Lake birding habitat

McPhee Reservoir - West End

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

McPhee Reservoir - West End is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 226 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Cinnamon Teal, 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

Hooded Oriole

Icterus cucullatus

5/27/2026Private residence, County Road U1 observed

Bonaparte's Gull

Chroicocephalus philadelphia

5/21/2026McPhee Reservoir--West End1 observed

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Pheucticus ludovicianus

5/19/2026Wapiti Rim1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

65/26/2026

Mallard

235/26/2026

Green-winged Teal

65/26/2026

Mourning Dove

15/26/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

35/26/2026

Franklin's Gull

45/26/2026

Ring-billed Gull

55/26/2026

California Gull

15/26/2026

Great Blue Heron

15/26/2026

Western Wood-Pewee

35/26/2026

Ash-throated Flycatcher

15/26/2026

Common Raven

15/26/2026

Northern House Wren

15/26/2026

Mountain Bluebird

15/26/2026

House Finch

25/26/2026

Vesper Sparrow

25/26/2026

Western Meadowlark

25/26/2026

Brewer's Blackbird

35/26/2026

Northern Yellow Warbler

25/26/2026

Blue-winged Teal

25/21/2026

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