Wetland birding habitat

Mount Ouray State Wildlife Area

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Mount Ouray State Wildlife Area is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 200 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and Eurasian Collared-Dove 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

Barrow's Goldeneye

Bucephala islandica

7/15/2026Sands Lake SWA4 observed

Red-eyed Vireo

Vireo olivaceus

7/12/2026Salida (town)

Eastern Phoebe

Sayornis phoebe

7/11/2026Sands Lake SWA1 observed

Common x Barrow's Goldeneye (hybrid)

Bucephala clangula x islandica

7/11/2026Sands Lake SWA1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

117/14/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

17/14/2026

Mourning Dove

17/14/2026

Broad-tailed Hummingbird

27/14/2026

Virginia Rail

27/14/2026

Osprey

17/14/2026

Northern Flicker

37/14/2026

Western Wood-Pewee

57/14/2026

Western Flycatcher

17/14/2026

Blue Jay

17/14/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

17/14/2026

Violet-green Swallow

17/14/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

27/14/2026

Northern House Wren

17/14/2026

European Starling

77/14/2026

Gray Catbird

17/14/2026

American Robin

27/14/2026

Lesser Goldfinch

27/14/2026

American Goldfinch

57/14/2026

Song Sparrow

17/14/2026

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 Mount Ouray State Wildlife Area for birding?
The best months to visit Mount Ouray State Wildlife Area for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Mount Ouray State Wildlife Area?
Notable species at Mount Ouray State Wildlife Area include Canada Goose, Mallard, Eurasian Collared-Dove, Virginia Rail, Red-tailed Hawk. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Mount Ouray State Wildlife Area?
Birding at Mount Ouray State Wildlife Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Mount Ouray State Wildlife Area?
Mount Ouray State Wildlife Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.