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

Common Goldeneye

Bucephala clangula

5/30/2026Rocky Mountain NP--Nymph Lake area1 observed

Lazuli x Indigo Bunting (hybrid)

Passerina amoena x cyanea

5/30/2026Bobcat Ridge Natural Area1 observed

Scarlet Tanager

Piranga olivacea

5/29/2026Round Mountain Trail1 observed

Chestnut-sided Warbler

Setophaga pensylvanica

5/29/2026Old Saint Vrain Rd.1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

5/30/2026

Broad-tailed Hummingbird

35/30/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

55/30/2026

Osprey

35/30/2026

Bald Eagle

15/30/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

15/30/2026

Black-billed Magpie

15/30/2026

American Crow

5/30/2026

Tree Swallow

15/30/2026

Violet-green Swallow

5/30/2026

Barn Swallow

15/30/2026

Pygmy Nuthatch

15/30/2026

Brown Creeper

15/30/2026

Mountain Bluebird

15/30/2026

American Robin

5/30/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

45/30/2026

Northern Yellow Warbler

15/30/2026

Northern House Wren

25/29/2026

House Sparrow

15/29/2026

Pine Siskin

45/29/2026

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.