Mountain birding habitat

Matthews-Reeser Bird Sanctuary

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
MountainForest
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Matthews-Reeser Bird Sanctuary is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 261 species recorded on eBird. This mountain and forest habitat attracts Canada Goose, Ring-necked Duck, and Common Merganser 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

White-eyed Vireo

Vireo griseus

7/20/2026Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch (private)1 observed

Brown Thrasher

Toxostoma rufum

7/18/2026Rabbit Mountain2 observed

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Accipiter striatus

7/17/2026Chapin Pass Trail1 observed

Red Crossbill (Ponderosa Pine or type 2)

Loxia curvirostra

7/17/2026Rocky Mountain NP--Medicine Bow Curve3 observed

Indigo Bunting

Passerina cyanea

7/16/2026Rocky Mountain NP--Fern Lake Trail2 observed

Veery

Catharus fuscescens

7/11/2026Livery Trail to Copeland Falls Trail, Ward US-CO 40.20322, -105.573121 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

87/19/2026

Mallard

347/19/2026

Broad-tailed Hummingbird

37/19/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

17/19/2026

Turkey Vulture

37/19/2026

Osprey

47/19/2026

Belted Kingfisher

27/19/2026

Northern Flicker

27/19/2026

Black-billed Magpie

37/19/2026

American Crow

57/19/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

17/19/2026

Mountain Chickadee

27/19/2026

Violet-green Swallow

857/19/2026

Barn Swallow

467/19/2026

Cliff Swallow

457/19/2026

Western Bluebird

47/19/2026

American Robin

37/19/2026

American Goldfinch

17/19/2026

Song Sparrow

37/19/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

27/19/2026

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 Matthews-Reeser Bird Sanctuary for birding?
The best months to visit Matthews-Reeser Bird Sanctuary for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Matthews-Reeser Bird Sanctuary?
Notable species at Matthews-Reeser Bird Sanctuary include Canada Goose, Ring-necked Duck, Common Merganser, Belted Kingfisher, Hairy Woodpecker. The area supports mountain, forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at Matthews-Reeser Bird Sanctuary?
Birding at Matthews-Reeser Bird Sanctuary is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Matthews-Reeser Bird Sanctuary?
Matthews-Reeser Bird Sanctuary offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.