Lewiston Wildlife Habitat Area

Overview

The Lewiston Wildlife Habitat Area is a wildlife-friendly oasis located within the city limits.
Registered with the National Wildlife Federation as a “Backyard Wildlife Habitat Area,” the five-acre area provides an excellent way to observe wild birds, mammals and aquatic creatures. A paved path meanders through meadows and a small forest planted with a variety of trees and shrubs. Deer, coyote, raccoon, rabbit, skunks, amphibians, reptiles and over 115 bird species have been observed here.

The area includes:
•    A rock fountain and meandering stream spills into a small pond.
•    An underwater viewing window provides a glimpse of crayfish, snails and tiny fish.
•    Benches along the trail set amid flowering plants that attract butterflies, hummingbirds, bees and other insects.
•    An observation gazebo is outfitted with one-way glass and surrounded by bird feeders, providing up-close wildlife viewing.

The area is handicap accessible and is open anytime to self-guided tours.
Pedestrians and wheelchairs are allowed. No pets, skateboards, joggers or bikes.

History

In the 1960’s, Idaho Fish and Game purchased 10 acres in the Lewiston Orchards (the now-suburban area on the plateau above downtown Lewiston) and filled three of the acres with office buildings. The other seven acres was an alfalfa hayfield until 1985. Converting the hayfield to habitat began with several dedicated volunteers and community groups who installed the sprinklers, excavated the walking trail and constructed the bird observatory. In 1998, 13 years after beginning the project, the last structure, the cement underwater viewing room, was completed. Thousands of hours of labor over two decades have produced this very important urban wildlife area for people of all ages to enjoy.