Mountain birding habitat

Kettle Lakes

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
MountainForest
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Kettle Lakes is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 216 species recorded on eBird. This mountain and forest habitat attracts Gadwall, American Wigeon, and Mallard among many others. Elevation changes create diverse habitats, from riparian valleys to alpine meadows, supporting a wide range of species.

Location

Loading map...

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

Greater White-fronted Goose

Anser albifrons

7/12/2026Monument Library Pond3 observed

Red Crossbill (Ponderosa Pine or type 2)

Loxia curvirostra

7/10/2026Rampart Range Rd, Woodland Park US-CO 38.94901, -104.960253 observed

Canada Jay

Perisoreus canadensis

7/9/2026Springdale CG3 observed

Bewick's Wren

Thryomanes bewickii

7/5/2026Megadeck1 observed

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Pheucticus ludovicianus

7/3/20267113 Oak Valley Dr1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mallard

37/13/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

47/13/2026

Belted Kingfisher

27/13/2026

Downy Woodpecker

17/13/2026

Western Wood-Pewee

17/13/2026

Cliff Swallow

147/13/2026

Northern House Wren

17/13/2026

House Sparrow

17/13/2026

Lesser Goldfinch

27/13/2026

American Goldfinch

27/13/2026

Spotted Towhee

17/13/2026

Broad-tailed Hummingbird

17/13/2026

Turkey Vulture

17/13/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

17/13/2026

Northern Flicker

27/13/2026

Western Flycatcher

17/13/2026

Eastern Phoebe

47/13/2026

Bank Swallow

27/13/2026

Tree Swallow

47/13/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

37/13/2026

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 Kettle Lakes for birding?
The best months to visit Kettle Lakes for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Kettle Lakes?
Notable species at Kettle Lakes include Gadwall, American Wigeon, Mallard, Cooper's Hawk, Northern Flicker. The area supports mountain, forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at Kettle Lakes?
Birding at Kettle Lakes is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Kettle Lakes?
Kettle Lakes offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.