Bird-watching in the Cowlitz Wildlife Area

Location: Off U.S. Highway 12 near Ethel, Lewis County

Habitat: Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife site, riparian deciduous forest, along gravel bar of Cowlitz River.

Best seasons for birding: Spring through fall.

Birds commonly seen: Calling adventuresome birders! Ospreys, bald eagles, belted kingfishers — even American kestrels — fly through riparian corridor. On gravel bar, killdeer feign broken wings. Look in scrub trees for red-eyed vireos, common yellowthroats, varied thrushes and American goldfinches spring-summer, plus western scrub jays and Townsend's solitaires spring-fall. Downy woodpeckers and northern flickers favor cottonwoods. Check river and sloughs for common and hooded mergansers, and common and Barrow's goldeneyes spring and fall.

Viewing: Primitive site with no amenities. Walk around metal gate onto gravel bar to view river. Walk up river a half-mile on fishermen's paths or 100 yards down river.

Getting there: From eastbound Highway 12 after Milepost 74.1, turn south. Drive 3 miles. Turn left onto Spencer Road, then right (east) immediately onto unimproved dirt road leading down to small, bumpy parking area.

Source: Audubon Washington, Great Washington State Birding Trail maps. To order maps (Cascade Loop, Coulee Corridor, Olympic Loop or Southwest Loop), go online to www.wa.audubon.org. Call toll-free, 866-922-4737, for more information.