Denny Lake Park is located just east of downtown Cortez and is managed by the city of Cortez. This is one of the top birding hotspots in all of Montezuma County with close to 200 species recorded here. There is a gravel trail that surrounds the lake and provides excellent birding opportunities. Last winter (2022) a state first Rufous-backed Robin was found at Denny Lake. Hundreds of birders made their way to Denny soon after to see this extremely rare tropical robin.
Western Colorado
It's five hours to Browns Park from Denver by car, but it might as well be fifty. The few people who venture as far as the state's northwesternmost corner are richly rewarded.
The Four Corners country may be the best place in the state to experience a true natural quiet. Here, inside national monuments called Hovenweep and Canyons of the Ancients, below red-rock cliffs and desert mesas, you will have the rare opportunity to get away from human sounds.
Almost everywhere in this dry landscape is evidence of the ancient past. The colorful sandstone in this region encases some of America's richest and most famous fossil beds, the namesake of Dinosaur National Monument and its nearest town.
This trail takes its name from Fruitgrowers Reservoir, the best place on the West Slope of Colorado to see waterbirds, from huge flocks of Sandhill Cranes to squadrons of shorebirds and flotillas of ducks.
Grand Junction, the largest town on Colorado's West Slope, sits at the confluence of the Colorado and Gunnison Rivers at the foot of soaring redrock mesas sculpted by wind and water into dramatic shapes.
This is a land whose great diversity is sorted into layers from the bottom of the mountain to the top. Down low, in the deserts around the floor of Mesa Verde, the land grows mostly shrubby and spiky plants, like prickly pear and saltbush, which are home to equally spiny creatures, like the short-horned lizard.
Everyone agrees that "Uncompahgre" is a Ute word, but few can agree on what it means. Some say it means "hot springs"; others say it means "red lake" or "the place where water makes the rocks red."
Coal Canyon
This BLM land is managed for the local herd of wild horses, and this is a good area to hope for a glimpse of them, but it is also a well-known spot among Colorado birders to try for Chukar in the spring. The best strategy is to arrive early in the morning and listen for their distinctive calls, and scan the cliff faces in the area they are calling from. They can be surprisingly hard to spot. The shrubland has a variety of other birds, such as Black-throated Sparrow, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, and Rock Wren. Bighorn Sheep are also sometimes seen here.
Unaweep Canyon
In a state known for scenic drives, this is surely among the most scenic. Surprisingly, very few outside of Colorado know of it. As far as birding goes, the habitat along the road is mostly pinyon-juniper, with all the avian benefits thereof. Around Gateway and closer to Nucla some mind-blowing riparian habitat can be found, with the likes of Lazuli and Indigo (rare) Buntings, Black Phoebe, Gray Catbird, and Yellow-breasted Chat. Don’t let the birding get in the way of enjoying the world-class scenery, though. A number of rare butterfly species can be found in the canyon. Some, like Ellis’s Dotted-Blue, are found almost nowhere else in the state. The entire byway is 133 miles long. Give yourself plenty of time to stop and enjoy the scenery.
Oxbow State Trust Land
The northwestern corner of Colorado isn’t really known for abundant water, so any moisture in the dry sage flats and pinyon-juniper tend to be magnets for wildlife. Oxbow Wildlife Area is no exception, especially during the fall, when it is the best location on this trail for shorebirds. In addition to mudflats present when water levels are low, there is a good marsh with Yellow-headed Blackbird, rails, and dabbling ducks. After the spring lekking season, keep an eye out for Greater Sage-Grouse coming to the oxbow to take a drink. The sage flats you walk through to get to the oxbow are full of Sage Sparrow and Sage Thrashers, as well as Brewer’s and Lark Sparrows.
Confluence Park
This 265-acre park is named for the confluence of the Gunnison and Uncompahgre rivers. Extensive walking trails lead through the riparian forest, where you might find Bewick’s Wrens, Black-headed Grosbeaks, Western Screech-Owls, and Gambel’s Quail. The lake is also quite productive, and could attract just about any type of waterbird. Great-tailed Grackles seem to be a permanent fixture in the parking area. Mammals include muskrats and beavers.
Dinosaur National Monument (Harper’s Corner and Echo Park)
The southern entrance to this scenic park, adjacent to the Utah border, heads north from the town of Dinosaur, travels through Colorado, crosses over into Utah, and then back into Colorado to end at Harper’s point. The views possible from this road are truly incomparable, and remind one of the Grand Canyon. Greater Sage-Grouse can be found with some regularity along the southern portions of this road, and Sage Thrasher and Sage Sparrow are both possible. At Harper’s Corner there is a nature trail through excellent PJ, where one can find Juniper Titmouse, Pinyon Jay, and all the other PJ regulars. On the Utah side of the road a dirt road heads east into Colorado and down to the bottom of the canyon in Echo Park and Steamboat Rock. This road passes through lots more PJ and sagebrush, and into small but excellent riparian groves along Pool Creek on the way down to the river. Where the road hits the Green River are more riparian groves, and cliffs with White-throated Swifts, Canyon and Rock Wrens, and possibly Black Phoebes. Even if you don’t see many birds here, this road is worth driving for the scenery, pictographs, and neat Whistling Cave.
Cortez Airport and adjoining farmland
The farmlands around this small airport can be good for sparrows, and the large white-tailed prairie-dog colony has hosted Burrowing Owls in the past. Keep an eye out for shrikes and hawks, especially along the road to the Yucca House unit of Mesa Verde National Park.
McElmo Canyon
Heading west out of Cortez, this road not only provides access to some truly beautiful riparian habitat (viewing should be from the road), but also to Canyon of the Ancients and Hovenweep National Monuments and Yellow Jacket Canyon. Along the road itself, keep an eye out for Gambel’s Quail (rare in this part of Colorado), Black Phoebe (at the CR J bridge), Ash-throated Flycatcher and Cassin’s Kingbird, and Black-throated Sparrow. Common Kingsnake, known from just a few localities in Colorado, has been found along the road, along with a host of other reptiles and local butterflies like Desert Elfin, Desert Marble, and Southwestern Orangetip.
Dry Mountain Road
While northwestern Colorado is filled with pinyon-juniper woodland, this road into BLM land passes through some of the highest quality ‘PJ’ in the county. You could see any of the birds which call this habitat home, from Pinyon Jay to Juniper Titmouse to Black-throated Gray Warbler. Common Poorwills are around during the summertime, in case you’re passing through at night or camping here. Sage flats pepper some of the draws and forest edges, and Brewer’s, Sage, and Lark Sparrows, Sage Thrasher, and perhaps Greater Sage-Grouse are found here as well.
Divide Road on the Uncompahgre Plateau
The Uncompahgre Plateau has some of the best ponderosa pine forest in the state, as well as excellent mixed coniferous forest, aspen woodland, montane shrubland, and mountain meadows. And the way to see all of it is to drive the Divide Road. Starting out in pinyon-juniper woodland (with Juniper Titmouse, Virginia’s and Black-throated Gray Warblers, Pinyon Jay, and more), you soon rise into ponderosa woodland (Williamson’s Sapsucker, Grace’s Warbler, Green-tailed Towhee, Pygmy Nuthatch), then aspens (Purple Martin, Red-naped Sapsucker, Flammulated Owl), and finally mixed conifers and meadows (Mountain Bluebird, Vesper Sparrow, Ruby-crowned Kinglet). Keep an eye out for mammals, including Abert’s squirrel, American badger, black bear, and, if you are really lucky, a mountain lion or a bobcat.
Narraguinnep Reservoir State Wildlife Area
This medium-sized reservoir can be very productive for waterbirds in migration, including loons, grebes, and ducks. When the water levels are low enough, shorebirds are possible. Bald Eagles sometimes soar overhead.
James M. Robb – Colorado River State Park, Island Acres Section
Colorado River State Park is one of the most wide-flung state parks in Colorado, and all of the sections have something to recommend them. This unit, the easternmost, is perhaps best known as a place to look for Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep. It is also, however, a good place to camp not far outside Grand Junction while watching the river for goodies like American Dipper, Bald Eagle, Canyon Wren on the canyon walls, and White-throated Swift, among a variety of other birds.
Escalante State Wildlife Area (Hamilton and Lower Roubideau Tracts)
The highlight at this large state wildlife area is a good-sized pond, where you could see a variety of ducks, shorebirds when the water levels are right, and Sandhill Crane. The Lower Roubideau Tract contains large and extensive cottonwood gallery forest, though it is closed from March 15 to July 31 to protect nesting waterfowl. When it is accessible, look for species such as Western Screech-Owl, migrating warblers and sparrows. There is a heron rookery near the confluence of the Gunnison River and Roubideau Creek. Road access is possible year-round, and birds possible from the road include Gambel’s Quail, Wild Turkey, and Western Bluebird, among others.
Dinosaur National Monument (Yampa Bench Road)
Billed as a 4×4 only road, much of this remote and spectacularly gorgeous byway can be passable in a passenger vehicle with care. If there is any doubt, though, ask at the visitor’s center in Dinosaur. The road passes through a variety of pinyon-juniper, montane shrubland, and semi-desert shrubland, with birds like Green-tailed Towhee, Plumebous Vireo, Virginia’s Warbler, and Canyon Wren. Dusky Grouse is possible along the higher portions of the road, and Golden Eagle can be found with some regularity. Scattered viewpoints on the Yampa River Canyon are truly spectacular, and unlike other areas in the park you often have them completely to yourself.
Yellow Jacket Canyon
If you want to see Lucy’s Warbler in Colorado, you will have to come here. This location provides access to an extensive lowland riparian corridor, hard to come by in this part of the state. In addition to the warblers, look for Summer Tanager, Black-headed Grosbeak, Western Tanager, Yellow Warbler, Hairy Woodpecker, and migrants in season. In the extensive pinyon-juniper woodland on the drive in, look for Black-throated Sparrow, Black-throated Gray Warbler, Gray Vireo, Gray Flycatcher, and Scott’s Oriole. The area around here has the highest diversity of reptiles in Colorado, and spectacular species include Collared Lizard, Longnose Leopard-Lizard, Common Kingsnake, and Clark’s Spiny-Lizard. Be very careful to respect private property in the area. Most of the riparian grove is on private land; the part accessible to the public is the stretch north and east of the fence at the bottom of the hill on the road. Public property ends at the first large side canyon on the right as you head upstream. The first part of the entrance road, off of McElmo Canyon Road, passes through private land, so do not trespass in this area.
Dolores
This nice little town is a good home for visitors and provides all the amenities. The best birding in town is at Joe Rowell Park right off the main drag, where you can access a footpath through some very nice riparian habitat. You might find a dipper here, particularly in winter.
Totten Reservoir State Wildlife Area
Conveniently close to Cortez, this nice lake attracts good numbers of waterbirds. Since water is rare in the Four Corners region, concentrations of birds here can be very good, but a scope is required to see them well. Finding the vagrant gull or shorebird could require a long walk to the northeastern corner through pinyon-juniper habitat. This is the top birding location in Montezuma County with 234 species recorded.
Escalante State Wildlife Area (Cap Smith Tract)
In addition to the birds, spectacular canyon scenery, historical cabins, and mammals (including rock squirrels, mule deer, desert bighorn sheep, and coyotes) make this a place worth visiting. Highlights for birders include Chukars, which are usually found early in the morning, and can be found on the cliffs or feeding in the agricultural fields. Black Phoebe has been found nesting at various points a few miles south of US 50. The hillsides may also produce Canyon Wren, Pinyon Jay, Western Bluebird, Bushtit and others. The creek bottom is fairly narrow agricultural land, mostly fenced and private, and Wild Turkeys could be found. Good riparian forest is accessible from the road in a few locations.
Douglas Mountain
Douglas Mountain is the only location in this part of Colorado where you can bird Ponderosa pine woodland. This also means it’s the only place in this part of Colorado where you can see birds like Pygmy Nuthatch and Western Bluebird. Other possible species include Williamson’s Sapsucker, Wild Turkey, Red Crossbill, and Townsend’s Solitaire.
Martin Gap
Just east of the town of Dinosaur a dramatic stone ‘reef’ rises out of the desert floor, separating the flatter semi-desert flats to the south from the rising and beautiful terrain that slopes up to the Yampa Canyon. Though it appears nearly impregnible, there is an opening at Martin Gap. A rough road enters this area, though you can also park nearer the highway and walk. Extensive sage flats on the southern side of the reef should be checked for Sage Sparrow and Sage Thrasher, while the thick pinyon-juniper woodland on the north side have Pinyon and Western Scrub-Jays, Black-throated Gray Warbler, Plumbeous Vireo, and Juniper Titmouse, among others. Canyon walls throughout have Canyon and Rock Wrens, and there is an outside chance of Northern Pygmy-Owl.
Palisade Fruit and Wine Byway
This byway features very scenic driving or biking opportunities to explore the wine and fruit growing regions around Palisade. There are many vineyards and farms operating along the byway. Orchards go into full bloom by late-April or early-May when neotropical migrant birds are returning and many flycatchers, warblers and other species can be observed feasting on the recently hatched insects in the area. This is a great site to search for Gambel’s Quail as well.
John Brown Canyon
This scenic side canyon off of the Unaweep Canyon provides a good selection of lower-elevation habitats, from pinyon-juniper covered hillsides, streamside riparian and montane shrubland to ponderosa forest. Check the lower portions for Black-throated Gray and Virginia’s Warblers, Lazuli Bunting, Canyon and Rock Wrens, and Gray Flycatcher. As you transition to montane shrubland, keep an eye out for Dusky Flycatcher, MacGillivray’s Warbler, and Western Bluebird. The upper portions of the canyon contain some good ponderosa forest, and Grace’s Warbler, Plumbeous Vireo, and Pygmy Nuthatch all occur. As with many southwestern canyons, the lower portions are excellent for lizards and snakes. A few local butterfly species also occur, such as Desert Green Hairstreak, Southwestern Orangetip, and Desert Marble.
Hovenweep National Monument
Most of this small, remote and rarely-visited national monument is in Utah. But the Hackberry Unit, a beauty of a spot, resides in Colorado’s Montezuma County. The pinyon-juniper forests around the parking area are pristine, and harbor Gray Flycatcher, Gray Vireo, Juniper Titmouse, and Black-throated Sparrow. The hike to the Hackberry Ruins takes you to a permanent water seep, a rare thing in this parched desert. Cooper’s Hawks often nest in the small stand of hackberry around the seep, and the trees can also function as a migrant trap in spring and fall. However, please refrain from trespassing in restricted areas, including the seep itself, which is fragile. When birding here, keep in mind that the cryptobiotic soil found off-trail in the area, which is built by algae, lichens, and bacteria, can be completely destroyed by your footprints. The area around this national monument has more species of reptiles than anywhere else in Colorado – look especially for the bright Collared Lizard and the local Long-nosed Leopard Lizard. Many species of butterflies are also found here, including Canyonland Satyr, Desert Elfin, Desert Marble, and Indra Swallowtail.
Sweitzer Lake State Park
This small, reed-edged reservoir can be good for waterfowl of all types, including grebes and the occasional loon. The shrubby habitat on the periphery of the lake contains Gambel’s Quail, and can be good for sparrows, including Sage, during migration. The trees around the entrance station should be checked for migrants. For the dragonfly enthusiast this is an excellent place to check out the local species, which include the impressive eight-spotted skimmer.
Avant Farm & Vineyards
This private farm, vineyard and winery is a beautiful site with commanding views of Mt. Garfield and the Book Cliffs. The house and wine tasting room are located on a bluff on the south side of the Colorado River overlooking several acres of conserved land. The wetlands and Colorado River below support many migrating shorebirds and waterfowl species. There is also a large cottonwood tree that has hosted both Bald Eagle and Great Blue Heron nests. The creosote bushes near the house are a good site for spotting Gambel’s Quail year round. Wine tasting offered year round and peaches are available in August.
McPhee Reservoir
By far the largest reservoir in the area, the birding potential of this massive lake varies as widely as its water level. If the water is low during the spring and fall the extensive mudflats can be excellent for shorebirds. When the water level is high, or during the late fall and early spring, ducks can be abundant and rarities like Barrow’s Goldeneye, Common Loon, and Red-breasted Merganser are possible. Gulls and terns could be found at any water level; spring and fall are best. Waterbirds aren’t the only reason to come to McPhee. Extensive forest of many types surrounds the lake. The west end of McPhee is the top birding spot along the reservoir, however it is quite far from House Creek. At the House Creek Recreation Area, and along the road, a mixture of ponderosa pine woodland and pinyon-juniper forest provide the potential for a wide variety of birds. Look for MacGillivray’s and Grace’s Warblers, Red-naped and Williamson’s Sapsuckers, Flammulated and Northern Saw-whet Owls, and Hammond’s Flycatcher in the ponderosa woodland, and Black-throated Gray Warbler, Plumbeous Vireo, Juniper Titmouse, and Gray Flycatcher in the pinyon-juniper woodland. In the sage flats around the western part of the reservoir look for Sage Thrasher and Sagebrush Sparrow, as well as raptors during the winter months. Finally, keep an eye out for mammals throughout; black bear, Abert’s squirrel, Gunnison’s prairie-dog, and deer and elk are all possible.
Mormon Gap
Just outside of Rangeley, this area of sparse pinyon-juniper and desert habitat is a good place to look for species such as Say’s Phoebe, Lark Sparrow, Black-throated Sparrow, and Loggerhead Shrike. Rarer species possible include Scott’s Oriole and Burrowing Owl in one of the White-tailed Prairie-Dog colonies.
San Miguel River
The San Miguel River from Naturita to its confluence with the Dolores River has some of the best lowland riparian habitat in southwest Colorado. Perhaps the main avian draw here are the many Black Phoebes that nest along the river; look especially around the old bridge at Uravan. The beautiful riparian area has species such as Yellow-breasted Chat, Indigo and Lazuli Buntings, Black-headed Grosbeak, Gray Catbird, and Blue Grosbeak. This riparian corridor has some of the greatest rarity potential in the area. The canyon sides and side canyons are filled with pinyon-juniper woodland, and Black-chinned Hummingbird, Gray and Plumbeous Vireos, Pinyon Jay, and Virginia’s Warbler, among others, are possible.
Kenney Reservoir
The only large body of water on this trail, Kenney Reservoir can be good for waterfowl and may have a few terns and gulls. Scoping the west end of the lake (where there is deeper water) may give you a loon or grebes in migration, as well as diving ducks. Towards the northern/easter end the water becomes shallower, and dabblers dominate the waterfowl mix, and shorebirds are posible during periods of low water. The easternmost portion of the lake, a Watchable Wildlife Area, has some marshy land with the possibility of Yellow-headed Blackbird or rails, and maybe an Ibis or herons.
Sand Canyon Pueblo
Most people, when they come to view prehistoric sites in SW Colorado, envision grand cliff dwellings and remarkably well-preserved huts. The Sand Canyon Pueblo, the largest single Native American ruin in Colorado, defies these expectations. Here, most of the ruin was left unrestored and underground. Nonetheless, it provides an equally educational experience, and it is quite enlightening to see what the ruins look like when nature is allowed to take its course. The birding here is nothing to scoff at, either, and excellent pinyon-juniper forest provides a good chance for all the specialties thereof. Look for Gray and Plumbeous Vireos, Western Bluebird, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Black-throated Gray and Virginia’s Warblers, and more. Colorful collared lizards are common here, and mammals such as least chipmunk and rock squirrel are often spotted. Those desiring a desert hike can walk six miles down Sand Canyon to a trailhead on McElmo Creek. This makes for an excellent and fairly easy way to experience remote southwest Colorado while hiking through scenic canyon country.
Puett Reservoir State Wildlife Area
This is a medium-sized reservoir ringed by forest, both pinyon-juniper and cottonwood. Important to note, most of the pinyon-juniper forest is private property. Numbers of waterfowl here can be variable, but sometimes in the spring and fall you could hit the jackpot with large numbers and variety of ducks. Look in the cottonwoods for migrants, in season.
Dinosaur National Monument (Gates of Lodore)
The Gates of Lodore may be Colorado’s greatest undiscovered scenic gem. Here the Green River, already beautiful all on its own, cuts right into Diamond Mountain, creating a giant red gateway into a sheer, precipitous canyon, all surrounded by gorgeous pinyon-juniper forest. It’s a site worth coming to for the landscape alone, but luckily the birding can also be good. The drive in passes through some riparian habitat, where species like Yellow-breasted Chat and Lazuli Bunting can be found, before coming to a campground and short trail surrounded by pinyon-juniper. Here look for Juniper Titmouse, Pinyon Jay, Black-throated Gray Warbler, and Gray Flycatcher, among others. This is one of the best places in Colorado to see the cliff chipmunk, a species rare in the state.
Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge
Browns Park is an extensive area of wetlands and riparian habitat located on the Utah border at the west end of Highway 318. There is a self-guided tour of the refuge. A hunting blind (which is accessible to people with disabilities) on the largest pond along the auto-tour route is a great place to scan for ducks; during migration many hundreds of individuals of many species can be seen here. Browns Park NWR is also probably the best place in the state to see Tundra Swans, as their migration route just clips this remote corner of Colorado. Willow thickets along the river by the auto tour loop host breeding Willow Flycatchers, and the cottonwoods along various drainages may be good for migrants.
By heading over the unique (in Colorado) Swinging Bridge you can access many extremely remote and wonderful draws that very, very few people ever see. These draws are filled with pinyon-juniper and thick manzanita woodland found nowhere else in Colorado, and all the typical ‘PJ’ species can be found in the area. The road on the south side of the Green River here also allows for scanning of some additional shallow ponds and marshes, which are great places to look for more ducks and shorebirds, including Black-necked Stilt (which breeds here).
The NWR headquarters, which are reached by heading south from CO 318 just west of the entrance to the auto loop, usually have hummingbird feeders up, with many Black-chinned Hummingbirds all summer, and Rufous, Calliope, and Broad-tailed in August and September. The brushy draw below the headquarters is excellent for land birds, including breeding Yellow-breasted Chat, Virginia’s Warbler, Black-throated Gray Warbler, and many others.
A final location to check in the area is the Browns Park Store, which is reached by turning north off of CO 318 east of the NWR. The hummingbird feeders here can be productive as well.
James M. Robb – Colorado River State Park, Corn Lake Section
There are two units of the Colorado River State Park close to each other here, both fairly comparable. Corn Lake, to the east, has more facilities, a nice pond that sometimes plays host to dabbling ducks, and nice willow and riparian growth. A paved trail runs from here to the Colorado River Wildlife Area unit of the state park a couple of miles to the west, through excellent riparian habitat. Look for Lazuli Bunting, Yellow-breasted Chat, Great Horned Owl, ducks along the river, and migrants in season. At the Wildlife Area there is another pond, this one with more marshy growth around the fringe (look for Marsh Wren, Yellow-headed Blackbird, and shorebirds in times of low water), and more riverside riparian.
San Miguel River Tabeguache Preserve
This Nature Conservancy preserve contains a seven-mile stretch of the San Miguel River just northwest of the town of Naturita. It has a visitor’s area with restrooms, a kiosk, a short walking trail and a picnic area. In between the pinyon-juniper hillsides, it also contains some excellent lowland riparian forest of cottonwood and willow. Bald Eagles and Peregrine Falcons are two of the higher-profile birds to look for in this area; Black Phoebes are a good bet too. The pinyon-juniper hillsides are good places to look for Gray Vireo, Black-throated Gray Warbler, Ash-throated Flycatcher, and Black-chinned Hummingbird. Keep an eye out for the locally endangered river otter when you’re near the river.
Fruitgrowers Reservoir
This is the best waterbirding spot on Colorado’s West Slope. When the water levels are low, exposing extensive mudflats, look for a large variety of shorebirds and waterfowl. This is one of the few nesting areas for Willet in Colorado, and American Bittern can usually be found in the summer in the marsh on the north side of the dike road. Sandhill Cranes come through in large numbers in the early spring and roost for the night in Hart’s Basin to the north of the reservoir; during the fall they come through in smaller numbers, and a few even spend the winter. The southwest corner of the reservoir plays host to a small Great Blue Heron colony. The riparian areas on the south end of the reservoir are a good place to look for sparrows, migrant passerines, and a variety of raptors. This is a good location to see a wide variety of wildlife, including muskrats, cottontails, jackrabbits, and coyotes. The nearby community of Eckert hosts a Sandhill Crane festival in March.
Summit Reservoir State Wildlife Area
This large reservoir is very productive for waterbirds, and the surrounding ponderosa woodland can be good for Grace’s Warbler, and Red Crossbill, among others. During rainy weather, thousands of swallows can be seen skimming low over the water.
Cheney Reservoir
Another desert oasis reservoir, Cheney is perhaps the best of the shallow irrigation lakes in the Grand Junction area. Especially in migration look for shorebirds, dabblers and divers, grebes, and herons and ibis around the edge. Even things like American White Pelican can show up on the lake. The drive in through the shrubland is a good place to look for Sage Sparrow (especially during fall migration), Horned Lark, and Lark Sparrow. Be especially careful on the roads here after a rain, when they may not be passable without a 4×4 vehicle.
Grand Mesa (south)
This is the largest table mountain in the world, topped by excellent spruce-fir forest and aspen groves complete with an extensive trail system. Look for species such as American Three-toed Woodpecker, Gray Jay, Pine Grosbeak and Red Crossbill, and just about the entire suite of high-elevation birds. During calm spring nights, the owling here can be excellent, with Boreal, Northern Saw-whet, and, if you are lucky, Northern Pygmy-Owls possible. Mammals also abound, with coyote, elk, pine marten, porcupine, and snowshoe hare. The lower slopes, just above Cedaredge, are covered with montane shrubland, with the requisite towhees, Virginia’s Warblers, and such.
Lowry Pueblo
Part of Canyon of the Ancients National Monument, this well preserved and partially restored Native American Ruin is an excellent place to bring the family while birding in pinyon-juniper woodland. The forest surrounding the ruins is excellent for species such as Gray and Plumbeous Vireos, Black-throated Gray Warbler, Gray Flycatcher, and Pinyon Jay. Lizards and snakes abound, and in the early spring a number of butterfly species are possible.
Nucla
The trees around this charming little town normally have things like Bullock’s Oriole, Eurasian Collared-Dove, passerine migrants during migrations, and finches during the colder months. In this dry part of the state any water tends to attract birds, and Nucla has two ponds that are worth visiting from a birder’s perspective. Nucla Town Reservoir is the larger of the two, and is good for ducks, shorebirds when low, and the occasional gull or tern. The trees around the lake can be good for passerines. The sewage ponds west of town are smaller, but are still good for ducks.
Stadtman Mesa
A beautiful area of pristine pinyon-juniper woodland, Stadtman Mesa is a good location to search for the typical suite of ‘PJ’ birds, including Pinyon Jay, Juniper Titmouse, Black-throated Gray Warbler, and more. Rocky areas may have Rock and Canyon Wrens. At night listen for Common Poorwill, and, with a good deal of luck, Northern Pygmy-Owl.
Irish Canyon
Rising up out of the sage flats, Limestone Ridge is a dramatic feature cut by the even more dramatic Irish Canyon. Covered in high quality pinyon-juniper, mixed with abundant cliffs and rocks, Irish Canyon is the best place in northwestern Colorado to look for Chukar, which are easy to hear in the spring but more difficult to find at other times of year. The typical ‘PJ’ birds are also present, and a nighttime visit could produce a Common Poorwill or Northern Saw-whet Owl. Be sure not to miss the Native American petroglyphs at the southern end of the canyon, complete with interpretive signs.
James M. Robb – Colorado River State Park, Connected Lakes Section
Perhaps the best unit of the Colorado River State Park, in terms of habitat and birding, is the Connected Lakes Unit. The nearby Ela Wildlife Sanctuary (owned by the Audubon Society) is also worth a visit. The riparian here along the river is some of the best in western Colorado, and is especially good during migration. Extensive trails allow good access to the riparian and the river; keep an eye out for species like Bullock’s Oriole, Plumbeous and Warbling Vireos, Yellow Warbler, and, at night, Great Horned Owl and Western Screech-Owl. The winter-time offerings are a bit sparser, but the riparian and thickets are good for sparrows and flocks, and American Dipper along the river. The brushier slopes above the riparian corridor have a different mix of species, including Virginia’s Warbler, and Gambel’s Quail is often seen and (especially) heard throughout. Large mammals are not often seen in this state park, but both gray and red foxes can be found, in addition to desert cottontail rabbits, raccoons, and ground squirrels.
Bauer Lake
This is a private lake, but you can view it from both the east and the west sides from county roads, be careful of local traffic. However, the best viewing is from the east side on CR41, and presents the best possibility of seeing a Lewis’ Woodpecker. In the spring and fall this lake can be full of waterbirds including ducks, grebes, and coots. Occasionally a Bald Eagle might be seen flying overhead. Keep an eye out for mule deer in the area.
Peach Valley (CR 24.50)
This is a reliable spot to find breeding Sage Sparrow, Western Meadowlark, Brewer’s Sparrow, Golden Eagle, Red-tailed Hawk, Northern Harrier, prairie dogs, badgers, kit fox (please report to BLM if seen) and coyotes. For being so close to the beaten path, this road provides a remote experience.
Canyon Pintado
An area of historical importance managed by the BLM, the ‘pintado’ in the name refers to the abundant Native American petroglyphs that dot the area. A number of pullouts, with interpretive signs, dot the area long C-139. These are all fun to look at, but the best spot for birding is the Cow Canyon site, which involves driving a couple of miles off the highway and into semi-desert shrubland and pinyon-juniper woodland. Watch especially for Black-throated Sparrow, Pinyon Jay, Juniper Titmouse, and the usual suite of dry country birds. Canyon Wrens and White-throated Swifts are common on the canyon walls, and lizards and snakes are common during the summer.
Lone Dome State Wildlife Area
The riparian grove along the Dolores River here is one of the best in southwestern Colorado; the quality gets better the farther south along the river you go. Look for species like Western Tanager, Lazuli Bunting, migrant passerines, Western Screech and Great Horned Owls, and wintering sparrows. The extensively covered pinyon-juniper hillsides are good for Plumbeous Vireo, Gray Flycatcher, Pinyon Jay, and Ash-throated Flycatcher. Peregrine Falcon have been found nesting on some of the cliffs in the area. Keep an eye out anywhere along the river for Black Phoebe. The whole area is excellent for a large variety of reptiles; look especially on the rocky hillsides near the county line.
Uncompahgre Plateau
The southern portions of this large plateau (see Divide Road for the northern portions) are more varied than the northern part. The highest parts contain excellent spruce-fir woodland, with Gray Jay, Golden-crowned Kinglet, American Three-toed Woodpecker, and more possible. Purple Martin can be seen in areas with aspen groves near large meadows. Further down are mixed conifer forest, ponderosa woodland, and then pinyon-juniper woodland. Grace’s Warbler can be found in areas with extensive Ponderosa, as can Williamson’s Sapsucker. In pinyon-juniper woodland, look for Juniper Titmouse, Ash-throated Flycatcher, Pinyon Jay, and Gray Flycatcher. A full day between Unaweep Canyon and Nucla could produce quite an impressive list of species! In the mammal department, check for black bear, Abert’s squirrel, and a host of smaller species.
Diamond Peak area
If you want to get away from it all, then this is a great area to do it. This area is as far northwest as one can get in Colorado, and is extremely rarely visited. A number of isolated mountains rise out of the valley here. Diamond Peak has thick mixed conifer woodland and aspen groves where most species of such habitat can be found, including Dusky Grouse and Red Crossbill. Most of the land in the valley is dense sagebrush, with Greater Sage-Grouse a possibility. The Wiggins unit of the Browns Park SWA, against the Utah border west of Diamond peak contains dense limber pine woodland, aspen groves, and brushy thickets. Birds like Orange-crowned Warbler, Red-naped Sapsucker, Cassin’s Finch, and Hammond’s and Dusky Flycatchers can be found here. Elk are common in the area, and if you come here in the fall you have a good chance to catch them bugling.
Mancos area
This small town between Cortez and Durango is not only a good place to base yourself when visiting the nearby area or Mesa Verde, it is also a decent birding spot in its own right. The Mancos Riverwalk provides access to the riparian corridor along the Mancos River, as does the nearby Cottonwood Park just west of Spruce Street north of the river. Look for migrants in season, and Black-headed Grosbeak, Bullock’s Oriole, Downy Woodpecker, and other riparian birds during the summer. Another area to check is CR 41, which heads south out of town. At first, look for Lewis’s Woodpeckers in the large cottonwoods. Later on, as you enter extensive pinyon-juniper woodland, look for Gray Vireo, Black-throated Gray Warbler, Juniper Titmouse, and more. Mammals in the area include coyotes, desert cottontails, and mule deer.
Paradox Valley
When European settlers first arrived in this valley in western Colorado, they were dumbfounded by the fact that the mighty Dolores River cuts perpendicularly across it, spilling out from a deep canyon on the south and entering another deep canyon on the north, instead of flowing down the center of the valley like all other rivers in their experience. At a loss to explain the phenomenon, they named the valley Paradox. We now know that the valley was formed by the collapse of ancient salt dome caves beneath the Dolores River Canyon. The result is a remote valley with excellent scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities. The floor of the valley is filled with sagebrush, where it is easy to find Sage Thrasher, Sage Sparrow, coyotes, jackrabbits, and mule deer. A couple of small farm ponds on the western end of the valley can be good for ducks and shorebirds, and Sandhill Cranes have nested in the area. This is the best place in Colorado to see Ring-necked Pheasant. The pinyon-juniper hillsides should be checked for Gray Vireo, Black-throated Sparrow, Black-throated Gray Warbler, Gray Flycatcher, and Pinyon Jay. Where the highway crosses the river, keep an eye out for Black Phoebe.
Leatha Jean Stassen State Wildlife Area
This newly christened state wildlife area in the heart of Grand Junction is a little gem that gives good access to riparian habitat and a beautiful little marsh. Keep an ear out for Sora and Virginia Rail in the marsh, and riparian species such as Western Kingbird, Warbling Vireo, and Lazuli Bunting. The margins of the SWA are brushy hill slopes, and could have birds like Virginia’s Warbler and Black-chinned Hummingbird.
Ferris Reservoir
This small, cattail-filled lake is excellent for many breeding and migrating duck species, as well as Yellow-headed Blackbird, rails, and migrant shorebirds. The nearby meadows play host to bluebirds galore, and the aspen and pine woodlands that surround them should be checked for birds like Cassin’s Finch, Flammulated and Northern Saw-whet Owls, and Pygmy Nuthatch. This whole area is filled with elk and deer, and you never know when you might stumble onto a badger.
Douglas Creek
Douglas Creek is an island of riparian in the middle of pinyon-juniper woodland. Though privately owned, you can bird some of it from the road, and listen for birds hard to find in the area such as Yellow-breasted Chat, Bullock’s Oriole, Downy Woodpecker, and others. The pinyon-juniper forest, especially further up the creek, is in public property and can be a good spot to find Pinyon Jay, Canyon Wren, and Plumbeous Vireo. Chukars are a possibility in any area with more exposed rock.
Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area
A small area of riparian and dense thickets at the Gunnison River here could be good for sparrows and migrant passerines. Sightings might include: Golden and Bald Eagles, osprey, ferruginous Hawk, Great Blue Heron, river otter, and big horn sheep. There are also saltbush flats here. The concessionaire nearby runs a lodge and campground, with rafting, fishing, and cabins. Those with a high-clearance vehicle may wish to explore the south side of the river, where a myriad of roads provides more access points to the river, and sparse pinyon-juniper covered hills that could contain Gray Vireo, Chukar, Pinyon Jay, Yellow-billed Cuckoos and Juniper Titmouse.
Colorado National Monument
In a part of the state brimming with gorgeous red rock scenery, this National Monument stands head and shoulders above the rest. Whether you’re looking for birds, other wildlife, or just drop dead gorgeous vistas, there’s something for you here. The main road through the monument passes through a good variety of habitats, including pinyon-juniper woodland, semi-desert shrubland, riparian, and, of course, abundant cliff faces. Perhaps the best known birding stop in the monument is the Devil’s Kitchen Trail, just inside the east entrance. Walk the trail down from the parking area through sparse pinyon-juniper woodland (look for Black-throated Gray Warbler, Gray and Ash-throated Flycatchers, and Pinyon Jay) into a draw filled with semi-desert shrubland. Here Black-throated Sparrow and Gambel’s Quail are common, and in the junipers surrounding the draw it typically doesn’t take much work to find a Gray Vireo. A small riparian grove here sometimes has Lazuli Bunting and Virginia’s Warbler. This is one of the best places in Colorado to see Desert Bighorn Sheep. Various lizards, including the striking collared lizard and the rare and local longnose leopard lizard, can be found in the area. In the rest of the monument just stop at the various pullouts and see what you can find. Pinyon Jay is a species often looked for; the best way to find it is to drive with the windows down and listen for its distinctive calls. White-throated Swift is common throughout, especially near cliffs, as are Rock and Canyon Wrens. Rock Squirrels perch up on outcrops and snags to watch you pass. The visitor center is a good place to stop by and learn about the nature and geology of the park, and ask the rangers for advice on things you’d like to see.
Glade Lake
Glade Lake is remote, intermittent and not to be missed. It has the best waterbird potential in the county and perhaps the best shorebird potential as well. Breeders here include Eared Grebe, Pied-billed Grebe, Cinnamon and Green-winged Teals, Northern Shoveler, Redhead, Ring-necked Duck and lots of Yellow-headed Blackbirds. Other species that have been seen here include Virginia Rail, Bufflehead, Willet, Least Sandpiper and Red-necked Phalarope. The road south of Glade Lake is good for ponderosa birds including Grace’s Warbler and Lewis’s Woodpecker. Orange-crowned and MacGillivray’s Warblers also breed along this road. Williamson’s Sapsucker and Flammulated Owl are almost certainly in the area. Mammals abound in this area, including the rare Abert’s squirrel, black bear, elk, American badger, and mule deer.
La Sal Creek
Tall, sheer rock walls; thick, lush riparian woodland; a rushing mountain stream — what more could you ask for? La Sal Creek is one of the great undiscovered gems of western Colorado. The riparian habitat hosts species such as Yellow-breasted Chat, Gray Catbird, and Indigo Bunting. The cliffs provide ideal habitat for Canyon and Rock Wrens and White-throated Swift. A number of local butterfly species inhabit the area, including Desert Marble and Southwestern Orangetip. Reptiles are especially diverse in this part of Colorado.
Douglas Pass
Douglas Pass offers the only high elevation access on this trail. Luckily the road over the pass covers a wide variety of habitats, with an associated wide variety of birds. Pinyon-juniper woodland on both slopes plays host to Juniper Titmouse, Black-throated Gray Warblers, Ash-throated Flycatcher, and at night Common Poorwill, and Long-eared and Northern Saw-whet Owls. Higher up, where the forest turns to mixed conifer and aspen, look for Williamson’s and Red-naped Sapsuckers, Dusky Grouse, Green-tailed Towhee, Hermit Thrush, and Flammulated Owls at night.
Mancos State Park
Jackson Gulch Reservoir is a small lake surrounded by extensive ponderosa woodland making Mancos State Park a great place to visit. While the lake itself isn’t the best birding location, in the surrounding woodland you’ll find Grace’s Warbler, Flammulated and Northern Saw-whet Owls, Red Crossbill, Band-tailed Pigeon, and other species typical of mid-elevation montane habitats. During the late summer and early fall keep an eye out for hummingbirds, four species are possible. Butterflies are quite diverse in the area as well, and specialties include Arizona Sister, Western Pine Elfin, and Great Spangled Fritillary.
Hotchkiss National Fish Hatchery
The river, the thin riparian areas along it, and the cliffs can provide some interesting birding, including Great Blue Heron, ducks, eagles, dippers, swifts, and wrens. The wet cliffs along the entrance could harbor interesting winter species, such as Winter Wren and Hermit Thrush. The trout in the hatchery are also an interesting attraction.
Pinyon Mesa
Pinyon Mesa is an isolated hunk of highlands just south of Grand Junction, reached by driving through the Colorado National Monument. The lower portions around Glade Park are covered in sage flats; look for Sage Thrasher, Brewer’s Sparrow, Swainson’s Hawk, and Western Scrub-Jay. Some of the areas right around Glade Park are private property, so be careful where you go off road. Higher up the road progresses through pinyon-juniper, aspen, and mixed conifer woodland, and is the best place near the city to find highland species like Red-naped Sapsucker, MacGillivray’s Warbler, Steller’s Jay, Merriam’s Turkeys and nightbirds like Flammulated and Northern Saw-whet Owls. Look (and listen) for Flammulated especially in areas with a mix of conifers and aspens; a classic location is at the Mud Springs campground. There is wildlife in the area, mule deer, elk and black bears.
Crawford State Park
This small reservoir ringed by pinyon-juniper covered hills can be a reasonable location to look for waterfowl and Sandhill Cranes in migration. The pinyon-juniper habitat can be good for Pinyon Jay, Juniper Titmouse, Black-throated Gray Warbler, and others.
Baxter Pass
Driving this remote road from Vernal, Utah to Loma can take a long time, but with a bit of luck can be well worth the effort. The lower portions of this road, near the Mesa County line, are probably the best place outside of Coal Canyon to get Chukar, and possibly even better for just seeing them out in the open. The extensive pinyon-juniper woodland on this portion of the road has some Scott’s Orioles, and Gray Vireo is a distinct possibility. Keep an eye out for other PJ birds, as well as foothill scrub birds (such as Green-tailed Towhee and Virginia’s Warbler) higher up on the pass.
Buckeye Reservoir
This small mountain reservoir sits in a beautiful natural setting of ponderosa pines that can attract many birds, including Red Crossbill, Pygmy Nuthatch, Grace’s Warbler, and Western Bluebird. The reservoir itself can have a variety of waterbirds. The small riparian area on the road to the reservoir should be checked for migrants. Black bears prowl the area, though you will be lucky to see one.
Jersey Jim Flats
A few miles up the road from Mancos State Park, Jersey Jim Flats has some of the largest aspens and most extensive aspen groves in Colorado. The specialty of the area is Purple Martin, which nests in cavities in the largest aspens, usually in areas near meadows. Also check for Red-naped and Williamson’s Sapsuckers, Dusky Grouse, Dusky Flycatcher, and other species typical of aspen groves. A nighttime drive in the area could produce Flammulated and Northern Saw-whet Owls. Elk, deer, and bear are in the area as well.
Dolores Canyon
It’s an undeniable fact — western Colorado is filled with awesome canyons. Even so, it is a rare place in which you can drive fifteen minutes from the nearest town, descend down into the canyon and surround yourself with soaring redrock walls while listening to the screams of nesting Peregrine Falcons from the shade of enormous old-growth Ponderosa trees. A campground at the bottom of the canyon, set amidst a large boxelder and scrub oak grove, is a good place to spend the night and to look for species such as Plumbeous Vireo, Green-tailed and Spotted Towhees, Black-headed Grosbeak, and Lazuli Bunting. If you are lucky you could hear Northern Saw-whet or Flammulated Owl during the night. A rough road travels north along the bottom of the canyon, making for either a fun 4×4 trip or a good hike. This is one of the few places in the state to find the flashy California Sister butterfly, and also one of the most reliable spots to see Striped Whipsnake. The other way to gawk at the canyon is to drive the road to the overlook, which passes through extensive ponderosa woodland and scrub-oak hillsides before reaching a point of land on a big bend in the river. Here, keep an eye out for species such as Grace’s Warbler, Cassin’s Finch, Western Bluebird, Pygmy Nuthatch, and Townsend’s Solitaire. Black bear have been seen along the road here, though you will be lucky to see one. Spalding’s Blue, a very local butterfly in Colorado, has been found along the south end of the overlook road.
Gould Reservoir
A small reservoir very similar to Crawford Reservoir, this lake can produce the same suite of birds, but without the amenities.
Dry Creek Basin State Wildlife Area
This large State Wildlife Area is mostly made up of extensive sage flats. Look for species like Sage Sparrows and Sage Thrashers in the sage flats, and Black-throated Sparrow, Black-throated Gray Warbler, and Ash-throated Flycatchers in the pinyon-juniper forest. The numbers of deer in this area can be mind-boggling, and pronghorn are here too.
Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde is a national treasure. The park was created in 1905 to protect the amazing archaeological resources, including some of the largest cliff dwellings in North America. The park is also a place of great natural beauty; much of the top of the mesa was covered by pinyon juniper and deciduous shrubland, but a number of fires in the late ’90s and early 2000s burned much of the park. Excellent pinyon-juniper forest does remain, however, and you will find many birds, including Black-throated Gray Warbler, Black-headed Grosbeak, Spotted Towhee, and Juniper Titmouse. The cliff faces are spectacular places to watch White-throated Swifts and Turkey Vultures playing in the thermals. Wild horses can often be seen in the evenings near the visitor’s center. The park museum can teach you about other local wildlife, including mountain lions. Because the archaeological sites are so sensitive, much of the park is off limits, there is no access to the park at night, and hikers are strictly required to stay on the trail. Because it is one of Colorado’s premier tourist attractions, it can be very crowded in the summer, so birding is best early in the morning.
James M. Robb – Colorado River State Park, Fruita Section
The westernmost unit of the Colorado River State Park is also one of the best to base out of if you’re visiting the Grand Junction area and camping. Like the other units, it has good access to the riparian woods along the Colorado River, as well as a couple of small ponds that sometimes have ducks on them. Great-tailed Grackles frequent the camping area, and migration birding can be productive. In the winter time watch for various sparrows, accipiters preying on them (Sharp-shinned and Cooper’s are both regular), and maybe a Northern Shrike.
Dove Creek
The self-proclaimed ‘pinto bean capital of the world’ is also the largest town in Dolores County, and an oasis of deciduousness in the midst of the sage and agriculture. The trees around town can be good for passerines in migration and finches in the winter, and the many hummingbird feeders should be checked for Black-chinned Hummingbirds during the summer and Broad-tailed, Calliope, and Rufous Hummingbirds during the fall. Eurasian Collared-Dove is now a common resident around town. Dove Creek has a hotel and a couple of restaurants, making this a good place to base yourself while birding the area.
Zephyros Farm
Set among the irrigated agricultural fields of the North Fork of the Gunnison River Zepyhros Farm is a small family run operation that has been featured in the New York Times and GQ magazine for their outstanding produce and fresh cut flowers. The property features an orchard and Russian olive grove that surely host migrants during the spring and fall. Topographical features of the farm include several gulleys that offer some shrub cover on the banks and cattails in the bottom and would make for interesting exploration. Also on the property are several small ponds which provide safe harbor for waterfowl and waterbirds such as Great Blue Herons.
Big Gypsum Valley
Unlike other valleys in this area, the floor of this valley is not covered in sagebrush. The main draw here is an amazing red-rock canyon mouth with pinyon-juniper forest, cliff-faces, and riparian forests in the general vicinity. Black-throated Sparrow, Gray Vireo, and Juniper Titmouse are all possible, and keep an eye out for the spectacular Scott’s Oriole. The grasslands on the way in are excellent for Loggerhead Shrike and American Kestrel. Black Phoebe is a good possibility at the bridge over the Dolores River. Reptiles abound in this habitat, and possibilities include Western Rattlesnake, Short-horned Lizard, and Collared Lizard.
Squaw Canyon
A small canyon at the northern reaches of the Canyon of the Ancients National Monument, this is THE place in Dolores County for pinyon-juniper specialties. Look along the road in for Gray Flycatcher, Black-throated Gray Warbler, Pinyon Jay, Juniper Titmouse, Black-throated Sparrow, and maybe even Scott’s Oriole. This area has one of the highest densities of breeding Gray Vireos in the state. The small riparian area in the floor of the canyon is good for Virginia’s Warbler, Lazuli Bunting, Western Tanager, and Black-headed Grosbeak. The small pools of water are excellent for a variety of dragonflies and butterflies; this is one of the best places in Colorado to find Canyonland Satyr. Note that the road in is very rough and requires high clearance, but can be walked if you desire.
Madden Peak Road
This dirt road heads north from the high point between Cortez and Durango, providing access to excellent ponderosa pine woodland and aspen groves. Driving this road early in the morning during April is a fantastic way to find Dusky Grouse, which often display right along the road. A little later in the year, Purple Martins can sometimes be found in the larger aspen groves that border meadows. Look for Grace’s Warbler, Williamson’s Sapsucker, and Dusky and Hammond’s Flycatchers in the ponderosa woodland, and Red-naped Sapsucker, Orange-crowned Warbler, Violet-green Swallow, and Flammulated Owl in the areas with aspens. A number of mammal species could also be found along this road; both black bear and bobcat have been seen; drive slowly to avoid hitting the numerous elk and deer.
Raincrow Farm
Raincrow Farm – named for the Yellow-billed Cuckoo – is located near Paonia in the beautiful North Fork of the Gunnison River valley. Some of the peaks of the West Elk Mountains are visible from the farm (especially Mount Lamborn and Mount Gunnison). The farm grows vegetables, herbs, and flowers without the use of chemicals or petroleum-based fertilizers. 154 bird species have been seen or heard on the farm since April 2005 including the Yellow-billed Cuckoo (Rain Crow). Owner is an avid birder and knows his stuff!
Highline Lake State Park
Perhaps no body of water in the Grand Junction area is as productive as this small reservoir. Not only is the water itself excellent for migrant waterfowl, grebes, loons, and shorebirds (when the water is low), but the riparian habitat around the campground and entrance road is also good for passerine migrants and breeding species like Blue Grosbeak, Bullock’s Oriole, Lazuli Bunting, and more. In the drier habitat around the fringes of the property look for birds like Loggerhead Shrike, Rock Wren, and Lark Sparrow, as well as many reptiles including sagebrush and side-blotched lizards. Mack Mesa Lake, a small lake on the north end of the park, is often birdy as well, and is an especially good place to look for swallows of all varieties.
Burn Canyon Burn
The Burn Canyon fire of 2002 has left a fascinating mosaic in its wake. As you drive FR 607 through the canyon, you’ll encounter some areas of pinyon-juniper woodland and ponderosa pine forest that burned and some that did not. You’ll find areas where the burned trees have been cleared, areas where they have been felled, and areas where they have been left standing–all part of a long-term experimental effort by the Public Lands Partnership to evaluate the effects of salvage logging on regeneration. The variety of habitats host a corresponding variety of wildlife: The open meadows contain Lark and Vesper Sparrows, the standing burns attract woodpeckers and Western and Mountain Bluebirds; and the standing ponderosa forest can harbor Grace’s Warblers. Deer are common, and elk and Wild Turkey can occasionally be seen. On cool sunny days, bullsnakes sun themselves on the road, and you might see a rattler. Stop at the Basin store for supplies and a restroom break.
Cross Canyon
The roads above this large pinyon-juniper filled canyon pass through extensive sage flats and scattered pinyon-juniper woodlands, making this the most accessible spot in the area to look for Sage and Black-throated Sparrows, Gray Vireo, Pinyon Jay, and other specialties of these habitats. Also keep an eye out for a variety of lizards and snakes, including the gaudy collared lizard and the bizarre-looking short-horned lizard.
La Plata Canyon
The La Plata Canyon road (CR 124) passes through the tiny settlement of Mayday, where rosy-finches come to feeders in winter and oak shrubland birds such as Western Scrub-Jays can be seen year-round. In summer you can drive much farther up the road, into dense coniferous forests with some riparian willows and mountain meadows. Most of the high-elevation birds can be found, including Pine Grosbeak, Wilson’s and MacGillivray’s Warblers, and Lincoln’s Sparrow.
Rafter J Acorn Woodpecker Colony
The only spot to see Acorn Woodpecker in the state is also an excellent spot to look for other ponderosa pine woodland specialties — Western Bluebird, Lewis’s Woodpecker, Grace’s Warbler, and Pygmy Nuthatch are all reasonably easy to see. Black-throated Gray Warbler can sometimes be found in the areas with pinyon pine and juniper trees. Keep an eye out for Abert’s Squirrel and Wild Turkey on the road into the woodpecker trees.
San Miguel CR W35
This scenic canyon is very close to the town of Norwood, but feels very remote. The road is well graveled from Norwood to the junction with CR Z39, and runs through excellent pinyon-juniper habitat with Blue-gray Gnatcatcher and Black-throated Gray Warbler. The valley floor is private property. Visitors must stay on the road. the permanent stream supports an interesting oak/riparian community with Black-headed Grosbeak, among other birds. Look for several species of lizards and snakes on the road on cool sunny days.
Paonia State Park
The namesake reservoir here, while scenic, is rarely attractive to waterbirds. The riparian habitat, on the other hand, is of much higher quality. Look for species like Lazuli Bunting, Black-headed Grosbeak, MacGillivray’s and Virginia’s Warblers, Mountain Bluebird, and Cordilleran Flycatcher. The scrubby hillsides along the access road to the lake are good for Spotted and Green-tailed Towhees, as well as other mountain shrubland birds. Look at the cliffs just upstream from the campground for swifts, swallows, and wrens. Other attractions include Colorado hairstreak, elk, and deer.
Prairie Canyon
Remote and spectacular, this is the canyon to come to if you want to get away from it all and have good birding at the same time. Habitat in the canyon is comprised of excellent pinyon-juniper woodland, with Gray Vireo, Pinyon Jay, Ash-throated Flycatcher, a chance at Chukar, and an outside chance at Scott’s Oriole. In the extensive sage flats on the way into the canyon look for Sage Sparrow and Sage Thrasher, and in the semi-desert shrubland scattered throughout watch for Black-throated Sparrow and Loggerhead Shrike.
Coalbed Canyon State Wildlife Area
One of the Colorado Division of Wildlife’s newest acquisitions, this SWA on the Utah border is mostly made up of a pinyon-juniper filled canyon surrounded by sage flats. A hike into the small canyon should produce Gray Vireo, Gray Flycatcher, Juniper Titmouse, and Black-throated Gray Warbler, while the sage filled areas contain Sage Thrasher, Sage and Vesper Sparrows, and various species of hawks. Also keep an eye out for butterflies, including some species that have restricted ranges in Colorado such as Desert Elfin, Desert Marble, and Southwestern Orangetip.
Six and Fifty (6 & 50) Reservoir
Most of the time in recent years this small desert reservoir doesn’t look that impressive, but when there’s water here it can be a bird bonanza. Watch especially for shorebirds (the water here, when it is present, is almost always good for them), dabbling ducks, and the occasional heron or ibis. The semi-desert shrubland surrounding the entire area has Lark and Black-throated Sparrows, and in areas with sage, Sage Thrasher and Sage Sparrow. A few colonies of white-tailed prairie-dog here have Burrowing Owls. Note, water in the reservoirs is intermittent.
La Plata County Road 136
This road in southwestern La Plata County provides access to the best pinyon-juniper woodland in the area. In summer, Cassin’s Kingbirds can often be found along the northern portions of the road. Look and listen for Gray Vireo, Juniper Titmouse, Black-throated Gray Warbler, and Gray Flycatcher in areas where the forest approaches the road, and Sage and Black-throated Sparrows in areas with more sage. Of these birds, only the titmouse remains in winter. Lizards and snakes are also common along the road and an evening drive could produce a number of species. Much of this road passes through the Southern Ute Indian Reservation, so walking off the road is prohibited.
Rabbit Valley and Brewster Ridge
Right on the Utah border, this remote ridge is among the best desert birding spots in the state of Colorado. The highest value target here is a local population of Scott’s Oriole (look in areas of spare pinyon-juniper woodland on ridges), but Gray Vireo is common, as are Black-throated Sparrow, Ash-throated Flycatcher, and Loggerhead Shrike. Less common but possible are Cassin’s Kingbird, Long-billed Curlew, and Burrowing Owl. If you venture here at night, listen for Long-eared Owls and watch the road for the charismatic Ord’s Kangaroo Rat. Reptiles are abundant and varied here as well; look for species such as the colorful collared lizard.
Bishop and Summit Canyons
These two large canyons in southwestern San Miguel County are a good place to come to get away from it all, as well as see some spectacular scenery. The canyon walls are lined with oak woodland and pinyon-juniper forest, and Western Bluebird, Plumbeous Vireo, Gray and Dusky Flycatchers, and Western Scrub-Jay are common. Look for typical canyon birds such as White-throated Swift, Canyon and Rock Wrens, and maybe even Peregrine Falcon as well. The road becomes rougher the further down Bishop Canyon you go – you can park when it becomes too rough and hike down into Summit Canyon, a hike worth it for the amazing scenery as much as for the birding.
Junction Creek Campground
The closest forest service campground to Durango not only provides a good place to camp, it also provides one of the most accessible places in the state for the likes of Grace’s Warbler, Flammulated and Northern Saw-whet Owls, and Williamson’s Sapsucker. The ponderosa pine/aspen mix can be excellent for these and a variety of other birds, and if you continue up into the spruce-fir you could come across Dusky Grouse, Golden-crowned Kinglet, and the other species typical of the habitat. Keep an eye out for the Peregrine Falcons that nest nearby, and for the handsome Abert’s squirrel, among many other mammals.
Durango Fish Hatchery / Animas River
Located in the heart of Durango along the banks of the Animas River, the Durango Fish Hatchery is a birders paradise with over 200 species recorded. The riparian corridor along the Animas acts as a migrant trap during spring and fall migration; you may just be fortunate enough to see or hear American Dipper along the river. Huck Finn Pond located on the property provides excellent viewing of waterfowl. Listen for Ruby-crowned Kinglets that sing from the mature spruce trees. Keep your eye out for Black Phoebe, as they leave during the colder months and return each year right around St. Patrick’s Day (mid-March). This property has provided many rare sightings including Vermillion Flycatcher, Wood Thrush, Pacific Wren, and Rose-breasted Grosbeak. Birding is good year-round, but spring and fall migration are the best. Undeniably the birding gem of Durango!