Mountain birding habitat

Dolores Ponds (wastewater plant area)

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
MountainForest
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Dolores Ponds (wastewater plant area) is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 220 species recorded on eBird. This mountain and forest habitat attracts Canada Goose, Gadwall, and Mallard among many others. Elevation changes create diverse habitats, from riparian valleys to alpine meadows, supporting a wide range of species.

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

Western Sandpiper

Calidris mauri

7/7/2026Dolores Ponds (wastewater plant area)1 observed

Greater Yellowlegs

Tringa melanoleuca

6/30/2026Totten Reservoir1 observed

Wood Duck

Aix sponsa

6/30/2026Totten Reservoir1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

87/9/2026

Mallard

317/9/2026

Mourning Dove

37/9/2026

Killdeer

17/9/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

47/9/2026

Great Blue Heron

27/9/2026

Turkey Vulture

457/9/2026

Osprey

17/9/2026

Belted Kingfisher

17/9/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

17/9/2026

Peregrine Falcon

17/9/2026

Western Wood-Pewee

27/9/2026

Black Phoebe

27/9/2026

Woodhouse's Scrub-Jay

27/9/2026

Common Raven

57/9/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

17/9/2026

Violet-green Swallow

17/9/2026

Cliff Swallow

157/9/2026

Bushtit

27/9/2026

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

17/9/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring layers as mountain weather changes rapidly at elevation.

  2. 2

    Check exposed ridges and thermals for soaring raptors and swifts.

  3. 3

    Acclimate to altitude before hiking to high-elevation birding spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Dolores Ponds (wastewater plant area) for birding?
The best months to visit Dolores Ponds (wastewater plant area) for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Dolores Ponds (wastewater plant area)?
Notable species at Dolores Ponds (wastewater plant area) include Canada Goose, Gadwall, Mallard, Green-winged Teal, Ring-necked Duck. The area supports mountain, forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at Dolores Ponds (wastewater plant area)?
Birding at Dolores Ponds (wastewater plant area) is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Dolores Ponds (wastewater plant area)?
Dolores Ponds (wastewater plant area) offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.