Lake birding habitat

Ordway Reservoir

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Ordway Reservoir is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 204 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts American Coot, Ring-billed Gull, and Double-crested Cormorant 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

Bushtit

Psaltriparus minimus

4/5/2026Rocky Ford SWA--Ryans Ponds1 observed

Marbled Godwit

Limosa fedoa

4/5/2026Cheraw Lake1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Wood Duck

24/14/2026

Blue-winged Teal

44/14/2026

Mallard

24/14/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

44/14/2026

Mourning Dove

114/14/2026

American Coot

64/14/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

24/14/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

24/14/2026

Great Blue Heron

24/14/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

14/14/2026

European Starling

204/14/2026

Northern Mockingbird

14/14/2026

American Robin

34/14/2026

House Sparrow

14/14/2026

American Goldfinch

24/14/2026

White-crowned Sparrow

184/14/2026

Yellow-headed Blackbird

74/14/2026

Western Meadowlark

34/14/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

654/14/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

74/14/2026

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 Ordway Reservoir for birding?
The best months to visit Ordway Reservoir for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Ordway Reservoir?
Notable species at Ordway Reservoir include American Coot, Ring-billed Gull, Double-crested Cormorant, Song Sparrow, Western Meadowlark. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Ordway Reservoir?
Birding at Ordway Reservoir is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Ordway Reservoir?
Ordway Reservoir offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.