Mountain birding habitat

Poudre Ponds

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
MountainForest
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Poudre Ponds is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 201 species recorded on eBird. This mountain and forest habitat attracts Canada Goose, American Coot, and Ring-billed Gull 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

Rufous Hummingbird

Selasphorus rufus

7/11/2026Pelican Hills1 observed

Eastern Warbling Vireo

Vireo gilvus

7/10/2026Fossil Creek Reservoir & Regional Open Space2 observed

Indigo Bunting

Passerina cyanea

7/6/2026Jones ditch1 observed

White-crowned Sparrow

Zonotrichia leucophrys

7/4/2026Northwest Greeley,CO Suburbs4 observed

Greater Yellowlegs

Tringa melanoleuca

7/4/2026Kingfisher Point & Nix Farm Natural Area1 observed

Pine Siskin

Spinus pinus

7/2/2026Frank SWA (Weld Co.)2 observed

White-faced Ibis

Plegadis chihi

7/1/2026Fossil Creek Reservoir & Regional Open Space2 observed

Lazuli x Indigo Bunting (hybrid)

Passerina amoena x cyanea

7/1/2026Prospect Ponds Natural Area1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Swainson's Hawk

17/10/2026

American Kestrel

27/10/2026

Downy Woodpecker

27/9/2026

Blue Grosbeak

17/9/2026

Northern Flicker

27/9/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

27/9/2026

Mallard

17/9/2026

Rock Pigeon

77/9/2026

Mourning Dove

67/9/2026

Killdeer

27/9/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

17/9/2026

Great Blue Heron

27/9/2026

Cooper's Hawk

17/9/2026

Belted Kingfisher

27/9/2026

Western Kingbird

17/9/2026

Eastern Kingbird

17/9/2026

Blue Jay

17/9/2026

American Crow

37/9/2026

Barn Swallow

17/9/2026

Cliff Swallow

7/9/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring layers as mountain weather changes rapidly at elevation.

  2. 2

    Check exposed ridges and thermals for soaring raptors and swifts.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Poudre Ponds for birding?
The best months to visit Poudre Ponds for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Poudre Ponds?
Notable species at Poudre Ponds include Canada Goose, American Coot, Ring-billed Gull, Northern Shrike, Blue Jay. The area supports mountain, forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at Poudre Ponds?
Birding at Poudre Ponds is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Poudre Ponds?
Poudre Ponds offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.