Whether you’re an avid birder or simply curious about the wilderness around you, a Middle Fork Salmon trip offers a front-row seat to some incredible birdlife. From riverside willows to high canyon walls, the corridor is home to a rich variety of species, many of which you can spot (or hear) right from your raft or at camp. Here’s what to look and listen for as you float through one of the most scenic birding corridors in the West.
Note, this is just a sampling of the birds you might see or hear on the Middle Fork. there are many more out there. If we’re missing one that deserves recognition, please let us know!
Common Birds
These are some of the birds you’re most likely to encounter during your trip. Click on a bird’s name for more details, including calls and range maps.
Birds You’ll Hear First
From the rhythmic whistle of the Canyon Wren to the subtle chuck of a Chukar, these are the birds you’re likely to hear long before you see them. To hear their calls, click on each bird’s name.
Birds You’ll Have to Look For
Some birds along the Middle Fork are masters of camouflage or prefer to stay tucked away in the trees and brush. With a sharp eye and a bit of patience, you just might spot them.
Tips on Birding
- Bring binoculars. While in a raft, you’ll often have time to grab your binoculars from your day bag and hang them around your neck for easy access.
- Before your trip, download the Merlin Bird ID app and install the bird pack for Idaho. This app is the gold standard for birders, letting you listen to bird calls, log sightings, and identify species on the fly.
- Go birding with a beverage. This might be the best advice. Step just a few hundred feet from camp, find a quiet spot with your drink in hand, and settle in. With a bit of stillness, the surrounding birdlife will come alive around you.
