a small stream running through a lush green field

Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
LakeWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

Entrance Fee

Free (state wildlife area pass required)

Hours

Open daily

About This Location

Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 332 species recorded on eBird. This lake and wetland habitat attracts Snow Goose, Northern Shoveler, and Redhead 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

Laughing Gull

Leucophaeus atricilla

5/30/2026Prewitt Reservoir SWA (Washington Co.)1 observed

Greater White-fronted Goose

Anser albifrons

5/27/2026Prewitt Reservoir SWA (Washington Co.)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Killdeer

25/30/2026

Laughing Gull

15/30/2026

Franklin's Gull

15/30/2026

Ring-billed Gull

45/30/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

25/30/2026

White-faced Ibis

55/30/2026

American White Pelican

35/30/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

15/30/2026

Lark Sparrow

25/30/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

95/30/2026

Common Grackle

45/30/2026

Canada Goose

125/28/2026

Blue-winged Teal

45/28/2026

Northern Shoveler

45/28/2026

American Wigeon

25/28/2026

Mallard

15/28/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

15/28/2026

Mourning Dove

45/28/2026

American Coot

25/28/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

15/28/2026

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.

  4. 4

    Bring insect repellent — wetland areas can have significant mosquito activity, especially in warmer months.

  5. 5

    A spotting scope is essential here — many waterbirds stay far from shore and are difficult to identify with binoculars alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area for birding?
The best months to visit Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area?
Notable species at Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area include Snow Goose, Northern Shoveler, Redhead, Lesser Scaup, Common Merganser, Canada Goose, Red-tailed Hawk, American Kestrel, American Robin, Red-winged Blackbird, Eurasian Collared-Dove, Ring-billed Gull. The area supports lake, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area?
Birding at Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
Is there an entrance fee at Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area?
The entrance fee at Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area is Free (state wildlife area pass required). Hours: Open daily.
What amenities are available at Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area?
Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.