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

Hooded Oriole

Icterus cucullatus

5/27/2026Private residence, County Road U1 observed

Bonaparte's Gull

Chroicocephalus philadelphia

5/21/2026McPhee Reservoir--West End1 observed

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Pheucticus ludovicianus

5/19/2026Wapiti Rim1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

225/29/2026

Cinnamon Teal

25/29/2026

Mallard

515/29/2026

Killdeer

15/29/2026

Great Blue Heron

15/29/2026

Turkey Vulture

25/29/2026

Common Raven

15/29/2026

European Starling

25/29/2026

Song Sparrow

15/29/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

125/29/2026

Northern Yellow Warbler

25/29/2026

Gadwall

15/21/2026

Green-winged Teal

35/21/2026

Redhead

25/21/2026

Ruddy Duck

15/21/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

15/21/2026

Mourning Dove

85/18/2026

White-throated Swift

25/18/2026

Broad-tailed Hummingbird

15/18/2026

Bald Eagle

25/18/2026

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.