in the Snake River.

Recently reported species can be seen here: https://ebird.org/hotspot/L40544056

Accessibility: This trip is unpaved but may be accessible by wheelchair users or those with mobility disabilities that are comfortable with traveling on un-paved and uneven trails. Please note that the platform at the main pond is not wheelchair accessible, but there are still accessible opportunities for birding. This event may be accessible for those who are blind and/or low vision, as there will be opportunites for birding by ear. Field Trip Leaders will help with bird identification and questions, but are not able to provide one-on-one physical aid or navigational assistance (including sighted guiding) on our trips. Participants are always welcome to arrange any assistance they may need in the field! Please ensure that any assistant is registered to attend this event. Use the special needs question in the registration form to let us know more about your accessibility needs and how we can best support your participation.

Birding Skill Level: All levels are welcome! Binoculars will be available to borrow if needed.

Age: Participants younger than 12 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and participants younger than 18 must have a parent/guardian sign the liability release.

Time: 7:00am-12:00pm. Check-in is at 6:50am. Please arrive at check-in so we can start on time.

Meeting Place: The parking lot behind the Stinker Station at 6658 S Federal Way, Boise, 83716. (Click on "Meeting Place" to get directions from your location.)

This trip is limited to 3 cars, and carpooling is required. Drivers must have vehicles with properly maintained tires with sufficient tread, and must be confident, capable licensed drivers comfortable with the road conditions. Drivers are responsible for ensuring their vehicles are properly insured and in safe operating condition.

Passengers are expected to contribute toward gas as a courtesy to drivers.

What to Bring: Sun protection, insect repellant, closed-toe shoes, binoculars, a scope if you have one, plenty of water, snacks as needed, and anything you need to be comfortable on a short road trip. Don't forget your camera, memory card and/or batteries! For drivers: a full tank of gas. A scope will be available for the group to share. No dogs please.

Restroom Availability: Restrooms will be available.

Inclement Weather: If there is an unhealthy AQI, steady precipitation forecast, or the trails are not suitable for ethical passage, the trip may be cancelled. August can be very hot, and there is little to no shade at Ted Trueblood. If the forecast calls for temperatures above 95°F, we may shorten the outing for participant safety.

Contact Information: Please text trip leader Louisa at 971-322-7040 with any questions.

Cancellation Policy: If your plans change, please cancel your ticket on Eventbrite or contact the field trip leader listed above. Participants who miss two trips without advance notice may be suspended from registering for three months. Donations made during registration are non-refundable. Thanks for your understanding!

Black-legged Stilt photo by Ceredig Roberts

Field trip leader Louisa Evers