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

Lesser Goldfinch

Spinus psaltria

4/9/2026416 Adams Street, Monte Vista, Colorado, US (37.576, -106.146)3 observed

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Setophaga coronata

4/5/2026Alamosa--Riverwood Dr. wetlands1 observed

Barn Swallow

Hirundo rustica

4/3/202618153–18743 US-285, La Jara US-CO 37.25483, -105.966571 observed

White-throated Swift

Aeronautes saxatalis

4/2/202681132, Del Norte US-CO 37.58747, -106.313055 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Snow Goose

24/12/2026

Canada Goose

114/12/2026

Cinnamon Teal

104/12/2026

Mallard

144/12/2026

Redhead

44/12/2026

Ring-necked Duck

14/12/2026

Lesser Scaup

34/12/2026

Bufflehead

14/12/2026

Common Merganser

34/12/2026

American Coot

134/12/2026

American Avocet

14/12/2026

Northern Harrier

14/12/2026

American Crow

14/12/2026

Common Raven

14/12/2026

Sage Thrasher

14/12/2026

House Sparrow

84/12/2026

Yellow-headed Blackbird

14/12/2026

Western Meadowlark

14/12/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

24/12/2026

Northern Shoveler

54/11/2026

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.