Playa at 103rd & Slide, Lubbock

Playa at 103rd & Slide, Lubbock

Just west of Slide Road and 103rd Street Bordered by 98th Street to the north, Slide Road to the east, and Chicago Avenue to the west Lubbock, Texas 79424

Tips for Birding

You will want to bird from both the east and west in order to see both sides of this birding area. On the east side, park on in the back parking lot of the bank and walk the culvert. The culvert is crumbing in places and can be steep so use caution. If you park on the west side, do not block the alley and keep your vehicle off any high grass. Lubbock is usually in a drought. 

Birds of Interest

This area is worth checking when there is water (occasionally it is completely dry). Waterfowl, grebes, shorebirds, phalaropes, hawks, Burrowing Owls, Short-eared Owls, Barn Owls, Yellow-headed Blackbirds, Red-winged Blackbirds, swallows, warblers, night-herons, ibis, geese, and more can be found depending on the season. 

About this Location

This lot appears to be more of a detention pond for the surrounding developed lots but has good birding when there is water. The lot to the south is being developed and time will tell its effect on this birding spot. Occasional rarities pop up including a Red Knot that was found in the fall of 2018. This lot is particularly worth checking during spring and fall migration. 

Notable Trails

There are no official trails. The use of motorbikes is a regular occurance at this site. 

Features

  • Restrooms on site

  • Wheelchair accessible trail

  • Entrance fee

  • Roadside viewing

Content from Jennifer Miller

Jennifer Miller