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

Common Black Hawk

Buteogallus anthracinus

4/12/202631530-31716 Colorado 194, La Junta, Colorado, US (38.012, -103.498)1 observed

Bushtit

Psaltriparus minimus

4/5/2026Rocky Ford SWA--Ryans Ponds1 observed

Marbled Godwit

Limosa fedoa

4/5/2026Cheraw Lake1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mallard

24/15/2026

Mourning Dove

114/15/2026

Killdeer

14/15/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

14/15/2026

Great Blue Heron

14/15/2026

Northern Harrier

14/15/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

14/15/2026

Northern Flicker

34/15/2026

Blue Jay

54/15/2026

Tree Swallow

14/15/2026

Northern House Wren

14/15/2026

Marsh Wren

24/15/2026

Bewick's Wren

24/15/2026

European Starling

44/15/2026

American Robin

84/15/2026

American Goldfinch

34/15/2026

White-crowned Sparrow

104/15/2026

Song Sparrow

14/15/2026

Spotted Towhee

24/15/2026

Western Meadowlark

14/15/2026

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.