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

Long-billed Dowitcher

Limnodromus scolopaceus

7/21/2026Narraguinnep Reservoir3 observed

American Wigeon

Mareca americana

7/18/2026Industrial Park Pond2 observed

Western Sandpiper

Calidris mauri

7/11/2026McPhee Reservoir--West End8 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

217/17/2026

Mallard

547/17/2026

Mourning Dove

27/17/2026

Killdeer

27/17/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

227/17/2026

Baird's Sandpiper

67/17/2026

Western Sandpiper

57/17/2026

Great Blue Heron

47/17/2026

Bald Eagle

47/17/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

17/17/2026

American Kestrel

17/17/2026

Western Wood-Pewee

17/17/2026

Ash-throated Flycatcher

17/17/2026

Black-billed Magpie

17/17/2026

American Crow

57/17/2026

Common Raven

47/17/2026

Rock Wren

17/17/2026

Lesser Goldfinch

17/17/2026

American Goldfinch

27/17/2026

Lark Sparrow

17/17/2026

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.