Lake birding habitat

Flagler Reservoir State Wildlife Area

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
LakeWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Flagler Reservoir State Wildlife Area is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 281 species recorded on eBird. This lake and wetland habitat attracts Rough-legged Hawk and Song Sparrow 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

Short-eared Owl

Asio flammeus

5/28/202653580 County Road 46, Arriba US-CO (39.2847,-103.2092)1 observed

Mississippi Kite

Ictinia mississippiensis

5/27/2026County Road 63, Arriba, Colorado, US (39.27, -103.267)1 observed

White-eyed Vireo

Vireo griseus

5/24/2026Arriba (town)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Wild Turkey

15/27/2026

Mourning Dove

145/27/2026

Downy Woodpecker

25/27/2026

Northern Flicker

55/27/2026

Olive-sided Flycatcher

15/27/2026

Western Wood-Pewee

25/27/2026

Western Kingbird

15/27/2026

Eastern Kingbird

35/27/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

15/27/2026

Barn Swallow

15/27/2026

Cliff Swallow

25/27/2026

Northern House Wren

35/27/2026

Gray Catbird

15/27/2026

Brown Thrasher

25/27/2026

Swainson's Thrush

55/27/2026

American Robin

125/27/2026

Western Meadowlark

65/27/2026

Orchard Oriole

55/27/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

85/27/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

15/27/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Flagler Reservoir State Wildlife Area for birding?
The best months to visit Flagler Reservoir State Wildlife Area for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Flagler Reservoir State Wildlife Area?
Notable species at Flagler Reservoir State Wildlife Area include Common Loon, Bald Eagle, Double-crested Cormorant, Ring-billed Gull, Bufflehead. The area supports lake, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Flagler Reservoir State Wildlife Area?
Birding at Flagler Reservoir State Wildlife Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Flagler Reservoir State Wildlife Area?
Flagler Reservoir State Wildlife Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.