Wetland birding habitat

Rocky Ford State Wildlife Area

Colorado · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Rocky Ford State Wildlife Area is a productive birding destination in Colorado, with 236 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Western Screech-Owl, Great Horned Owl, and American Kestrel 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

Bushtit

Psaltriparus minimus

7/11/2026Rocky Ford SWA--Ryans Ponds3 observed

Red-necked Phalarope

Phalaropus lobatus

7/9/2026Cheraw Lake7 observed

Lesser Scaup

Aythya affinis

7/9/2026Holbrook Reservoir2 observed

Eastern Warbling Vireo

Vireo gilvus

7/4/2026Bent's Old Fort NHS2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

17/11/2026

Northern Flicker

17/11/2026

Northern House Wren

17/11/2026

Bewick's Wren

17/11/2026

Gray Catbird

17/11/2026

Yellow-breasted Chat

17/11/2026

Blue Grosbeak

17/11/2026

Common Nighthawk

17/4/2026

Killdeer

17/4/2026

Eastern Kingbird

17/4/2026

Blue Jay

37/4/2026

American Robin

17/4/2026

American Goldfinch

17/4/2026

Spotted Towhee

17/4/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

67/4/2026

Common Yellowthroat

27/4/2026

Northern Yellow Warbler

17/4/2026

Lazuli Bunting

27/4/2026

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 Rocky Ford State Wildlife Area for birding?
The best months to visit Rocky Ford State Wildlife Area for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Rocky Ford State Wildlife Area?
Notable species at Rocky Ford State Wildlife Area include Western Screech-Owl, Great Horned Owl, American Kestrel, Blue Jay, House Sparrow. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Rocky Ford State Wildlife Area?
Birding at Rocky Ford State Wildlife Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Rocky Ford State Wildlife Area?
Rocky Ford State Wildlife Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.