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

Wilson's Phalarope

Phalaropus tricolor

4/11/2026Red Lion SWA7 observed

Western Cattle-Egret

Ardea ibis

4/11/2026Red Lion SWA2 observed

Least Sandpiper

Calidris minutilla

4/11/2026Red Lion SWA10 observed

Semipalmated Sandpiper

Calidris pusilla

4/11/2026Red Lion SWA1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

64/9/2026

Blue-winged Teal

64/9/2026

Cinnamon Teal

24/9/2026

Northern Shoveler

1754/9/2026

Gadwall

504/9/2026

American Wigeon

204/9/2026

Mallard

354/9/2026

Northern Pintail

254/9/2026

Green-winged Teal

1504/9/2026

Common Merganser

14/9/2026

Wild Turkey

24/9/2026

Mourning Dove

24/9/2026

American Coot

1254/9/2026

Black-necked Stilt

124/9/2026

American Avocet

134/9/2026

Killdeer

104/9/2026

Wilson's Phalarope

94/9/2026

Lesser Yellowlegs

34/9/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

104/9/2026

Baird's Sandpiper

14/9/2026

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.