Wetland birding habitat

Red Lion State Wildlife Area

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Red Lion State Wildlife Area is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 223 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Canada Warbler

Cardellina canadensis

5/28/2026Jumbo Reservoir (Sedgwick Co.)1 observed

Spotted x Eastern Towhee (hybrid)

Pipilo maculatus x erythrophthalmus

5/28/2026Tamarack Ranch SWA1 observed

Snow Goose

Anser caerulescens

5/28/2026Haxtun sewage ponds1 observed

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Melanerpes carolinus

5/28/2026700–798 Road 22, Lodgepole US-NE 41.14812, -102.638681 observed

Eastern Towhee

Pipilo erythrophthalmus

5/28/2026Tamarack Ranch SWA1 observed

Northern Bobwhite

Colinus virginianus

5/24/2026Lodgepole WTP1 observed

American Herring Gull

Larus smithsonianus

5/24/2026Jumbo Reservoir (Logan Co.)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Killdeer

15/29/2026

Burrowing Owl

15/29/2026

Western Kingbird

15/29/2026

Ring-necked Pheasant

25/19/2026

American Kestrel

15/19/2026

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 Red Lion State Wildlife Area for birding?
The best months to visit Red Lion State Wildlife Area for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Red Lion State Wildlife Area?
Notable species at Red Lion State Wildlife Area include Great Blue Heron, Red-winged Blackbird, Mallard, Green Heron, Virginia Rail. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Red Lion State Wildlife Area?
Birding at Red Lion State Wildlife Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Red Lion State Wildlife Area?
Red Lion State Wildlife Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.