Desert birding habitat

Prescott - Goldwater Lakes

Arizona · Southwest

Habitat
DesertChaparral
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Prescott - Goldwater Lakes is a productive birding destination in Arizona, with 201 species recorded on eBird. This desert and chaparral habitat attracts Mallard, Ring-necked Duck, and Common Goldeneye among many others. The unique desert and riparian habitats support specialty species alongside wintering and migrating birds.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Redhead

Aythya americana

7/20/2026Watson Lake Overlook1 observed

Short-billed Dowitcher

Limnodromus griseus

7/20/2026Prescott--Willow Lake1 observed

Forster's Tern

Sterna forsteri

7/15/2026Willow Lake south shore1 observed

Short-billed Dowitcher (hendersoni)

Limnodromus griseus

7/15/2026Willow Lake south shore1 observed

Northern Harrier

Circus hudsonius

7/12/2026Prescott WTP (Restricted Access)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mallard

77/10/2026

White-throated Swift

17/10/2026

American Coot

27/10/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

37/10/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

67/10/2026

Great Blue Heron

27/10/2026

Turkey Vulture

87/10/2026

Bald Eagle

27/10/2026

Acorn Woodpecker

27/10/2026

Western Wood-Pewee

17/10/2026

Black Phoebe

27/10/2026

Common Raven

27/10/2026

Bridled Titmouse

27/10/2026

Violet-green Swallow

47/10/2026

Cliff Swallow

17/10/2026

American Robin

47/10/2026

House Finch

47/10/2026

Lesser Goldfinch

37/10/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

67/10/2026

Spotted Towhee

47/10/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Start birding at dawn when desert birds are most active before the heat.

  2. 2

    Check around water sources, which concentrate desert species.

  3. 3

    Carry extra water and sun protection; mornings are the prime birding window.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Prescott - Goldwater Lakes for birding?
The best months to visit Prescott - Goldwater Lakes for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Prescott - Goldwater Lakes?
Notable species at Prescott - Goldwater Lakes include Mallard, Ring-necked Duck, Common Goldeneye, Common Merganser, Double-crested Cormorant. The area supports desert, chaparral habitats.
How difficult is birding at Prescott - Goldwater Lakes?
Birding at Prescott - Goldwater Lakes is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Prescott - Goldwater Lakes?
Prescott - Goldwater Lakes offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.