Lake birding habitat

Rawhide Energy Station/Hamilton Reservoir

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Rawhide Energy Station/Hamilton Reservoir is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 213 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Gadwall, American Wigeon, and Canvasback 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

Indigo Bunting

Passerina cyanea

5/30/2026Lee Martinez Park1 observed

Dickcissel

Spiza americana

5/30/2026Reservoir Ridge Natural Area1 observed

Lazuli x Indigo Bunting (hybrid)

Passerina amoena x cyanea

5/27/2026Salyer, McMurry and Magpie Meander Natural Areas1 observed

Greater White-fronted Goose

Anser albifrons

5/25/2026Redwing Marsh Natural Area and Greenbrier Park1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

305/29/2026

Gadwall

25/29/2026

Mourning Dove

45/29/2026

Killdeer

25/29/2026

Eared Grebe

45/29/2026

Western Grebe

115/29/2026

Clark's Grebe

15/29/2026

American White Pelican

65/29/2026

Bald Eagle

15/29/2026

Lark Sparrow

25/29/2026

Lark Bunting

85/29/2026

Western Meadowlark

35/29/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

25/29/2026

Common Grackle

25/29/2026

Blue-winged Teal

15/29/2026

Mallard

25/29/2026

Redhead

85/29/2026

Lesser Scaup

45/29/2026

Ruddy Duck

455/29/2026

Broad-tailed Hummingbird

15/29/2026

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 Rawhide Energy Station/Hamilton Reservoir for birding?
The best months to visit Rawhide Energy Station/Hamilton Reservoir for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Rawhide Energy Station/Hamilton Reservoir?
Notable species at Rawhide Energy Station/Hamilton Reservoir include Gadwall, American Wigeon, Canvasback, Redhead, Lesser Scaup. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Rawhide Energy Station/Hamilton Reservoir?
Birding at Rawhide Energy Station/Hamilton Reservoir is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Rawhide Energy Station/Hamilton Reservoir?
Rawhide Energy Station/Hamilton Reservoir offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.