Wetland birding habitat

Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 233 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Snow Goose, Cackling Goose, and Canada Goose 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

Solitary Sandpiper

Tringa solitaria

7/12/2026Monte Vista NWR1 observed

Black Phoebe

Sayornis nigricans

7/12/2026Toivo Malm Trail Network1 observed

Willow Flycatcher (Southwestern)

Empidonax traillii

7/12/2026Toivo Malm Trail Network1 observed

Willet

Tringa semipalmata

7/2/2026Monte Vista NWR1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

67/12/2026

Blue-winged Teal

87/12/2026

Cinnamon Teal

207/12/2026

Northern Shoveler

27/12/2026

Gadwall

67/12/2026

Mallard

117/12/2026

Green-winged Teal

27/12/2026

Mourning Dove

27/12/2026

American Coot

17/12/2026

American Avocet

67/12/2026

Killdeer

107/12/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

17/12/2026

Western Sandpiper

37/12/2026

Northern Harrier

17/12/2026

Swainson's Hawk

17/12/2026

Black-billed Magpie

37/12/2026

Common Raven

37/12/2026

Horned Lark

27/12/2026

Tree Swallow

17/12/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

27/12/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  3. 3

    Acclimate to altitude before hiking to high-elevation birding spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge include Snow Goose, Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, Sandhill Crane, Red-tailed Hawk. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge?
Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.