Canyon birding habitat

Red Rock Canyon Open Space

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Canyon
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Red Rock Canyon Open Space is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 209 species recorded on eBird. This canyon habitat attracts Woodhouse's Scrub-Jay, Canada Goose, and Rock Pigeon 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

Red Crossbill (Ponderosa Pine or type 2)

Loxia curvirostra

7/16/2026Mueller SP--Campgrounds2 observed

Greater White-fronted Goose

Anser albifrons

7/15/2026Monument Library Pond3 observed

Clay-colored Sparrow

Spizella pallida

7/14/2026Venetucci Farm (restricted access)1 observed

Canada Jay

Perisoreus canadensis

7/9/2026Springdale CG3 observed

Bewick's Wren

Thryomanes bewickii

7/5/2026Megadeck1 observed

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Pheucticus ludovicianus

7/3/20267113 Oak Valley Dr1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

27/16/2026

Northern Flicker

27/16/2026

Western Wood-Pewee

17/16/2026

Eastern Phoebe

17/16/2026

Say's Phoebe

27/16/2026

Cassin's Kingbird

37/16/2026

Western Kingbird

17/16/2026

Eastern Kingbird

27/16/2026

American Crow

17/16/2026

Violet-green Swallow

57/16/2026

Cliff Swallow

47/16/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

57/16/2026

American Goldfinch

17/16/2026

Vesper Sparrow

27/16/2026

Spotted Towhee

67/16/2026

Rock Pigeon

67/16/2026

Broad-tailed Hummingbird

47/16/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

17/16/2026

Ash-throated Flycatcher

17/16/2026

Plumbeous Vireo

17/16/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for echoing calls of Canyon Wren and other canyon specialties.

  2. 2

    Check rocky ledges and cliff faces for nesting raptors.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Red Rock Canyon Open Space for birding?
The best months to visit Red Rock Canyon Open Space for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Red Rock Canyon Open Space?
Notable species at Red Rock Canyon Open Space include Woodhouse's Scrub-Jay, Canada Goose, Rock Pigeon, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker. The area supports canyon habitats.
How difficult is birding at Red Rock Canyon Open Space?
Birding at Red Rock Canyon Open Space is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Red Rock Canyon Open Space?
Red Rock Canyon Open Space offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.