Lake birding habitat

Holbrook Reservoir

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Holbrook Reservoir is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 279 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Cinnamon Teal, Northern Shoveler, and Gadwall 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

Common Black Hawk

Buteogallus anthracinus

4/12/202631530-31716 Colorado 194, La Junta, Colorado, US (38.012, -103.498)1 observed

Bushtit

Psaltriparus minimus

4/5/2026Rocky Ford SWA--Ryans Ponds1 observed

Marbled Godwit

Limosa fedoa

4/5/2026Cheraw Lake1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Northern Shoveler

4/13/2026

Lesser Scaup

1504/13/2026

Bufflehead

44/13/2026

Ruddy Duck

364/13/2026

Mourning Dove

294/13/2026

American Coot

4/13/2026

Killdeer

14/13/2026

Ring-billed Gull

404/13/2026

European Starling

184/13/2026

American Robin

14/13/2026

Western Meadowlark

14/13/2026

Canada Goose

24/10/2026

Gadwall

4/10/2026

Bonaparte's Gull

14/10/2026

Franklin's Gull

4/10/2026

American White Pelican

24/10/2026

American Kestrel

14/10/2026

Rock Wren

14/10/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

4/10/2026

Blue-winged Teal

24/5/2026

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 Holbrook Reservoir for birding?
The best months to visit Holbrook Reservoir for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Holbrook Reservoir?
Notable species at Holbrook Reservoir include Cinnamon Teal, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Mallard. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Holbrook Reservoir?
Birding at Holbrook Reservoir is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Holbrook Reservoir?
Holbrook Reservoir offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.